Black Forest Regional Park, located in northern El Paso County, covers 385 acres of ponderosa pine forest and open meadows. Known for its peaceful setting and winding trails, the park is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians looking to enjoy the shade and serenity of Colorado’s Black Forest.
Trails and Recreation
The park offers more than 4 miles of multi-use trails, with options ranging from short loops to longer connections through dense pine stands and open fields. The rolling terrain provides a scenic backdrop for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and running.
Amenities and Features
Black Forest Regional Park features picnic pavilions, playgrounds, tennis courts, and athletic fields, making it both a community hub and a natural retreat. The park also includes a spacious dog park, offering plenty of room for pets to explore off-leash.
Wildlife & Scenery
The towering ponderosa pines create a rich habitat for songbirds, woodpeckers, and raptors. Visitors may also spot deer, foxes, or coyotes moving quietly through the trees. In the fall, the park’s mix of forest and meadow provides striking contrasts of golden grasses and evergreen canopies.
History
In 2013, the Black Forest Fire burned a significant portion of the park, leaving lasting impacts on its landscape. Since then, El Paso County Parks and community partners have worked to restore trails, rebuild facilities, and promote forest health. Today, the park stands as both a beloved recreation site and a symbol of resilience and recovery.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 4800 Shoup Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80908 Hours: April–October: 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. | November–March: 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Parking: Multiple parking areas accessible from Shoup Road and Vollmer Road, with spaces near athletic fields, pavilions, and trailheads.
Garden of the Gods Park
Garden of the Gods Park is Colorado Springs’ crown jewel—a National Natural Landmark known worldwide for its towering red sandstone formations framed by Pikes Peak. With awe-inspiring geology, rich cultural history, and miles of trails, it is one of the most visited parks in the state and a must-see for residents and visitors alike.
Trails & Recreation
Garden of the Gods offers more than 21 miles of trails for hiking, running, biking, and horseback riding. The Perkins Central Garden Trail is a family-friendly, paved 1.5-mile loop with spectacular views of the park’s signature formations. Mountain bikers and equestrians can explore designated multi-use routes, while technical climbers come from around the globe to scale the sandstone spires (permit required).
Wildlife & Scenery
Mule deer, bighorn sheep, and red-tailed hawks are frequently seen among the towering rock formations. The park is also one of the best places to capture sunrise or sunset photography, when the sandstone glows against the backdrop of Pikes Peak and the Front Range.
History
The park’s striking formations began forming more than 300 million years ago, later uplifted and sculpted into their current dramatic shapes. In 1909, Charles Elliott Perkins’ children honored his wishes to donate the land to the City of Colorado Springs, ensuring that the park would remain “free to the world.” Today, Garden of the Gods continues to inspire millions each year with its blend of geology, history, and natural beauty.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 1805 N. 30th Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Hours: Open daily, 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (summer) and 5:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (winter) Parking & Access: Multiple lots are available throughout the park. The Visitor & Nature Center, located across from the main entrance, offers free exhibits, maps, and educational programs. Tips: Arrive early to beat crowds, especially on weekends. Dogs are welcome on leash, and rock climbing requires registration and proper gear. Stop at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center to see maps, interpretive displays, use the restrooms and grab food & souvenirs. More Information: https://gardenofgods.com/
With its dramatic landscapes, deep cultural roots, and abundant recreational opportunities, Garden of the Gods Park is a one-of-a-kind outdoor treasure in the Pikes Peak region.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Cheyenne Mountain State Park, located at the base of Colorado Springs’ iconic Cheyenne Mountain, is one of the region’s premier outdoor recreation destinations. Spanning over 2,700 acres, this Colorado Parks & Wildlife gem offers diverse wildlife, miles of trails, and one of the best examples of preserved foothill ecosystems along the Front Range.
Trails and Recreation
The park boasts more than 28 miles of trails, open to hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. Trails wind through prairie grasslands, scrub oak, and pine forest, offering varied terrain and stunning views of both the city and the mountains. The Dixon Trail, a challenging backcountry route, leads adventurers toward the top of Cheyenne Mountain for an unforgettable vista. The park also features an archery range, picnic areas, and a modern campground with RV hookups, cabins, and tent sites.
Wildlife and Scenery
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is known for its incredible biodiversity. Visitors may spot mule deer, elk, coyotes, black bears, and mountain lions, as well as an abundance of bird species like hawks and bluebirds. Its location at the transition zone between plains and mountains makes it a living classroom for ecology and a scenic retreat for nature lovers.
History
The park opened in 2006 as Colorado’s newest state park, preserving a landscape that had remained largely undeveloped. Named for the Ute word “Shayan,” Cheyenne Mountain has long been a landmark and cultural touchstone for Indigenous peoples, pioneers, and now, outdoor enthusiasts. The park continues to protect natural resources while providing carefully managed access to the public.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 410 JL Ranch Heights Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80926
Parking: Multiple paved lots are available near trailheads, the visitor center, and the campground. Accessible parking is provided.
Hours: Open daily, 5:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. The visitor center operates with seasonal hours.
Fees: A daily vehicle pass or Colorado State Parks pass is required.
Tips: Trails are multi-use, so watch for hikers and bikers. Pets are welcome but must remain leashed. Reservations are recommended for camping.
With its sweeping landscapes, abundant wildlife, and modern amenities, Cheyenne Mountain State Park is the perfect place to hike, camp, and reconnect with nature just minutes from downtown Colorado Springs.
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, located at the entrance to Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs, is a living history museum that brings the story of the Pikes Peak region to life. Managed by the City of Colorado Springs, the ranch preserves over 200 years of local history, with costumed interpreters, historic structures, and seasonal events that connect visitors to Colorado’s cultural heritage.
History and Interpretation
The site spans four eras of history, each represented by authentic buildings and demonstrations:
1775 Ute Encampment – Explore the culture and traditions of the indigenous Ute people.
1860s Homestead Cabin – Step inside a frontier homestead and experience pioneer life.
1880s Chambers Farm & Rock Ledge House – Learn about farming, ranching, and daily life in the late 19th century.
1907 Edwardian Country Estate (Orchard House) – Tour an elegant estate that reflects Colorado Springs’ early resort era.
Through living history, demonstrations, and interpretive programming, Rock Ledge Ranch offers a unique chance to experience the challenges and triumphs of the region’s past.
Programs and Events
Rock Ledge Ranch is host to popular annual events including the Fourth of July Celebration, First People’s Day, Harvest Festival, and the Holiday Evening. These programs highlight historic traditions, cultural exchange, and community celebrations. Educational tours, field trips, and volunteer opportunities are also offered year-round.
Scenery and Location
Nestled against the dramatic red rock formations of Garden of the Gods, the ranch blends history with stunning natural beauty. Visitors can stroll the grounds, picnic in designated areas, or combine a ranch visit with a hike in the Garden of the Gods park next door.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 3105 Gateway Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Parking: Free parking is available on-site in a large gravel lot adjacent to the ranch entrance.
Hours: Seasonal schedule, typically Memorial Day through Labor Day with select off-season events. Grounds are open dusk to dawn.
With its rich storytelling, hands-on demonstrations, and unbeatable setting beside Garden of the Gods, Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is one of Colorado Springs’ most unique destinations for history lovers, families, and visitors of all ages.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument in Teller County, Colorado, protects one of the richest fossil deposits in the world. Covering more than 6,000 acres, this National Park Service site offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore ancient history, dramatic geology, and the beauty of Colorado’s mountain landscape all in one place.
Trails and Recreation
The Monument features 14 miles of hiking trails, ranging from short family-friendly loops to longer treks through forests, meadows, and past historic homesteads. Popular trails include the Petrified Forest Loop, which showcases massive fossilized redwood stumps, and the Hornbek Homestead Trail, offering a glimpse of 19th-century pioneer life. Ranger-led programs, fossil displays, and interactive exhibits at the visitor center make this a perfect stop for families, students, and curious explorers.
Fossils and Geology
The Florissant valley was once a subtropical ecosystem, home to towering redwoods, giant insects, and hundreds of plant species. Volcanic eruptions 34 million years ago buried the valley in ash, preserving thousands of fossils in fine-grained shale. Today, visitors can see petrified tree stumps up to 14 feet wide and view one of the most diverse insect fossil collections ever discovered.
Wildlife and Scenery
Beyond fossils, the Monument is a haven for wildlife. Elk, mule deer, black bear, and fox are frequently spotted, along with a wide variety of birds including mountain bluebirds and hummingbirds. Open meadows dotted with wildflowers and sweeping views of Pikes Peak provide a stunning backdrop year-round.
History
In addition to its prehistoric treasures, Florissant Fossil Beds preserves the Hornbek Homestead, a restored 1870s ranch house that tells the story of early Colorado pioneers. Archaeological evidence also shows that Native American groups, including the Ute, visited the valley for thousands of years.
Plan Your Visit
The Monument is located just west of the town of Florissant, Colorado, about 35 miles from Colorado Springs. The visitor center is open year-round (with seasonal hours), offering exhibits, a bookstore, and trail access. A small entrance fee is required; federal passes are accepted.
With its unique combination of world-class fossils, scenic hiking, and rich human history, Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument is one of Colorado’s most fascinating places to explore.
Located in southwest Colorado Springs, Stratton Open Space is a diverse and well loved natural area bordering North Cheyenne Cañon Park. With miles of trails, multiple ecosystems, and direct access toward Pike National Forest, Stratton offers a rich outdoor experience that blends recreation, wildlife habitat, and long standing community conservation.
Recreation and Trails
Stratton Open Space features approximately 15 miles of trails spread across 318 acres, making it a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers. The trail network winds through foothills terrain, forested slopes, and open ridgelines, offering a range of experiences from moderate climbs to flowing descents.
Several trails have specific designations that visitors should note. The Chutes is a downhill bicycle only trail. The Ladders is a multi use, multi directional trail that provides an important connection between Chamberlain Trail and Gold Camp Road. The Gold Camp Path is a bi directional trail designated for hiking only. Clear signage helps guide users through the system and supports safe, shared use of the trails.
Stratton’s western edge connects seamlessly into North Cheyenne Cañon Park, allowing visitors to link outings across a much larger protected landscape.
Wildlife and Scenery
Stratton Open Space supports a wide variety of wildlife thanks to its range of habitats. Mule deer are commonly seen, along with coyote, black bear, mountain lion, gray fox, and bobcat. Smaller mammals such as rabbits, chipmunks, and squirrels are abundant, and the area supports a diverse bird population year round.
Reptiles found in Stratton include fence lizards, garter snakes, bullsnakes and rarely rattlesnakes. Visitors are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and respect wildlife at all times.
History
Efforts to protect Stratton Open Space began in the early 1990s, driven by local citizens who recognized the value of preserving this landscape. In 1998, the City of Colorado Springs purchased the property for $5.9 million. Most of the funding came from the Trails, Open Space, and Parks sales tax, with additional support from Great Outdoors Colorado, private donations, and The Trust for Public Land.
A conservation easement was placed on the property as part of the Great Outdoors Colorado funding and is held by Palmer Land Trust. Stratton Open Space is owned by the City of Colorado Springs and managed by the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services Department. Adjacent land managed by Colorado Springs Utilities includes water supply reservoirs and blends seamlessly with the open space outside of fenced infrastructure areas.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Southwest Colorado Springs, adjacent to North Cheyenne Cañon Park Parking: Available at multiple access points and nearby trailheads Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk Fees: No entry fee
Tips:
Follow posted trail designations, especially on bike only and hiking only routes
Watch for wildlife and maintain safe distances
Trails can be icy or muddy depending on season and weather
Supported by the Friends of Stratton Open Space, this area reflects decades of community commitment to conservation and recreation. Stratton Open Space remains a cornerstone of Colorado Springs’ open space system, offering connected trails, rich habitat, and access to some of the region’s most iconic landscapes.
The Manitou Incline is one of the most popular hiking trails in Colorado. The base of the Incline sits at 6,600 feet. It is, perhaps, the most unique and challenging trail in the country, attracting runners, military, Olympic athletes, and hiking enthusiasts from around the world. It is steep, gaining over 2,011 feet of elevation in 0.88 mile. There are approximately 2,750 steps, although the top step is numbered “2768”; the number of steps changes occasionally with trail maintenance and deterioration. While some athletes can conquer the Incline in 30 minutes or less, it takes most people 1-3 hours to make it to the top. Plus, an additional 1-2 hours to return down the Barr Trail. After you crest the false summit, there are approximately 300 steps to go before reaching the top.
The base of the Incline is located in Manitou Springs near the Cog Railroad. The Inline is free and open to the public, but expect to pay for parking. Even with paid parking, finding a spot can be difficult. In the summer, plan to park in the lot at 10 Old Man’s Trail or in Manitou Springs and take the free shuttle.
PLEASE NOTE: Starting in 2020, users are required to make a FREE reservation online, at coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/manitou-incline. Pets are NOT allowed on the Incline. Remember to bring plenty of water!! This is an extremely difficult climb at high altitude, and the return route on Barr Trail is about 3 miles, it’s about 4 miles round trip. You should be in good physical shape and acclimated to Colorado altitude before attempting this trail.
Connections: The Northern Incline Return Trail offers two new return options for hikers, both located in the bottom half of the Incline. The first return is located at railroad tie #395 and the second is at #1300, approximate halfway point. From tie #1300, the trail to return down to the trailhead is roughly 1.5 miles. From tie #395, it is about a half a mile hike down. About three-quarters of the way up the Incline, around step #1800 there is a turnoff to the Barr Trail, locally called “The Bailout.” If you don’t have it in you to take on another 1000 steps, this is where you should exit. The top of the Incline also connects to Barr Trail allowing hikers to trek to the summit of Pikes Peak or return to the base of the Incline.
History: Completed in 1907, the Manitou Incline was once a cable tram built to support the construction of a hydroelectric plant and its waterline. After performing this service the railway was then purchased by Dr. Brumbach and turned into a tourist attraction. The Incline boasted a 16-minute ride to “scenic splendors”, 10 miles of hiking trails in Mount Manitou Park, and claimed to be the “longest and highest incline on the globe.” Spencer Penrose bought the Incline in 1923 and made it part of his tourist attraction empire, the cars were upgraded to allow for a retractable roof and more safety. The summit station was again rebuilt in 1958 and lasted until it was dismantled upon closure of the Incline in 1990. A rock slide damaged a section of track in 1990, so the Manitou Springs Incline was closed down. The rails were removed, but the railroad ties remained in the form of a massive staircase.
Nearly 20 years of unmanaged trespass and use of the Incline resulted in significant erosion on the mountainside, dangerous trail conditions, traffic congestion and uncontrolled parking. In 2010, the City of Colorado Springs negotiated pursing legal access to the Incline corridor, and both Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement to plan for formally opening the Incline for public recreation. In 2011, the Manitou Incline Site Development and Management Plan was drafted. After many years of wrangling and an actual Act of Congress, the Incline was made legal in February of 2013.
Volunteer: Contact the Incline Friends to see how you can help, inclinefriends@gmail.com.
Colorado Front Range Trail – El Paso County, CO
The Colorado Front Range Trail is a long term vision for a continuous multi use trail system that will one day extend from Wyoming to New Mexico, following the Front Range of Colorado for approximately 876 miles. In El Paso County, this vision is already taking shape through a connected network of regional trails that provide important recreation and transportation opportunities across the Pikes Peak region.
Trail Experience
In El Paso County, the Colorado Front Range Trail consists of roughly 43 continuous miles of multi use trail. The surface varies by segment and includes dirt, gravel, asphalt, and concrete. When traveling south, the route generally follows a gradual downhill slope, making it accessible for a wide range of users.
Because the Front Range Trail is made up of multiple existing trails, it is known by different names depending on location.
Trail Segments
New Santa Fe Regional Trail The northernmost segment begins in Palmer Lake, north of Monument, and extends approximately 17 miles south through open landscapes and natural areas. This section is primarily gravel, about six feet wide, and is generally straight and level. A critical 6.9 mile portion crosses U.S. Air Force Academy property via a designated trail easement. Visitors must remain on the trail at all times while on Academy land.
Pikes Peak Greenway Near Woodman Road, the route transitions into the Pikes Peak Greenway, which runs north to south through the heart of Colorado Springs for approximately 16 miles. This largely paved corridor follows Monument Creek and Fountain Creek alongside I 25 and serves as the spine of the city’s urban trail system. Investments from Great Outdoors Colorado and the Trails Open Space Coalition TOPS program helped create an eight foot wide concrete commuter trail between Monument Valley Park and Highway 24. The Greenway connects to dozens of east west trails and passes near popular destinations such as Pikeview Reservoir, Monument Valley Park, America the Beautiful Park, and El Pomar Youth Sports Park.
Fountain Creek Regional Trail South of El Pomar Youth Sports Park, the trail becomes the Fountain Creek Regional Trail. This segment follows Fountain Creek south toward Fountain Creek Regional Park, terminating near Bandley Drive. The trail is approximately 10 miles long, with an additional three mile disconnected segment within Clear Springs Ranch Open Space. This section features a dirt surface and more elevation changes than the northern segments.
History
The foundation of the Front Range Trail in El Paso County began in April 1982 with the formal opening of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail, which originally extended from Palmer Lake to the U.S. Air Force Academy. In 2013, a generous donation from REI Colorado Springs supported a partnership between the Trails and Open Space Coalition, the City of Colorado Springs, the Greenway Fund, and Leadership Pikes Peak to establish 15 adopter groups along the Pikes Peak Greenway, strengthening long term stewardship and community involvement.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Palmer Lake to Fountain, following the Front Range through El Paso County Length: Approximately 43 continuous miles Surface: Gravel, dirt, asphalt, and concrete depending on segment Amenities: Multiple trailheads, connections to local parks and neighborhoods Tips: Stay on designated trails, especially on U.S. Air Force Academy property. Check segment specific conditions before heading out.
The Colorado Front Range Trail in El Paso County represents decades of collaboration, investment, and community stewardship. As connections continue to improve, this regional corridor will play an increasingly important role in linking communities, supporting active transportation, and expanding access to outdoor recreation across the Pikes Peak region.
