Manitou Lake is a 5-acre reservoir north of Woodland Park that offers a family-friendly setting for fishing, hiking, and picnicking against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. Surrounded by meadows, forest, and mountain views, this peaceful destination is popular year-round for outdoor recreation and is a gateway to nearby trails and campgrounds.
Recreation
The highlight of Manitou Lake is fishing, with opportunities throughout the year thanks to easy access and regular use by anglers. A scenic 2.5-mile loop, Trail #670, circles the lake and is perfect for a leisurely walk or nature stroll. Swimming, wading, and body contact with the water are prohibited, but the reservoir remains a hub for fishing, wildlife viewing, and family picnics.
Trails and Camping
In addition to Trail #670, visitors can connect to Bike Trail #699, a paved 4.2-mile route that links campgrounds and picnic areas. The area also includes two group campgrounds—Pike Community and Red Rocks—that make it easy for families and organizations to enjoy overnight stays in the forest.
Wildlife and Scenery
The lake’s surrounding wetlands attract a wide variety of birdlife, including ducks, herons, and songbirds. Expansive meadows and towering pines frame the reservoir, making it an ideal place to enjoy mountain views or photograph seasonal wildflowers.
History
Manitou Lake was developed as a recreational reservoir and has long been valued as a gathering place for anglers, campers, and picnickers in the Pikes Peak region. Its ongoing popularity reflects its balance of natural beauty and easy access.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 11 miles north of Woodland Park along Highway 67
Parking: Day-use parking available with fee
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Fees: $11 per vehicle day use fee. Annual passes are available for Manitou Lake Picnic Area, Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area, and Eleven Mile Canyon.
Tips: All sites have tables, fire grates, and trash collection. Bring layers for changing mountain weather and a fishing license if you plan to fish.
With its mix of trails, campsites, picnic areas, and scenic waters, Manitou Lake is an inviting spot for families, groups, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Pikes Peak region.
Nestled along the Front Range between Larkspur and Perry Park, Sandstone Ranch Open Space is a 2,038-acre property offering visitors a stunning blend of red rock formations, rolling meadows, ponderosa pine forests, and historic ranchland. Opened to the public in 2020, this open space highlights the beauty and heritage of Douglas County while protecting vital wildlife habitat and cultural resources.
Recreation and Trails
Sandstone Ranch features nearly 12 miles of multi-use trails for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Popular routes include the Sandstone Meadow Trail, winding through expansive grasslands, and the Sandstone Ridge Trail, which climbs into forests and sandstone outcrops with sweeping views of Pikes Peak. Picnic areas and interpretive signage provide places to pause and appreciate both the scenery and history.
Wildlife and Scenery
The diverse landscapes of Sandstone Ranch support elk, mule deer, wild turkeys, black bears, and bobcats, while raptors soar above the ridgelines. In spring and summer, meadows burst with wildflowers, contrasting beautifully with the striking red sandstone cliffs. Autumn brings golden stands of aspen and cottonwood, making the open space a year-round destination for photographers and nature lovers.
History
For centuries, Native peoples traveled through this landscape, followed by homesteaders and ranchers who shaped the land into productive pasture. The Sandstone Ranch property was operated as a working ranch for over 150 years before Douglas County, with support from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) and other partners, secured it for conservation. The historic ranch headquarters remains, offering a glimpse into Colorado’s ranching heritage.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 2028 N. Perry Park Road, Larkspur, CO 80118 Parking: Main lot at the trailhead with space for horse trailers. Hours: Open daily, one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. Fees: No entry fee. Tips:
Dogs must remain on leash at all times.
Carry plenty of water—there are no facilities along the trails.
Trails can be icy in winter and muddy in spring—plan footwear accordingly.
With its sweeping views, rich history, and diverse recreation opportunities, Sandstone Ranch Open Space is a crown jewel of Douglas County’s open space system and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience Colorado’s natural and cultural heritage.
America the Beautiful Park
Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak and just steps from downtown Colorado Springs, America the Beautiful Park is a vibrant urban green space that combines recreation, art, and community. The park’s name honors Katharine Lee Bates, who penned the song “America the Beautiful” after visiting the summit of Pikes Peak in 1893.
Recreation and Amenities
The 30-acre park is designed for families, gatherings, and outdoor fun. It features large open lawns perfect for picnics and games, a universally accessible playground that welcomes children of all abilities, and plenty of paved trails for walking, running, and cycling. The park also connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail, making it a popular hub for commuters and recreationists.
Iconic Features
The centerpiece of the park is the “Continuum” sculpture and Julie Penrose Fountain, a 60-foot circular structure that sprays water high into the air, creating a refreshing play space in summer and a striking landmark year-round. Its design represents the continuous motion of water and life, making it one of the city’s most recognized symbols.
Wildlife and Scenery
While the park sits in the heart of the city, visitors can still enjoy views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range, along with the chance to spot urban wildlife along the trails and nearby Fountain Creek. Its open design offers both green lawns and mountain vistas, making it a scenic gathering place.
History
Created in the early 2000s, America the Beautiful Park was envisioned as a community centerpiece, blending public art, accessible play, and trail connections into one landmark park. It has since become a favorite spot for festivals, concerts, and family outings while honoring the region’s deep connection to the iconic song.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 126 Cimino Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Parking: Free parking is available on-site, though spaces can fill quickly during events. Hours: Open daily, 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Tips:
Bring kids in summer to enjoy the splash fountain.
Walk or bike to the park via the Pikes Peak Greenway for a car-free adventure.
Check the city events calendar—many community festivals and cultural events take place here.
With its combination of art, recreation, and breathtaking views of the mountains, America the Beautiful Park truly lives up to its name as one of Colorado Springs’ most iconic gathering spaces.
Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area
Rampart Reservoir Recreation Area, located just outside Woodland Park on the north slope of Pikes Peak, is one of the premier destinations in the Pikes Peak region for fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain scenery. At 8,948 feet in elevation, the 500-acre reservoir provides a cool alpine escape with panoramic views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding forests.
Recreation and Trails
Rampart Reservoir is best known for its water-based recreation. Boating is allowed (with motor restrictions), and anglers come for rainbow, lake, and brown trout as well as smallmouth bass. The Rampart Reservoir Trail loops around the water for 13 miles, popular with hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers. Shorter access trails, such as Rainbow Gulch Trail, provide family-friendly options and scenic shoreline hikes.
Wildlife and Scenery
With its sparkling waters framed by dense pine and spruce forests, Rampart Reservoir is a photographer’s dream. Wildlife is abundant—visitors often spot bald eagles, ospreys, mule deer, foxes, and the occasional black bear. In summer, wildflowers brighten the trails, while fall brings golden aspen groves.
History
The reservoir was constructed in 1969 by the City of Colorado Springs as part of the municipal water system. Beyond serving as an essential water storage site, it quickly became a popular recreation area, drawing visitors from across the Front Range for its combination of outdoor opportunities and alpine beauty.
Plan Your Visit
Location: About 4 miles east of Woodland Park, accessible via Rampart Range Road. Parking: Multiple paved and gravel parking areas are available near trailheads and boat ramps. A day-use fee is required. Hours: Open seasonally, late May through mid-October, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (hours vary by season). Closed in winter. Tips:
A Colorado fishing license is required for anglers.
Dogs are allowed but must be leashed.
Bring layers—weather can change quickly at nearly 9,000 feet.
The loop trail is long and exposed in places; bring plenty of water and sun protection.
No swimming or contact with the water is allowed.
Rainbow Falls Historic Site
Rainbow Falls Historic Site in Manitou Springs is a one of a kind destination that blends natural beauty with local history and art. Known locally as “Graffiti Falls,” this spot features a dramatic waterfall dropping beneath a historic 1930s highway bridge, surrounded by steep canyon walls decorated with colorful community art. Managed by El Paso County Parks, Rainbow Falls has become both a scenic stop and a cultural landmark.
Trails and Recreation
A short, family friendly trail leads directly from the parking area to the base of the falls, making it an easy walk for visitors of all ages. While the trail is less than a quarter mile long, the views of the waterfall and the unique bridge structure make it worth the visit. Benches and interpretive signs along the way provide information about the site’s history, geology, and restoration efforts.
Wildlife and Scenery
The falls are framed by rugged red rock formations typical of the Manitou Springs area. Visitors can often spot small birds, squirrels, and other wildlife along the creek. In winter, ice formations around the falls create another stunning natural display. The sound of rushing water and the backdrop of Pikes Peak Country make Rainbow Falls a memorable stop.
History
Rainbow Falls has been a local gathering spot for decades, with a history that includes Native American heritage, 20th century road construction, and its more recent identity as an urban art space. The bridge spanning the falls was constructed in 1932 as part of Highway 24 and remains a prominent feature today. In recent years, El Paso County Parks has worked to restore and protect the site, balancing its natural character with its role as a space for community expression.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Accessed via Serpentine Drive, just off Highway 24 at the west end of Manitou Springs. Hours: Open seasonally, typically Memorial Day through Labor Day, on weekends and holidays. Hours may vary, so check with El Paso County Parks. Parking: A small parking area is available off Serpentine Drive with a fee required. Parking is limited, so carpooling is recommended. Tips:
The trail is short but uneven in places—sturdy shoes are helpful.
Graffiti is part of the site’s identity, but defacing natural features is prohibited.
The area can be busy on summer weekends; mornings and weekdays are quieter times to visit.
Offsite parking at 101 Higginbotham Road, Manitou Springs, CO 80829, $20 per vehicle.
Bear Creek Regional Park is a sprawling 545 acre park nestled in the foothills of Colorado Springs, operated by El Paso County. It offers a rich mix of active recreation and natural spaces, making it a unique destination for both community gatherings and nature escapes.
Trails and Recreation
Ten miles of multi purpose, non motorized trails traverse the park, linking its various sectors. Visitors can jog, bike, hike, or ride horseback on these trails, many of which wind through prairie, riparian zones, and gentle hills. The park also includes picnic pavilions, playing fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, an archery range, volleyball areas, horseshoe pits, and playgrounds across its different areas.
Bear Creek Dog Park
Within the park lies a 25 acre fenced off leash dog area, one of El Paso County’s most visited facilities, drawing over 100,000 visitors each year. The dog park includes open prairie, wooded hills, a third mile stretch of Bear Creek, walking trails with a primary three quarter mile loop, and secondary paths. A separate two acre section is reserved for small and senior dogs. Amenities include creek access, water fountains, a dog wash area, restrooms, bag dispensers, shade, and benches.
Bear Creek Nature Center
The Bear Creek Nature Center (245 Bear Creek Road) serves as the educational hub of the park. It offers interpretive programs, guided and self guided tours, interactive nature exhibits, and seasonal events for families and school groups. Trails around the center highlight the area’s natural beauty and habitat but may have restrictions to protect sensitive wildlife.
Charmaine Nymann Community Garden
The Charmaine Nymann Community Garden is a two acre organic garden maintained by the Bear Creek Garden Association. It features 104 full size plots, underground water delivery, and secure fencing. Gardeners pay annual fees that cover soil tilling, water, and maintenance, and many donate surplus produce to local nonprofits.
Wildlife and Scenery
Bear Creek blends riparian corridors, prairie, and foothill terrain. Expect to see cottonwoods, scrub oak, ponderosa pines, and open meadows. Wildlife includes mule deer, coyotes, songbirds, raptors, and aquatic species near the creek. Seasonal bird migrations, wildflowers, and creekside reflections make the park especially scenic.
History
The land that now forms Bear Creek Regional Park has transitioned from historic poor farm and garden operations to one of the most loved open spaces in the region. Today the park is divided into East, Terrace, Dog Park, and Nature Center areas, balancing both active recreation and conservation.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Access via 21st Street and West Rio Grande for Bear Creek East, 21st Street and Argus for Bear Creek Terrace, and Bear Creek Road for the Nature Center. Hours: 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily Parking: Multiple parking lots serve the East, Terrace, Dog Park, and Nature Center areas. Tips:
Pets must be on leash in all areas except the dog park
Follow signage around the Nature Center as some trails have pet and bike restrictions
Check the Nature Center schedule for programs and events
Community garden plots are available seasonally through the Bear Creek Garden Association
Fountain Creek Regional Park
Fountain Creek Regional Park is one of El Paso County’s most beloved natural areas, stretching along the cottonwood-lined banks of Fountain Creek. Just south of Colorado Springs near Fountain, the park blends wetlands, meadows, and forest into a serene setting for walking, birdwatching, fishing, and family outings.
Trails and Recreation
The park features over 10 miles of interconnected trails, including a section of the Fountain Creek Regional Trail that links north toward Colorado Springs and south toward Fountain. Paved and natural-surface paths meander past ponds, marshes, and shady cottonwood groves, offering year-round opportunities for walking, running, cycling, and wildlife viewing. Anglers can cast a line in stocked ponds or in stretches of Fountain Creek, while families enjoy picnic areas, playgrounds, and open fields. There is also a dog park and a community garden.
Wildlife & Scenery
Fountain Creek is a hotspot for birdwatching—more than 300 species have been recorded here, including herons, red-winged blackbirds, hawks, and migrating waterfowl. Beavers and muskrats are often spotted in the ponds, while deer and foxes move quietly through the cottonwoods. In autumn, the park is alive with the golden hues of changing leaves, reflected in still waters.
History
The park sits along a historic travel corridor once used by Indigenous peoples, explorers, and settlers following the Arkansas River drainage. It was later preserved as part of El Paso County’s regional park system to protect valuable wetlands and provide a green corridor through fast-growing communities. Over the years, it has become a cornerstone of local conservation, recreation, and environmental education.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 2010 Duckwood Rd, Fountain, CO 80817 Hours: Dawn to dusk, year-round Parking: Multiple lots available near the Nature Center, ponds, and trailheads Know Before You Go: Trails can be muddy after heavy rains; bring binoculars for birdwatching and be prepared for abundant wildlife. Dogs must remain leashed to protect sensitive habitats.
Monument Valley Park
Monument Valley Park, stretching along Monument Creek in the heart of Colorado Springs, is one of the city’s most historic and beloved green spaces. Designed by city founder General William Jackson Palmer in the early 1900s, this urban park is a scenic retreat that blends gardens, recreation, trails and history—all within walking distance of downtown.
Trails and Recreation
The park features a variety of paved and soft-surface trails that connect with the Pikes Peak Greenway, making it a hub for cyclists, walkers, and runners. Recreational amenities include tennis courts, pickleball courts, sports fields, playgrounds, and a seasonal swimming pool. The shady paths and open lawns invite leisurely strolls or family outings.
Gardens and Natural Features
Monument Valley Park is home to several formal gardens, shady tree groves, and native landscapes along the creek. The Demonstration Gardens showcase water-wise plants, while tranquil ponds and stone walls & bridges provide classic spots for reflection and photography.
Wildlife & Scenery
The creekside habitats attract songbirds, waterfowl, and small mammals, offering peaceful moments for birdwatchers and nature lovers. In autumn, the cottonwoods and other trees paint the park with vibrant seasonal colors.
History
Established in 1907, Monument Valley Park was General Palmer’s gift to Colorado Springs, designed as a grand civic park. Over the years, it has been shaped by floods, restoration efforts, and community care. Many of its stone bridges, gardens, and historic structures still reflect early 20th-century design, giving the park a timeless charm.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 170 W. Cache La Poudre St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Hours: Open daily from 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Parking: Multiple lots and street parking available near major entrances and amenities
Cross Creek Regional Park
Cross Creek Regional Park, located in northeast Colorado Springs, blends natural open space with family-friendly amenities—making it a welcoming destination for recreation, relaxation, and community connection. The park’s mix of native prairie, pond, creekside habitats, and developed facilities gives visitors both tranquility and activity options.
Trails and Recreation
The park features several miles of soft-surface trails that wind along Cross Creek and through grasslands, ideal for walking, jogging, and enjoying nature. Paved paths accommodate easy, accessible strolls. These trails serve as a natural escape within city boundaries.
Amenities and Features
Cross Creek includes picnic shelters, playgrounds, Cross Creek BMX track, restrooms, Hale Reservoir and open playfields. The large picnic areas make it ideal for family gatherings or community events. The mix of open lawns and shaded tree groves ensures spaces for both active play and quiet breaks.
Wildlife & Scenery
From creekside riparian zones to open grasslands, the park supports wildlife such as songbirds, rabbits, and small mammals. The landscape offers broad views of the Front Range and Pikes Peak. Seasonal wildflowers add vibrant color in late spring and summer, making the park a great spot for casual nature viewing.
History
Cross Creek Regional Park was established to meet growing recreational needs in the Fountain Valley while preserving natural prairie corridors. Its development balances active recreation with habitat protection, ensuring that even as neighborhoods grow, green space remains part of the city’s fabric.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 8115 Parkglen Dr, Fountain, CO 80817 Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk Parking: On-site parking lots accessible near picnic areas, trails, and facilities
Monument Lake
Overview Monument Lake, located in the Town of Monument just north of Colorado Springs, is a peaceful community gem offering fishing, boating, and mountain views in a relaxed small-town setting. Nestled at the base of the Rampart Range, the lake provides an easy escape for locals and visitors seeking a scenic spot to enjoy the outdoors.
Recreation and Amenities The lake is open to non-motorized boating, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. Fishing is a popular draw, with the lake regularly stocked with trout. A short, easy walking path circles part of the shoreline, making it a pleasant spot for a casual stroll or lakeside picnic. The nearby grassy areas are ideal for relaxing, tossing a frisbee, or simply soaking in the views of Mount Herman towering above the town.
Wildlife and Scenery Monument Lake’s setting makes it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors may spot ducks, geese, herons, and other waterfowl frequenting the shoreline. On clear days, the reflection of the mountains on the lake creates postcard-worthy views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
History Monument Lake has long served as a recreational hub for the community. The original dam, built in the early 20th century, provided water storage for the town. Over time, the site evolved into a cherished public park, blending its practical role with opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. Today, it remains a focal point for local gatherings, fishing outings, and quiet reflection.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 55 Mitchell Avenue, Monument, CO 80132
Parking: Free public parking available near the lake.
Hours: Dawn to dusk, year-round.
Tips: Bring your fishing gear or paddleboard for the full experience. Dogs are welcome but must remain leashed. The lake sits at over 7,000 feet, so dress in layers and be prepared for quick weather changes.
Monument Lake is a serene community retreat where mountain views meet small-town charm, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring northern El Paso County.
