Located east of Fountain, Kane Ranch Open Space is a 440-acre landscape of native grasslands, cottonwood groves, and expansive plains views. The property offers wide-open scenery with distinctive views of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain and supports a growing regional trail network. As one of El Paso County’s newest open spaces, Kane Ranch blends outdoor recreation with cultural and historical significance.
Recreation and Trails
Kane Ranch Open Space features the Lariat Loop Trail, a natural-surface loop approximately 3.5 miles in length. The trail is suitable for hiking, running, bicycling, and equestrian use, with sufficient width to accommodate two riders on horseback side by side.
A designated trailhead includes equestrian parking, a turnaround loop, a portable restroom enclosure, and interpretive signage. Additional trails are planned and will provide future connections to regional routes, including the Black Squirrel Creek Trail and Kane Ranch Trail.
Wildlife and Scenery
The open space supports grassland and riparian habitats that provide shelter for a variety of wildlife species. Visitors may encounter reptiles, small mammals, and grassland birds throughout the property.
Rattlesnakes are present in the area, and visitors are encouraged to remain on designated trails and keep dogs on leash. Goat head thorns are also prevalent, and appropriate footwear is recommended.
History
Kane Ranch Open Space opened to the public on March 23, 2022, following its acquisition by El Paso County in 2003 through the estate of former rancher Alexander F. Kane. The land was once part of a 5,000-acre ranch established in the 1940s by Wanden Matthews La Farge, who later married Alexander “Andy” Kane. Wanden Kane served two terms as mayor of Fountain and was Colorado’s first female mayor.
The ranch later became a successful quarter-horse operation and the foundation for the Kane Family Foundation, which supports merit-based scholarships for students in southern Colorado. Wanden’s son, Oliver Albee “Pete” La Farge, was a noted musician, writer, and artist whose work included songs recorded by Johnny Cash. He is buried in the Kane Family Cemetery, now preserved within the open space.
Plan Your Visit
Location: East of Fountain, El Paso County Parking: Trailhead with equestrian parking and turnaround loop Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk Fees: No entry fee
Tips
Stay on designated trails and keep dogs on leash due to rattlesnakes
Watch for goat head thorns and wear appropriate footwear
Yield appropriately to equestrians and other trail users
Bring water and sun protection, as shade is limited
BEWARE OF RATTLESNAKES
Kane Ranch Open Space reflects El Paso County’s commitment to preserving working landscapes, cultural history, and accessible outdoor recreation. With expanding trail connections and wide-open scenery, the property offers visitors a distinctive plains-to-mountains open space experience.
High Chaparral Open Space is 54 acres on the eastern side of Colorado Springs, characterized by a prominent ridgeline vegetated with scrub oak, shrubland patches and mixed-grass prairie. Views from the crest of the ridge, the highest point in eastern Colorado Springs, include the Spanish Peaks and Wet Mountains to the south, the Black Forest to the north, and an uninterrupted view of Colorado Springs mountain backdrop to the west. High Chaparral Open Space provides wildlife habitat, recreational opportunities, and a visual buffer to a fast-growing section of the City.
Figure 8 trail system is about 2 miles. Preview the area and see why people love to walk, ride and bird watch at High Chaparral! Parking lot at Stetson Hills also provides great access to Homestead Trail.
Corral Bluffs
Located east of Colorado Springs, Corral Bluffs is a nationally significant landscape known for its fossil resources, sweeping plains, and dramatic views of the Front Range. The area is managed for conservation and scientific research and is not open to the general public, helping protect sensitive paleontological and natural resources.
Recreation and Access
Corral Bluffs is closed to unsupervised public access. Entry is only permitted during special guided hikes and educational programs, which are offered periodically in partnership with land managers and conservation organizations. These guided experiences provide a rare opportunity to explore the landscape, learn about its geology and fossils, and understand why long term protection is critical.
Because access is limited, visitors should not attempt to enter Corral Bluffs outside of permitted programs. Doing so can damage sensitive resources and may result in enforcement action.
Landscape and Scientific Significance
Corral Bluffs is internationally recognized for its fossil beds, which have contributed to scientific understanding of life following the mass extinction event that ended the age of dinosaurs. The area contains layered rock formations, prairie ecosystems, and wide open vistas that illustrate millions of years of natural history.
In addition to its paleontological value, Corral Bluffs provides important habitat for grassland species and plays a role in regional conservation efforts aimed at protecting open landscapes east of Colorado Springs.
History and Conservation
Protection of Corral Bluffs has been driven by decades of collaboration among scientists, conservation organizations, and public agencies. The area has become a model for balancing research, conservation, and carefully managed public education.
Guided access programs allow the public to engage with this extraordinary landscape while ensuring fossils and fragile ecosystems remain intact for future study and stewardship.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Eastern El Paso County, east of Colorado Springs Access: Not open to the public; guided hikes only Parking: Provided only for permitted guided programs Fees: Vary by program
Tips:
Watch for announcements about guided hikes and educational events
Never collect fossils or remove natural materials
Respect closures and posted boundaries at all times
Corral Bluffs is a reminder that some of the most important places are protected by limiting access. Through guided experiences and continued conservation, this remarkable landscape is preserved for science, education, and future generations.
Bluestem Prairie Open Space offers 646 acres of prairie grassland and bird watching paradise. Home to over 200 bird species and several mammal species, Bluestem Prairie Open Space has become a refuge for a variety of native wildlife and vegetation. Roughly 9 miles of flowing, dirt single track trail make it an ideal location for beginner mountain bikers. The area has no shade, bring plenty of water if you visit in the summer, we recommend visiting early in the morning or evening.
NOTE: No dogs allowed, due to native wildlife.
History: Located just south of the Colorado Springs Municipal Airport, this land once belonged to the Banning-Lewis Ranch. Here ranchers relied primarily on rich soils and thriving grasslands to survive. This land remains home to varied mammals such as the Pronghorn, the Black-tailed prairie dog and birds like the Red-tailed hawk, Burrowing owls and Migratory Shorebirds.
In the fall of 2000, the Trust for Public Land purchased the Big Johnson property from Cygnet Land, LLC and then conveyed the property to the City of Colorado Springs. The City used funds from its Trails, Open Space, and Parks (TOPS) sales tax and a grant from Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) to acquire the property. View BIG JOHNSON OPEN SPACE MASTER PLAN.
The namesake “bluestem” highlights the tallgrass species found in northwest portion of the property, while the more predominant shortgrass community in the bowl-shaped valley surrounds the privately-owned Big Johnson Reservoir. The Bluestem Prairie Open Space Management Plan was adopted by the Park and Recreation Advisory Board on March 10, 2016.
Located on the northwest side of Colorado Springs, Blodgett Open Space is a rugged foothills landscape that protects critical wildlife habitat, scenic views, and long term trail connectivity between the city and adjacent public lands. The open space is managed to balance conservation with carefully planned recreation in a challenging and ecologically sensitive environment.
Recreation and Access
Blodgett Open Space offers a steep, backcountry style experience close to the city and is best suited for experienced hikers, trail runners, and mountain users. Trails climb quickly through foothills terrain and are often rocky, narrow, and physically demanding. Elevation gain is significant, and trail conditions can vary widely depending on weather and season.
Trail access is provided through designated trailheads, and users are expected to remain on approved routes. Due to the steep terrain and sensitive resources, Blodgett Open Space is not intended for casual use, and visitors should be prepared for changing conditions and limited amenities.
Landscape and Wildlife
Blodgett Open Space supports a diverse mix of foothills ecosystems, including grasslands, scrub oak, and ponderosa pine forest. The area provides important habitat and movement corridors for mule deer, black bear, mountain lion, and a wide variety of bird species.
The landscape includes steep slopes, drainage corridors, and prominent ridgelines that offer expansive views of Colorado Springs and the eastern plains. These natural features contribute to both the ecological value of the open space and the challenging nature of recreation in the area.
History and Conservation
Blodgett Open Space consists of multiple parcels acquired by the City of Colorado Springs through the Trails, Open Space, and Parks (TOPS) program over more than two decades. Together, these acquisitions total 384 acres of protected open space.
The original Blodgett Open Space parcel was purchased in 2001 using TOPS funds and includes 167 acres with a designated trailhead along Woodmen Road. This parcel was master planned in 2003 and later guided by a forest management plan adopted in 2006.
In 2018, the City acquired an additional 64 acres known as the South Blodgett property. This parcel includes previously constructed access roads, designated trails, and areas impacted by user created trails. The property is protected by three conservation easements held by El Paso County, preserving scenic, open space, trail connection, wildlife, and ecological values. An interim use plan was developed in 2019 to allow public access while long term planning continued.
Between 2020 and 2021, the City expanded Blodgett Open Space through the acquisition of 153 additional acres known as the Pikeview frontage property. This land lies south of the original open space and west of the Oak Valley neighborhood. Portions of the property reflect historic disturbance associated with stormwater facilities and adjacent quarry operations, and include areas subject to reclamation requirements. These parcels strengthen regional connectivity while supporting long term restoration and conservation goals.
Additional dedicated open space parcels include the 5 acre Peregrine Open Space near the North Blodgett Trailhead and the nearly 10 acre Oak Valley Ranch Open Space along the North Douglas Creek corridor. Together, these lands provide important ecological connections, protect drainageways, and support future trail and habitat planning.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Northwest Colorado Springs, near Woodmen Road and Centennial Boulevard Parking: Limited parking at designated trailheads Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk Fees: No entry fee
Tips:
Be prepared for steep terrain and limited amenities
Stay on designated trails to protect sensitive resources
Carry adequate water and plan for changing weather
Blodgett Open Space reflects a long term community investment in conserving Colorado Springs’ foothills landscapes. Through thoughtful acquisition, conservation easements, and ongoing management planning, the open space protects critical natural resources while allowing for carefully managed recreation close to the city.
Austin Bluffs Open Space – Colorado Springs, CO
Austin Bluffs Open Space is a rugged and scenic natural area on the northeast side of Colorado Springs, known for its dramatic rock formations, sweeping city views, and strong sense of wildness within an urban setting. Rising above surrounding neighborhoods, this open space offers a quieter, more contemplative outdoor experience while playing an important role in habitat protection and community access to nature.
One of the most recognizable landmarks within Austin Bluffs Open Space is Pulpit Rock, a striking volcanic rock formation that has become a local icon and viewpoint.
Trails and Recreation
Austin Bluffs Open Space features a network of informal and designated trails that wind through grasslands, rocky outcrops, and rolling terrain. These trails are popular for hiking, trail running, and short neighborhood outings, offering expansive views of Colorado Springs and the Front Range.
A primary destination within the open space is Pulpit Rock, where visitors are rewarded with panoramic views after a steady climb. The terrain varies from gradual paths to steeper, rocky sections near the rock formations, making it accessible to a range of users while still feeling adventurous. Because of the sensitive landscape, visitors are encouraged to stay on established trails to reduce erosion and protect habitat.
Geology and Landscape
Austin Bluffs Open Space is defined by its unique volcanic geology, with rock formations like Pulpit Rock standing out dramatically against the surrounding grasslands. These features offer insight into the region’s geologic past while creating natural landmarks that shape the character of the open space.
The elevated bluffs provide sweeping views across the city, Garden of the Gods, and toward Pikes Peak, making the area especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
Wildlife and Habitat
The open space supports native plant communities and provides important habitat for urban wildlife. Visitors may encounter mule deer, foxes, rabbits, hawks, and a variety of songbirds. Native grasses and seasonal wildflowers contribute to both ecological health and scenic beauty.
As development continues around the area, Austin Bluffs Open Space serves as a critical refuge for wildlife and a reminder of the importance of conserving natural landscapes within city limits.
Stewardship and Conservation
Austin Bluffs Open Space is managed with an emphasis on balancing recreation and conservation. Stewardship efforts focus on trail management, erosion control, habitat protection, and community education. Public involvement and responsible use are essential to maintaining the health and accessibility of the area.
Ongoing planning and community engagement help guide how Austin Bluffs is protected and enjoyed today and into the future.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Northeast Colorado Springs, near Austin Bluffs Parkway and surrounding neighborhoods Access: Multiple neighborhood access points lead into the open space Parking: Limited roadside and neighborhood parking near trail access points Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk More Information: https://coloradosprings.gov/austinbluffsopenspace
Tips:
Stay on designated trails, especially near Pulpit Rock
Bring water and sun protection—shade is limited
Pack out all trash and respect wildlife
Expect uneven and rocky terrain in some areas
Austin Bluffs Open Space, anchored by the iconic Pulpit Rock, offers a rare blend of wild landscape, scenic views, and everyday access to nature—making it an essential part of Colorado Springs’ open space system.
Sand Creek Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Sand Creek Trail is an evolving multi segment trail system in Colorado Springs that follows Sand Creek through residential areas, parks, and open spaces. When complete, the trail will serve as an important east west and north south connector, linking neighborhoods to recreation facilities and the city’s larger trail network.
Location: Eastern and southeastern Colorado Springs, following Sand Creek from Woodmen Road to Airport Road
Trail Experience
Sand Creek Trail is currently made up of two primary segments that are not yet connected. Each segment is approximately 4 miles in length and offers a different trail experience depending on location and surface type.
The southern segment runs diagonally through southeast Colorado Springs, beginning near El Pomar Youth Sports Park and extending east toward Wildflower Park. From Wildflower Park, the main trail continues north of Airport Road, while the East Fork Sand Creek spur heads east and ends just before Powers Boulevard. This section is largely concrete and offers a mild, accessible route for walking and biking. Users should expect two major street crossings at Hancock Expressway and Chelton Road.
A short central section of Sand Creek Trail was constructed between Platte Avenue and Galley Road as part of the Patriot Park development, creating a partial link through the corridor.
The northern segment of the trail runs north south alongside Sand Creek between Woodmen Road and Barnes Road. This section features mostly hardpacked natural surface, with a concrete segment between Barnes Road and Stetson Hills Boulevard. The northern portion offers a more natural setting, with open views and access to nearby parks and open space.
Connections
Sand Creek Trail connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway at El Pomar Youth Sports Park, providing access to the larger Front Range trail system. The trail also offers convenient access to the Southeast Family Center YMCA and surrounding neighborhoods.
The northern segment connects to Stetson Park and Stetson Hills Open Space, expanding recreational opportunities and linking users to additional trail and open space experiences.
Sand Creek Trail represents a growing investment in trail connectivity for Colorado Springs. As additional segments are completed, it will continue to strengthen access to parks, neighborhoods, and regional trail corridors across the city.
Rock Island Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
The Rock Island Trail in Colorado Springs follows a historic railroad corridor through the heart of the city, providing an easy, accessible east west route that connects neighborhoods, parks, and major trail systems. Built along the former Rock Island Railroad bed, the trail reflects the city’s transportation history while serving modern recreation and commuting needs.
Location: Central Colorado Springs, running east west alongside Constitution Avenue from Weber Street to Powers Boulevard
Trail Experience
The Colorado Springs segment of the Rock Island Trail is approximately 6 miles long. It runs east west from Weber Street to Powers Boulevard, generally paralleling Constitution Avenue. The trail surface is a mix of concrete and asphalt, creating a smooth and accessible experience for walking, biking, and other non motorized uses.
The trail has a gentle grade, with a gradual uphill slope when traveling east. Several at grade street crossings occur along the route, so users should exercise caution at intersections. The corridor passes through residential areas and urban landscapes, offering a practical and well used route for everyday recreation and transportation.
Connections
Rock Island Trail connects directly to the Shooks Run Trail, creating a continuous north south and east west trail link through the city. With limited street or sidewalk travel, users can also connect to the Pikes Peak Greenway, Homestead Trail, and Palmer Park, making this trail an important part of Colorado Springs’ broader urban trail network.
Homestead Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
The Homestead Trail is a long, neighborhood-spanning urban trail that weaves through eastern Colorado Springs, connecting parks, open spaces, and residential areas. Stretching approximately 7 miles in total, the trail offers a challenging and varied experience for cyclists, runners, and walkers looking for a route that blends recreation with everyday city connectivity.
With rolling terrain, multiple park connections, and future expansion planned, the Homestead Trail plays an important role in the city’s growing trail network.
Trails and Recreation
The Homestead Trail is divided into two main segments, separated by a short on-street connection.
Northern Segment (≈2 miles): This portion branches off the Cottonwood Creek Trail about a mile south of Woodmen Road. It travels southeast before ending at Templeton Gap Road, where users must transition to sidewalks to reach the southern segment.
Southern Segment (≈5 miles): The more commonly used section begins at the High Chaparral Open Space parking lot, located off Stetson Hills Boulevard (accessible when traveling eastbound). From there, the trail travels south, crossing several major streets, passing neighborhood parks, and eventually terminating at Radiant Drive.
The Homestead Trail is not an easy ride or walk. Users should expect rolling hills and a mix of trail surfaces, including asphalt, concrete, and dirt. While much of the trail is paved, some sections are rough or deteriorated, adding to the challenge.
Parks and Connections
One of the Homestead Trail’s strengths is its proximity to numerous parks and open spaces. Along the route, the trail travels through or alongside:
Old Farm Park
Rudy Park
Homestead Park
Villa Loma Park
Penrose Park
The trail connects directly to Cottonwood Creek Trail, and with some street or sidewalk travel, users can also access Palmer Park and the Rock Island Trail. The Homestead Trail shares a trailhead and parking area with High Chaparral Open Space, making it a key access point for both trail and open space users.
Management and Stewardship
The Homestead Trail is managed by City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, which oversees maintenance, safety, and long-term planning for the trail.
Because the trail passes through busy urban areas, stewardship focuses on:
Safe street crossings
Trail maintenance and surface improvements
Balancing recreation with neighborhood use
Improving long-term connectivity
Plan Your Visit
Access Points:
Cottonwood Creek Trail connection (north)
High Chaparral Open Space parking lot (south, via eastbound Stetson Hills Blvd)
Parking:
Available at High Chaparral Open Space
Limited neighborhood access points along the route
Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk
Tips:
Expect hills and uneven surfaces
Use caution at major street crossings
Bring water—shade is limited in many sections
Check conditions before biking due to rough pavement in spots
The Foothills Trail is a major multiuse pathway on the west side of Colorado Springs, stretching approximately 6.5 miles and connecting multiple neighborhoods and open spaces near Garden of the Gods. Running primarily north to south, the trail parallels Flying W Ranch Road and 30th Street while following an irrigation channel through scenic foothills terrain.
Recreation
The Foothills Trail is popular for walking, running, cycling, and dog walking, offering mostly gentle grades and wide, accessible sections. Its length and connectivity make it ideal for both short outings and longer fitness-focused rides or runs. Many users enjoy the trail for daily exercise, commuting, and sunset walks with mountain views.
Trails and Connections
The trail begins in the north near Oak Valley Ranch Park and continues south along Flying Ranch Road and 30th Street. Near Garden of the Gods, a short spur provides access to the Sinton Trail, while the main route continues south toward additional west-side trail systems. The Foothills Trail also connects to Palmer Mesa Trail, Blodgett Peak Open Space, and nearby neighborhood routes, allowing for extended loops and point-to-point trips.
Wildlife and Scenery
The route passes through grasslands, shrublands, and foothills habitat that support deer, rabbits, hawks, and songbirds. Views of sandstone formations, rolling hills, and Pikes Peak shift with the seasons, making the trail especially popular with photographers and nature enthusiasts. Spring wildflowers and fall colors add to the corridor’s visual appeal.
History
The Foothills Trail was developed as part of Colorado Springs’ effort to link major open spaces along the city’s western edge. By following existing irrigation corridors and foothills terrain, the trail preserves access to scenic landscapes while strengthening regional trail connectivity.
Plan Your Visit
Location: West Colorado Springs, from Oak Valley Ranch Park south past Garden of the Gods along Flying W Ranch Road and 30th Street Parking: Available at Oak Valley Ranch Park, Garden of the Gods, and nearby open space trailheads Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset Fees: Free
Tips: Bring water and sun protection, as shade is limited in some areas. Use caution at road crossings, yield on shared sections, and stay on designated trails to protect sensitive foothills habitat.
