Women’s Forest Trail (Women’s Federation Forest) – Divide, CO
The Women’s Forest Trail, also known as the Women’s Federation Forest, is a special hiking area near Divide dedicated to the legacy of women in conservation. Established in the 1960s through the Colorado Federation of Women’s Clubs in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service, this living memorial forest highlights the power of community and stewardship in shaping Colorado’s landscapes.
Trail Experience Forest Service Trail #375 (Pike National Forest) is about 5 miles long and is an excellent choice for intermediate hikers, or anyone seeking a reflective walk in the woods. The path meanders through stands of ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, small lake and rock formations. *Note: The Trail is not marked well at all and difficult to follow depending on the season. Check online for the best maps before exploring.*
Wildlife and Scenery The forested loop is home to mule deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds. In summer, wildflowers brighten the understory, while autumn brings crisp air and changing colors in the surrounding area.
History The Women’s Federation Forest was planted as a conservation project by the Colorado Federation of Women’s Clubs in cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service. Their vision was to create a space that would celebrate stewardship and serve as a living classroom for future generations. Trail #375 allows visitors to walk among these trees and reflect on the enduring legacy of grassroots conservation.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Teller County Road 511, just off U.S. Highway 24 near Divide, within Pike National Forest
Length: 5 miles (loop)
Amenities: Small trailhead parking
Tips: Pair this short trail with nearby hikes like Mueller State Park or the Crags Trail for a full day outdoors.
Trail #375 offers more than meditative walk in the forest — it’s a reminder of how community and conservation come together to leave a legacy on the land.
Manitou Lake
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.
The Beaver Creek Wilderness Study Area (WSA) is a rugged and remote backcountry gem managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Spanning more than 27,000 acres, this wild landscape protects a dramatic mix of canyons, ridges, and rolling foothills where solitude, scenery, and backcountry adventure come together. The Beaver Creek WSA is located in Fremont, Teller, and El Paso counties, approximately 10 miles northeast of Cañon City and 12 miles southwest of Colorado Springs. The primary trailhead is located at the end of Fremont County Road 132.
Recreation and Trails
Beaver Creek WSA is a favorite destination for hikers, equestrians, and anglers seeking quiet trails far from crowds. The Beaver Creek Trail follows the namesake waterway through red-rock canyons and shady cottonwood groves, eventually climbing to sweeping views of the Wet Mountains and Pikes Peak. Several primitive routes connect to the trail, creating opportunities for longer backpacking trips. Anglers are drawn to Beaver Creek itself, a state-designated Wild Trout Stream, known for its naturally reproducing populations of brown and rainbow trout.
Wildlife and Scenery
The varied terrain provides habitat for an impressive array of wildlife. Visitors may encounter bighorn sheep scaling cliffs, elk and mule deer grazing the meadows, or golden eagles riding canyon thermals. In spring, wildflowers brighten the slopes, while autumn paints the cottonwoods in vibrant yellows along the creek. The combination of rocky canyons, forested ridges, and wide-open skies makes the area a haven for photographers and nature lovers.
History
Beaver Creek has long been valued for its rugged beauty and ecological significance. Designated a Wilderness Study Area in 1980, it has been managed to preserve its wild character while Congress determines whether it will receive permanent wilderness status. The area also has ties to early homesteading and ranching, with remnants of old cabins and corrals still visible in some drainages.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Approximately 12 miles north of Cañon City, accessible via County Road 132 from Highway 115. Parking: Trailhead parking is available at the end of County Road 132; access roads can be rough, especially in wet weather. Hours: Open year-round, but access may be limited by snow or muddy road conditions. Fees: None. Tips:
This is a remote, rugged area—pack extra food, water, and navigation tools.
Trails are primitive and can be overgrown; be prepared for route finding.
Respect the wild character: leave no trace and pack out all trash.
With its wild canyons, clear streams, and unmatched solitude, the Beaver Creek Wilderness Study Area offers one of the most authentic backcountry experiences along Colorado’s Front Range.
Monument Preserve
Located just west of the town of Monument, the Monument Preserve is a beloved local open space known for its extensive trail network, shady ponderosa pine forest, and strong sense of community stewardship. Once home to the historic Monument Nursery, which grew millions of trees for reforestation across the West, the preserve is now managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Pike National Forest.
Recreation and Trails
The Monument Preserve offers miles of interconnected trails perfect for hikers, mountain bikers, trail runners, and equestrians. The wide, rolling paths are popular for after-work exercise or family outings, while more technical singletrack challenges advanced riders and runners. A highlight for many visitors is the hike to Monument Rock, a striking sandstone formation that rises dramatically above the forest and offers stunning views of the Front Range. Trails also connect into Pike National Forest, allowing adventurous visitors to extend their trips into the backcountry.
Wildlife and Scenery
The preserve’s ponderosa pine and gambel oak woodlands provide habitat for mule deer, foxes, wild turkeys, and a wide variety of birds. In spring, wildflowers brighten the forest floor, while autumn brings warm golden tones. Its forested landscape provides year-round shade, making it a favorite spot in both summer heat and winter snow.
History
The site is steeped in history as the location of the Monument Nursery, established in 1907. For much of the 20th century, workers grew seedlings here that were planted across Colorado and beyond to restore landscapes damaged by wildfire, mining, and overgrazing. Remnants of this history, including old irrigation structures and foundations, can still be found throughout the preserve. Today, community groups continue the tradition of stewardship through regular trail maintenance and conservation efforts.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Access is available from Mount Herman Road, west of Monument, CO. Parking: A gravel lot is located near the main trailhead; roadside parking is also available at select points. Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk. Fees: No entry fee. Tips:
Be aware of heavy trail use—yield appropriately and share the trails with other users.
Trails can be icy in winter; traction devices are recommended.
Respect historic features and leave them undisturbed.
With its welcoming trails, historic legacy, and iconic Monument Rock, the Monument Preserve is a treasured local open space that connects the community to both nature and history.
Sandstone Ranch Open Space (Douglas County)
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.
Pancake Rocks Trail
The Pancake Rocks Trail near Cripple Creek is one of the most beloved high-country hikes in the Pikes Peak region, famous for its unusual, layered rock formations that resemble a towering stack of pancakes. At over 10,000 feet in elevation, this hike combines geological wonders, sweeping views, and a true alpine adventure.
Trails and Hiking
The trail to Pancake Rocks begins from Horsethief Park and climbs steadily through spruce and fir forest. Hikers can expect about 6 miles round trip with roughly 1,200 feet of elevation gain, making it a moderate-to-challenging trek. The highlight is reaching the natural sandstone and granite formations, where the rock has weathered into stacked, flat shelves that look like giant pancakes tipped on their side.
Wildlife and Scenery
Along the way, hikers are treated to dense forest, alpine meadows, and breathtaking views of Pikes Peak’s south slopes and the surrounding Teller County high country. Wildlife sightings often include marmots, pikas, mule deer, and a variety of alpine birds. In late summer, wildflowers add splashes of color to the meadows, while fall brings golden aspen groves.
History
The Pancake Rocks area has long been a favorite local hike, with its unique formations formed over millions of years by erosion and uplift. Once traveled by miners and early settlers moving between Cripple Creek and Divide, today it is a treasured recreational destination managed by the Pike National Forest.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Access off CO Highway 67 between Divide and Cripple Creek. The Horsethief Park Trailhead is closest. Parking: Parking strip along HWY with various pulloffs further away. Hours: Open year-round, though snow and ice can make the trail difficult outside of summer and fall. Tips:
At high elevation, weather changes quickly—dress in layers and be prepared for storms.
Bring plenty of water; there are no reliable water sources on the trail.
Dogs are allowed but should be leashed to protect wildlife and fellow hikers.
Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common in summer.
With its striking rock formations and spectacular alpine views, Pancake Rocks is a one-of-a-kind hike that rewards every step of the climb.
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.
Seven Bridges Trail (#622)
The Seven Bridges Trail, also known as Trail #622, is one of the most popular hikes in North Cheyenne Cañon. This moderate trail is about 3.7 miles round trip and gains roughly 1,000 feet in elevation as it follows North Cheyenne Creek. Its charm comes from crossing seven rustic wooden bridges that give the trail its name, making it a family-friendly adventure with plenty of photo opportunities.
Trails and Recreation
The trail begins at the end of North Cheyenne Canyon Road near the parking area for the Upper Gold Camp Road. From there, hikers follow a steady incline along a shaded canyon trail, crossing over seven picturesque wooden bridges. Beyond the seventh bridge, the path continues into steeper terrain and can be extended to connect with higher trails like Jones Park or Mount Rosa for those looking for a longer trek.
Wildlife and Scenery
Surrounded by towering evergreens, mountain streams, and granite walls, the Seven Bridges Trail offers classic Front Range beauty. Depending on the season, hikers may encounter wildflowers, colorful autumn foliage, or sparkling ice formations along the creek. Wildlife is common in the area—mule deer, songbirds, and the occasional black bear may be spotted in the canyon.
History
The trail follows an old pipeline route that once carried water from the mountains into Colorado Springs in the early 20th century. The bridges were originally constructed to maintain access along the pipeline, and today they remain a beloved feature of this historic route.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Trailhead parking is located at the end of North Cheyenne Canyon Road, just past the closed Gold Camp Road tunnel. Parking: A paved lot is available, but it fills quickly—arrive early, especially on weekends. Additional parking may be available further down the road. Hours: Open daily, 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Tips:
The trail is well-shaded, making it a great summer hike.
Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.
Wear sturdy shoes, as the path can be rocky and icy in colder months.
Continue past the seventh bridge if you want to extend your hike into the higher country of Pike National Forest.
Barr Trail
Barr Trail is one of Colorado’s most iconic and challenging hikes, climbing from the base of Manitou Springs to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak. Stretching about 13 miles one way, this legendary route is a favorite for experienced hikers, trail runners, and those seeking to follow in the footsteps of Katherine Lee Bates, who wrote “America the Beautiful” after visiting the summit. With nearly 7,400 feet of elevation gain, Barr Trail is considered one of the most demanding long-distance trails in the Pikes Peak region.
Trails and Recreation
Barr Trail begins near the Cog Railway Depot in Manitou Springs and winds through diverse terrain, from foothill forests to high-alpine tundra. Many hikers split the journey by stopping overnight at Barr Camp, a rustic backcountry lodge about 6.5 miles up the trail. Others use the trail for training runs or as a route to complete the famous Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon. Whether you tackle a section or the entire summit, Barr Trail delivers a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Wildlife and Scenery
Along the way, hikers pass through lush ponderosa pine forests, groves of aspen, and wildflower-filled meadows before entering the rocky alpine zone. Wildlife sightings may include mule deer, marmots, pikas, black bear, and a wide range of bird species. The higher you climb, the more expansive the views become—eventually opening up to sweeping panoramas of the Front Range, Colorado Springs, and the eastern plains.
History
Barr Trail was built in the early 1900s by Fred Barr, who envisioned a route that would allow hikers and equestrians to reach the summit of Pikes Peak. Barr also established Barr Camp as a stopping point along the way, which continues to serve outdoor enthusiasts today. The trail’s connection to the region’s cultural and recreational history has made it a cornerstone of Colorado hiking.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Trailhead located near 540 Ruxton Avenue, Manitou Springs, CO, adjacent to the Cog Railway Depot. Parking: Limited parking is available near the trailhead; many visitors use Manitou Springs public lots or shuttle systems. Fees may apply. Hours: Open year-round, but conditions can be extreme—check weather forecasts before starting. Tips:
Expect a strenuous hike—be physically prepared and start early.
Carry layers, food, and plenty of water (refills available at Barr Camp).
Afternoon storms are common in summer; plan to be below tree line by midday.
Dogs are allowed but should be kept leashed and acclimated to long climbs.
