What a history! Thorndale Park was once the Town of Ramona. Once considered the “City of Sin”, Ramona was incorporated as a counter to the temperance movement of the early 20th century.
Recreation and Activities
Thorndale park has plenty of features for families including play equipment, numerous picnic tables, a basketball and tennis court and a large open field for kids to romp. Large old trees provide plenty of shade during the hot summer months.
History
To fully appreciate the fascinating history of both Thorndale Park and the Town of Ramona it preceded, stop at the interpretive sign at the corner of 24th St. and Uinta St. You’ll get a better understanding of the complex history of the area.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 2310 W. Uintah St. The park can be accessed either along Uinta St. or along the side streets: 24th and 23rd Sts. Parking: Street parking is available on Uinta, 23rd or 24th. Accessibility ramps are located at the corners of 24th and 23rd. Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk. Fees: No entry fee. Tips:
The ramada must be reserved through the Parks Department (719) 385-5940
The restrooms are closed during the winter months. Check and restroom closures on the City Parks Website
Palmer-Mesa Trail
The Palmer Mesa Trail is a multiuse pathway in Colorado Springs that spans approximately 3.5 miles of paved and unpaved surface along Mesa Road. Beginning in Blair Bridge Open Space, the trail branches off from the Foothills Trail and travels south through scenic foothills and neighborhood landscapes.
Recreation
This trail is popular with walkers, runners, cyclists, and families looking for a moderate, accessible route with strong scenic rewards. Its mix of paved and natural surface makes it suitable for both casual outings and longer fitness-focused trips. The gentle grades and open views make it especially enjoyable for sunset walks and rides.
Trails and Connections
Palmer Mesa Trail begins at Blair Bridge Open Space and connects to the Foothills Trail before continuing south along Mesa Road. Near its midpoint, the route intersects with the Mesa Valley Trail at Oliver Wendell Holmes Middle School. These connections allow users to build longer routes linking multiple west-side trail systems.
Wildlife and Scenery
Highlights along the trail include overlooks of the striking red sandstone formations and rolling hills of Garden of the Gods. A stone arch bridge built by John Blair, landscape gardener for the Glen Eyrie estate, adds historic character to the route. Open foothills terrain and native vegetation create changing scenery throughout the year.
History
The trail corridor reflects the area’s connection to early landscape design associated with the Glen Eyrie estate and surrounding foothills. Features such as the stone arch bridge and scenic viewpoints highlight the blend of natural beauty and historic influence along Mesa Road.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Along Mesa Road, from Blair Bridge Open Space to Mesa Valley Trail Parking: Small parking areas near the Blair Bridge. Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset Fees: Free
Tips: Parking is limited and fills quickly during peak times, especially at sunset. Bring water, use caution near road crossings, and share the trail courteously with other users.
Sondermann Park
Sondermann Park is a peaceful neighborhood and open space park on the west side of Colorado Springs. This scenic corridor features creekside habitat, open lawns, and trail access, offering a quiet escape close to downtown and Old Colorado City.
Recreation
The park is popular for walking, jogging, dog walking, birdwatching, and casual cycling along soft-surface paths. Open grassy areas provide space for wildlife viewing, relaxation, and informal play, while shaded sections near the creek offer cool resting spots during warmer months.
Trails and Connections
Sondermann Park provides direct access to the Mesa Valley Trail. This serves as a connection to the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail. The park also serves as a gateway to nearby environmental education facilities and neighborhood routes. Inside the park, a variety of trails through diverse habitat are present. Trails: Bluestem Trail, Mesa Valley Trail, West Fork Trail , Creekside Trail, Lilac Trail, Western Loop, South Park Loop.
Wildlife and Scenery
The creek and wetlands attract ducks, songbirds, herons, beavers and other wildlife throughout the year. Cottonwood trees, native grasses, and riparian vegetation create a natural landscape that changes with the seasons. Larger wildlife, such as coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats and black bears frequent the area. The area is especially popular for early-morning walks and nature photography.
History
The park is named in honor of Paul Sondermann, a longtime conservation advocate who played a key role in protecting local waterways and open spaces. Its preservation reflects the community’s commitment to maintaining healthy creek corridors and accessible green spaces.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 740 W. Caramillo St., Colorado Springs, CO 80907 Parking: Limited parking available near trailhead and adjacent streets Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset Fees: Free
Tips: Bring water and sun protection, and watch for cyclists on shared-use paths. Stay on designated trails to help protect creekside habitat.
Nancy Lewis Park
Nancy Lewis Park is one of Colorado Springs’ most charming neighborhood parks, offering a peaceful setting with a small pond, wetlands, rocks, a footbridge, and plenty of ducks that delight visitors of all ages. Located off Templeton Gap near Union and Fillmore, this 8.9-acre park is a valued community space for walking, relaxing, and everyday outdoor recreation.
Recreation
The park is ideal for casual walks, family outings, and light exercise, with a sidewalk path that loops around the entire park. Visitors enjoy watching wildlife around the pond, using the playground and fitness equipment, or gathering for informal games and picnics. A croquet and putting green and sand volleyball court add to the park’s variety of recreational options.
Trails and Connections
Nancy Lewis Park features paved sidewalk paths that create an easy, accessible walking loop for all ages and abilities. While it is primarily a neighborhood destination, its paths connect nearby residents to surrounding streets and local routes for short walks and bike trips.
Wildlife and Scenery
The park’s pond and wetland areas attract ducks and other birds throughout the year. Rock features, landscaped areas, and seasonal plantings create a scenic setting that changes with the seasons. The bridge and water features make this park especially popular for photography and quiet reflection.
History
Nancy Lewis Park honors community legacy through features such as the hospice tree dedication and legacy wall. Over time, it has become known as a welcoming gathering place that reflects the neighborhood’s commitment to preserving small, high-quality green spaces.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 2615 Logan Ave. (Templeton Gap Road and Logan Ave.) Parking: Street parking available nearby Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset Fees: Free
Tips: Restrooms are seasonal. Bring water for warm days and take time to explore the pond area for wildlife viewing.
Rockrimmon Trail
The Rockrimmon Trail is a scenic urban foothills route in northwest Colorado Springs, offering sweeping views of the city, the Front Range, and surrounding open spaces. Popular with hikers, trail runners, and dog walkers, this accessible trail provides a quick escape into nature without leaving town.
Recreation
Rockrimmon Trail is well-suited for walking, jogging, and light trail running, with moderate elevation gain and open terrain. The route is frequently used for fitness outings, sunset walks, and casual nature exploration, making it a favorite for nearby neighborhoods. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the trail’s wide sections make it comfortable for shared use.
Trails and Connections
The main trail connects to a network of nearby routes in the Rockrimmon and Peregrine open space areas, allowing users to extend their outings. Hikers can link to additional foothills trails for longer loops and more challenging terrain, creating flexible options for both short and extended visits.
Wildlife and Scenery
The trail passes through grasslands, shrublands, and rocky outcrops that support deer, hawks, songbirds, and other urban wildlife. Expansive views of Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and the city skyline make this area especially popular for photography and quiet reflection.
History
The Rockrimmon area has long been valued for its natural setting along the city’s western edge. As development expanded nearby, the trail system was preserved to maintain public access to foothills landscapes and outdoor recreation close to residential neighborhoods.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Northwest Colorado Springs, near Rockrimmon Boulevard Parking: Limited street parking available near trailheads Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset Fees: Free Tips: Bring water, sun protection, and sturdy shoes. Watch for changing weather and share the trail courteously with other users.
With its convenient location, open views, and connections to surrounding open spaces, Rockrimmon Trail offers an easy and rewarding way to experience the foothills and stay active close to home.
Rock Island Regional Trail – Falcon and Peyton, CO
East of Colorado Springs, the Rock Island Regional Trail continues through Falcon and Peyton along the same historic railroad alignment. This segment provides a more rural experience, connecting growing communities and open landscapes while preserving the legacy of the former rail corridor.
Location: Eastern El Paso County, between Falcon and Peyton along the former Rock Island Railroad corridor
Trail Experience
The Falcon and Peyton segment of the Rock Island Trail offers a quieter, more open setting compared to the urban Colorado Springs portion. The trail follows the historic rail bed through prairie landscapes and developing residential areas, creating opportunities for walking, biking, and horseback riding depending on surface conditions.
As development continues in eastern El Paso County, this segment plays an increasingly important role in providing off street trail access and connecting communities to regional recreation opportunities.
Connections
The Falcon and Peyton portion of the Rock Island Trail connects local neighborhoods and open spaces while supporting long term plans for expanded trail connectivity across eastern El Paso County. Future trail extensions and connections are expected to further link this corridor to parks, schools, and regional trail systems.
The Rock Island Trail reflects Colorado Springs’ rail history while serving as a vital recreation and transportation corridor today. Together, the urban and eastern segments illustrate how historic infrastructure continues to shape access, connectivity, and community across the region.
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.
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.
