Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a 1,470-acre city preserve on the west side of Colorado Springs, showcasing tilted red-sandstone hogbacks, former quarry walls, and big views toward Pikes Peak. A network of multi-use trails winds through canyons, mesas, and reclaimed quarry benches, making it a favorite for hikers, runners, cyclists, climbers, and dog owners.
Trails and Recreation
More than 15 miles of natural-surface trails link canyon floors to mesa-top overlooks and connect south to the Intemann Trail and Manitou’s trail system. Signature routes include Red Rock Canyon, Mesa, Greenlee, Sand Canyon, and Roundup—easy to moderate loops you can mix and match. A designated freeride/skills area offers bike features from beginner to advanced. Rock climbing is allowed on established routes (free annual City permit required); always check for any seasonal closures.
Amenities and Features
You’ll find restrooms, trail maps, and multiple parking areas at the main entrance. Two signed off-leash dog loops (Upper and Lower) give pups room to roam; elsewhere, dogs must be leashed. Picnic spots are tucked along the lower trails, and wayfinding is posted at major junctions.
Wildlife & Scenery
Expect classic Front Range scenery—red walls, juniper and piñon on sunny slopes, and cottonwoods along the drainages. Mule deer, foxes, raptors, and a wide variety of songbirds frequent the open space. Sunrise and sunset light the sandstone and quarry faces in deep oranges and reds—prime time for photos.
History
For more than a century, these canyons supported sandstone quarries, gravel pits, and other industry. The City purchased the property in 2003 using TOPS (Trails, Open Space and Parks) funds, opened it to the public in 2004, and later expanded it with adjacent parcels like White Acres. Today’s trails follow old quarry roads and bench cuts, turning a once-industrial landscape into a premier urban open space.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Main entrance at 3550 W High St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 (access via S 31st St off US-24)
Hours: Generally 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (seasonal gate hours may vary)
Parking: Primary lots at the W High St entrance; additional small lots serve southern access points
Know Before You Go: Stay on designated trails to protect fragile soils; observe posted climbing rules and any wildlife closures; off-leash only in the signed dog loops.
