Cattail Marsh Wildlife Area
Cattail Marsh Wildlife Area in Fountain, CO is a quiet oasis tucked along the banks of Fountain Creek, offering one of the region’s best spots for birdwatching and nature observation. This wetland habitat, shaped by cattails, marsh grasses, and open water, provides an essential refuge for migratory birds and local wildlife while giving visitors a peaceful place to connect with nature.
Trails and Recreation
Visitors can enjoy a short network of natural-surface paths that weave through cattail stands and around marshy ponds. These trails are flat and easy, making them perfect for a leisurely walk, wildlife photography, or a quiet moment in nature. The area also links with the broader Fountain Creek Regional Trail system, offering opportunities for longer walks or bike rides.
Wildlife & Scenery
As its name suggests, the marsh is alive with wildlife. More than 200 bird species have been spotted here, including red-winged blackbirds, herons, egrets, ducks, and seasonal sandhill cranes. Turtles, frogs, and beavers also make their home in the wetlands, while deer and foxes are often seen at the edges. The cattail stands create striking reflections in the ponds, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Fountain Creek Nature Center
Located within Fountain Creek Regional Park next to the marsh, the Fountain Creek Nature Center serves as the gateway to the area. The center features interactive exhibits on wetlands ecology, wildlife displays, and panoramic windows overlooking the marsh. It also hosts year-round educational programs, guided hikes, and children’s activities that connect people of all ages to the importance of wetlands and riparian ecosystems.
History
Cattail Marsh was conserved as part of the broader effort to protect Fountain Creek’s riparian corridor and preserve valuable wetlands in southern El Paso County. These wetlands are not only scenic but also play a critical ecological role, filtering water and supporting biodiversity in an otherwise urbanizing landscape.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 320 Peppergrass Ln, Fountain, CO 80817 (adjacent to Fountain Creek Regional Park)
Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk
Parking: Available at the Fountain Creek Nature Center and nearby trailheads
Know Before You Go: Dogs must remain leashed to protect wildlife. Trails can be muddy in spring and after heavy rain—wear appropriate footwear and bring binoculars for the best birding experience.
More Information: https://parks.elpasoco.com/el-paso-county-nature-centers/fountain-creek-nature-center/
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.
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
Metcalfe Park
Metcalfe Park is the heart of Fountain, Colorado—a welcoming 10-acre community park that blends history, recreation, and gathering spaces. Known for its shady trees, playgrounds, and wide-open lawns, the park is a hub for festivals, concerts, and everyday family fun.
Trails and Recreation
Walking paths weave through the park, inviting visitors to take a leisurely stroll, exercise, or simply enjoy the outdoors. Children can explore multiple playground areas, while sports enthusiasts make use of open play fields. The park also hosts community events throughout the year, from local concerts to Fountain’s Fall Festival, drawing people of all ages.
Amenities and Features
Metcalfe Park features picnic tables, shelters, and a bandstand that serves as a centerpiece for public events. Families enjoy the barbecue grills and shady spots perfect for gatherings, while kids delight in updated play equipment. The open grassy areas are ideal for pickup games, festivals, and community celebrations. There is also a pump track, dog park and horse arena.
Wildlife & Scenery
Set in the heart of Fountain, the park is dotted with mature trees that provide shade and beauty year-round. Seasonal wildflowers and landscaping create a colorful backdrop for outdoor activities, while birds and small wildlife find refuge in the green space.
History
Metcalfe Park carries deep roots in Fountain’s community identity. For decades, it has been the site of local celebrations, neighborhood gatherings, and family outings. Its central location makes it one of the most recognizable and beloved parks in the city.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 704 E Ohio Ave, Fountain, CO 80817
Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily
Parking: Street parking is available around the park, with additional spaces provided during larger events.
Heritage Open Space
Heritage Open Space, nestled within Fountain, Colorado, offers a peaceful natural refuge close to town that highlights the region’s prairie and riparian ecosystems. This 53 acre open space serves as both a recreational outlet and a conservation buffer, preserving local habitat while inviting residents to explore nature. Natural surface trails connect Heritage Park to Hibbard Park.
Trails and Recreation
The open area features soft-surface trails that weave through native grasses, shrubs, and scattered trees. These trails are ideal for walking, hiking, or birding excursions. While the terrain is gentle, the views across the Fountain Valley are expansive and refreshing.
Wildlife and Habitat
Heritage Open Space supports a variety of wildlife adapted to eastern Colorado’s landscapes—songbirds, pollinators, small mammals, and occasionally raptors overflying the open fields. Native grasses and shrubs offer forage and cover, making the space ecologically valuable for nearby wildlife corridors.
Conservation & Community Importance
Managed as part of Fountain’s open space system, Heritage Open Space helps protect sensitive riparian and prairie habitats while providing passive recreation opportunities close to home. It contributes to Fountain’s overarching green infrastructure goals—linking neighborhoods, improving natural corridors, and fostering community well-being.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Within the city boundaries of Fountain, CO
Parking: On-street or nearby open-space lot(s) depending on trailhead access
Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
Tips: Trails are unpaved—wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Keep dogs leashed to protect sensitive habitats and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Adams Open Space
Adams Open Space, located in Fountain, Colorado, is a hidden gem for locals seeking a quiet place to connect with nature close to town. This riparian corridor and grassland preserve offers walking trails, wildlife viewing, and open vistas that highlight the beauty of the Fountain Valley. Jimmy Camp Creek flows through the open space providing peaceful sounds of running water.
Trails and Recreation
Visitors can enjoy soft-surface trails that wind through cottonwood groves and open meadows. The pathways are ideal for walking, jogging, or simply taking a relaxing stroll near the creek. In the fall, golden leaves line the creekside, while spring and summer bring a lush burst of greenery and birdsong.
Wildlife and Habitat
Adams Open Space is home to a variety of birds, small mammals, and pollinators that thrive in its mix of riparian and grassland habitats. The cottonwood canopy provides important shade and nesting areas, while the open fields attract hawks, meadowlarks, and butterflies. For wildlife enthusiasts, it’s an easy-access spot to enjoy Fountain’s natural diversity.
Conservation and Community
As one of Fountain’s dedicated open spaces, Adams helps protect critical riparian habitat while providing the community with a place to explore and recharge. It reflects the city’s commitment to balancing recreation with conservation, ensuring that residents have green spaces that enhance quality of life while safeguarding natural resources.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Along Fountain Creek, within the city of Fountain, CO.
Parking: Limited on-street and trailhead parking is available.
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
Tips: Trails are unpaved; bring sturdy shoes and water. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed to protect wildlife and other visitors.
