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.
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.
Cottonwood Creek Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Cottonwood Creek Trail is a major east west urban trail in northern Colorado Springs and a key connector within the city’s trail system. Following Cottonwood Creek, the trail links neighborhoods, parks, and regional trail corridors while providing a smooth and accessible route for everyday recreation and transportation.
Location: Northern Colorado Springs, following Cottonwood Creek from Powers Boulevard to the Pikes Peak Greenway near I 25
Trail Experience
Cottonwood Creek Trail is just over 6 miles long and features a smooth concrete surface throughout. The trail runs east to west along Cottonwood Creek, beginning near Frank Castello Park at Powers Boulevard and continuing west to connect with the Pikes Peak Greenway and Front Range Trail near I 25.
The trail is generally flat with gentle elevation changes, making it accessible for walkers, runners, cyclists, families, and users of mobility devices. The corridor offers a mix of riparian habitat, open space, and neighborhood views, with long straight segments that are well suited for longer outings or commuting. Benches, trail access points, and nearby amenities allow users to easily tailor trips to their preferred distance and pace.
A dirt trail alternative runs between Union Boulevard and Rangewood Drive, providing a more natural surface option and forming a pleasant 3 mile loop with convenient parking at Cottonwood Creek Community Park.
Road Crossings and Navigation
Cottonwood Creek Trail includes one major street crossing at Union Boulevard. Trail users should use the marked crosswalk at Woodland Hills Drive when crossing Union Boulevard. The trail passes alongside Frank Castello Park and includes a spur connection to Dublin Park; however, accessing Dublin Park requires crossing Dublin Boulevard, which currently does not have a designated pedestrian crossing.
Connections
Cottonwood Creek Trail connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway and Front Range Trail just south of the Woodmen Road and Rockrimmon Boulevard area. Multiple neighborhood access points provide easy connections to Cottonwood Creek Community Park, nearby residential areas, and the YMCA. The trail also links to Woodmen Trail and other local trail segments, strengthening north south and east west connectivity across northern Colorado Springs.
Skyline Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Skyline Trail is a neighborhood focused urban trail in northern Colorado Springs that provides an important north south connection through the Briargate area. Often referred to locally as the Powerline Trail due to its alignment with overhead powerlines, Skyline Trail is well used by nearby residents for walking, running, and biking.
Skyline Trail is approximately 2 miles long and features a mix of wide concrete and dirt trail surfaces. South of Research Parkway, the trail is smooth concrete, while the segment north of Research Parkway transitions to a dirt surface. Rolling terrain creates noticeable elevation gain and loss, giving the trail a moderate difficulty rating.
The trail includes several distinctive switchbacks near Mirage Drive that offer views across the surrounding neighborhoods and open spaces. Despite its urban setting, the corridor provides a sense of separation from nearby roads and is popular for short neighborhood outings as well as longer connected trips.
Road Crossings and Navigation
Skyline Trail includes several street crossings and users should proceed with caution at all crosswalks. Major crossings occur at Briargate Boulevard and Research Parkway. When crossing Research Parkway, users should use the signalized intersection at Chapel Hills Drive for improved safety. Trail signage varies by segment, and awareness is recommended when navigating transitions between surfaces.
Connections
Skyline Trail transitions into Woodmen Trail at Briargate Boulevard, allowing users to continue east west through northern Colorado Springs. A spur trail provides access to Rampart Community Park, which includes a disc golf course, sports courts and fields, and a dog park. The trail passes near High Plains Elementary School and offers views of Reflection Pond, which can be accessed via sidewalks on Parliament Drive.
Sidewalk connections along Briargate Parkway allow access to John Venezia Community Park and the Briargate Trail. Multiple neighborhood access points along the route make Skyline Trail easy to reach from surrounding residential areas.
Skyline Trail plays an important role in connecting neighborhoods, parks, and trails across northern Colorado Springs while offering a moderately challenging route with varied terrain and strong local use.
Sinton Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
Sinton Trail is a scenic urban trail in central Colorado Springs that follows Douglas Creek and an adjacent drainage canal. The trail offers a peaceful corridor through an otherwise developed area, connecting major trail systems while providing opportunities to experience wildlife, seasonal color, and quiet open space close to the city.
Location: Central Colorado Springs, between Garden of the Gods Road and Mark Dabling Boulevard
Trail Experience
Sinton Trail is approximately 3 miles long and runs northwest to southeast between Garden of the Gods Road and Mark Dabling Boulevard, just north of the Goose Gossage Youth Sports Complex. The trail surface is primarily asphalt, with short sections of concrete and gravel. Elevation changes are gradual, with a gentle uphill grade when traveling west.
The trail is well suited for walking, running, and biking and is accessible to a wide range of users. One of the highlights of the trail is its proximity to water and riparian habitat, which supports birdwatching opportunities, particularly near Sinton Pond Open Space. Waterfowl, songbirds, and other wildlife are commonly observed in this area.
In autumn, mature cottonwoods and other trees along the corridor provide vibrant fall color, making Sinton Trail especially popular during the changing seasons. The combination of water, vegetation, and separation from traffic creates a calm and immersive trail experience.
Road Crossings and Navigation
Sinton Trail includes two at grade street crossings at North Chestnut Road and Holland Park Boulevard. The trail also passes under Centennial Boulevard via a narrow metal tunnel, which requires users to proceed with caution and be aware of oncoming traffic, particularly cyclists.
Connections
Sinton Trail connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway and Templeton Gap Trail, making it an important link within Colorado Springs’ urban trail network. With minimal use of sidewalks and local streets, users can also reach 30th Street to connect with the Foothills Trail and Garden of the Gods Park.
A short dirt path provides access to Sinton Pond Open Space, a 13 acre natural area that offers a quiet detour and additional wildlife viewing opportunities within a densely developed part of the city.
Sinton Trail serves as both a functional connector and a natural refuge, offering year round recreation, seasonal beauty, and access to some of Colorado Springs’ most popular trail corridors.
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.
Midland Trail – Colorado Springs, CO
The Midland Trail is a key east west urban corridor in Colorado Springs, following Fountain Creek and the historic Midland rail alignment. The trail provides a smooth, accessible route through the city, connecting downtown destinations, parks, and major trail systems while offering views of the creek and surrounding landscape.
Location: West and central Colorado Springs, paralleling U.S. Highway 24 (Cimarron Street) from America the Beautiful Park to Ridge Road
Trail Experience
The Midland Trail is approximately 8 miles long and runs east west along Fountain Creek. The trail begins near America the Beautiful Park in downtown Colorado Springs and continues west to Ridge Road. The surface is primarily concrete, making it suitable for walking, biking, and other non motorized uses.
The trail features a mild grade, with a gradual downhill slope when traveling east. Several at grade street crossings occur along the route, with pedestrian signals at major crossings including 31st Street and 8th Street. There is a short gap in the trail between 21st Street and 25th Street, where users are directed to use Naegele Road, a lightly traveled roadway.
The corridor blends urban scenery with riparian habitat along Fountain Creek and passes through areas of public art and community investment. An art bench created by Concrete Couch can be found near 17th Street and serves as a unique landmark along the trail.
Connections
Midland Trail connects directly to the Pikes Peak Greenway, America the Beautiful Park, and the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum. With limited street or sidewalk travel, users can also reach the Foothills Trail, Red Rock Canyon Open Space, and the City of Manitou Springs, making the Midland Trail an important link between urban and foothills recreation.
The Midland Trail plays a central role in Colorado Springs’ trail network, providing access to cultural destinations, regional trails, and everyday outdoor recreation along Fountain Creek.
The Manitou Incline is one of the most popular hiking trails in Colorado. The base of the Incline sits at 6,600 feet. It is, perhaps, the most unique and challenging trail in the country, attracting runners, military, Olympic athletes, and hiking enthusiasts from around the world. It is steep, gaining over 2,011 feet of elevation in 0.88 mile. There are approximately 2,750 steps, although the top step is numbered “2768”; the number of steps changes occasionally with trail maintenance and deterioration. While some athletes can conquer the Incline in 30 minutes or less, it takes most people 1-3 hours to make it to the top. Plus, an additional 1-2 hours to return down the Barr Trail. After you crest the false summit, there are approximately 300 steps to go before reaching the top.
The base of the Incline is located in Manitou Springs near the Cog Railroad. The Inline is free and open to the public, but expect to pay for parking. Even with paid parking, finding a spot can be difficult. In the summer, plan to park in the lot at 10 Old Man’s Trail or in Manitou Springs and take the free shuttle.
PLEASE NOTE: Starting in 2020, users are required to make a FREE reservation online, at coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/manitou-incline. Pets are NOT allowed on the Incline. Remember to bring plenty of water!! This is an extremely difficult climb at high altitude, and the return route on Barr Trail is about 3 miles, it’s about 4 miles round trip. You should be in good physical shape and acclimated to Colorado altitude before attempting this trail.
Connections: The Northern Incline Return Trail offers two new return options for hikers, both located in the bottom half of the Incline. The first return is located at railroad tie #395 and the second is at #1300, approximate halfway point. From tie #1300, the trail to return down to the trailhead is roughly 1.5 miles. From tie #395, it is about a half a mile hike down. About three-quarters of the way up the Incline, around step #1800 there is a turnoff to the Barr Trail, locally called “The Bailout.” If you don’t have it in you to take on another 1000 steps, this is where you should exit. The top of the Incline also connects to Barr Trail allowing hikers to trek to the summit of Pikes Peak or return to the base of the Incline.
History: Completed in 1907, the Manitou Incline was once a cable tram built to support the construction of a hydroelectric plant and its waterline. After performing this service the railway was then purchased by Dr. Brumbach and turned into a tourist attraction. The Incline boasted a 16-minute ride to “scenic splendors”, 10 miles of hiking trails in Mount Manitou Park, and claimed to be the “longest and highest incline on the globe.” Spencer Penrose bought the Incline in 1923 and made it part of his tourist attraction empire, the cars were upgraded to allow for a retractable roof and more safety. The summit station was again rebuilt in 1958 and lasted until it was dismantled upon closure of the Incline in 1990. A rock slide damaged a section of track in 1990, so the Manitou Springs Incline was closed down. The rails were removed, but the railroad ties remained in the form of a massive staircase.
Nearly 20 years of unmanaged trespass and use of the Incline resulted in significant erosion on the mountainside, dangerous trail conditions, traffic congestion and uncontrolled parking. In 2010, the City of Colorado Springs negotiated pursing legal access to the Incline corridor, and both Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs entered into an Intergovernmental Agreement to plan for formally opening the Incline for public recreation. In 2011, the Manitou Incline Site Development and Management Plan was drafted. After many years of wrangling and an actual Act of Congress, the Incline was made legal in February of 2013.
Volunteer: Contact the Incline Friends to see how you can help, inclinefriends@gmail.com.
