4.6
(236)
4,133
hikers
263
hikes
Hiking around Colorado Springs offers routes that navigate the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The region is characterized by prominent red sandstone formations, deep canyons, and trails that provide views of Pikes Peak. The extensive network of paths ranges from accessible loops within city parks to more demanding ascents into the surrounding mountains. This diverse terrain includes unique geological features like those found in Garden of the Gods Park and Red Rock Canyon Open Space.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
3.5
(2)
70
hikers
4.90km
01:21
90m
80m
Embark on an easy hike along the Palmer and Central Garden Loop Trail, a 3.0-mile (4.9 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete. You will…
5.0
(1)
40
hikers
6.42km
01:46
120m
70m
Embark on the Gateway Trail to Palmer Trail and Scotsman Trail Loop for an easy hiking experience through Garden of the Gods. This 4.0-mile (6.4 km) route features a gentle…

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4.6
(5)
21
hikers
9.75km
02:47
230m
230m
Embark on the Red Rock Rim and Greenlee Loop, a moderate hiking route that guides you through the dramatic red sandstone landscape of Red Rock Canyon Open Space. This 6.1-mile…
5.0
(1)
24
hikers
872m
00:15
20m
30m
The Siamese Twins Trail offers a quick, easy hike through the striking red sandstone landscape of Garden of the Gods. As you follow the path, you will find yourself surrounded…
4.0
(1)
12
hikers
10.8km
02:58
170m
180m
Embark on the Pulpit Rock Peak Loop, a moderate hiking route spanning 6.7 miles (10.8 km) with an elevation gain of 554 feet (169 metres). You can expect to complete…
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The best view is from above, not from below!
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A great bike route, I rode it virtually
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The Central Garden Trail offers benches where you can sit down and relax along the way. This easy, 1.5-mile roundtrip path features less than a 30-foot rise, making it a leisurely and accessible walk for visitors.
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This rock formation is one of the most popular in the Colorado Springs area and can be easily spotted from the highway. This point offers one of the best views of the rock formation and if you want to explore further reaching the summit involves a steady incline that you'll have to dismount your bike and hike up and the views from the top are truly rewarding, offering panoramic vistas of Pikes Peak and even a stunning view of the highway.
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It's simply wonderful what wind and water have created here.
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These two rocks seem fused together like Siamese Twins, which is how they earned their name. This creates some of the best photo opportunities, both through and around the rock formation.
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The Twin Spires are two short towers in-between the iconic North and South Gateway Rocks in the center of Garden of the Gods. One unique feature of the Twin Spires is that they are two different colors (red and white) of sandstone! They are also popular with rock climbers. On most nice days you will see rock climbers ascending these short, but sweet, towers.
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Yes, many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check local regulations for specific parks. For example, Mesa Trail loop — Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a popular choice for hiking with dogs. Remember to keep your dog on a leash and carry water for them, especially on warm days.
Colorado Springs has numerous options for easier walks. The Central Garden of the Gods loop — Garden of the Gods is a very popular, mostly paved trail that is great for all ages and offers fantastic views of the famous red rock formations. Ute Valley Park is another local favorite, offering relatively flat trails with scenic views.
Absolutely. The region has several trails leading to waterfalls. The Seven Bridges Trail in North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a well-loved hike that crosses a creek multiple times. For a more direct waterfall destination, the trails to Helen Hunt Falls or St. Mary's Falls are excellent choices, offering rewarding sights after a moderate walk.
For expansive views of the city and the plains, the hike to the summit of Mount Muscoco is a rewarding challenge. If you're looking for a difficult, all-day adventure with incredible vistas, the Red Rock Canyon to Section 16 — Red Rock Canyon Open Space trail gains significant elevation and delivers stunning panoramic scenery.
There are over 200 hiking routes to explore around Colorado Springs. The network includes everything from short, accessible loops in city parks to strenuous mountain ascents, catering to all skill levels.
The trails around Colorado Springs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic red rock landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the stunning views of Pikes Peak.
Colorado's weather can change quickly. For a summer hike, wear moisture-wicking clothing and dress in layers. A light jacket or rain shell is recommended, even on a sunny day. Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are essential. Also, due to the high altitude, sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is crucial.
Yes, there are many excellent loop trails. The Garden of the Gods loop via Siamese Twins, Cabin Canyon, and Palmer Trails offers a longer, more comprehensive tour of the park's varied formations. Many parks, like Red Rock Canyon Open Space and Palmer Park, feature interconnected trail systems that allow you to create loops of various lengths.
The Manitou Incline is a unique and strenuous fitness challenge, not a traditional hike. It gains nearly 2,000 feet of elevation in under a mile via 2,744 steps. Compared to the Barr Trail up Pikes Peak, the Incline is much shorter but significantly steeper and more intense over its distance. The Barr Trail is a long-distance endurance hike, while the Incline is a short, maximum-effort climb. A free online reservation is required for the Incline.
Several key areas serve as hubs for hiking. Garden of the Gods is the most famous, known for its iconic red rock formations and accessible trails. For a similar landscape with often fewer people, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a highly-regarded alternative. North Cheyenne Cañon Park is another local favorite, providing access to popular routes like the Seven Bridges Trail and the Mt. Muscoco summit hike.
You can hike year-round, but late spring through fall (May to October) offers the most pleasant weather. Summer provides long, sunny days, but be prepared for afternoon thunderstorms. Fall brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Winter hiking is possible on lower-elevation trails, but expect snow and ice, requiring gear like microspikes.


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