The best walks and hikes in Cheyenne Mountain State Park

The Soaring Kestral and Coyote Run Loop Trail offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, covering 3.7 miles (5.9 km) with a modest 350 feet (107 metres) of elevation gain. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 39 minutes immersing yourself in diverse scenery, from mixed pine forests and scrub oak to open meadowlands. You'll enjoy expansive views of Cheyenne Mountain and the surrounding valleys, with interpretive signage along the Coyote Run section adding an educational layer to your walk.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail conveniently starts at the Cheyenne Mountain State Park visitor center, where parking is available. This route is known for being family-friendly, and a portion of the Soaring Kestrel Trail is dog-friendly, provided your furry friend stays on a leash. It's an ideal choice for a morning or afternoon outing, especially if you're looking for a relaxed pace and easy access.

This loop is part of a larger network within Cheyenne Mountain State Park, offering

Embark on a challenging hike up Cheyenne Mountain, a route that spans 9.3 miles (15.0 km) and demands a significant 3351 feet (1021 metres) of elevation gain. This difficult trek, typically completed in about 4 hours and 55 minutes, offers a dynamic landscape experience. You will begin on wide dirt paths that wind through open prairie, gradually transitioning to the steeper, rockier sections of the Dixon Trail. As you climb, the scenery shifts to mixed pine forests and granite outcrops, providing expansive views of Colorado Springs and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The journey culminates with unique vistas from the summit, where you can see Cheyenne Mountain's distinctive antenna garden and even Pikes Peak in the distance.

Given the strenuous nature of this hike, it is wise to start early in the day to avoid the common afternoon thunderstorms, especially during warmer months. Always carry plenty of water and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions as you gain elevation. Since the trail is located within Cheyenne Mountain State Park, you should anticipate paying an entrance fee or needing a permit for access. Check the park's official website for current operating hours and any specific requirements before your visit.

This route provides direct access to the summit of Cheyenne Mountain, a prominent landmark in the region. The continuous ascent through varied ecosystems, from prairie to dense forest, highlights the diverse natural environment of the state park. It is a notable option for experienced hikers seeking a rigorous workout with rewarding panoramic views, offering a different perspective of the Colorado Springs area and its surrounding mountain ranges.

The Zook Loop offers a charming and accessible hiking experience through the diverse landscapes of Cheyenne Mountain State Park. This easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) route, with a gentle 397 feet (121 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through grasslands, scrub oak, and ponderosa pine forests. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 38 minutes enjoying the single-track path, which provides lovely views of Cheyenne Mountain and features a unique spot called "The Rock Garden" with its granite boulders and tall pines.

Planning your visit to the Zook Loop requires an entrance fee for Cheyenne Mountain State Park. The park is open all year, offering convenient amenities like a visitor center and restrooms near the trailhead. While the trail is very family-friendly, it's crucial to remember that dogs are generally not allowed on the trails within the state park.

This trail is a fantastic option for those seeking a relaxed outing, especially with children, as its largely flat terrain is even suitable for all-terrain strollers when dry. The Zook Loop also serves as a gateway to other trails in the park, such as Sundance Loop, allowing for longer adventures if you wish to explore further.

Hike the easy Blackmer Loop Trail, a 3.9-mile route in Cheyenne Mountain State Park with diverse terrain and views of the plains.