
Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States
1. Pikes Peak - America's Mountain
A challenging hike with spectacular views of Colorado Springs. Reach the summit for a breathtaking panorama.
- Altitude Challenge: 14,115 feet (4,302 meters) high summit, one of the highest in North America.
- Scenic Vistas: Spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains and Colorado Springs cityscape.
- Iconic Landmark: Recognized as a National Historic Landmark and a must-see destination for hikers.
2. Manitou Incline
Steep, challenging trail with a historic cable car offering an alternative descent.
- Steep Climb: Average gradient of 68%, making it one of the steepest hikes in the world.
- Fitness Test: A tough cardio workout due to its relentless incline and length.
- Historic Interest: Originally a cog railway, the incline offers a piece of Colorado's mining history.
3. Garden of the Gods Park
Moderate trails through stunning red-rock formations with amazing views.
- Geological Marvel: Unique rock formations created by erosion over millions of years.
- Family-Friendly: Offers trails suitable for all skill levels, making it great for families.
- Scenic Drive: The park also offers a scenic drive for those who prefer not to hike.
4. Seven Bridges Trail
Moderate trail with seven suspension bridges crossing the canyon.
- Natural Suspension Bridges: Unique suspension bridges providing thrilling experiences over the canyon.
- Diverse Wildlife: Opportunities to observe various Colorado wildlife species along the trail.
- Scenic Canyon: Beautiful canyon scenery and colorful rock formations throughout the hike.
5. Royal Arch Trail
Challenging trail with stunning panoramic views from the Royal Arch formation.
- Iconic Rock Formation: Hike to a natural arch providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Strenuous Hike: Steep, rocky terrain with some scrambling required along the way.
- Wildflower Fields: Blooming wildflowers during the summer months add to the trail's beauty.
6. Cascade Falls via North Catamount Creek Trail
A challenging hike leading to a beautiful waterfall in the Pike National Forest.
- Waterfall Destination: The picturesque Cascade Falls as the end goal of the trail.
- Backcountry Experience: Remote, less-traveled trails offering a true wilderness experience.
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to spot deer, elk, and other wildlife throughout the hike.
7. Palmer Lake Recreation Area
Easy trails with lake access and a historic town nearby.
- Lake Activities: Opportunities for fishing, boating, or just enjoying the peaceful lakeside.
- Historic Town: Visit Palmer Lake, a historic Colorado mining town nearby.
- Beginner-Friendly: Trails suitable for all skill levels, making it great for families and beginners.
8. Green Mountain Falls
A variety of trails through a picturesque mountain village.
- Village Atmosphere: Quaint, historic village with charming restaurants and shops.
- Scenic Views: Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Advanced Trails: Challenging, technical trails for more experienced hikers.
9. Cheyenne Canon Park
Moderate trails with a waterfall and historic structures.
- Waterfall Adventure: Hike to the stunning Helen Hunt Falls.
- Historic Sites: Visit historic sites like the Will Rogers Shrine and the Seven Bridges House.
- Native Plant Gardens: Explore native plant gardens showcasing Colorado's flora.
10. Mueller State Park
Moderate trails through a beautiful pine forest with scenic overlooks.
- Scenic Overlooks: Beautiful vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe various Colorado wildlife species.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about the park's ecosystem and wildlife.
11. Stratton Open Space
Easy trails through a grassland habitat with stunning city views.
- Urban Grasslands: Hike through a unique urban grassland ecosystem.
- City Skyline Views: Panoramic views of the Colorado Springs city skyline.
- Accessible Trails: Trails suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and people with limited mobility.
12. Blodgett Peak Open Space
Challenging trails through a high-altitude habitat with amazing views.
- High Altitude Habitat: Hike through a unique alpine ecosystem at over 9,000 feet.
- Scenic Views: Stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Remote Trails: Less-traveled trails offering a true wilderness experience.
13. Black Forest Regional Park
Moderate trails through a dense pine forest with scenic overlooks.
- Pine Forest Escape: Hike through a dense pine forest for a serene experience.
- Scenic Overlooks: Beautiful vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
- Biking Trails: Offers biking trails for those interested in a different adventure.
14. Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Easy trails through stunning red-rock formations with petroglyphs.
- Petroglyph Sites: Discover ancient petroglyphs carved into the rock formations.
- Scenic Views: Stunning vistas of the red-rock canyon and surrounding landscapes.
- Beginner-Friendly: Trails suitable for all skill levels, making it great for families and beginners.
15. Santa Fe Trail
A challenging, historic trail offering scenic vistas and wilderness experiences.
- Historic Significance: Follows an important trade route used by Native Americans and early settlers.
- Remote Trails: Less-traveled trails offering a true wilderness experience.
- Scenic Views: Beautiful vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.