📍 Westside · 1805 N. 30th St. · Free · 1.5 mi round trip, paved, under 30 ft of climbing
The park's greatest hits in one flat loop at the base of the tallest red rocks. Want a bit more? The Siamese Twins Trail is an easy 1-mile round trip with under 150 feet of climbing, and the Ridge Trail is a half-mile loop.
Pro tip: Winter hours (Nov. 1–Apr. 30) are 5 a.m.–9 p.m.
Official info ↗📍 Westside · Main lots off W. High St. (via Ridge Rd. from Hwy. 24) · Free
Red rock with a fraction of the crowds. Easy options include the Contemplative Trail, Sand Canyon and the Mesa/Greenlee loop. The Quarry Trail passes the old sandstone quarries that supplied Old Colorado City in the late 1800s.
Pro tip: Bringing the dog? There are upper and lower off-leash dog loops. Portable toilets are at both main lots.
Official info ↗📍 Central · 3650 Maizeland Rd. · Free
More than 730 acres of sandstone, meadows and ridges in the middle of the city, with 25+ miles of trails. Try the Yucca, Templeton or Mesa trails, then head to Grandview Overlook for the Pikes Peak view. General Palmer gave the park to the city in 1902.
Official info ↗📍 Northwest · 1705 Vindicator Dr. · Free
Rocky, forested hogbacks and big vistas, with a trail web that branches out from the Vindicator Drive lot. Stick to the beginner loops near the trailhead for an easy walk.
Pro tip: Hikers should steer clear of the marked Downhill Bike Area.
Official info ↗📍 Southwest · 410 JL Ranch Heights (Hwy. 115 at the Fort Carson Gate 1 light) · Daily vehicle pass $10–$15
2,701 acres and 29 miles of trails with a "plains to peaks" feel. Dogs are allowed on the Acorn Alley, Bobcat Way and Raccoon Ridge trails (plus the marked part of Soaring Kestrel).
Official info ↗Last checked October 2026. Hours and details change, so tap through to the official page before you head out. Spot something out of date? Email hello@cosscoop.com.
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