Top 10 Easy Hiking Trails in Colorado Springs
Top 10 Easy Hiking Trails in Colorado SpringsColorado Springs is one of the greenest cities in the nation, making it a perfect place to explore the great outdoors. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these beginner-friendly hiking trails offer breathtaking views and a taste of Colorado’s natural beauty. Start with these easy hikes before tackling more challenging trails!
Before you head out, don’t forget to apply sunscreen, wear a hat, wear appropriate footwear, and bring plenty of water. And please, never feed wildlife—let’s keep nature wild!
Trail Closure Notice: Depending on seasonality, erosion, and a litany of other factors some of these trails may be closed temporarily to some activities or all users. Make sure to check before heading to the trail head!
1. Gardens of the Gods Loop
Distance: Up to 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Garden of the Gods is a must-see destination, even if you’re only in town for a short visit. This scenic loop takes you through towering red rock formations along well-maintained paved and dirt trails. The Buckskin Charlie Trail, Ute Trail, and Susan Breitag Trail form a 4-mile loop around the park’s most iconic sights. One important note, this is one of the most iconic natural spots in Colorado, during peak season don’t be surprised if you have to hike to get to the hike.
2. Mount Cutler Trail
Distance: 2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Located on the south side of Cheyenne Canyon, this short but rewarding hike offers spectacular summit views. While the trail is mostly easy, some sections are steep, plan accordingly. To get there, take I-25 to exit 140, head south on Tejon, and follow Cheyenne Blvd to W. Cheyenne Canyon Rd, near the Starsmore Discovery Center.
3. Helen Hunt Falls Trail
Distance: Less than 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Just minutes from Mount Cutler, Helen Hunt Falls offers a quick but breathtaking hike. The trail winds up alongside the falls, leading to a picturesque viewpoint overlooking the valley. Like Mount Cuttler, this trail is pretty tame with the exception of a few steep grades, make sure your prepared. After your hike, relax at the picnic areas and dip your feet in the creek (summer only).
4. Spring Canyon Trail Complex
Distance: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Tucked away in the southwest corner of Garden of the Gods, this lesser-known trail system provides a peaceful escape with rolling terrain and stunning rock formations. To access the trailhead, enter Garden of the Gods, take the tourist loop road, and drive about 2 miles to the Spring Canyon turnoff.
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5. Seven Bridges Trail
Distance: 4.75 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
This picturesque hike crosses North Cheyenne Creek seven times, meandering through the forest past small waterfalls. The well-marked, mellow, and beautiful trail is ideal for beginners and children. It’s located past Helen Hunt Falls, off North Cheyenne Cañon and Gold Camp Roads.
Seven Bridges Trail6. Red Rock Canyon Trails
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Easy
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
For those looking to explore stunning red rock formations without the crowds of Garden of the Gods, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is the perfect alternative. The park offers several easy loops, a small bike terrain park, and dog-friendly trails. Located off Highway 24, the park is a great spot for both hiking and biking. Many of the interlocking trails allow trail users to carve out routes as long or as short as they please. Make sure to take some time looking at a trail map so you choose an adventure that’s the right length for you!
7. Cheyenne Mountain State Park Trails
This famous state park offers a variety of trails with dirt, rock, and gravel paths winding through lush landscapes. While the majority of trails are relatively mellow, hot and dry conditions can make them more challenging—be sure to bring plenty of water. Dogs are not allowed on the trails. Wildlife abounds in the park, particularly the deeper you head in. Make sure to keep kiddos close, be aware of best practices for wildlife encounters, and enjoy seeing the critters (from a safe distance) in their natural habitat!
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8. The Crags
Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Located on the backside of Pikes Peak, this trail features open meadows, unique rock formations, and breathtaking mountain views. To get there, take Highway 24 to Divide, turn south on Highway 67, and follow signs to Crags Campground.
9. Mueller State Park Trails
Distance: Varies
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Dog-Friendly: No
Just before the turnoff for The Crags, Mueller State Park offers scenic hiking trails for both people and horseback riders. While the trails are well-maintained, dogs are not allowed. This state park is an excellent spot for wildlife watching and enjoying Colorado’s mountain scenery.
Mueller State Park10. Spruce Mountain Trail Loop
Distance: 5.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Located north of Palmer Lake, Spruce Mountain features limestone buttes and panoramic views of Pikes Peak, Rampart Range, and the Palmer Divide. From Colorado Springs, take I-25 north to the County Line Rd exit, drive west toward Palmer Park, and follow Spruce Mountain Road for 3 miles to the trailhead.
Start Your Hiking Adventure Today!
One of the biggest draws of Colorado Springs is how easy it is to get out into nature. These hikes offer an excellent gateway to the many outdoor adventures our great city has to offer. Again remember to adequately prepare for your time out and have a blast!
Looking for kid friendly trails take a look at this blog post!
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