10 Must-Do Hikes in Colorado Springs for Trail Runners, Hikers & Nature Lovers
🥾 My Favorite Hikes in Colorado Springs
By Janey Heard | Running for Joy Blog
Colorado Springs is a dream for trail lovers. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, climbing peaks, or wandering through open spaces, there's a trail here for every mood and season. These are my personal favorites—trails I return to again and again for their beauty, challenge, and soul-soothing magic.
🌲 1. Loud’s Cabin via Seven Bridges
Distance: 6.4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,768 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Historic cabin ruins, log bridges, aspen groves, and panoramic views.
Pros: Scenic variety, great workout, dog-friendly
Cons: First bridge is sometimes washed out; can be slippery in snow or rain
Bear Tip: This one’s deep in the canyon—bring bear spray and hike early!
· I love the quiet mystery of this trail. It feels like stepping into a forgotten storybook, especially when the fog rolls in.
🌉 2. Seven Bridges Trail
Distance: 3.7 miles round trip (+0.7 miles from parking)
Elevation Gain: ~1,597 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Creekside trail with seven charming wooden bridges and spring wildflowers
Pros: Shaded, family-friendly, great for dogs
Cons: Crowded on weekends, first bridge may be out
Bear Tip: Stay alert near water sources—early morning sightings are possible.
The sound of rushing water and the rhythm of crossing each bridge makes this one feel like a moving meditation.
🏔️ 3. Mays Peak
Distance: 3.2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~710 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Solitude, gentle climb, and sweeping views of Cheyenne Canyon
Pros: Quiet summit, great for beginners
Cons: Trail can be hard to find; some sections are closed seasonally
Bear Tip: Less traffic means more wildlife—stay aware.
The views from the top are stunning, but I especially love the solitude. It’s my go-to when I need to clear my head.
🌾 4. Stratton Open Space
Distance: 1.8–4.4 miles depending on loop
Elevation Gain: 59–472 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Meadows, pine forests, and views of Cheyenne Mountain
Pros: Easy access, dog-friendly, customizable loops
Cons: Trails can be confusing; occasional construction closures
Bear Tip: Rare sightings, but keep dogs leashed near water sources.
Perfect for spontaneous runs and sunset hikes. It’s close, peaceful, and always full of friendly dogs.
🪨 5. Garden of the Gods
Distance: 0.5–6.5 miles depending on trail
Elevation Gain: Up to 300 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Iconic red rock formations, views of Pikes Peak, and wildlife
Pros: Free, accessible, stunning geology
Cons: Very crowded, limited shade
Bear Tip: Not common here—more likely to see deer or bighorn sheep.
· – It’s iconic for a reason. I love the contrast of red rock against blue sky—it never gets old. The Garden of the Gods Park has so many great running and hiking trails.
🌄 6. Palmer Park
Distance: 0.6–7.4 miles depending on route
Elevation Gain: 82–850 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Sandstone cliffs, city views, and wildflowers
Pros: In-town escape, great for trail running
Cons: Narrow trails, mountain bikers, road noise
Bear Tip: Urban park—unlikely to encounter bears.
A hidden gem with so many trail options. I love getting “lost” here on purpose and discovering new views.
🌿 7. Daniels Pass & Sweetwater Canyon
Distance: ~6 miles loop
Elevation Gain: ~1,200 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Newer trails with forested switchbacks and canyon views
Pros: Well-maintained, peaceful, great loop options
Cons: Limited parking, some steep sections
Bear Tip: Forested areas—bring bear bells or spray just in case.
· This one feels wild and untouched. I love the mix of forest and open meadow—it’s a great spot for spotting wildlife.
🏞️ 8. Mount Cutler
Distance: ~1.9 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~492 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Quick summit with views of Seven Falls and the city
Pros: Great for beginners, sunset hikes
Cons: Limited parking, can be rocky
Bear Tip: Popular trail—wildlife tends to avoid crowds.
· Short, sweet, and scenic. I love taking visitors here—it’s a perfect intro to Colorado hiking.
🏔️ 9. Mount Muscoco
Distance: ~3.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,329 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: 360° views from the summit, pine forests, and solitude
Pros: Challenging but doable, well-marked
Cons: Loose gravel near summit, steep final stretch
Bear Tip: Forested summit—stay alert and hike in groups.
A little more challenging, but the summit views are worth every step. I love the sense of accomplishment at the top.
💦 10. Saint Mary’s Falls
Distance: ~6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: ~1,394 ft
Why It’s Beautiful: Creekside trail ending at a stunning waterfall
Pros: Waterfall reward, shaded trail, dog-friendly
Cons: First mile is a dirt road; steep final climb
Bear Tip: Water attracts wildlife—keep dogs close and pack bear spray.
Waterfall payoff! I love the cool mist at the end and the way the trail winds through changing terrain.
🐾 Final Thoughts
Each of these trails holds a special place in my heart. Whether I’m trail running, hiking with friends, or camping nearby, these paths remind me why I love Colorado Springs. They’re wild, beautiful, and full of surprises—sometimes even bear tracks!
“Between every two pines is a doorway to a new world.” — John Muir
Ready to explore?
Drop a comment with your favorite local hike or tag me @RunningForJoyBlog on Instagram. Let’s keep sharing the joy of the trail!
