Pike’s Peak and the Colorado Springs beauty brings outdoor enthusiasts to the area daily and ever since the 1880s. Hiking trails are routed all around this remarkable city and are available year-round.
Whether it is a moderate, difficult, or easy trail you are seeking, these three Colorado Springs area hikes are worth the adventure.
Lace-up your best pair of hiking boots and set off on in search of refreshing air and exercise.
Barr Trail
Extreme adventures looking for a 26.2 roundtrip trail will be in heaven when looking for a path that will take them to Pikes Peak. Barr Trail starts at Manitou Springs, located less than ten miles of Colorado Springs, and will have you up at the top of Pikes Peak when completed.
This trail is on the difficult side. Be prepared for some intense hiking, as Barr Trail is an advanced trail, or plan to stay overnight at Barr Camp. The amount of time to reach Pikes Peak summit is around six to ten hours. Remember to take into consideration temperature, weather changes, and altitude.
Some crucial areas along Barr Trail include mile 9, and open shelter area for hikers to build a campfire, and mile 13, Pikes Peak Summit.
Fido is welcome on this trail if he stays on his leash. Bicycles are also able to travel here. Hiking is not available year-round, just from April to October. There is also a fee to park at the Barr Trail parking lot.
Rainbow Gulch Trail
While in the Manitou Springs area and looking for an easy trail, consider Rainbow Gulch Trail. Start at Rampart Range Road close to Woodland Park and end at Rampart Reservoir, a 400-acre recreation area that lies in the Pike National Forest. At less than three miles long, every skill level will enjoy this delightful hike.
Bird lovers will be in heaven, walking along this trail. Do not forget your camera! Nature and scenery are fabulous, and you will want to capture the beauty.
The Intemann Trail
At less than five miles, 4.81 to be exact, Intemann Trail is excellent for hikers of all levels. The trail connects Manitou Springs to Section 16 and Bear Creek Regional Park. It is also a way to get from Manitou Springs to Colorado Springs. Of course, the trek is completed solely by trails.
During your hike, be amazed at views of the Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, and Red Rock Open Space. Hiking is permitted all year. What an incredible way to see the leaves change, the snowfall, spring flowers, and so much more.
Bicycles, horses, and dogs on a leash are frequent visitors of the Intemann Trail, so keep an eye out for them.
Conclusion
When searching for endless outdoor recreation and adventure near Colorado Springs, consider trying your hand at one of these three hiking trails.
There are many more hiking trails in the Colorado Springs area if these amazing trails do not satisfy your wanderlust. One to note is Heizer Trail, a moderate-difficult trail that will take you across Cascade Mountains Summit.
Contact Broadmoor Outfitters if you have any questions or need any local planning advice.