The best running trails around Colorado Springs

The New Santa Fe Regional Trail offers a moderate jogging experience, stretching 6.9 miles (11.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 168 feet (51 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 8 minutes. As you jog, you will enjoy expansive views of the majestic Pikes Peak and the distant Rampart Range, making for a scenic and rewarding outing. The trail winds through varied landscapes, from open natural areas to sections alongside Monument Creek, where you might even spot local wildlife.

Planning your visit to the New Santa Fe Regional Trail is straightforward, with multiple access points and parking options available. You can start your jog from trailheads located in Palmer Lake, Monument, or Colorado Springs, depending on your preference. If you pass through the town of Monument, you will find convenient access to restaurants and shops, perfect for a post-run refuel or to pick up any essentials. This flexibility makes it easy to fit the trail into your schedule, whether for a quick run or a longer exploration.

This trail provides a unique perspective as it passes through parts of the U.S. Air Force Academy grounds. You might even catch a glimpse of jets overhead, adding an unexpected element to your outdoor activity. The diverse scenery, ranging from lush riparian habitats near the creek to wide-open mountain vistas, ensures that your run remains engaging and fresh. It is a well-maintained route managed by El Paso County Parks, offering a consistent and enjoyable surface for your jogging adventure.

Embark on an easy jogging route along the Pikes Peak Greenway: Monument Valley Park Loop, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) path that takes about 26 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 60 feet (18 metres) as you follow Monument Creek, enjoying peaceful waterside views. Keep an eye out for distant glimpses of Pikes Peak and other mountains, a consistent highlight along the varied surfaces of asphalt, concrete, crushed stone, and dirt.

This trail is conveniently located near downtown Colorado Springs, making it very accessible for a quick outing. The Monument Valley trails are well-maintained, often plowed even in winter, which means you can enjoy this route year-round. You will also find essential amenities like restrooms and convenience stores close by, adding to the ease of your visit.

The Pikes Peak Greenway offers a refreshing escape within an urban setting, passing through Monument Valley Park, which is known as an urban oasis. Beyond the jogging path, the park features playgrounds, sports fields, and even a public swimming pool, making it a versatile spot for various activities. This loop provides a great way to connect with nature without venturing far from the city.

Embark on the Palmer Trail & Niobrara Trail loop for a moderate jogging experience through Garden of the Gods. This 4.0-mile (6.4 km) route offers sweeping views of the park's iconic red rock formations, including the Kissing Camels and the towering Sentinel Spires. You will gain 322 feet (98 metres) in elevation, making for a good workout that takes about 48 minutes to complete. The Niobrara Trail section provides a unique vantage point, often feeling more removed from the central crowds, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty and bouldering areas.

When planning your jog, remember that Garden of the Gods sits at a base elevation of around 6,400 feet, which might make the moderate effort feel more strenuous if you are not accustomed to the altitude. The trails are clearly marked, helping you navigate with ease. You can bring your leashed dog along to enjoy the scenery with you. General parking is readily available throughout the park, ensuring straightforward access to the trailhead.

This loop is particularly notable for offering a fresh perspective on the famous red rock landscape. While many visitors stick to the main roads, this jogging route takes you onto trails that reveal the park's bouldering spots and less-seen angles of its dramatic formations. It provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique geology of Garden of the Gods while enjoying a solid workout.

If you are looking for a refreshing jogging route in Colorado Springs, the Pikes Peak Greenway Loop offers a moderate 3.2 miles (5.1 km) with a gentle 85 feet (26 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this scenic loop in about 33 minutes, enjoying varied terrain that includes asphalt, concrete, crushed stone, and dirt sections. As you jog, you'll follow the peaceful Monument Creek and Fountain Creek, with consistent, dramatic views of Pikes Peak and the Front Range mountains serving as a stunning backdrop.

This multi-use pathway is well-integrated into the city's trail system, making trailhead access straightforward from various points. Parking is generally available near the parks that the trail connects, such as America the Beautiful Park. There are no specific warnings about seasonal closures or permits, and the trail is continually undergoing improvements to ensure good conditions for your visit.

The Pikes Peak Greenway Loop is considered one of the best jogging loops Colorado Springs has to offer, known for its well-maintained path and pleasant green spaces. It provides a unique opportunity to experience the city's natural beauty, combining waterside views with iconic mountain vistas. This route is a popular choice for those seeking a convenient and enjoyable outdoor experience within the urban landscape.