The best walks and hikes around Fort Carson

Yes, the area has several great options for families. The Willow Springs Ponds loop is a very short and flat walk, perfect for small children. For a slightly longer but still easy outing, the Fountain Creek Nature Center loop offers a gentle path through a natural setting. Another popular choice is the Seven Bridges Trail, which is a fun, moderate hike that follows a creek.

Many trails in the Colorado Springs area are dog-friendly, but rules vary by park. For example, dogs are generally welcome on-leash in Cheyenne Mountain State Park and Red Rock Canyon Open Space. However, they are not permitted on most trails within the main rock formations of Garden of the Gods to protect the fragile environment. Always check the specific regulations for the park you plan to visit before you go.

For a serious challenge, the Mt. Muscoco trail, accessible from the Mt. Cutler and Muscoco Trailhead, offers a steep climb with rewarding views. If you're looking for the ultimate test, the Manitou Incline gains nearly 2,000 feet in just under a mile. For a true bucket-list adventure, hiking to the summit of Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail is an iconic and strenuous full-day endeavor.

The region is famous for its scenery. Garden of the Gods is a world-renowned park offering stunning views of dramatic red rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. For a different perspective, Red Rock Canyon Open Space provides beautiful vistas of similar formations but is often less crowded. Many trails in Cheyenne Mountain State Park also open up to expansive views of the surrounding plains and mountains.

There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 70 routes available on komoot alone. These range from easy, flat paths in regional parks to difficult mountain ascents, ensuring there's a trail for every skill level.

The trails around Fort Carson are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the stunning mountain scenery, and the diversity of the terrain, from prairie grasslands to dense forests.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find everything from flat, paved, or gravel paths along Fountain Creek to well-defined dirt trails in Cheyenne Mountain State Park. Higher elevation trails, like those on Pikes Peak, can be rocky and uneven. The landscape transitions from prairie grasslands at lower elevations to scrub oak and pinyon-juniper woodlands as you climb.

Yes, the area is excellent for trail running. The relatively flat and well-maintained paths in Fountain Creek Regional Park, such as the Fountain Creek Regional Trail, are ideal for long-distance training. For more elevation and technical terrain, the network of trails in Cheyenne Mountain State Park and Red Rock Canyon Open Space are popular choices among local runners.

Fort Carson itself sits at an elevation of around 5,800 feet (1,770 meters). Hikes in the area can start at this altitude and climb significantly higher. If you are new to the area, it's important to acclimate for a few days before attempting strenuous high-altitude hikes. Stay well-hydrated and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

For those who want the summit views without the strenuous hike, the Pikes Peak Highway is a 19-mile scenic toll road that takes you directly to the top. Be sure to check the website for current conditions, hours, and any reservation requirements before you go.

The area boasts several premier hiking destinations. Some of the most popular places include:

• Cheyenne Mountain State Park: Offers a large network of trails with varied difficulty and ecosystems.
• Garden of the Gods: A National Natural Landmark known for its unique sandstone formations and accessible trails.
• Red Rock Canyon Open Space: A local favorite with scenic trails and fewer crowds than nearby parks.
• Mueller State Park: A bit further afield, this park has a huge trail system with excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.