The best walks and hikes around Fort Carson
4.6
(92)
1,916
hikers
91
hikes
Hiking around Fort Carson offers access to a diverse landscape at the base of the Rocky Mountains. The region is characterized by rolling plains, creek-side paths, and trails that ascend into scrub oak forests with views of prominent peaks. The area provides a variety of hikes near Fort Carson, from gentle prairie walks to more demanding routes with significant elevation gain.
Best hiking trails around Fort Carson
- The most popular hiking route is Cheyenne Mountain State Park loop — Colorado Springs, a 8.4 mile (13.5 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route features a steady ascent through Cheyenne Mountain State Park.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Soaring Kestral & Zook Loop — Cheyenne Mountain State Park, an easy 3.8 mile (6.2 km) path. The trail follows well-maintained paths with minimal elevation change, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Fountain Creek Regional Trail via John Cesara Park — Colorado Springs, a 8.2 mile (13.1 km) trail leading through Fountain Creek Regional Park, often completed in about 3 hours 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Fort Carson is defined by prairie grasslands, creek-side trails, and paths through scrub oak forests. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from short, flat loops to longer, more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Fort Carson are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 1,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Fort Carson's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
8
hikers
5.93km
01:39
110m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
hikers
15.0km
04:55
1,020m
130m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
hikers
5.76km
01:38
120m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
7
hikers
13.5km
03:44
240m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
6.17km
01:43
110m
110m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is a 2,701-acre park that sits beneath Cheyenne Mountain on the former homestead of Bert Swisher and Thomas Dixon. The park offers 28 miles of biking and hiking trails, day-use picnic sites, a visitor center, and a campground.
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With over 28 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian activities, this park provides plenty of variety and various ways to extend your outdoor adventure. It offers more than 50 campsites and engaging educational programs year-round.
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This trail offers a pleasant elevation change and features unique rock beds along the way. In spring, the wildflowers are a sight to behold, and you can spot wildlife like deer and squirrels throughout the year.
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This well-maintained dirt trail provides a continuous incline as it winds through lush shrubbery, offering magnificent views of the Cheyenne Mountain area along the way.
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This trail is a nice dirt terrain that winds in and out of scrub oak and, occasionally, revealing beautiful boulders along the path. During spring, you'll be treated to stunning displays of wildflowers as you hike.
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This trail is primarily exposed, winding through a prairie and offering lovely views of the Cheyenne Mountain area. As you continue, you'll encounter some impressive boulders, which is how the trail got its name.
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Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers year round activities from biking, hiking, wildlife viewing, and archery. This park is a nice place to stop, refill on water, and enjoy the mountain view.
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Some rock beds on the upper half of zook loop bottom half is easier
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes near 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.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
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.
What are some challenging hikes with significant elevation gain?
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.
Where can I find hikes with great scenic views?
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.
How many hiking trails are there around Fort Carson?
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.
What do other hikers think of the trails in this area?
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.
What is the terrain like on the trails near Fort Carson?
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.
Are there good places for trail running?
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.
What should I know about the elevation near Fort Carson?
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.
How do I get to Pikes Peak?
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.
Where are the best places to hike around Fort Carson?
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.
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