Cheyenne Mountain via Talon and Dixon Trail

The trail begins within Cheyenne Mountain State Park. You'll find parking available at the park's main entrance. From there, you can access the Talon Trail, which is the starting point for this route.

Yes, as this trail is located within Cheyenne Mountain State Park, a valid park pass or daily entrance fee is required. You can purchase a daily pass at the park entrance or use an annual Colorado State Parks pass.

No, dogs are generally not allowed on the trails within Cheyenne Mountain State Park, including the Talon and Dixon Trails. It's best to check the park's official regulations before your visit for any updates.

Spring and fall are generally the best times to hike this trail, offering more moderate temperatures. Summer can be very hot, and afternoon thunderstorms are common, so an early start is crucial. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice, as conditions can change rapidly.

This route is rated as difficult to extreme. The Dixon Trail, in particular, is known for its steep grades, tight, rocky switchbacks, and significant elevation gain, especially in the last 3 miles. It's a strenuous trek that requires good physical fitness and preparation.

The terrain varies significantly. The initial Talon Trail features wide, well-defined dirt and sand paths through prairie and wooded areas. As you transition to the Dixon Trail, it becomes much steeper and rockier with numerous tight switchbacks. The upper sections, including the Dragon's Backbone Trail, involve an extended rock scramble with a less discernible path, often requiring you to follow markers and cairns.

You'll encounter diverse scenery, from prairie views to dense woodlands and stunning rock formations. Notable features include the historic remains of a 1957 training plane crash along the Dixon Trail, and Robber's Roost, a rocky promontory near the summit offering exceptional views. The summit of Cheyenne Mountain itself provides expansive panoramas of Colorado Springs, Fort Carson, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, with some areas offering vistas of Pikes Peak.

The trail traverses diverse ecosystems, so you might spot a variety of wildlife. Common sightings include deer, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs. More elusive animals like mountain lions, bears, and great horned owls also inhabit the area.

This specific route, "Cheyenne Mountain via Talon and Dixon Trail," is typically hiked as an out-and-back to the summit of Cheyenne Mountain, returning the same way. While there are other trails in Cheyenne Mountain State Park, this particular combination leads to the summit and back.

Yes, this route utilizes several official trails within Cheyenne Mountain State Park. You'll primarily follow sections of the Talon Trail and the Dixon Trail. Near the summit, the route also passes through sections of the Dragon's Backbone Trail.

Given the trail's difficulty and length, it's crucial to start early in the day, especially during warmer months, to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and heat. Always carry ample water – more than you think you'll need – and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions at higher elevations.