These local trails will introduce you to the wealth of outdoor riches, whether you’re a first-time hiker or biker, avid mountaineer, parent wanting to get out with the kids, or adventurer with a disability.

We love our trails in Colorado Springs. We hike, bike, run, walk, and roll them. Everyone has a favorite or two or 12. The good news is there’s a trail and experience for everyone, whether you want an easy first-time or kid-friendly walk, an adventurous challenge, or a universally accessible path.

If you’ve been on Colorado trails or ski slopes, you know that trail maps and apps rate and color-code trails: green for easy/beginner, blue for moderate/intermediate, and black for difficult/expert. There is also always a much bigger network surrounding any individual trail, so it’s easy to explore further and discover new routes around these trails. Unless otherwise noted, we’ve listed round-trip distances here. With that in mind, here’s an introductory guide to get you out on some of Colorado Springs’ best and favorite hiking, biking and universally accessible trails.

14 Best Trails in Colorado Springs

Perkins Central Garden Trail – Garden of the Gods

1 mile – hiking and wheelchair accessible

This classic Garden loop is the easiest among the famous Gateway rocks: paved, gentle, and wheelchair accessible from the main parking lot.

Bear Creek Regional Trail – Bear Creek Nature Center

8 miles one way – hiking and biking

This wide gravel path is great for family hikes, runs and bike rides. People with disabilities can reserve a free Terrain Hopper to explore part of the Regional Trail in May through October. The off-road mobility vehicles are part of the El Paso County Trailability program, which helps make local trails accessible to everyone.

Fountain Creek Trail – Fountain Creek Nature Center

10.8 miles one way – hiking and biking

Unless you’re going for distance, the best way to enjoy this wide gravel trail is by exploring the wetlands around the Fountain Creek Nature Center. Terrain Hoppers are available there too for those with disabilities.

Contemplative Trail – Red Rock Canyon Open Space

1.5 miles – hiking

Wind around red sandstone ridges, gaining 150 feet of elevation on this hiking-only trail. Kids will love exploring the rocks.

New Santa Fe – Pikes Peak Greenway – Fountain Creek

42 miles – hiking, biking and wheelchair accessible

The wide, flat connector trails run the full length of the city from Fountain to Palmer Lake. Scenic and perfect for going long distances.

The Pineries Open Space – Black Forest

8.5 miles – hiking and biking

The loop rolls gently through pine trees and open meadows. Just time your turnaround if you don’t want to commit to the full loop.

Pulpit Rock – Austin Bluffs Open Space

2 miles – hiking

A short but steep hike leads to stunning views on top f this unique overlook above I-25

Falcon Trail – U.S. Air Force Academy

13 miles – hiking and biking

The loop around the Air Force Academy shows off its natural and man-made beauty. It’s especially fun on a mountain bike.

Spruce Mountain Trail – Spruce Mountain Open Space

5.5 miles – hiking and biking

Once you switchback 400 feet up Spruce Mountain, this is an easy loop around the top of a scenic mesa just north of Palmer Lake.

Palmer Park Loop – Palmer Park

12 miles – hiking and biking

The park holds a labyrinth of trails for all abilities. This route will tour you all around its sandstone cliffs and hoodoo rock formations.

Captain Jacks – North Cheyenne Cañon

4 miles – biking

Officially, you can hike Jacks. We don’t recommend it. It’s a loose, gravelly screamer for mountain bikes and off-road motorcycles.

The Incline – Manitou Springs

4 miles – hiking

The legendary beast follows 2,744 stairs up 2,020 vertical feet in 1 mile. Check your fitness before tackling this advanced challenge.

Barr Trail – Manitou Springs

12.5 miles one way – hiking and biking

Be prepared for the challenges of climbing a 14er on this classic route up Pikes Peak. Many hikers catch a ride down. Hardcore mountain bikers like to ride Barr as part of the classic Pikes Peak Plunge.

Dixon Trail – Cheyenne Mountain State Park

17 miles – hiking

Cheyenne Mountain is the second most prominent peak on the Colorado Springs skyline. This long, steep route takes you to epic views on top of it. No bikes allowed.