Don’t Miss These Fall Hikes in Colorado Springs

Autumn is a beautiful time to be in Colorado Springs, and it’s one of the best seasons to enjoy the city’s wide array of outdoor activities. The Rocky Mountains are just minutes from downtown and are filled with stunning hikes for people of all ages and skill levels, with views ranging from pristine canyon streams to jagged mountain peaks—and everything in between. If you’re hoping to squeeze in a few final hikes before winter hits, try out one of these local hikes—and see for yourself why Colorado Springs is known as one of the most desirable places in the nation:

Red Rock Canyon Trails: If you’re hoping to see some of the beautiful sandstone rocks similar to Garden of the Gods but with slightly fewer crowds, try one of these trails. The 5.3 mile loop is a crowd-pleaser for trail runners, dog owners and even climbers, who can scale the giant sandstone rocks if they have a permit and technical gear.

Catamount Falls Trail: A lesser-known waterfall hike than Colorado Springs’ famous Seven Falls Trail, Catamount Falls is a great way to get a view of our state’s beautiful waterfalls and creeks. And after your hike, check out the small town of Green Mountain Falls to make it a day of exploration.

Mount Cutler Trail: This is a short, kid-friendly hike that features beautiful wild flowers and stunning mountain views. If you’re up for more of a challenge, split off from the Mount Cutler Trail at the fork and head up to Mount Muscoco, which features a 1,300 foot elevation gain through spruce and fir forests.

Gray Back Peak: Slightly less-trafficked than many others in the area, this 3.3-mile out-and-back trail is a good one for birdwatchers or horseback riders–or families looking to find some solitude for a few hours. Pair this hike with a visit to nearby Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, one of the top attractions in the Colorado Springs region.

Lovell Gulch Trail: Located in nearby Woodland Park, this trail offers Pikes Peak and Ute Pass views while letting Colorado Springs residents explore somewhere off the beaten path. “It was peaceful, gave us some exercise, and while we saw several people, it did not feel too crowded,” one AllTrails reviewer writes.