What are some of the best running trails in Colorado Springs? The city has several beautiful parks and open spaces where runners can enjoy their favorite sport.
Colorado Springs is home to numerous running trails. Some of these trails include the Cheyenne Mountain State Park, the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail, and the South Platte River Trail.
Running trails are great places to get outside and exercise. They offer scenic views, fresh air, and a chance to connect with nature.
If you want to try out a new trail or explore some of the ones already in existence, check out our guide to the best running trails in the area.
Best Running Trails In Colorado Springs
Read on to discover some of the best running trails currently situated in Colorado Springs:
1. Cheyenne Mountain State Park
One of the best running trails in Colorado Springs is the Cheyenne Mountain State Park!
This state park offers miles of paved paths, hiking trails, and mountain biking trails. It’s perfect for those who love to run on soft surfaces.
2. Pikes Peak Greenway Trail
Another great running trail is the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail. This trail runs along the base of Pikes Peak, offering stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
There are also plenty of benches and picnic tables for visitors to stop at while they walk or jog.
3. South Platte River Trail
This trail runs along the South Platte River from downtown Colorado Springs to Monument Hill.
It features a wide path that allows for easy walking or jogging – so it’s great for those running in groups.
4. Arapahoe County Open Space District
This county-run organization manages more than 200 acres of land throughout Arapahoe County. Visitors can hike, bike, horseback ride, and of course, enjoy a refreshing run here.
5. Colorado Springs Parks & Recreation Department
This department operates over 1,000 acres of land throughout the city. Runners can take advantage of this space by using any of its many trails suited to all different running levels.
6. Colorado Springs City Hall
Located just off the main square, this building houses the offices of the mayor and city council members. It also serves as a visitor center.
On sunny, dry days, this urban area serves as a great place to run, too! Once you’re done, you will even be able to stop off and refresh at one of the many cafes in the main square, too!
7. Colorado Springs Greenway Trail
This trail runs along the base of the Greenway Trail, offering gorgeous views of the Rocky Mountains.
You can also take advantage of this trail by visiting the nearby sights and attractions, including the Greenway Trail’s iconic Peak Cog Railway.
8. South Platte River Trail
This trail runs from downtown Colorado Springs to Manitou Springs. Along the way, it passes through many neighborhoods and natural areas.
9. Southwest Denver Regional Recreation Area
This trail is located near the southwest corner of Denver, Colorado. This trail features over 20 miles of paved pathways that wind around various lakes and ponds.
10. Southeast Metro Parks & Open Space District
This trail system includes over 100 miles of paved pathways that lead to more than 30 different parks throughout the metro area. It’s a great sport for intermediate runners.
11. Garden Of The Gods
This trail is located in southern Colorado Springs. It winds through several parks and open spaces that feature beautiful scenery and is perfect for a running day combined with sightseeing.
12. Poudre Canyon Trail System
This trail system is located just south of Fort Collins, Colorado. It features over 60 miles of paved pathways that meander through the foothills, so it’s just perfect for a morning or afternoon run.
13. Boulder County Open Space
This trail system comprises over 400 acres of land that provide access to the Boulder Valley. There are over 25 miles of paved pathways here, and it’s a popular running spot for groups.
14. Elkhead Reservoir Trail
This trail is located in the mountains west of Colorado Springs. It features over 10 miles of paved pathways that pass through lush forests and grasslands.
15. Westminster Dog Park
This dog park is located at the intersection of West Colfax Avenue and North Academy Boulevard. It features a large fenced-in area with plenty of room for your pooch to play while you get your sweat on.
16. Boulder County Open Space
This trail system is located in Boulder County. It consists of more than 300 miles of paved pathways that provide access to more than 50 recreation sites – so you’ll be spoilt for choice on trails to run here.
Best Running Trails Outside Of Colorado Springs
So, now that you know about some of the best running trails in Colorado Springs, if you want to go a bit further afield, check out the following trails which are situated closeby:
1. Dillon Dam Nature Preserve
Located on Dillon Reservoir, this nature preserve has over 1,000 acres of open space. It contains wetlands, prairies, riparian zones, and wooded areas.
2. Colorado National Monument
This national monument is located in southwestern Colorado. It covers nearly 6,000 square miles and is made up of red sandstone cliffs, mesas, buttes, arches, canyons, and other geological formations.
3. Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
This wildlife refuge is located in Commerce City, Colorado. It is home to many species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects.
4. Saguache Lake Recreation Area
This lake is located in Saguache County, Colorado. It was created by damming the Rio Grande River. The reservoir is used for recreational purposes, including boating, fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, and running.
5. Creek State Park
This state park is located in Denver, Colorado. It spans approximately 4,800 acres and includes lakes, ponds, marshes, meadows, and forested areas.
6. Mount Evans Scenic Byway
This scenic road runs along the Continental Divide and connects Denver and Aspen via Interstate 70. It passes through the towns of Estes Park and Loveland.
7. Colorado Creek Trail
This trail is located in Boulder County, Colorado. It follows Boulder Creek for almost 7 miles, so it’s great for anyone looking to train for a long-distance run.
8. Broomfield Town Center
This shopping center is located in Broomfield, Colorado. It features more than 100 stores, restaurants, and services. It also just so happens to be a popular running spot.
Why not enjoy a morning run here and then shop until you drop? You could even re-energize yourself at one of the many coffee shops here.
9. Horsetooth Reservoir
This reservoir is located in Weld County, Colorado. It is a popular destination for outdoor activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and of course, running!
Final Thoughts
These are just some of the best running trails in and around Colorado springs. If you’re looking for a new place to run or train, these are great places to start your search.
Thank you for reading, we hope that this guide has given you some running inspiration!
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