7 1 Day Treks to Explore in El Paso County

The Barr Trail is the most popular way to climb Pikes Peak. It is a 12-mile trail with 7500 feet of elevation gain. The high elevation trail with a long sustained grade is rated more difficult by the U.S. Forest Service. With a 7,800 feet elevation gain to reach the summit, the Colorado Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau states that it is an advanced trail and is the most difficult trail in the Pikes Peak region.

Blodgett Peak is a mountain summit in El Paso County, Colorado. Blodgett Peak is located in Pike National Forest. and at its base is Blodgett Peak Open Space of Colorado Springs. Blodgett Peak is located in the Northwest part of town just south of the Air Force Academy, and this peak sees a lot of traffic due to the city recently opening the lower part of the mountain as the Blodgett Peak Open Space.

Cheyenne Mountain is a triple-peaked mountain in El Paso County, Colorado, southwest of downtown Colorado Springs. The mountain serves as a host for military, communications, recreational, and residential functions. The two parks on and at the base of this Mountain are Cheyenne Mountain State Park and North Cheyenne Cañon Park. A noticeable feature on the top of one of this Mountain's peaks is an antenna farm with transmitters for cellular phone, radio, television, and law enforcement purposes.

Mays Peak is located in North Cheyenne Canyon. The summit is a short hike off of Capt Jacks trail, not far from the top of High Drive. The trees at the summit are sparse and allow for nice views of the city and the canyon. The mountain is just opposite of Mount Buckhorn with High Drive running between them. The summit offers great 360 degree views of the city and the surrounding area.

The New Santa Fe Regional Trail connects the Tri-Lakes area and northern Colorado Springs following the historic, right-of-way of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad. The trail is popular among hikers, cyclists, equestrians and families out for a stroll. Along the way you'll find interpretive signs, wildlife and interesting geological features, not to mention incredible views, in particular Pikes Peak. The trail passes through the town of Monument.

This is a popular multi-use trail that runs north to south across the whole city of Colorado Springs. It connects to a number of other trails and with multiple trailheads it is easily accessible from many parts of the city. It is classified as an easy trail that parallels Monument Creek, Fountain Creek and I-25. The estimated cycling time is 1.25 hours, without stops. Criterium Bike shop is located along the trail at 6150 Corporate Drive for any needed bike repairs.

Ring the Peak Trail is a collection of trails, four wheel drive roads, and a few paved roads that circumnavigates the 14,115 foot Pikes Peak. The multitude of trails that comprise the Ring the Peak Trail system, are located on a variety of federal, state, county, and city lands. The total length of the Ring the Peak trail system is approximately 63 miles.