Early spring is when Colorado Springs starts to wake up. The days get longer, the trails start to dry out, and the first signs of green show up along the foothills. If you’re looking for the best spring hikes in Colorado Springs, these trails are a great place to start: good views, seasonal highlights, and just enough variety to fit whatever the weather decides to do.
March 16, 2026
The Best Early Spring Hikes in Colorado Springs
Cheyenne Mountain State Park: Blackmer Loop Trail
2.3 miles | Easy to Moderate
If you want a trail that feels peaceful but still delivers views, start here. Cheyenne Mountain State Park sits on the south edge of the city, and it tends to feel quieter than the most famous in-town parks. The Blackmer Loop is a great early spring option because it moves through scrub oak and ponderosa pines, and it opens up to wide views toward Pikes Peak. Also, wildlife sightings are a real possibility out here, so keep your eyes up and your snacks put away. And for residents of our Overlook at Spring Creek and Haven Valley communities, this state park is only about 15 minutes away.
North Cheyenne Cañon Park: Columbine Trail to Helen Hunt Falls
~3.8 miles | Moderate
When you want that classic canyon experience, Columbine Trail at North Cheyenne Cañon Park is hard to beat. The climb is steady, but the payoff is worth it because you’re hiking alongside a canyon that comes alive during snowmelt. In early spring, the seasonal water flow is often the star of the show. Plus, connecting to Helen Hunt Falls at the top gives you a dramatic finish that feels very Colorado Springs. Luckily, these trails are also only 15 minutes from our Overlook at Spring Creek and Haven Valley communities.
Ute Valley Park Trail System
5+ miles of options | Easy to Moderate
Ute Valley Park is one of those places that surprises people. It’s tucked into a residential area on the west side of Colorado Springs, yet it has dramatic rock features and a trail network you can tailor to your energy level. In early spring, it’s a great choose-your-own-adventure spot. You can keep it mellow on the valley floor, or you can climb for bigger views of Pikes Peak and the rock fins.
Red Mountain Trail
~2.5 miles out-and-back | Moderate
If you want a shorter hike that still feels like a workout, Red Mountain Trail near Manitou Springs is a good pick. It’s popular for a reason: the views are rewarding, and early spring conditions can be comfortable before the warmer months kick in. It’s also a nice choice when you have a limited time but still want to get outside.
St. Mary’s Falls Trail
~6 miles roundtrip | Moderate
If you’re craving a waterfall hike, put St. Mary’s Falls on your list. The trail follows a creek for much of the way, which makes the hike feel calmer even when you’re putting in the miles. In spring and early summer, the falls are usually at their best, so the timing is ideal. Just know it’s popular, and can be heavily trafficked on nice days.
Catamount Trail
~6 miles | Moderate
When you want to get a little west of town, Catamount Trail is a great early spring-to-summer bridge hike. You’ll pass small waterfalls and end at South Catamount Reservoir, and later in spring you’ll start seeing more wildflowers in the open meadow sections. It’s also a good longer trail option if you want a rewarding half-day outing.
Enjoy these spring hikes in Colorado Springs as a local
If you’re house hunting this spring and want a home base that keeps you close to parks, open space, and weekend adventures, there’s a Challenger Homes community that’s sure to be a right fit. (And we have many quick move-in homes available now!) Contact us today to learn more.