Colorado Springs is one of the most outdoor-friendly cities in the country and one of the best places to call home if you have a dog. With sweeping views of Pikes Peak, wide-open spaces, and miles of well-maintained trails, this region truly has it all. Whether you’re settling into a new home or still exploring the area, you’ll be glad to know these dog-friendly trails in Colorado Springs. Here’s a look at the top trails to explore with your four-legged friend.
Few places in Colorado Springs are as iconic as Garden of the Gods. This stunning city park features towering sandstone formations set against the Rocky Mountain backdrop and leashed dogs are welcome on the designated trails throughout. The Ridge Loop Trail is a great starting point. It’s a short, easy loop perfect for all skill levels, with scenic landmarks like Gray Rock, Sleeping Giant, and the Keyhole Window along the way. There’s also some tree cover for shade on warmer days. Even better, pets are welcome inside the Visitor and Nature Center. Plus, it’s only about 10 miles from Copper Chase at Sterling Ranch.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a must-visit for dog owners in the Colorado Springs area. Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, and the Upper and Lower Dog Loops offer designated off-leash areas (a rare and much-appreciated bonus). Just keep in mind that these zones are unfenced, so keep a close eye on your pup. The trails wind through striking red rock formations with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you want a short stroll or a longer adventure, there’s a trail here that fits. And it’s also only about 10 miles from Bradley Heights and about 13 miles miles from Haven Valley.
Stratton Open Space is a peaceful escape tucked between Cheyenne Canyon and surrounding Colorado Springs neighborhoods. This 318-acre park offers over 13 miles of trails and connects to Pike National Forest. The Ponderosa and Ridge Loop is a great option for a quick outing, winding through shaded scrub oaks and towering ponderosa pines. As a result, it tends to stay cooler than more exposed trails on sunny days. Dogs must be leashed on most trails, but there are designated off-leash zones within the park as well. Good news for residents of Overlook at Spring Creek: these trails are only about 5 miles away.
The Rock Island Regional Trail is the go-to spot for a dog-friendly outing (especially for residents of nearby Falcon Meadows at Bent Grass). Built on the former Chicago and Rock Island Railroad Line, this 10.5-mile trail runs parallel to Highway 24 between Falcon and Peyton. The mostly flat, gravel surface makes it beginner-friendly for both dogs and their owners. Additionally, it’s part of the America the Beautiful Trail system and offers open prairie scenery with Pikes Peak views in the distance. It’s a low-key, uncrowded trail, perfect for a relaxed morning walk with your pup.
The New Santa Fe Regional Trail is a scenic, nearly 18-mile trail that connects the Tri-Lakes area — Palmer Lake, Woodmoor, and Monument — to northern Colorado Springs. It follows the historic right-of-way of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad and offers panoramic views of the Rampart Range and Pikes Peak throughout. The wide gravel surface is great for hiking, running, and walking at any pace. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the trail passes through the town of Monument, where you’ll find shops and restaurants to stop at along the way. Plus, it’s only about 3 miles from Home Place Ranch.
Whether you’re exploring the dog-friendly trails in Colorado Springs on a weekend morning or squeezing in an evening walk, you and your pup will never run out of options. Challenger Homes currently has communities across the Pikes Peak region, so you can explore a new trail each time. Schedule your tour today to learn more.