Red Rock Canyon Open Space Colorado Springs | Free Hikes + Dog Trails
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Skip Garden of the Gods. Red Rock Canyon Open Space has miles of free trails, off leash dog loops, and Pikes Peak views with half the people.
Let’s Hike Red Rocks Open Space Colorado Springs!
Red Rock Open Space Colorado Springs, just minutes from Garden of the Gods, is a free city park that provides wide open spaces and lengthy trails for solo hikers, short kid-friendly trails, unleashed dog hikes, and striking huge red rock formations amidst meadows, streams, and a lake.
As part of the Colorado Springs trail system, Intemann Trail connects Manitou Springs and her crazy hard incline along with dozens of trails in Red Rock Open Space.
With almost limitless access to area hikes including Ring the Peak (40+ miles of trails), Red Rocks Canyon Open Space is the perfect destination for the seasoned hiker or new to Colorado explorer.
I admit wondering if Red Rock Open Space was worth visiting. Close to Garden of the Gods and within a few miles of Manitou Springs, I assumed this park was constantly crowded with people.
Boy was I wrong!
With miles of trails in Red Rock Open Space Colorado Springs, great signage, wide open parking lots, and a connection to Intemann Nature Trail, which leads to Section 16, it is a favorite Colorado Springs hik
Red Rock Canyon Open Space has amazing hikes near Garden of the Gods with views to match!
We think the best hike in Colorado Springs includes mountain views, water features, and easy to access trails amidst moments of quiet all with a varying level of difficulty and mileage.
Red Rock Open Space trails give you all that and more, with some of the best hikes in Colorado Springs.
In this post, we share details about the longest trail in Red Rock Open Space along with family hikes and unleashed dog trails.
As part of the Colorado Springs trail system, this open space is calling your name.
Grab your favorite daypack and a few snacks.
RELATED LINKS:
If you’re new to hiking Colorado trails, check out these beginners hiking tips.
Unsure what essential gear for a Colorado day hike looks like, read up here!
Winter morning on Quarry trail in Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Table of Contents
Directions to Red Rock Open Space COlorado Springs
Red rocks Canyon things to do
Red ROck Canyon Trail Map
Best Trails in Red Rock Canyon
Short, Sweet and Favorite Hikes
Longest Trail in Red Rock Open Space
Dog Friendly off leash Hike Options
Why Red Rocks Open Space is worth visiting
Nearby RESTAURANTS and Breweries
Why Red Rock Canyon Open Space is One of the Best Free Hikes in Colorado Springs
Hikes near Garden of the Gods are plentiful, but Red Rock Canyon Open Space delivers the same dramatic sandstone formations with far fewer people. Bear Creek Park and Manitou Springs sit nearby, making this corner of Colorado Springs one of the most trail-rich areas in the entire Pikes Peak region.
In past years, through local group clean up and TOSC (Trails and Open Space Coalition) efforts and donations, this 1,474 acre park has gotten a big makeover including a stunning outdoor pavilion.
Originally planned to be a large golf course and apartment buildings, Colorado tax payer money helped keep this park open for hikers.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space updates include:
New large lots
Better trail signs
Connections to Section 16 via Intemann Nature Trail
Restored trails
Additional trailhead with parking along 26th Street (1/4 mile north of Gold Camp Road and 26th Street)
With over 11 marked trails ranging from 1.7 to over 11 miles each, this is an ideal place to hike Colorado Springs. Low elevation trails make it one of the best hikes Colorado Springs offers for out of town visitors not accustomed to the altitude.
Trail runners love the looping tracks, with rolling hills and wide sections.
Recently renovated parking makes this free park, open from dawn to dusk, the perfect place for Colorado Springs hikes.
COHH TIP! Curious where that 0.1% tax money goes when you buy a stunning “I climbed Pikes Peak” t shirt? Trails, Open Space, and Parks (TOPS) helps to preserve trails, open spaces, and parks through sales tax by the City of Colorado Springs.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space Main Parking Lot
Red Rock Canyon Open Space Parking and Directions
3550 W. High St. Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Additional parking – 598 S 31st St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Located between Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs, Red Rock Canyon Open Space sits just minutes from Old Colorado City, Garden of the Gods, and some of the best breweries in Colorado Springs. Free parking is available in two main lots off W. High Street with additional parking on 31st Street.
DIRECTIONS:
From I-25 take the Cimarron Street exit west.
Turn left onto Ridge Road (There is a turn lane but no stoplight or stop sign. The turn is after 31st Street which is a stop light)
Enter the roundabout and take the second exit onto W. High Street
There are two parking areas on the right side of W. High Street
Once you arrive, find ample parking on weekdays. Weekends can get a bit more crowded, especially during summer and fall.
There are public toilets located in each parking lot. Trail maps are posted.
COHH TIP! Snap a picture of the trail sign if you don’t have a paper or map app with you. While well marked, there are many social trails (trails made by people, not park officials) that can create some missteps.
We have become big fans of carrying paper maps. The creators of PockPal Maps make easy to read, tear and weather resistant foldable maps for the Colorado Springs hikes area.
These maps show waypoints, mileage, along with other trails online apps often miss.
PROMO CODE: “10%OFF” gets you 10% off all maps.
Prices vary but average $7–$10/map including download.
Red Rocks Open Space Things to Do
Within the park limits, you have access to a free bike park, two off leash dog parks (not fenced), picnic areas, and almost a hundred technical climbing routes.
Dogs are allowed on all trails
Be sure to keep them leashed unless in designated areas. If your dog isn’t used to being a leash, let them run wild in one of the two large unleashed areas in the park.
On trail, use these five easy ways to stop your dog from pulling on their leash.
Bikes and horses are are allowed on almost all trails
Rule of the trail: Rightaway belongs first to the Horse, then Hiker, finally Biker
*Keep in mind, bikes coming downhill have a much harder time stopping vs. the hiker stepping aside. If both parties simple pay attention and bikers call out or ring a bell, everyone wins.
Paragliding in Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Paraglide in Red Rock Canyon Open Space. This park has has one of the only paragliding landing areas within city limits. The launch point is on the eastern point of Section 16, managed by Pikes Peak Paragliding. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping, reserve a spot today.
Rock climbing on the East/West Canyon Walls
Make sure to register at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center for climbing. Pikes Peak Climbers Alliance maintains and manages these routes. With over 90 bolted routes up to 130 feet high, you can climb the sandstone walls.
The climbing is similar to Garden of the Gods, but offers better stone, excellent protection and rappel anchors, and lots of moderate routes.
As you fly or climb over this park, keep an eye out for quarries created from the 1880s as well as hiking trails made from wagon roads used to haul limestone.
Red Rock Canyon Trail Map public domain Colorado Springs government
Red Rock Canyon Open Space Trail Map
This Red Rock Canyon Open Space trail map gives you a solid overview of the park before you head out. With so many Colorado Springs hiking trails connecting through this open space, knowing your route in advance saves a lot of second guessing on the trail.
Unfortunately, dozens of social trails and illegal bike paths have etched their way into Red Rock Canyon Open Space.
This is a fragile ecosystem that takes years to restore. Ensure you use the official Red Rock Open Space trail map to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
Stay on the well marked trails to keep plants growing and wild animal homes intact.
Red Rocks Canyon trails are well marked, mostly rocks and wide enough for groups.
A super dog friendly park, expect to be met with many a wet nose and yelp of delight. Winter is delightful too — bring spikes or snowshoes for the best exploration.
Fair warning — the trails connect so seamlessly that it is easy to keep hiking longer than you planned. Ask our daughter, whose first date sunset hike turned into a full rescue operation involving two dads and a lot of flashlight waving. Everyone was fine. It makes a great story now.
PRO TIP! Mesa Trail is the main trail from the middle parking lot. When in doubt, start on Mesa Trail for views including Garden of the Gods.
Take in stunning views of Colorado Springs along many of Red Rocks Canyon Trails.
Best Trails in Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Red Rock Canyon Open Space has 11 official trails. Many of the trails are under three miles long, perfect for a new hiker or family hike. Along these one or two mile trails, see Colorado wildflowers in the summer and snow topped red rocks in the winter.
Mild elevation gains give long lines of sight, allowing the free-spirited child a chance to run ahead while watched safely from a distance.
It’s hard to feel constrained surrounded by miles of open space in the heart of Colorado Springs.
NOTE REGARDING REd Rock Space Trails
We have not attached All Trails links to the below hikes. Instead, choose your preferred style of navigation. Some like paper maps, others COTREX or ALL TRAILS, others simply prefer to meander and find their way!
No matter which way you choose, the trails we share here are our absolute favorite Red Rock Canyon Trails.
The Quarry Trail: Best Short Hike in Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Miles: 1.8/2 Route: Loop Elevation Gain: 393’
Trailhead Directions: Park in main parking lot. Take trail to the right of the bathrooms. In the above map, it’s the highlighted red trail.
Not only is this trail short with minimum elevation gains for new and little hikers, it has the best views of the largest rock formations in the park. One of the most family friendly hikes in Colorado Springs, the Quarry Trail delivers big views with minimal effort making it a perfect first hike for kids or visitors new to Colorado altitude.
As you climb steps to the summit, take in the views of the red limestone surrounding you. You can take this trail either way. However, the stairs are easier to see if you come from the east side via Red Rock Canyon trail.
The other option begins with the Mesa Trail. Keep an eye out for the Quarry Pass Trail sign. This connects the two trails.
You can’t go wrong with this trail. Hop on and start hiking. All roads (eventually) lead to a parking lot.
If you happen to be like me, directionally challenged, just start hiking and watch the markers. You’ll find the quarry. We promise!
COHH TIP! Starting at the parking lot, load up your kids with some water and a few snacks. We affectionately called these snacks “positive incentives.” M&Ms and gummy bears are favorite CoHH kids snacks.
The complaining goes way down when the sugar comes out.
Contemplative and Sand Canyon Trail: A Hikers Only Escape in Red Rock Canyon
Miles: 1.75 Route: Loop Elevation Gain: 216’
Trailhead Directions: Park in any of the lots. This trail begins near the first off leash dog area, to the right of the Free Ride Area and Lot 2.
This hikers only trail offers majestic views of rocks on either side of you. An out and back trail, it’s perfect for the solo hiker or nature seeker. This is one of the few hikers only trails in Colorado Springs, making it a rare quiet escape from the shared use trails that dominate most of the park.
This route is nestled between rock formations, finding yourself away from neighborhood views and the noise of Hwy 24 traffic.
Several pine benches line the trail, allowing for perfect conversation spots, quiet resting places or snack breaks!
The Contemplative Trail begins and ends from Sand Canyon Trail. Plan on hiking up one trail and down the other.
In the summer and fall, end your hiking adventure with a picnic across from the Open Air Pavilion. *Located up the hill from farthest parking lot of park entrance.
With picnic tables and porta potties nearby (in both parking lots), this is the idyllic way to soak in these Colorado mountain views before heading back home.
COHH TIP! On this Colorado Springs hike, add more mileage by starting at the Sand Canyon trailhead at the west end of the parking lot.
Related Links:
Taking kids hiking on Colorado trails is magical.
Short and easy hikes are often the perfect solution to a bad day!
Mesa Trail Colorado Springs: Views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak
Miles: 3.4 Route: Loop Elevation Gain: 521’
The Mesa Trail is one of the most popular Colorado Springs hiking trails in the park, offering wide open views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak with enough elevation gain to feel like a real workout without destroying your legs.
The first part (under 1 mile) of this trail is handicap friendly. Jogger strollers can handle the path for a bit. However, the remainder of the trail gets real rocky. There is very little shade, making it a great fall/winter hike.
Start on Mesa Trail at the east end of the west parking lot and follow the natural horseshoe, ignoring the side trails. The trail becomes Greenlee when it begins turning downward. You’ll intersect with Mesa again near the bottom.
Views along this hike include several red rock formations including quarry climbing steps. Look for views of Garden of the Gods from both trails.
Familiarize yourself with Red Rock Canyon Open Space trail map before you head out. This loop trail can feel a bit confusing.
COHH TIP! This red limestone was quarried in the 1800s by the Snider brothers. Believe it or not, much of the stone was used in mansions in Denver. Head to Denver and visit some of these stately homes.
Lion Trail and Hogback Valley Loop: Sunset Hike Near Garden of the Gods
Miles: 3.3 Route: Loop Elevation Gain: 521’
Pikes Peak and surrounding mountains dominate the views in Red Rock Open Space Colorado Springs.
Trailhead Directions: Start on Red Rock Rim Trail, connecting to Hogback Valley Trail around 0.3 miles into the hike.
A well-marked and traveled route within Red Rock Canyon Open Space, this is one of those Colorado Springs hikes that provides city views, open space, wildflower spotting in the summer, and slight elevation gain for some calorie burning.
Consider heading on the trail closer to dusk to catch sunset views of Garden of the Gods. While the sun is behind you, the reflection off the city ahead gives off some unique and pleasing vibes.
Trail runners love this loop for the rolling terrain and consistent footing, making it one of the best trail running options in Colorado Springs.
COHH TIP! Instead of going down Lion Trail, stay on Red Rock Rim Trail. Lion Trail is a narrow bike route, well traveled by bikers on weekends.
Best Half Day Hike in Colorado Springs: Sand Canyon to Red Rock Canyon Loop
Miles: 5.1 Route: Loop Elevation: 885’
Trailhead Directions: Pick your route, clockwise or counter clockwise. Both ways will give you some great hills to climb. Start at the main parking lot near the Park and Ride area. Both ways start on Red Rock Canyon Trail.
If you have a free half day and want one of the best hikes Colorado Springs has to offer, nature soak on these groups of trails. Want to see water, views and catch a glimpse of Garden of the Gods? This loop is for you!
The views are stunning, the trails easily marked and accessible, making this the perfect hike for the Colorado hiking novice or an easy hiking day for the fit.
COHH TIP! All Trails has a great point to point description of this hike. We’d encourage you to check the trail before you head out.
The trail markers are very clear and it’s hard to get lost in this park. Many of the trails are loops, taking you back to the parking lot eventually.
Longest Trail in Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Section 16 Loop at 11.3 Miles
Miles: 11.3 Route: Loop Elevation gain: 2,168’
For hikers looking for adventure, this is the best hike in Colorado Springs that most visitors never know exists.
This hike is a winner every day of the year! It takes all the best trails of this open space, melding them into a beautiful loop.*Make sure you add this one to your hiking list.
Beginning at the Red Rock Rim Trail, follow the wide road to Lion Trail via White Acres Trail, a former old wagon road used by miners in the 1800s that connects these sections.
Garden of the Gods sightings along with Colorado Springs city views make this Colorado Springs hike a winner.
The Section 16 portion takes you for miles along the mesas and through Colorado’s variable elevation gains.
TIps for Success on the Longest Trail in Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Bring along all day hike essentials such as a energy bars, at least 48 oz water, and electrolyte tabs
Wear hiking shoes vs. running shoes because of the incline and rocky terrain
Sun Protection: It’s an exposed hike so wear a hot, apply sunscreen and hydrate.
Consider this trail for early mornings or brisk fall and winter days.
In the winter, check the snowpack conditions before you head out. You’ll want snowshoes if there is a lot of snow, spikes if icy.
Wear layers. If you’re unsure what that means, check out our post on what to wear hiking in Colorado. We created a nifty little freebie with a checklist for each season.
Want to extend this hike even further? The Intemann Trail connector adds miles and takes you deeper into the Section 16 trail system.
Intemann Trail Colorado Springs: Connecting Red Rock Canyon to Section 16
Miles: 11.9 (full loop including Section 16 via AllTrails) Route: Loop Elevation Gain: 2,214' Difficulty: Hard
Ready to make a full day of it? Adding the Intemann Trail connector from Red Rock Canyon Open Space to Section 16 transforms this into an 11.9 mile adventure with over 2,200 feet of elevation gain. This is not a casual stroll — pack accordingly.
The Intemann Trail is one of the great connector trails in the Colorado Springs trail system, linking Manitou Springs, Red Rock Canyon Open Space, and Section 16 into one continuous hiking adventure.
Get ready for a mini cardio challenge before reaching the waterfall on the Gold Camp Road detour just before Section 16.
Once you conquer that ascent, keep the good vibes going on Section 16 for a hike that's practically sprinkled with magic and boasts views that'll make you do a double take. The trails in this area got a makeover, complete with fancy trail signs to keep you on the right track.
COHH TIP! Elevate your exploration game by downloading the entire area from COTREX or GAIA. Trust us, this is one of Melody's absolute go-to spots for a hiking fiesta! Happy trails, adventure seeker!
RELATED LINK: One of the best places to see Colorado aspens is Section 16, the perfect any time hike!
Dog Friendly Hikes at Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Off Leash Trails
If you are searching for dog friendly hikes in Colorado Springs, Red Rock Canyon Open Space should be at the top of your list. Two off leash loops plus miles of leashed trails means your dog gets a real adventure regardless of how much energy they have stored up.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space has not one but TWO off leash trails for your four legged friends.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space has two off leash dog loops, making it one of the best dog friendly hikes in Colorado Springs.
One of the two dog parks in Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Trailhead Directions: From the east end of main parking lot, head up Mesa Trail
Lower Dog Loop (1/2 mile Round Trip)
Upper Dog Loop (1 mile Round Trip)
Stick around Colorado for a bit and you’ll notice dogs are out on the trails. While it’s easy to ignore the leash law, we’d love it if you follow it.
When I first moved to Colorado Springs, our little Jack Russell Terrier was attacked by two unleashed Rottweilers in nearby North Cheyenne Canyon Park. We incurred thousands of dollars of vet bills along with some serious emotional pain.
Often times the chant is “My dog is friendly.” But are the hikers? Perhaps they have bad memories of encounters with dogs, maybe attacked before?
Utilize the two HUGE leash free dog parks in Red Rock Open Space. Let them get their energy and poop out before you start hiking. Other hikers, bikers and the environment says thank you!
In many of the hiking areas within city limits, up to $800 in fines are dealt if you’re caught with Fido off leash.
Related Links:
Check out a list of Colorado Springs dog parks. Palmer Park has two large enclosed dog parks as does Fox Run Park.
Garden of the Gods offers a fantastic space for your four legged friend to run free! These areas have well stocked doggy poop bags and garbage cans.
Is Red Rock Open Space Colorado Springs Worth Visiting?
We think so - here’s why
1-mile trails for the hiking novice or young family
One mile dog run off leash loops for that cooped up furry friend
Rock climbing for the adventurous
Paragliding for the true daredevil
Longer loops for a few hours
Full day of hiking to Section 16 and Ring the Peak: trails on Pikes Peak
Rollings hills and elevation for the trail runner
Beautiful scenery for the nature lover and photographer
In the summer months and early fall, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is one of the most stunning photography locations in Colorado Springs. The red sandstone formations and Pikes Peak backdrop make it a favorite spot for senior portraits, engagement photos, and family pictures year round. Golden hour light on those canyon walls is something else entirely.
In all seasons, Red Rock Canyon Open Space provides the perfect place for family pictures, engagement photos, and local selfies!
Hike a bit further and you’ll get views of Garden of the Gods in the background. The open air pavilion overlooks a peaceful pond with bright red limestone as a spectacular backdrop.
COHH TIP! Plan your photography session during the week days to have wide open spaces for all those pictures. The park is open from dawn to dusk. To ensure best parking, come early.
Related Link: If this hiking thing seems like your thing, get a great backpack! We love Osprey’s Packfinder Tool. Osprey makes some of the world’s best daypacks and overnight backpacks, in our combined 50+ years of experience hiking and backpacking. And they have great customer service.
What is the History of Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
In the late 1800s, rock from the quarries provided lots of building materials for Old Colorado City and nearby towns.
John George Bock bought the property in the 1920s with grand plans to turn it into a huge resort (Perhaps his competitive spirit with a certain Mr. Palmer of the Broadmoor got the best of him?).
Unfortunately things didn’t go so well for Mr. Bock. A few structures, some mobile home sites and a landfill was all they managed to build.
The property was purchased by TOPS in 2003 and turned into this beautiful open space park. Truly a case of one man’s demise is our treasure!
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Q: Is Red Rock Canyon Open Space free?
Yes. Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a free Colorado Springs city park open from dawn to dusk year round. Parking is also free in all three lots.
Q: Are dogs allowed at Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
Dogs are welcome at Red Rock Canyon Open Space. Leashed dogs are allowed on all trails. Two off leash loops, the Upper Dog Loop and Lower Dog Loop, are available for dogs to run free. Note that both areas are unfenced so a reliable recall is helpful.
Q: How many trails are in Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
Red Rock Canyon Open Space has 11 official marked trails ranging from a half mile dog loop to an 11.9 mile full day adventure connecting to Section 16 via the Intemann Trail.
Q: Is Red Rock Canyon Open Space better than Garden of the Gods?
They are different experiences. Garden of the Gods is more dramatic and well known but draws significantly larger crowds. Red Rock Canyon Open Space sits just minutes away, offers the same stunning sandstone formations and Pikes Peak views, and is far less crowded. Many Colorado Springs locals actually prefer it.
Q: What is the best trail in Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
For beginners and families, the Quarry Trail is a favorite at 1.8 miles with minimal elevation gain and big views. For a half day hike the Mesa Greenlee Loop delivers stunning Garden of the Gods views. For a serious full day adventure the Red Rock Lion Section 16 Loop at 11.9 miles is the best hike in Colorado Springs many locals have never done.
Q: Is Red Rock Canyon Open Space good for beginners?
Yes. Several trails are under two miles with gentle elevation gain, making Red Rock Canyon Open Space one of the best beginner hikes in Colorado Springs. Low elevation compared to many Colorado trails also makes it a great first hike for visitors not yet used to altitude.
Q: Can you rock climb at Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
Yes. Red Rock Canyon Open Space has over 90 bolted climbing routes up to 130 feet high on the sandstone canyon walls. A permit is required and can be obtained at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center or online.
Nearby Hops: Food and Drinks
Rudy’s BBQ
315 South 31st Street | 719.471.4120 | Sun-Thu 7am-8pm Fri-Sat 7am-9pm
This family friendly BBQ place has some of the best brisket you’ll find this side of Texas.
Sit family style on long picnic beaches. You’ll feel like you’re back on the ranch.
COHH TIP! For those dealing with allergies, this is one of the best allergen free eating establishments in Colorado Springs. Rudy’s lists each of their foods and allergens online. Enjoy the downhome country flavor while putting back some good ‘ole bbq. Save room for the peach cobbler. You won’t regret it!
Early hiker? Rudy’s opens at 7am. Stop by and get a breakfast burrito to go!
OCC Brewing and Restaurant
2316 W. Colorado Ave | 719-308-2173 | Mon-Thu 11am-9pm | Fri 11am-10pm | Sat-Sun 10:30am-9/10pm
Right off Colorado Ave and minutes from the trailhead, OCC Brewing is the perfect post hike reward. Rooftop seating with Pikes Peak views, a solid rotating tap list, and a food menu worth sticking around for. The Korean Cheesesteak gets rave reviews. So does the poutine. Grab a seat upstairs at golden hour and you will not regret it.
We’ve mapped out the coolest spots by neighborhood, from places with live tunes to the best breweries in Colorado Springs that serve up delicious food, cozy outdoor spots, and a warm welcome for your furry friends.
What is your favorite trail to explore in Red Rock Canyon Open Space?
Leave us a comment.
