Go biking, hiking and camping in Cheyenne Mountain State Park, a wilderness expanse at the foot of Cheyenne Mountain. The diverse terrain comprises 2,701 acres (1,093 hectares) and encompasses prairies and forested areas.
There are 20 miles (32 kilometres) of trails that run through the park. They range from short to long and from easy to moderate. See rock gardens and tall pine trees on the 3.5-mile (6.5-kilometre) Blackmer Loop Trail.
For a good view of the park and the chance to see some local wildlife, go on the 1-mile (1-6-kilometre) Boulder Run Trail. Cheyenne Mountain State Park is home to black bears, coyotes, mule deer, elks, foxes and many other animals. To see prairie dogs, take the short Little Bear trail that runs near a prairie dog town. Among the bird species that can be spotted in the park are American kestrels, golden eagles, hawks and peregrine falcons.
If you have a mountain bike with you, head for the single tracks at Cougars Shadow Trail and at Medicine Wheel.
Enjoy a picnic or barbecue with a scenic backdrop provided by plains and the peaks of Cheyenne Mountain. More than 40 picnic sites with tables and grills are dotted around the park.
Try your hand at archery. The park has a static range and a 3D range with life-sized models of animals to aim at. The activity attracts a small supplementary charge.
Every month, the Cheyenne Mountain State Park hosts a roster of special programmes and activities including guided hikes and junior ranger programmes for children. Visit the park’s website for the schedule.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park can be found 7 miles (11 kilometres) south of Colorado Springs. Public transport doesn’t reach the park so you will need to take a taxi or drive. There is plenty of parking space at the park. Bring your RV or tent and stay overnight in the campground.
