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Hike, Climb, or Bike Red Rock Open Space

Colorado Springs, Colorado

2.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

3 miles

Elevation Gain

300 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kyle C

This previous quarry is a worthy place to hike, walk your dog, climb or bike.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space was made public in the early 00's after years of use as a quarry and landfill. Some of the stone quarried from the area have even been used in some of the downtown buildings.

Getting there is straightforward, heading West on 24 there is an obvious turn off left between 31st street and Manitou Springs. From the entrance of the park, you can turn right to a small parking lot, or go left to two more lots. The large lot in the middle is closest to the dog parks and the lot on the far end is the closest to the climbing. There are also many parking areas surrounding the trails if you are looking to explore the farther reaches of the park without walking too far.

There are open trails with dog parks on the north side of the park and wooded trails on the more southwestern portion of the park. On the east side, you can explore the old quarry with steps cut throughout the soft, red rock. There are trails wide enough for a truck as well as single track so you can really choose your own difficulty based off of the available maps at the trailheads.

For biking, one can use most of the same trails as the hikers. There is also a bike park to the east of the main parking lot.

Climbing is also an option, but it is restricted to only the predeveloped areas on the eastern portion of the park. These climbs are mostly sport climbs, but you can find a few top ropes and mixed routes throughout. There are close to 100 routes in the area.

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Features

Fitness
Rock Climbing
Chillin
Mountain Biking
Running
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Food Nearby
Groups
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildlife

Reviews

Permit is required to climb and can be obtained online for free. Good for a year. No climbing on the sandstone after rain or snow and no chalk allowed. We went in February after it snowed and could not climb because the routes were snowy and wet. The park is ok, not as beautiful as it’s neighbor Garden of the Gods. Less crowded though!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Siamese Twins Loop

Scotsman Trail Loop

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

Bike the Garden of the Gods Loop

Hike the Upper Loop Trail

Perkins Central Garden Trail