I was excited to run in Colorado again. Running in North Cheyenne Cañon Park kicked my butt. In fact, I felt so defeated the first time I decided to come back for some short hiking after. I’m no stranger and actually hiked the Seven Bridges Trail in 2017. I’m having a hard time accepting that was 8 years ago, but I digress. We came back in 2025 as part of our two week road trip…not because we sought it out, but timing worked out.
With over 1,600 acres of rugged wilderness, it’s no surprise North Cheyenne Cañon is a popular destination. You’ll find everything from scenic dirt roads to singletrack switchbacks…all wrapped in high-desert forest and mountain views.
Before running at the North Cheyenne Cañon Park I had some questions:
- Is it hard to run at North Cheyenne Cañon Park? Now, I haven’t been doing trails as much and don’t live at altitude so I’m going to say yes LOL.
- Is North Cheyenne Cañon Park good for walkers? Yes, just know you are going up some hills.
About North Cheyenne Cañon Park:
The story behind North Cheyenne Cañon Park goes way back to the late 1800s when Colorado Springs founder General William Jackson Palmer donated the land to help preserve the natural beauty of the area.
He believed the canyon was one of the city’s greatest treasures, and honestly, it’s hard to disagree. In 1885, the citizens of Colorado Springs even voted to purchase additional land for the park, solidifying its place in the city’s outdoor culture.
Over the years, the park has grown to include iconic spots like Helen Hunt Falls, Silver Cascade Falls, and the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center. Today, it’s not just a place to hike or run…it’s a protected landscape that carries over a century of local history with every footstep.
About the park:
North Cheyenne Cañon Park covers over 1,200 acres of rugged beauty and offers some of the best views and trail access in the area.With around 56 miles of trails winding through the canyon, there’s something here for every type of outdoor lover…whether you’re hiking, running, mountain biking, or just out for a scenic drive. You’ll also find quiet picnic areas scattered throughout the park, and there’s a large group shelter available if you’re planning something a bit more social.
At the top of the canyon road, there’s a dirt parking lot that connects to major trailheads, Gold Camp Road, and High Drive. While vehicles can’t go beyond the upper gates, foot and bike traffic are welcome to continue exploring deeper into the backcountry.
Why Run Here?
If you’re craving variety, this place delivers. You can start your run on paved road, head into the forest, and end at a waterfall. There’s a reason this park is beloved by Colorado Springs locals…it’s one of the few places where you can log elevation, soak in the scenery, and still grab a coffee nearby afterward.
Plus, wildlife sightings are common. Mule deer, foxes, even the occasional bear (don’t worry…they don’t want to see you either). And if you stop long enough near the creek, you’ll spot tiny birds like hummingbirds and kingfishers darting around. When I was at North Cheyenne Cañon Park, I saw deer next to my car as well as wild turkeys crossing the road.
Trail Options for Every Runner
The park features a network of well-marked trails ranging from “easyish” to quad-burning. Here are a few standout options if you’re running:
Columbine Trail
This is the main artery of the park for runners. If you are looking for the best trail at North Cheyenne Cañon Park for running, consider the Columbine trail. Starting at the Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center, it climbs steadily through the canyon for about 4 miles before ending at the upper dirt lot near Helen Hunt Falls. It’s an out-and-back with multiple chances to hop on or off at road crossings, making it easy to shorten or extend your run.
Gold Camp Road
If you want a wide dirt path with room to move, this is your route. After Helen Hunt Falls, the canyon road continues uphill until it intersects with Gold Camp Road, a former rail line turned trail. It’s flat(ish), great for tempo efforts, and ideal if you want to zone out to the rhythm of your feet. Bonus: The views here are amazing, especially as you gain altitude.
Seven Bridges Trail
This one’s a crowd-pleaser for good reason. As mentioned, it was my first experience at North Cheyenne Cañon Park! Though it’s a shorter run or hike (about 3 miles round trip), it crosses a beautiful creek seven times via…you guessed it…seven bridges. The bridges are charming, the climb is manageable, and you’re rewarded with cascading water and lush forest surroundings. Start from the west side of Gold Camp Road just after the dirt lot.
Practical Details for Trail Runners
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Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.
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Restrooms: There are restrooms at the North Cheyenne Cañon Park, but they are so hard to find.
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Best parking is at the dirt lot above Helen Hunt Falls or at pull-offs along North Cheyenne Cañon Road. Go early…parking fills fast on weekends.
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Park hours are 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. in summer, and 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. in winter. Gates lock at closing time.
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Elevation and altitude are no joke here…most runs include at least 500–1,000 feet of gain. Take it easy if you’re new to high-altitude efforts.
Final Thoughts on Running in North Cheyenne Cañon Park
Whether you’re in the mood for a mellow jog along a creek or a tougher long run into the mountains, North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a great choice. It’s has plenty of local history, full of natural beauty, and offers one of the best trail systems within city limits.
Who Should Run at North Cheyenne Cañon Park
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Anyone who enjoys climbing and elevation gain
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Trail runners training for races or building strength
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Visitors who want to combine a workout with waterfalls and views
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Runners with dogs (on-leash) who enjoy forested paths
Who Should Not Run at North Cheyenne Cañon Park
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Runners sensitive to altitude or new to running at elevation
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Those looking for flat, paved loops without traffic crossings
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Anyone uncomfortable with steep drop-offs or switchbacks
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Runners needing restrooms or water access mid-run (limited facilities so bring your own hydration/fueling)
You can see Strava here and all hike and trail runs here.
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Questions for you:
Have you been to Colorado Springs?
Where is your favorite place to trail run?
just added to a bucket list…..