Spaces filling for South Slope hikes
- Details
- Created on Thursday, 21 July 2011 16:52
- Written by R. Scott Rappold
If you are among the local hikers who have been waiting years (maybe decades...) for Colorado Springs Utilities to allow hiking in the scenic South Slope area of Pikes Peak, the waiting continues this summer.
Click here for a photo gallery of the area.
While trails and facilities aren't yet ready for public access, there are four guided hikes in the next two months to whet your appetite. The cost is $12 per person.
The first, on Aug. 4, will be a hike sponsored by OutThereColorado. Click here for information on joining this and other weekly hikes.
Group size is limited to about 25 people, so sign up early. Officials say the hikes are filling up quickly.
The other hikes are on Aug. 27, Sept. 10 and Sept. 18. Call the Trails and Open Space Coalition at 633-6884 to register.
Groups meet in the parking lot of Red Rock Canyon to caravan to the South Slope. The hike is 7 miles at high altitude. Hikers must be 12 or older, and those under 18 must be accompanied an adult. No dogs are allowed.
Hikers will learn about the history of the area, which contains Colorado Springs' oldest reservoirs, and the wildlife habitat of the South Slope. They will also be encouraged to join in volunteer trail-building, coordinated by Friends of the Peak.
Upcoming work days are Aug. 20 and 21 (overnight camping available) and Sept. 10. Click here for details.
