Pulpit Rock Park Loop

One thing that makes Colorado Springs’ city park system so unique is how so many parks have amazing places to hike or bike in the middle of the urban sprawl. Pulpit Rock – it’s the cluster of cliffs and hoodoos you see from Interstate 25 near the North Nevada Avenue interchange – is a perfect example: a little trail system with enough vertical to get your heart pumping and a great view of Pikes Peak to reward you for the effort. The trailhead is located on North Nevada Avenue, and the main trail heads south across a meadow. There’s no point in trying to give directions, as official trails and social trails all seem to blend together. Just aim for the bluffs on whichever route you choose. It’s less than a mile from the parking lot to the summit, but you can add some distance by meandering around on other trails. Soak up the view of Pikes Peak towering over the city and return the way you came.

Pro Tips

Recommended season(s): Year-round (though north-facing aspects can be icy in winter.

—Tasha Heilweil