THE HIKE:

Ute Valley Park is a taste of New Mexico inside Colorado Springs. You could say it’s the most unique park we have. There’s a network of trails stretching across the whole place—each with a hint of the Southwest.

ROUTES:

For bikers, I recommend doing a certain loop. But for hiking, I think you should just explore. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily get five miles under your belt in an afternoon. And if you’re just  looking for an evening walk, you can turn around whenever you want.

The trails are easy to follow and most of the park is pretty flat. Some lead to the Pinecliff neighborhood and others take you all the way down to the Marriott.

When it’s time to go home, point towards your car. And incase you’re not one for directions, just walk towards Blodgett Peak (the tall one up North with all the rocks). For the most part, that should get you back to where you started.

GOOD TO KNOW:

-The parking lot is small but the park is big. So don’t get discouraged if the lot is full. Just go across the road and find a welcoming street with an open curb.

-There are rocks in the trail. That’s pretty obvious. But when you trip on one, remember I told you they were there.

-If Rattle Snakes go to heaven, it’ll look like Ute Valley Park.