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Best wildlife hikes in El Paso County
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Best wildlife hikes in El Paso County

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich hikes give you the chance to spot some of the forest's cutest inhabitants.

Here are some great hikes to explore in El Paso County.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Northfield Reservoir and Nichols Reservoir via Stanley Creek Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.5 (2) · 9.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 7 min

2

Easy

Prospect Lake Loop

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.0 (6) · 2.1 km · Est. 26 min

3

Easy

Fox Run Regional Park Loop

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.4 (12) · 5.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 23 min

4

Easy

Rampart Reservoir Loop via Rainbow Gulch

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.6 (10) · 22.3 km · Est. 4 hrs 52 min

5

Medium

La Deux Réservoirs, Ice Cave Creek and Swank Loop Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.5 (10) · 6.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 45 min

6

Easy

Cottonwood Creek Park Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.6 (9) · 8.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 47 min

7

Medium

La Deux Réservoirs and Harrison Plane Crash Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.5 (6) · 16.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 29 min

8

Difficult

South Catamount Reservoir and Thomas Trail

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.5 (8) · 10.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 3 min

9

Easy

Pikes Peak Greenway and Monument Creek Loop

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.6 (9) · 2.5 km · Est. 31 min

10

Easy

South Rice's Pond Loop

El Paso County, Colorado · star 4.7 (10) · 3.1 km · Est. 39 min

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Reviews for wildlife hikes in El Paso County

Damion Maggio avatar

Northfield Reservoir and Nichols Reservoir via Stanley Creek Trail

CragMountaineer91 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

An Stehr avatar

Prospect Lake Loop

PinesCairntracker70 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Giovanni Ortiz Esq. avatar

Fox Run Regional Park Loop

AdventureMeadowwalker33 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Verona Hoppe avatar

Rampart Reservoir Loop via Rainbow Gulch

CrestSpruceseeker19 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Devon Koepp avatar

La Deux Réservoirs, Ice Cave Creek and Swank Loop Trail

CairnTrailstalker37 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in El Paso County

What is the climate like for hiking in Colorado?

In Colorado, a hiker's paradise, weather conditions can vary greatly by season and elevation. Generally, the state experiences a sunny, dry climate, making it a year-round hiking destination.
Summer (June through August) offers the warmest weather and is typically the best time to tackle high-altitude hikes in the Rocky Mountains, as trails are mostly free from snow. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so early starts are recommended.
Winter (December through February) brings snow and cold temperatures, especially at high elevations, making some trails inaccessible. But for the prepared adventurer, winter hiking or snowshoeing can offer a unique and serene experience. Always check local weather conditions before setting out. For trail updates and weather info, visit the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. [Link: https://climate.colorado.gov/]

Do I need a permit to hike in Colorado?

While most Colorado trails are free, some popular areas, like Hanging Lake or Rocky Mountain National Park, require permits or reservations to manage visitor impact. Permits can typically be obtained online in advance. Contact the relevant park management or Colorado Parks & Wildlife for specifics. [Link: https://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/permitsandreservations.htm]

Is wild camping allowed in Colorado?

Wild camping, often referred to as dispersed camping, is generally permitted in Colorado's National Forests and Bureau of Land Management areas, unless otherwise posted. Hikers must follow Leave No Trace principles and fire restrictions. Always check specific regulations with the managing agency. [Link: www.fs.usda.gov]

Are there mountain rescue services in Colorado?

In the event of a hiking emergency in Colorado, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Colorado Search and Rescue Association (CSAR) coordinates rescue efforts in the mountainous terrains. Always let someone know your hiking plans and carry a charged cell phone. [Link: https://coloradosar.org/]

Are there dangerous plants in Colorado?

Colorado's diverse landscapes offer a variety of flora. Alpine regions feature tundra wildflowers, while lower elevations host pine forests and aspen groves. Hikers should respect the delicate ecosystem and avoid trampling wildflowers. The Colorado Native Plant Society website provides comprehensive information. [Link: www.conps.org]

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Colorado?

Colorado's trails reveal an array of wildlife, from elk and deer in the Rocky Mountain National Park to marmots and pikas in alpine areas. Be bear-aware, particularly in forested areas, and mindful of smaller critters like ticks and mosquitoes. For wildlife safety tips, refer to the Colorado Parks & Wildlife website. [Link: https://dnr.colorado.gov/divisions/colorado-parks-wildlife]

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