Tag: happy trails
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Happy Trails: Manitou Lake a hidden gem of surprises west of Colorado Springs
Manitou Lake Pelicans in Colorado? We had no idea until we recently spotted some at Manitou Lake near Woodland Park, here above 7,500 feet ー far above and far away from sea level where we’d expect to see such birds. But here, indeed, were American white pelicans, which, upon further research, will occasionally make their…
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Happy Trails: A scenic path less taken off popular Section 16 trail in Colorado Springs
Ridgeline Trail Palmer Red Rock Trail, better known as Section 16, is one of the most popular trails in Colorado Springs. And for good reason: It offers a workout, quality time in nature and some of the best views to be had all across the city’s wilds. But while hikers, runners and mountain bikers continued…
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Happy Trails: Touring South Valley Park’s surprise beauty near Denver
South Valley Park doesn’t get the attention that North and South Table Mountains and Matthews/Winters Park get — top destinations in Jefferson County Parks and Open Space’s portfolio. A natural resources specialist with the department, Tanner Marshall, thinks that’s because South Valley’s trails aren’t as varied. “Pretty flat, tame trails, nice for strolling around,” he…
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Happy Trails: A sweet, newer loop not to miss at North Cheyenne Cañon in Colorado Springs
Editor’s note: As of this writing, roads into North Cheyenne Cañon Park were closed due to damage and debris from rain. Check for updates on Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services social media. Sweetwater Canyon Trail It was Saturday morning — time for trailhead parking lots to fill in North Cheyenne Cañon Park. We…
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Happy Trails: One of the best summit hikes in the Colorado Springs area
Red Mountain Trail Overlooking Manitou Springs, Red Mountain would be a good place for a scenic railway. So went the thinking of a company that started construction in 1912, according to a history posted at the base of Red Mountain Trail. The sign continues: “Unfortunately, the Red Mountain Incline’s grades were extremely steep, and its…
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Happy Trails: A favorite loop at Stratton Open Space in Colorado Springs
Meadows Trail Stratton Open Space is a poster child of Colorado Springs’ Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) initiative, which voters approved in 1997. That set aside a portion of sales tax revenues to preserve natural areas 一 an early example being this hilly mosaic of meadows and woods between the neighborhood and North Cheyenne…
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Happy Trails: The latest stretch of long-dreamed trail in Clear Creek Canyon west of Denver
West of Denver, Clear Creek Canyon has been home to one of Colorado’s biggest outdoor recreation developments in recent years. Right off U.S. 6 approaching downtown Golden, perhaps you’ve seen the Gateway Trailhead, so named for the paved path starting at the mouth of the canyon. This big parking lot opened in 2021 as part…
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Happy Trails: A scenic tour around base of Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado Springs
As the trail toward the summit, Dixon Trail might claim the most signature experience at Cheyenne Mountain State Park. But it is far from the only memorable experience — nor is it for everyone, as it requires a steep, out-and-back venture spanning 15-plus miles. In the meadows and woods around Cheyenne Mountain’s base, Talon Trail…
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Happy Trails: Getting to know the growing sides of Blodgett Open Space in Colorado Springs
Amid Colorado Springs’ mountain backdrop, Blodgett Peak is a regal standout. People have long gotten to know the open space near the pointy peak’s foot. In more recent years, they’ve gotten to know the open space that has expanded south. And this summer, they could get to know a whole new side. Trails are expected…
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Happy Trails: Honoring the colorful beauty of Palmer Park in Colorado Springs
In a quiet nook of Palmer Park, a sign recalls Edna Mae Bennett’s “inviting love for the out-of-doors.” Yes, just as she loved this park of colorful bluffs near the heart of Colorado Springs, she loved sharing it, inviting others to it. Hence the school program she hosted here, according to the sign posted by…