Things To Do In The Spring In Colorado Springs: A Guide For Smart
You’ve seen the epic summer photos of Pikes Peak and the winter ski shots, but what about that in-between season? Spring in the Rockies can feel like a gamble. You might be picturing wildflower hikes but find yourself post-holing in unexpected snow or navigating trails that look more like chocolate milk.
It’s a common frustration. You want to get outside, but the unpredictable weather and “mud season” can make planning an adventure feel impossible. You’re worried about showing up with the wrong gear, choosing a miserable trail, or missing out on the best experiences because you didn’t know where to look.
This guide promises to change that. We’re going to pull back the curtain on this incredible shoulder season and give you a practical, no-nonsense plan. We’ll show you exactly how to find the best things to do in the spring in colorado springs, from choosing mud-free trails to packing the right gear for 70-degree sun and 30-degree snow—sometimes in the same day.
Why Spring is a Secretly Awesome (and Tricky) Time to Visit
Spring in Colorado Springs is what we call a “shoulder season.” It’s the transition period between the peak winter and summer crowds, and it comes with its own unique set of rewards and challenges.
The biggest benefit is the solitude. You get to experience the raw beauty of the Front Range waking from winter without the summer crowds. The air is crisp, the snow-capped peaks provide a stunning backdrop against budding green aspen trees, and you might even spot newborn wildlife.
However, it’s crucial to understand the common problems with things to do in the spring in colorado springs. The weather is famously unpredictable. A sunny, warm afternoon can quickly turn into a windy snow squall. Trails, especially at mid-elevations, are often a mix of ice, deep mud, and dry dirt, making conditions tricky underfoot.
Your Guide to Spring Hiking: Beat the Mud & Crowds
Hiking is still one of the top activities, but you have to be strategic. A little bit of planning and knowledge turns a potentially miserable slog into an amazing day on the trail. This is your essential things to do in the spring in colorado springs guide for hitting the trails.
Choosing the Right Trails for Spring Conditions
The key to a great spring hike is picking the right location. Forget high-elevation summit attempts for now; those trails will be buried in snow until at least June.
Instead, focus on trails that are at lower elevations and have a southern exposure. These south-facing slopes get more direct sunlight, which helps them melt ice and dry out much faster than their shaded, north-facing counterparts.
Your best bets for dry(er) trails include:
- Garden of the Gods Park: Many of the main trails here are paved and accessible year-round. It’s a foolproof option for a beautiful walk, even after a spring snow.
- Red Rock Canyon Open Space: This area offers a vast network of trails. Stick to the lower loops that bake in the sun, like the Red Rock Canyon Trail, for the best conditions.
* Palmer Park: Located right in the city, this park is a maze of rocky, sandy trails that drain water exceptionally well. The views of the Pikes Peak massif are incredible from here.
Before you even put your boots on, check trail conditions. Use an app like AllTrails or the Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) app. Read recent trail reports from other users—they are your best source of real-time information.
Essential Gear for Unpredictable Spring Hikes
Having the right gear is non-negotiable in the spring. It’s the difference between being comfortable and safe versus cold, wet, and miserable.
- A Layering System: This is the golden rule. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (like merino wool), add a fleece mid-layer (a classic like the Patagonia R1 is perfect), and top it with a waterproof and windproof shell jacket.
- Waterproof Hiking Boots: Your lightweight summer trail runners won’t cut it. You need sturdy, waterproof boots from a brand like Salomon or Merrell to keep your feet dry when you inevitably hit mud or slush.
- Traction Devices: Don’t leave home without them. Icy patches linger in the shade well into May. A pair of microspikes, like the industry-standard Kahtoola MICROspikes, will give you secure footing and confidence on slippery sections.
- Trekking Poles: They provide crucial stability, helping you test questionable patches of snow and keep your balance in slick mud.
Best Practices for Muddy Trails: A Sustainable Approach
Encountering mud is inevitable. How you handle it matters. Following eco-friendly things to do in the spring in colorado springs best practices protects the trails for everyone.
The most important rule of thumb is to walk directly through the mud, not around it. When hikers create paths around a muddy section, they widen the trail, trample fragile vegetation, and cause serious erosion. It might seem counterintuitive to get your boots dirty, but it’s the right thing to do.
If a trail is excessively muddy to the point where you’re sinking or causing deep ruts, the most responsible thing to do is turn back. This is a core part of being a good trail steward.
More Than Hiking: Other Amazing Outdoor Adventures
If the trails are just too wet or you’re looking for a different kind of adventure, there are plenty of other fantastic options.
Take a Scenic Drive on a Clear Day
Spring offers some of the best views of the year. The high peaks are still brilliantly white with snow, creating a stunning contrast with the greening foothills. A drive up Gold Camp Road (check for seasonal gate closures) or along the scenic Shelf Road can offer breathtaking vistas without the need for muddy boots.
Wildlife Watching: Spotting Spring’s New Arrivals
Spring is a fantastic time for wildlife viewing. As the snow recedes, animals move to lower elevations to graze on new growth. Keep an eye out for mule deer in Garden of the Gods and bighorn sheep near Rampart Range Road. Remember to always view wildlife from a safe and respectful distance—use binoculars or a zoom lens and never feed them.
Explore Mueller State Park
Located west of Colorado Springs, Mueller State Park sits at a slightly higher elevation but offers over 50 miles of trails. In the spring, some of its lower, sun-exposed trails can be in great shape. It’s an excellent place to see ponderosa pine forests and potentially spot elk or black bears (from a distance!). Always check park conditions before you go.
Planning Your Trip: Pro Tips for a Smooth Spring Adventure
A successful spring trip is all about smart preparation. These are some of our top things to do in the spring in colorado springs tips for a hassle-free visit.
How to Pack for Colorado’s Wild Spring Weather
Beyond your on-trail layering system, your general packing list should be versatile. Always have a warm hat, gloves, and sunglasses. The sun at altitude is intense, even on a cool, cloudy day, so wear sunscreen.
It’s also wise to keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. A warm blanket, extra water, some non-perishable snacks, and a basic first-aid kit can be a lifesaver if you get stuck or if the weather turns unexpectedly.
Checking Conditions and Staying Safe
Always check the weather forecast from a reliable source like the National Weather Service right before you head out. Be aware of the signs of altitude sickness if you’re visiting from a lower elevation: headache, nausea, and fatigue. The best prevention is to take it easy your first day, drink plenty of water, and avoid alcohol.
Finally, know that cell service is unreliable in the mountains. Download your maps for offline use on an app like Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro before you lose service.
A Trail Care Guide: Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Practices
Part of enjoying the outdoors is helping to protect it. Embracing sustainable things to do in the spring in colorado springs ensures these beautiful places remain for future generations.
The core principle is Leave No Trace. This means packing out everything you pack in, including food scraps like apple cores and banana peels. They can take years to decompose in this arid environment and are harmful to wildlife.
Respect all trail closures. They are often in place to protect trails from damage during the muddy season or to give wildlife, like nesting raptors or elk during calving season, the space they need. Being a good steward means putting the health of the ecosystem first.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in the Spring in Colorado Springs
What is the weather *really* like in Colorado Springs in the spring?
In a word: unpredictable. March and April are often the snowiest months. You can easily experience a 70°F day followed by a day with 6 inches of snow. The key is to never trust a sunny morning; always be prepared for cold and precipitation.
Can I hike Pikes Peak in the spring?
For the vast majority of hikers, the answer is no. The summit of Pikes Peak (14,115 feet) holds deep snow and winter conditions well into June or even July. Attempting it in the spring requires mountaineering skills and equipment. A much safer way to experience it is by driving the Pikes Peak Highway or taking the Cog Railway, but be sure to check their websites for any weather-related closures.
Is it too cold to camp in the spring?
It can be, and it’s generally recommended for more experienced campers. Nighttime temperatures frequently drop below freezing. You will need a true 3-season or 4-season tent, a sleeping bag rated for 20°F or lower, and a well-insulated sleeping pad (R-value of 4.0 or higher) to stay warm and safe.
What’s the biggest mistake people make when visiting in the spring?
The biggest mistake is underestimating the conditions. This includes not packing enough warm layers and waterproof gear, not bringing traction for their boots, and assuming all trails are open and in summer-like condition. A close second is not being flexible with plans; you have to be ready to pivot to a lower-elevation trail or a different activity if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
Spring in Colorado Springs isn’t for the fair-weather visitor, but for the prepared adventurer, it’s a season of profound beauty and quiet reflection. By choosing the right trails, packing smart gear, and respecting the landscape, you can unlock one of the best-kept secrets of the Rockies.
Now you have the knowledge to explore confidently. Get out there, be safe, and enjoy the incredible experience of watching the mountains come back to life. Adventure on!
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