The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department has exciting news to share!
This spring, maintenance work and trail improvements in Bear Creek Cañon Park will begin. These improvements will add valuable connectivity and accessibility to the Pikes Peak Region.
Located on the western edge of El Paso County’s Bear Creek Regional Park, this project will provide regional connectivity through Bear Creek Cañon Park to Red Rock Canyon Open Space, North Cheyenne Cañon Park via Gold Camp Road, High Drive and to U.S. Forest Service lands. Improvement work includes re-routing damaged and unsustainable sections of trail while reinforcing existing trails. This work will increase safety and improve the trail user experience while also provide protection to environmentally sensitive wildlife habitats.
In collaboration with El Paso County, these improvements will also provide increased trail accessibility through Bear Creek Cañon Park for the El Paso County Parks & Community Services Trailability Program, which utilizes "Terrain Hoppers" or off-road mobility vehicles allowing those with disabilities to experience trails previously inaccessible to them.
“This is an exciting opportunity for us to increase accessibility in our parks for all users,” said Dan Allen, Trail Project Specialist for Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services. “Colorado Springs is committed to creating a more inclusive environment for everyone in our community to access recreational opportunities. These improvements will make it possible for people of all abilities to use the trails safely and with confidence.”
"We are proud to partner with the City of Colorado Springs to enhance trail connectivity and outdoor recreation accessibility," said Theresa Odello, El Paso County Recreation & Cultural Services Division Manager. "These improvements will provide more access to adventure and opportunities for our community to explore what makes our region so special."
During the project, visitors can expect to see equipment operating in multiple areas of the park. Work is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2024, subject to weather and changing conditions. Minimal trails closures are anticipated however, trail users are asked to plan alternate routes using designated trails during this time.
The Trailability Program is available on a reservation basis at the Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers. To learn more, reserve an experience, or volunteer for the program, visit communityservices.elpasoco.com/trailability/
Visit ColoradoSprings.gov/BearCreekCañonImprovementProject for project information and updates.