The best walks and hikes around Broadmoor
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Hikes around Broadmoor Colorado Springs are set in a landscape at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. The area is defined by its proximity to dramatic red rock formations, forested canyons, and prominent peaks like Pikes Peak. Trails navigate through pine and aspen forests, follow mountain streams, and ascend to viewpoints overlooking Colorado Springs and the Great Plains.
Best hiking trails around Broadmoor
- The most popular hiking route is Lake Merced loop β San Francisco, a 5.0 mile (8.0β¦
Last updated: April 27, 2026
21
hikers
15.8km
04:37
420m
430m
Embark on the Ridge and Summit Loop Trail for a moderate hiking experience through the varied landscapes of San Bruno Mountain State Park. This 9.8-mile (15.8 km) route challenges youβ¦
10
hikers
3.46km
00:59
80m
70m
Embark on the easy Mussel Rock Trail for a refreshing coastal hike, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. This 2.1-mile (3.5 km) route involves a gentle climb of 253β¦
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2
hikers
2.50km
00:40
30m
30m
Embark on an easy hike along the Fort Funston Coastal Trail, a 1.6-mile (2.5 km) route that offers expansive ocean views from atop 200-foot-high sandy cliffs. You'll gain a gentleβ¦
2
hikers
1.37km
00:24
40m
40m
Embark on an easy hike along the Thornton Beach Trail, a short coastal route offering dramatic ocean vistas from bluff terraces. This 0.9-mile (1.4 km) path involves a gentle ascentβ¦
7.18km
01:55
100m
40m
This easy 4.5-mile hike from Lake Merced to Stern Grove offers urban nature, lake views, and a mix of paved and natural terrain.
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Tips from the Community
All tools and bike pump for simple repairs along the trail.
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West entrance into the large combined park. Sigmund Stern Grove is nestled into the southwest corner of San Franciscoβs Sunset District. Its 63 acres are comprised of meadows, lush forests, and Pine Lake, one of only three natural lakes in San Francisco. The Greene family, a family of early homesteaders, staked out the land in 1847 and began farming, but not without challenges. Shifting sands and property disputes with armed and aggressive neighbors were commonplace for settlers in the largely untamed region. Following the Gold Rush and a long legal battle to keep their land, the Greenes opened The Trocadero Inn on the property and played host to ruffians and celebrities of the day. North Pole explorer Dr. Frederick Cook was a resident of the inn, which closed during prohibition but still stands today. In 1931, the land was purchased by the wife of the late Sigmund Stern and gifted to the city as a park shortly thereafter. Free summer performances of music and dance have taken place at the groveβs natural eucalyptus amphitheater and outdoor stage since 1938. World-class artists grace the Stern Grove Festival stage every Sunday in the summer. The events are free of charge, and donations can be made at the gates. Trails interlaced through the park are popular with runners and walkers. The park features tennis courts, picnic tables, and a childrenβs playground. A large off-leash dog area rests between the concert meadow and Pine Lake. Coyotes and other wildlife call Stern Grove home, so please observe leash regulations and stay on the trails. Street parking is easy on the surrounding residential streets near the park's multiple entrances. Much of the park is handicap accessible from this entrance.
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This 2,400-acre park stands as an oasis of open space, right on the fringes of San Francisco. The highest point of the ridge is just over 1,300 feet (almost 400 meters) in elevation, and the views are great!
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Along with Pine Lake, and Mountain Lake, Lake Merced is one of three freshwater lakes in San Francisco. The lake is fed through a natural underground spring and provides opportunities for all sorts of outdoor activities.
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The paved trail passes the Plotting room of the WW II era missile guiding system at Fort Funston
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Just below the highest point on the mountain offers the best views to the North and East. Be sure to turn around and take it all in.
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The larger south portion of Lake Merced is open to boating and has a free public boat dock to launch kayaks/canoes from
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails near The Broadmoor?
Yes, many trails in the area are dog-friendly, but policies can vary. Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a popular choice for hiking with dogs, offering numerous trails with beautiful red-rock scenery. North Cheyenne CaΓ±on Park also allows dogs on its extensive trail system. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to help preserve the natural beauty of these areas.
What are some easy, family-friendly hikes in the Broadmoor area?
For a gentle and accessible walk, the Perkins Central Garden Trail in Garden of the Gods is a great option. It's a 1.5-mile paved loop that is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, winding through the park's iconic red rock formations. For a slightly more traditional but still easy hike, the Mount Cutler trail in North Cheyenne CaΓ±on Park offers rewarding views for a relatively small effort.
Where can I find hikes with waterfalls near Broadmoor?
The most famous waterfall destination is Seven Falls, which features a series of seven cascading waterfalls in a box canyon. For a different experience within a beautiful forest setting, visit North Cheyenne CaΓ±on Park, which is home to both Helen Hunt Falls and Silver Cascade Falls.
What are the hiking trails at Seven Falls like?
After climbing the 224-step staircase alongside the falls, you can access two distinct trails. The Trail to Inspiration Point is a one-mile round trip offering fantastic views over Colorado Springs and the Great Plains. The other option is the shorter Midnight Falls Trail, a 30-minute hike leading to a more secluded waterfall.
How does hiking in Red Rock Canyon compare to Garden of the Gods?
Both parks feature stunning red rock geology. Garden of the Gods is a National Natural Landmark known for its dramatic, iconic formations and paved central trails, which can make it more crowded. Red Rock Canyon Open Space often provides a quieter experience with more rugged dirt trails that are very popular with local hikers and dog walkers. It offers a similar landscape but with a wilder feel.
Are there any challenging, high-altitude hikes available near The Broadmoor?
Yes, for a serious challenge, you can tackle Pikes Peak. The Barr Trail and the Crags Trail are the two primary routes to the 14,115-foot summit. These are strenuous, full-day hikes that require proper preparation for high altitude and changing weather conditions. The San Bruno Mountain loop from Crocker-Amazon is a long route that can help you prepare for such endurance challenges.
What kind of hiking is available in North Cheyenne CaΓ±on Park?
North Cheyenne CaΓ±on Park offers a diverse trail system of over 15 miles within a beautiful forested canyon. You can find everything from the family-friendly Mount Cutler trail to the more strenuous Mount Muscoco trail, which rewards hikers with panoramic views from its summit. The popular Seven Bridges Trail follows a creek, crossing it multiple times.
Is it difficult to find parking at the trailheads?
Parking can be challenging, especially at popular trailheads on weekends. For trails like Mount Muscoco, the lot at the trailhead is small, and you may need to park further down the road and walk. It's always a good idea to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot. Some destinations, like Seven Falls, have designated parking lots with shuttle services.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Broadmoor?
The trails in this region are highly regarded by the komoot community, earning an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning scenery, from the unique red rock formations to the forested canyons and expansive views of the Great Plains. The variety of trails, catering to all skill levels, is also a commonly highlighted feature.
How many hiking trails are there around Broadmoor?
There are over 100 designated hiking routes in and around the Broadmoor area. These range from short, easy walks like the San Francisco Zoo loop from Wawona Street & 46th Avenue to difficult mountain ascents, offering a wide variety of options for every type of hiker.
Are there any circular or loop hikes available?
Yes, there are many excellent loop trails. The Lake Merced loop β San Francisco is a popular moderate loop that offers a great way to experience the local landscape. Many trails in Red Rock Canyon and North Cheyenne CaΓ±on Park can also be combined to form satisfying loops.
What should I know before hiking in this area?
The weather in the Rocky Mountains can change quickly, so it's wise to dress in layers and bring rain gear, even on a sunny day. The altitude can affect hikers differently; be sure to drink plenty of water before and during your hike. Finally, some trails are rocky and uneven, so sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are highly recommended.
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