Use of Trail: Hiking / Bicycles
Length of Trail: 6.02 Miles out and back
Elevation Gain: 1,177 Ft. Gain
Difficulty: Moderate
This heavily-trafficked, moderate trail ends at, you guessed it, St. Mary’s Falls. The beginning of the hike starts on a closed portion of Upper Gold Camp Rd. and is wide and exposed until you reach the trailhead. From there, the hike is pleasant and shaded. Bring your four-legged friend, but they must stay on a leash in this area.
Pro tip: go early and during the week to avoid the larger crowds and remember trail etiquette: uphill always has the right of way and do not hike off trail.
Trailhead Directions: From Manitou Springs, head east on US 24 for 2.4 miles and turn right onto 21st St. Continue for 1.4 miles as the street becomes Cresta Rd. Keep going another 1.6 miles. Turn right onto Cheyenne Blvd and after 1 mile take a right at the fork onto N Cheyenne Cañon Rd. Drive west for 3.19 miles ending at a large parking lot. Walk along a closed section of Upper Gold Camp Rd. to access the trail.
*Detailed trail information and maps for can be found for sale at the Manitou Springs Visitor’s Center at 354 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs, CO (719) 685-5089
