Cheyenne Mountain State Park sits at the base of the mountain

Cheyenne Mountain State Park spreads across the foothills just south of Colorado Springs, tucked under the eastern face of Cheyenne Mountain. It is one of the closest state parks to the city, and a good place to know about if you are new to the area and want trails without a long drive.

The park has miles of trails shared by hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders, climbing from grassland up into the trees. There is a campground with sites for tents and RVs, picnic areas, and a public archery range. Programs on wildlife and the outdoors run through the year. The terrain means deer and other animals are common, so it is a calm spot for nature watching close to town.

Like all Colorado state parks, this one needs a pass to enter. You can buy a daily vehicle pass at the gate, or use the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, which Colorado residents can add to a vehicle registration and which covers entry to state parks. Camping and some programs need separate reservations.

Hours, fees, reservations, and pass options change, so check before you go. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife page for Cheyenne Mountain State Park has current details, and the Keep Colorado Wild Pass page explains that option.