Pulpit Rock

How is this place not a hugely popular destination?  I guess it's a good thing for those who frequent the lovely trails and rugged, rocky outcropping of Pulpit Rock that this very visible gem in the heart of Colorado Springs remains largely undiscovered by visitors to the Springs. What surprised me, upon stepping out on the trail, was how tranquil, spacious and remote the park seemed. Here it is in the middle of a busy city, and yet it gives a feeling of being much farther removed from civilization than it really is. From this rugged vantage point you can take it the superb views of the city, Cheyenne Mountain and Pikes Peak. The area at the top is fun to explore, lots of interesting and unique rock formations. Pulpit Rock is part of the enormous 584 acre Austin Bluffs Open Space.

The trails are not well marked, so you might want to study a map of the area before heading out. You reach the summit via the 'back' of pulpit rock (north side).  Most of the trail to the top is fairly easy, with just a slight elevation gain. The only difficulty is the final, steep ascent which requires a scramble up loose rock. Dogs are required to stay on leash, and obviously care needs to be taken at the top. The photos above were taken in June and those below in November.


Click here to see photos taken by "Colorado Guy"

Click here to learn about other 'Urban Hiking' opportunities in Colorado Springs.

Directions: We found two entry points off of North Nevada Ave. The more established one was north of the Harley Davidson store near a large electric utility facility (this seems to be the closer starting point as it is closer to the north side of Pulpit Rock - see thumbnail image to the right), the other (with limited, less developed parking) was a little ways south from there on Nevada and offers trail access from south of the rock which wraps around the rock (see bottom image).