Rampart Reservoir Trail

The Rampart Reservoir Trail is one of our favorite adventures near Colorado Springs, this unique reservoir nestled amongst the foothills is unassumingly picturesque! Whether you will hike or bike, you will be rewarded with awe-inspiring scenery and sights of Pikes Peak dominating the skyline as you wander the undulating path. Note visitors are required to pay a parking fee which typically costs around $7USD. This hike also closes seasonally in the winter months.

Embark on your adventure along the Rampart Reservoir Trail from the trailhead off Lake Circle Drive Road. From here, the loop can be completed in either direction, but we chose to hike counterclockwise. Immediately guiding adventurers to the shoreline, the Rampart Reservoir Trail will continue to hug the shore for the entirety of the hike. Enjoy the sights of the shimmering waters and the lush forestlands. As you wander, be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife! There will be a few intersections and merging paths; ignore these and continue trekking along the Rampart Reservoir Trail.

As the route curves around the reservoir, you will be granted sights of Pikes Peak in the south. Once you reach the trail’s end, turn left onto the Lake Circle Drive Road and hike briefly along the shoulder of the road back to the trailhead.