The Best Views in Colorado Springs - Visit Colorado Springs

Father and child overlooking canyon in Colorado Springs, CO

Pikes Peak

1. Pikes Peak - America’s Mountain

Stand atop Pikes Peak and witness a view that stretches beyond Colorado’s borders. On clear days, you can see five states—New Mexico, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming and Oklahoma—as well as the curvature of the Earth fading into the horizon and the historic mining town of Cripple Creek.

Summit Visitors Center - Snack on a donut, explore the exhibits, and get swept up in the mesmerizing view from the top of Pikes Peak.
Barr & Crags Trails - Hike your way to the top of Pikes Peak with incredible vantage points around every turn.
Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway - For a laid back experience, climb aboard the cog railway and ride to the summit. With expansive windows and comfortable seats this is a great way to witness America’s Mountain.
Pikes Peak Highway Scenic Drive - Following this winding road will lead you to stunning lookouts including Crystal Reservoir and Devils Playground.

Garden of the Gods

2. Garden of the Gods

Marvel at towering red rock formations standing in dramatic contrast to the blue sky. This free public park is a must-see, with trails that wind through towering sandstone spires and unique geological wonders. Before entering the park, stop at Mesa Overlook(3586-3604 Mesa Rd) for a picture-perfect panoramic view.

High Point Overlook - Easily accessible from the road, this is one of the most photogenic spots in the park – popular for wedding and sunset photos.
Balanced Rock - Snap a fun photo beside this gravity-defying rock, but arrive early to capture the moment without a crowd.
Siamese Twins - Look through this natural rock window for a perfectly framed view of Pikes Peak.

Aerial view of gondola ride over Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado Springs CO

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

3. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Walk across America’s highest suspension bridge and peer down into the dramatic depths of the Royal Gorge. For even more thrills, ride a gondola or zipline over the canyon for an aerial perspective. If you prefer to admire the gorge from below, board the Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a scenic journey through the towering cliffs.

Broadmoor Seven Falls

4. Broadmoor Seven Falls

Follow the walking trails and ascend the series of stairs for an up-close encounter with these magnificent cascading waters. The sound of rushing water and the sight of the falls tumbling down the canyon walls make the effort worthwhile.

Manitou Incline

5. Manitou Incline

Challenge yourself with a climb up 2,768 steps, gaining 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile at this legendary workout spot. The reward? Sweeping views of Manitou Springs and the satisfaction of watching fellow athletes tackle the climb below you – just remember to secure your free reservation before attempting your climb!

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

6. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Perched at 6,714 feet above sea level, Cheyenne Mountain Zoo combines spectacular city views alongside up-close encounters with giraffes, grizzlies, and more.

Will Rogers Shrine of the Sun - Towering nearly 8,000 feet above sea level, this architectural marvel features panoramic views of Colorado Springs and the plains beyond.

Cave of the Winds

7. Cave of the Winds

Take a break from open-air vistas and head underground to explore the beauty of Cave of the Winds. Inside, intricate rock formations create an otherworldly landscape unlike any other.

Palmer Park

8. Palmer Park

Walk the trails of Palmer Park to admire panoramic views of Colorado Springs from within the city itself. Pack a picnic to have a meal with a view!

Ducks swim in the water in front of red rock formations at Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

9. Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Bring your dog along for a walk through this scenic open space filled with red rock formations and stop by the dog park to burn off their extra energy while surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

10. Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Time your visit to Cheyenne Mountain State Park so you catch either a spectacular sunrise or a peaceful sunset painting the foothills in brilliant colors.

Pulpit Rock

11. Austin Bluffs Open Space

Austin Bluffs Open Space covers three expansive parks. One of the highlights is Pulpit Rock, a striking natural rock feature with unbeatable views of Pikes Peak and Colorado Springs. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including snakes, foxes and a variety of birds.

North Cheyenne Canyon Park

12. North Cheyenne Canyon Park

Carved 1,000-feet deep into ancient granite, this 1,600-acre park features rugged beauty, abundant wildlife, waterfalls and rocky ridges.

Seven Bridges Trail - Cross seven charming wooden bridges as you hike alongside a rushing creek and end up in Jones Park, a peaceful meadow. In spring the meadow is covered in wildflowers.
St. Mary’s Falls - Follow the trail past a historic railroad tunnel before reaching this picturesque waterfall. The sound of rushing water makes for a peaceful hike.
Mount Cutler - Trek to the overlook for panoramic views of Seven Falls, Will Rogers Shrine, and Stratton Open Space.
Helen Hunt Falls - Stop by this easy-access waterfall for a scenic picnic and visit the information center for maps and snacks.
Mount Muscoco - Take this quiet, one-way trail for a solitary hike with 360-degree views of Colorado Springs.

More Ways to Experience Colorado Springs' Scenery

The Pikes Peak region rewards those who venture off the main path and the easiest way to do that is with a guide. Explore the backcountry with a Jeep tour, admire Colorado Springs' scenery from above in a hot air balloon ride, or take a more active approach with e-bike tours, kayaking, and whitewater rafting.

For those who prefer to simply sit back and take it all in, a ride on one of our trains is the perfect option. Ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad to see the depths of the gorge or hop aboard the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway to enjoy the view as the train climbs America's Mountain.

Explore all of the guided tours in Colorado Springs to find the best tour for your trip.

What to Pack to Enhance Your Experience

On a clear day the Pikes Peak region will reward you with views that stretch for hundreds of miles and picture-perfect scenery. The right gear will make these great views even better and provide even more perspectives. Here's what to throw in your bag before you head out:

Binoculars - Bring a pair to pick out distant wildlife like bighorn sheep, or to trace ridgelines stretching all the way to the horizon.
Camera - Capture the depth and drama of the Colorado Springs landscape with a camera and collection of lenses.
Collapsible Tripod - A lightweight collapsible tripod is easy to pack and makes a big difference when you want to be in the photo or avoid a blurry shot.
Sun Protection - The higher you climb, the thinner the air and the more intensely the sun will affect you. To avoid injury, be sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
Water Bottle & Snacks - The high altitude dehydrates visitors more than they'd expect. Bring more water than you think you need and pack snacks to keep your energy up on longer outings.

Check out our high altitude and packing guides for more tips and suggestions.

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