Property

Section 16

Summary

This beautiful trail begins in the desert landscape of Colorado’s front range, and winds around the foothills until it begins to climb steadily into the mountains. Here the landscape changes to a thick forest of pine trees. Be sure to notice the great view of the Garden of the Gods to the north (at the beginning of the hike), and the many points on the trail that offer spectacular views of the city and of the Pikes Peak foothills. My favorite spot in the hike is the log bridge and mountain stream. In the fall, winter, and early spring the cascading stream is frozen solid as it rushes down the mountain.

This trail begins fairly steep, so pace yourself if you are not yet acclimated to the altitude and dry air. Also, during fall and spring, realize that even though it may be warm at the trailhead, the highest point of the hike is about 1000 feet higher, so you may be in significantly colder weather for a short time.

Trailhead

From Colorado Springs, take Highway 24 west and turn left (south) onto 21st street. Turn right on Gold Camp Road and continue straight through the four-way stop sign. The trailhead and main parking lot is on the right just a few minutes up the road, with overflow and large vehicle parking just past it on the left. (Lat:38.82243 Lon:-104.89042)

White Acres

Summary

White Acres has significant intrinsic value as open space; and its strategic location adjacent to Red Rock Canyon Open Space and Section 16 gives it special importance as part of a larger whole.

The Colorado Springs City Council has unanimously approved TOPS acquisition of White Acres as open space. Because of limited TOPS funds, $75,000 in private funds have been secured to supplement TOPS funds for the purchase of White Acres.

Friends of Red Rock Canyon has worked together with the Palmer Land Trust to preserve our special lands.

Unlike the major parts of Section 16 and Red Rock Canyon, White Acres has yet to be permanently protected by a conservation easement.

Open-air pavilion project

Summary

A generous and committed supporter and Board member of Friends of Red Rock Canyon offered a $50,000 challenge grant toward the pavilion project. Friends of Red Rock Canyon raised over  $50,000 in additional funds, including $5,000 which Friends of Red Rock Canyon itself committed. The remaining funds for the project came from City funds.

The Broadmoor Garden Club and Friends of Red Rock Canyon are contributing toward native landscaping in the pavilion area.