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Bear Creek Nature Center: Foothills Exploration

Discover Colorado's foothills at Bear Creek Nature Center: trails, wildlife, and educational programs await!

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Nestled in Colorado Springs' Bear Creek Regional Park, the Bear Creek Nature Center offers a blend of outdoor exploration and environmental education. Hike scenic trails through diverse ecosystems, observe local wildlife, and engage with interpretive programs. It's an ideal destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape.

A brief summary to Bear Creek Nature Center

  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Bring binoculars for bird watching and spotting deer.
  • Check the center's schedule for special educational programs and events.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the trails.
  • Note that pets are prohibited on the nature trails but allowed on regional trails with a leash.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From various points in Colorado Springs, take a Mountain Metro Transit bus towards Bear Creek Road. You may need to transfer at a local hub to reach a bus that stops at or near Bear Creek Road. From the bus stop, walk along Bear Creek Road to reach the Nature Center at 245 Bear Creek Rd. Mountain Metro Transit base fare is $1.75 , with a deviation surcharge of $1.00 if you request the bus to leave its regular route to pick you up.

  • Driving

    From I-25, take Exit 141 and head west on US Hwy 24 to 26th Street. Turn left (south) onto 26th Street and continue for about 2 miles to Bear Creek Road. The Nature Center will be on your right at 245 Bear Creek Road. Parking is available at the Bear Creek Nature Center. Parking fee is $2.00 per vehicle.

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Discover more about Bear Creek Nature Center

Bear Creek Nature Center, located within Bear Creek Regional Park in Colorado Springs, is a gateway to the natural wonders of the Colorado foothills. The center provides opportunities to discover the region's diverse ecosystems and wildlife through interactive exhibits and scenic trails. The nature center features exhibits on local ecology, including the Greenback Cutthroat Trout, once thought to be extinct. Visitors can learn about the unique characteristics of the foothills environment, from the short grass prairie to the ponderosa pine forests. The center also hosts special events, guided tours, and educational programs throughout the year. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore two miles of self-guiding nature trails that wind through various habitats. These trails are for foot traffic only, allowing for quiet observation of the local flora and fauna. The regional trails are open to hiking, horseback riding, and leashed pets. Keep an eye out for mule deer, various bird species, and other wildlife that call the park home. Bear Creek Regional Park itself has a rich history, serving as a hunting ground for the Ute Indians, a crossroads for explorers and settlers, and even the site of a former poor farm. Today, the park offers a variety of recreational amenities, including picnic areas, sports fields, and a dog park.

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