ProRodeo Hall Of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy
ProRodeo Hall of Fame & Museum of the American Cowboy
Pulpit Rock Park: A Colorado Springs Landmark
Hike scenic trails, discover ancient history, and witness breathtaking views at Colorado Springs' iconic Pulpit Rock Park.
Pulpit Rock Park, nestled in Colorado Springs, is a 500-acre open space featuring the iconic Pulpit Rock formation. This park offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the city, Pikes Peak, and the Rocky Mountains. With a history dating back 10,000 years, the area holds archaeological significance and provides a natural escape within city limits.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Pulpit Rock Park
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
1005 Garlock Ln, Colorado Springs, Northeast Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80918, US
Monday
5 am-9 pm
Tuesday
5 am-9 pm
Wednesday
5 am-9 pm
Thursday
5 am-9 pm
Friday
5 am-9 pm
Saturday
5 am-9 pm
Sunday
5 am-9 pm
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Getting There
Driving
Pulpit Rock Park is easily accessible by car from anywhere in Colorado Springs. From downtown, take N Nevada Ave north for approximately 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, from I-25, take Exit 148 and follow the signs. The main parking lot is located off N Nevada Ave, adjacent to a power plant and behind Mowers and Motors. Parking is free, but the lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. If the main lot is full, free street parking and parking in nearby business center lots are available.
Public Transport
Mountain Metro Transit (MMT) provides bus service to the vicinity of Pulpit Rock Park. Several routes run along N Nevada Ave, including Route 9. From the Downtown Terminal, take Route 9 North. Check the MMT website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and route information. A one-way bus fare is $1.75. A day pass costs $4.00. From June 1 through August 31, 2025, bus fares are free. From the bus stop on N Nevada Ave, it's a short walk to the park entrance.
Ride-Sharing
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Colorado Springs. A ride from downtown Colorado Springs to Pulpit Rock Park typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on demand and traffic. The drop-off location is usually the main parking lot at 1005 Garlock Ln.
Local tips
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Arrive early, especially on weekends, to avoid crowded trails and secure parking.
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Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as some trails can be steep and rocky.
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Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly, especially during winter.
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Keep an eye out for wildlife, including snakes, and maintain a safe distance.
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Explore the smaller, unmarked trails for a more secluded hiking experience.
Discover more about Pulpit Rock Park
Pulpit Rock Park, a prominent landmark in Colorado Springs, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities. The park's namesake, Pulpit Rock, is a geological formation that is part of the 584-acre Austin Bluffs Open Space. This open space has been ranked as a unique landscape by the U.S. Forest Service due to its distinct rock formations.
The history of the area dates back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence indicating Native American presence as far back as 10,000 years ago. Artifacts and stone tools discovered in the area highlight its early human occupation. Geologically, Pulpit Rock is part of the Dawson Arkose Formation, composed of sandstone and mudstone sediment formed during the rise of the Rocky Mountains, approximately 66 million years ago.
Today, Pulpit Rock Park is a popular destination for hiking, running, and mountain biking. The park features a variety of trails, ranging from easy to moderately challenging, catering to different skill levels. The most popular trail leads to the summit of Pulpit Rock, rewarding hikers with stunning views of Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak, and the surrounding mountain range. Visitors can also explore smaller, unmarked trails around the base of the rock formation. The park is also home to local wildlife, including mule deer, foxes, snakes, rabbits, and various bird species.
A brief summary to Pulpit Rock Park
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