Best Overlooks in Colorado Springs

Mount Cutler, North Cheyenne Cañon Park - you’ll have to work a bit for this view. Starting at the Stratmoor Nature Center makes this a 5-mile roundtrip hike, while starting at the Mount Cutler Trailhead will make it a 2-mile roundtrip. That lot fills up quickly and is much smaller though so go early if that’s your goal. You’ll get sporadic views of downtown Colorado Springs and also views of the sweeping North Cheyenne Cañon as you make your way up to the summit. Elevation gain isn’t too bad (500 ft from the trailhead or 900 feet from the Stratmoor Nature Center), and rushing shouldn't be the goal in order to take in the dramatic panoramic views below.

Palmer Park Sentinel Point - located on the east side of Colorado Springs, this regional urban park is an absolute gem and true wilderness oasis in the heart of the city. Palmer Park has a web of interconnecting trails, which makes each visit a little different (and a trail map essential!). The Sentinel Point overlook at the Grandview Trail trailhead is a great spot to both start and hike, or just hop out of the car and get amazing panoramic views of Pikes Peak and downtown Colorado Springs.

Pulpit Rock - standing stoic on the east side of I-25 is Pulpit Rock. There are multiple ways to the top, but the easiest is clockwise from the trailhead, up 300 ft to the rocky spire and sprawling views of north Colorado Springs, the Pikes Peak foothills, UCCS, and Garden of the Gods. This area gets pretty crowded during the mild months, so arriving early to the small parking lot is a must.

Mesa Road Pull Off & Overlook - no exertion needed for this one. This small parking lot sits on the north end of Mesa Road nearly above the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center. Mesa Road is a stretch of luxury homes adjacent to the Garden of the Gods Resort & Spa. The overlook provides a glimpse into what life and views might be like from one of those homes. Hit this spot at sunrise (get there way early to beat other photographers) to capture unobstructed views of Pikes Peak blanketed by a cotton candy glow and the many-hued Garden of the Gods.