Colorado Springs unveils 2026 plan to expand trails and improve open spaces
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- The Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services (PRCS) Department has announced a series of projects planned for 2026 to improve parks, trails and open spaces across the city.
According to PRCS, the plans will focus on expanding urban trail connections, restoring open space landscapes and enhancing visitor access.
“Colorado Springs is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities,” said Lonna Thelen, Parks Design and Development Manager. “In 2026, we look forward to continuing this important work through projects that improve trail connections, increase accessibility and protect the open spaces our community values.”
A few of those key projects include the following, according to the city:
Blodgett Open Space
The city plans to complete approximately 14 miles of trail construction at the Blodgette Open Space, including the Quarry and North trailhead projects, which will add 90 new parking stalls and establish hiking, biking and multi-use trails. The project also focuses on wildfire mitigation efforts throughout the open space.
Austin Bluffs Open Space
PRCS says it plans to complete the 2.5-mile Spine Trail and the Enlightenment Trail in the Austin Bluffs Open Space. They also plan to continue focusing on improvements, restoration, habitat enhancements, and regional trail improvements near University Park.
Fishers Canyon Open Space
According to the city, they plan to rezone Fisher Canyon Open Space and to focus on fire mitigation, trail planning, and designs, with construction planned for late 2026.
Snyder Quarry (Black Canyon Open Space)
At this time, PRCS says public access to the quarry site is prohibited, but the reclamation project will continue. The city says the project is focused on drainage improvements and reseeding the quarry. PRCS says potetinol community-based tree planting opportunities should be available in 2026.
Urban trails
Other projects, according to this city, will focus on trail improvements at Rock Island Trail that will include the construction of over two miles of new trails, the installation of a 210-foot pedestrian bridge over Sand Creek to connect the west to the east side of Rock Island Trail, and a pedestrian-activated flashing crossing at Peterson Road
The city says it also plans to focus on bridge projects and upgrades at the Starsmore Visitor Center in North Cheyenne Cañon Park to improve accessibility.
For more information and a full list of projects planned for 2026, click here.
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