Colorado Springs: New era begins at Blodgett Open Space with opening of seven miles of new trails

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~ Colorado Springs, CO - Outdoor enthusiasts can now look forward to a new adventure at Blodgett Open Space as the City of Colorado Springs officially opens seven miles of newly constructed trails on Friday, July 17. This transformation of the southern portion of the popular open space into a premier destination for hiking and mountain biking represents over a year of construction and is the first major implementation of the adopted Blodgett Open Space Master and Management Plan.

The project, which aims to expand recreation opportunities while also protecting wildlife habitat and restoring the landscape for future generations, features professionally designed and sustainable trails. Visitors can expect an entirely new trail experience with 2.5 miles of directional downhill bike-only trails, four miles of multi-use trails for hikers and mountain bikers, and one-half mile of regional trail. Additionally, a new trailhead with 50 parking spaces, four trail bridges, new signage and wayfinding, as well as restoration and closure of unauthorized social trails have been included in this project.

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Skyler Roarbaugh, director of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department expressed his excitement about this milestone for Blodgett Open Space and outdoor recreation in Colorado Springs. "We've created a trail system that offers exciting new experiences for hikers and mountain bikers while protecting wildlife habitat, restoring damaged areas and ensuring this remarkable landscape can be enjoyed for years to come," he said. "This project demonstrates how thoughtful planning can create incredible outdoor experiences while preserving the natural resources that make Blodgett Open Space so special."

While construction will continue later this year in the central and northern portions of the open space with an expected additional seven miles of new and improved trails by 2026, visitors can already enjoy the newly opened southern portion. This area was acquired through the Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) program in 2021 as part of the Pikeview Quarry Frontage and Black Canyon Open Space acquisition. The Blodgett Open Space Master and Management Plan, which was completed in summer 2024, does not include the recently donated Pikeview Quarry property. A separate public planning process will determine the quarry's long-term future.

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Blodgett Open Space is open daily from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., with all three trailhead gates closing nightly. The project was funded through the Trails, Open Space and Parks (TOPS) sales tax program and a Colorado Parks and Wildlife Non-Motorized Trail Grant. The City plans to hold an official ribbon-cutting ceremony at a later date to celebrate the completion and opening of the new trail system.

With this new addition, Blodgett Open Space is set to become a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado Springs. So grab your hiking boots or mountain bike and head over to experience this exciting new trail system while also appreciating the efforts made to preserve its natural beauty for years to come.

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