Overview
Gold Camp Road Trail follows one of the most historically significant railroad grades in Colorado: the former route of the Colorado Springs and Cripple Creek District Railway, which carried Cripple Creek gold ore down from the mountains to Colorado Springs from the 1890s until 1949. The narrow-gauge line wound through the sandstone canyons and granite terrain on Pikes Peak's south flank, and the graded roadbed has been preserved as a multi-use trail within the Pike and San Isabel National Forests.
The 5-mile out-and-back described here covers the most scenic and accessible section, starting from the Old Stage Road trailhead area and heading west into the canyon. The grade is gentle throughout, reflecting the original railroad's engineering requirements for safe ore transport. This is one of the most accessible hikes in the forest for visitors from Colorado Springs, lying within 20 minutes of the city's western neighborhoods.
The trail's low elevation (starting around 6,500 feet) gives it a significantly longer season than the high-country trails elsewhere in the forest. When Barr Trail has snow above 10,000 feet and the Fourteener trailheads near Leadville are closed, Gold Camp Road Trail is typically open and hikeable.
The historic railroad tunnels along the grade are a distinctive feature. Several tunnels pierce the sandstone ridges rather than routing around them, and hiking through them is part of the experience. Check current trail conditions before your visit; some tunnel sections have seen closures after rock falls in past years.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: Lower canyon. The trail follows the old railroad grade westward from the trailhead, climbing gently at the railroad's original 4 percent maximum grade. The sandstone canyon walls rise on both sides as you move away from the city. The grade is wide enough that hikers and mountain bikers can pass each other comfortably.
Miles 1.5 to 2.5: Tunnel section. The middle portion of this route passes through or near the historic railroad tunnels. This is the most visually interesting section of the trail, with views out the far end of each tunnel adding to the experience. Bring a headlamp or use your phone's flashlight for the darker tunnel interiors. The trail surface inside is generally solid but uneven.
Miles 2.5 to the turnaround: The canyon continues west with increasingly open views across the Colorado Springs valley to the east and the Pikes Peak massif rising to the north. The turnaround at 2.5 miles (5 miles round trip) is an arbitrary stopping point; the road continues further west for those who want more distance.
When to Visit
May through October covers the reliable season, but this trail is often walkable in winter during dry spells, particularly in the lower sections below the canyon. Snow and ice can close higher sections or make the tunnel approaches slippery.
Summer heat is a consideration: at 6,500 feet with limited shade in sections, midday temperatures on exposed stretches can be warm. Early morning or evening visits in July and August are more comfortable. Fall is excellent, with good views and moderate temperatures.
What to Bring
No water on the trail. Carry everything you need from Colorado Springs. Many hikers bring 1 to 1.5 liters for this distance. A headlamp or flashlight is useful for the tunnel sections. The trail surface is generally even and suitable for trail runners, hikers, and mountain bikers, but sturdy footwear is recommended on the rocky sections between tunnels.
Dogs are allowed and common on this trail. Leash-required sections are marked; observe posted signs.
Practical Details
Access: Gold Camp Road is accessible from Old Stage Road on the west side of Colorado Springs. The trailhead has several informal pullout parking areas at no charge. The road to the trailhead is generally suitable for passenger vehicles, though the upper sections of Gold Camp Road (beyond the typical day-hike starting point) can be rough.
Multi-use trail: Expect mountain bikers on weekday mornings and families with dogs on weekends. The grade is wide enough that passing is easy. Equestrian use also occurs; follow standard trail courtesy when meeting horses.
Historic context: For those interested in Colorado mining history, this trail is a good pairing with a visit to Cripple Creek and the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine (a tourist mine with underground tours, operated independently of the Forest Service). The Cripple Creek and Victor Gold Mining Company still operates active gold mining in the area.
Getting There
From downtown Colorado Springs, take US-24 west to 21st Street (or from I-25, take exit 141 for US-24 west). Turn south on 21st Street, then west on Ruxton Avenue, which becomes Old Stage Road. Follow Old Stage Road south and west; Gold Camp Road begins where Old Stage Road curves south above the Broadmoor area. Allow 20 to 30 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs.
From Denver, take I-25 south to Colorado Springs (about 70 miles, 1 hour 15 minutes), then follow the directions above.
Context and Connections
Gold Camp Road Trail is a practical addition to any Colorado Springs itinerary that includes the Barr Trail or the Crags Trail. Its low elevation and city-adjacent location make it a year-round option when the higher trails are closed, and its historical character provides a different kind of experience than the wilderness routes in the same forest. The national forests vs. national parks guide explains why trails like Gold Camp Road in a national forest feel less regulated and permit-heavy than their national park equivalents. Check current conditions for any active tunnel closures before planning your visit; the USFS Pikes Peak Ranger District posts current trail status on the forest website. Review Leave No Trace principles even on a developed trail like this; the canyon vegetation and wildlife corridor value of this landscape warrant respectful use.