Columbine Trail (Starsmore to Helen Hunt Falls)

Illustration of the region, not this trail.

• Distance4 mi
• Elevation gain1050 ft
• Leash ruleLeash required
• Water on trailNorth Cheyenne Creek runs along the lower trail
• SeasonYear-round; upper sections hold ice in winter
• ParkingStarsmore lot fills on weekends; Mid and Upper Columbine trailheads have small pullouts; nightly gate closure at the park entrance
• FeeFree
• RestroomsRestrooms at Starsmore Visitor Center; portable toilets at Helen Hunt Falls
• Managed byCity of Colorado Springs Parks (North Cheyenne Cañon Park)

Columbine climbs the full length of North Cheyenne Cañon in three segments, about four miles and 1,050 feet from Starsmore to the Upper Columbine trailhead near Helen Hunt Falls. The lower mile hugs the creek with plenty of dog-dipping spots; the middle and upper sections contour the sunny north wall with big views back down the canyon. Mountain bikers use it, so keep the leash tight on blind corners. Do the lower segment alone for an easy creek walk, or arrange a car shuttle to the falls. Black bears and the occasional mountain lion live here; leash and pick up are city rules, not suggestions.

After the hike

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