Blodgett Peak

The Blodgett Peak Trail is located within the Blodgett Peak Open Space near Colorado Springs. Parking is typically available at the designated trailhead for the Open Space. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.

This trail is generally rated as moderately challenging to difficult. It features a significant elevation gain of over 2,000 feet, steep inclines, rocky sections, and talus fields. The upper regions are unmaintained, requiring careful footing and good route-finding skills. It is not recommended for beginners.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Blodgett Peak Trail. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash at all times, especially due to the challenging terrain, potential wildlife encounters, and for the safety of other hikers. Be aware that the loose rock and steep sections can be tough on paws.

The best time to hike is typically during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is milder. In winter, the trail can become icy and muddy, potentially requiring traction devices like microspikes or snowshoes. Always check weather conditions before heading out.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the Blodgett Peak Open Space or hike this trail. However, always check the official Colorado Springs Parks and Recreation website for any updated regulations or advisories before your visit.

The trail begins on a wide gravel road, transitioning to a gravel path, and then a steep dirt singletrack. You'll navigate through mixed pine woodlands, Gambel oak, and post-fire shrublands. As you ascend, the terrain becomes progressively steeper, with switchbacks, rocky sections, and significant talus fields (loose rock and scree). The upper parts are unmaintained.

The trail offers spectacular 360-degree panoramic views. You'll find viewpoints like View of Blodgett Peak and Blodgett Peak and Colorado Springs Views. From the 9,423-foot summit, you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Colorado Springs, the eastern plains, Pikes Peak, Rampart Reservoir, and the United States Air Force Academy. There's also an intermittent waterfall and hidden grotto along the way.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Blodgett Peak Trail, Hummingbird Trail, Dry Creek Trail, Chickadee Trail, and Red Squirrel Trail. Some sections can be confusing with multiple intersecting trails, so careful route-finding is essential.

Given the trail's difficulty and terrain, it's highly recommended to bring plenty of water, sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, and trekking poles for stability on steep and loose sections. Sun protection, layers of clothing, and a map or GPS device are also advisable, especially for route-finding in the unmaintained upper areas.

Based on komoot's data, a typical hike on this trail takes approximately 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete. However, this duration can vary significantly depending on your fitness level, the number of stops you make, and trail conditions.

Beyond the stunning panoramic views, the trail features an intermittent waterfall and a hidden grotto, which can be a refreshing stop, though the waterfall may be dry at certain times of the year. The diverse mixed pine woodlands and the post-fire shrublands also offer unique ecological insights into the area's recovery from the 2012 Waldo Canyon fire.