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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
159 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
5.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Austin Bluffs and Pulpit Ridge Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Austin Bluffs and Pulpit Ridge Trail is a lovely adventure through the Austin Bluffs Open Space to the unique geological feature that is the Pulpit Rock. Traveling through meadowlands and mixed pine forests, the pièce de résistance is the craggy rock feature that protrudes from the landscape.

Route Description for Austin Bluffs and Pulpit Ridge Trail

The Austin Bluffs and Pulpit Ridge Hike is a charming adventure in Colorado Springs that exhibits the beauty and diversity of Colorado’s topographies. Wander through luxuriant grasslands, mixed pine forests, and up the rocky outcropping, which reveals expansive vistas of the cityscape and the Front Range summits that line the horizon. Note that the trek up to Pulpit Rock's ridgeline is steep and rocky, so mind your footing! Additionally, the trail is not well signposted and confusing, so use the trail GPS to easily navigate the route.

Begin your adventure along the Austin Bluffs and Pulpit Ridge Trail from the trailhead off University Park Boulevard. From here, head southwest along the Pulpit Rock Trail. Ignore intersection routes and continue along this path using the trail GPS; you will soon be guided northwest. The Pulpit Rock Trail will eventually reach the south side of the ridge. Climb up the southern slope through the rocky outcroppings up to the ridgeline.

Soon you will meet your turnaround point on the west side of the rock. From here, head east, along the northern side of the ridgeline. This route will weave through the landscape, ultimately leading you south, back to the initial intersection. Here, keep left and retrace your footing back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Austin Bluffs and Pulpit Ridge Trail Trailhead

The Austin Bluffs and Pulpit Ridge Trail is accessed via the trailhead off University Park Boulevard.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Poor

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Lollipop

Austin Bluffs and Pulpit Ridge Trail Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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