Updated: June 2019
Looking for a new place to take your out of town guests? After you tire of Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs and the Air Force Academy, try the little known Paint Mines Interpretive Park outside of Calhan, CO. The Paint Mines are a county owned and maintained park complete with trails and interpretive signs. There is even a restroom in the parking lot which for many family outings is a huge bonus. There are over 4 miles of trails and the trails are gentle enough for young and old. Unfortunately, no pets are allowed, so plan ahead when traveling with Fido.
The 750 acre park opened in 2005 and is full of unique and colorful geologic spires and hoodoo formations. It is easy to see why the Native Americans favored this area to collect clays for their pottery and wares. This is a great place for photos, so be sure to bring a camera along.
Some things to keep in mind at the Paint Mines Interpretive Park:
- Stay on designated trails at all times.
- Climbing and/or scrambling on Paint Mine formations is prohibited.
- Entering the Paint Mine formations is prohibited.
- All plants, wildlife, rocks, minerals, and historic artifacts within park boundaries are protected by law. Do not remove, destroy, or disturb any of these features.
- Pets, horses, and bicycles of any kind are prohibited.
- Avoid gulches and gullies during wet weather.
For more information check out the county’s YouTube video.
Location:
29950 Paint Mines Road
Calhan, CO 80808
Driving Directions:
Take Hwy 24 east from Colorado Springs to Calhan, turn south on Yoder Road/Calhan Highway, turn east on Paint Mines Road and look for the designated parking area.
