Fishers Canyon Open Space
Open Space envisioned to offer a wilderness-like experience to Colorado Springs residents and visitors
Fishers Canyon Open Space is located in the southwest foothills of Colorado Springs. Please join the City as we engage in planning the future of this unique property. “This property is a valuable conservation and recreational asset for Colorado Springs that could further preserve the western backdrop of our skyline, provide continued protection of wildlife habitat, offer incredible views, and has the potential to connect exciting and long-anticipated trail corridors.” -David Deitemeyer, Parks Recreation and Cultural Services Sr. Landscape Architect
Purchased by the City of Colorado Springs in two phases in 2021 and 2022, Fishers Canyon Open Space consists of approximately 343 acres bordering Cheyenne Mountain State Park to the south, the Broadmoor Bluffs neighborhood to the east and Pike National Forest to the west.
This Open Space will unlock several significant trail connections, including a key piece of the Chamberlain Trail, which is the long-envisioned 26-mile north-south trail along the City's western foothills, ultimately connecting Cheyenne Mountain State Park to Blodgett Open Space. Currently, there are no designated trails or official public access to the Open Space, which has preserved its natural beauty and wildlife. Planning efforts will prioritize conservation through sustainable open space design, responsible land management and community involvement to safeguard this pristine natural area.
Located 8 miles from downtown Colorado Springs, Fishers Canyon Open Space is a truly remarkable property that serves as a breathtaking transition from the eastern plains to the peak of Cheyenne Mountain. This unique space offers magnificent rock formations, towering pine trees, an abundance of natural beauty and at 9000', it boasts unrivaled panoramic views of the city.
Fire mitigation reduces wildfire risk to surrounding neighborhoods and public property, protects critical infrastructure, prevents post-storm erosion, and conserves wildlife habitat and recreation resources.
Fishers Canyon Open Space received 89.3 acres of wildfire mitigation in 2023 that holistically treated the densely populated mixed conifer landscape, stewarding a healthy and fire resilient forest for potentially up to 25 years.
Explore Fishers Canyon Open Space
Click on the map locations to view pictures and video of the open space
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Views to the northeast
From the sweeping slopes of Fishers Canyon Open Space, the views from the mid elevations offer an enchanting panorama that stretches across downtown Colorado Springs
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Views to the east through the open space
In the foreground, the post-fire mitigation treatment area stands resilient. Beyond, the majestic coniferous trees and scattered boulders frame the vistas across the vibrant city scape below
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Scenic views to the east from within the open space
Views of the Open Space's rugged beauty, adorned with towering coniferous tees and scattered boulder outcrops, while offering a glimpse of the vast expanse of the eastern plains
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Views to the west from within the open space
From the heart of the open space, the two towering rock formations dominate the landscape, rising above the forested slopes, adding a rugged and striking element to the beauty of Fishers Canyon Open Space
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Views from one of the unique drainages
From one of the notable drainages in Fishers Canyon Open Space, the tall pine trees provide a refreshing, shady respite from the sun-drenched surrounding aspects
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Views to the Southeast across the open space
Long panoramic views across the undulating terrain and lush greenery blanketing the mid and lower elevations of Fishers Canyon Open Space
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Views from northeast across the open space
From the convergence of steep rocky slopes with the more gentle slopes of the open space, views show notable drainage ravines, boulder strewn hillsides, and mixed coniferous forest offering spectacular panoramic views that extend across the eastern plains
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Views to the north and northeast across the open space
Atop the towering rock formations within Fishers Canyon Open Space, this stunning unobstructed view illustrates the Fishers Canyon drainage sweeping from left to right in the foreground and middle ground. Views beyond encompass captivating views of Pikes Peak, the urban area of the Pikes Peak region, the Palmer Divide, and the eastern plains
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Views to the east through the open space
Views to the southeast from the western edge of Fishers Canyon Open Space and the plunging drainage of Fishers Canyon. The western side of the open space reaches 9,000 feet in elevation
