Reservoirs
Living in Colorado offers a number of outdoor opportunities, among which includes access to some of our reservoirs and watersheds.
Clean, reliable drinking water will always be our priority. Still, our reservoirs are a natural gathering place for anglers, families, hikers and more. For us, it’s a balance between water quality and responsible eco-management. Please help us protect our waterways by respecting the natural habitat of these areas.
Access to specific reservoirs differs, so please visit our reservoir access page for details.
Hiking and nature
If wildlife viewing and hiking are your things, then we invite you to Clear Spring Ranch. This recreational area, which we co-manage with El Paso County Parks, is located south of Colorado Springs and offers four miles of trails.
Part of Clear Spring Ranch includes an interpretive trail that follows Fountain Creek. Along this trail, you have the opportunity to see many wildlife species that depend on riparian habitat (area along river and stream banks) for water, food and shelter.
You can view many of the following species in their natural habitat.
- Black-tailed Prairie Dog
- Coyote
- Mule Deer
- Red Fox
- White-tailed Deer
- Wild Turkey
Clear Spring Ranch is even home to a few rare species.
- Blue Grosbeak
- Warbling Vireo
- White-throated Sparrow
- Yellow-breasted Chat
The Ranch is part of the Great Pikes Peak Birding Trail, a program supported by the Audubon Society and the Colorado Division of Wildlife. Birdwatchers are likely to see a variety of songbirds and raptors.
- Black-capped Chickadee
- Great Horned Owl
- House Wren
- Red-tailed Hawk
Clear Spring Ranch and its trails are perfect for families, classes and small groups. You can even reserve the pavilion for special events or outings. Call El Paso County Parks at 520-6375 for details.
To reach the Ranch from Colorado Springs, take I-25 south to Exit 123. Go east to Clear Spring Ranch Trail.
Help us protect this special area. Please follow these guidelines when visiting Clear Spring Ranch.
- Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
- No camping, alcoholic beverages or fires.
- No firearms, air guns, fireworks or explosive devices.
