Things To Do
in Cimarron Hills

Cimarron Hills is a suburban enclave on the eastern edge of the Colorado Front Range, just north of Colorado Springs. It sits amid red rock mesas, open spaces, and sweeping mountain views, making outdoor recreation a daily option. The area serves as a convenient base for families, hikers, and travelers exploring the Front Range with quick access to city amenities and nearby parks.

Expect a sunny, four-season climate with easy drives to top Colorado attractions and a strong sense of community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Cimarron Hills
morning
:

Arrive in Cimarron Hills and check into a cozy cabin or local inn. Take some time to relax and get acclimated to the picturesque surroundings. Enjoy a warm breakfast at a charming café to kickstart your adventure.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby hiking trails to immerse yourself in the beautiful landscapes, teeming with wildlife. Capture breathtaking views of the mountains and meadows as you hike. Afterward, visit a local art gallery to appreciate the works of regional artists.

evening
:

Savor a delicious dinner at a rustic restaurant offering local cuisine. Enjoy live music at the establishment as you dine and soak in the lively atmosphere. Wrap up the day by stargazing in the clear night sky, far from city lights.

day 2
Exploring Pikes Peak
morning
:

Head out early to conquer Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's famed 14ers. Take the scenic drive or opt for a challenging hike to the summit, surrounded by stunning views. Enjoy a picnic breakfast at one of the viewpoints along the way.

afternoon
:

Reach the summit and revel in the sense of accomplishment while taking in expansive vistas. After descending, visit the Crystal Lake for a peaceful stroll around the shimmering waters. Consider renting a paddleboat for a leisurely ride on the lake.

evening
:

Return to Cimarron Hills and relax at your accommodation, perhaps with a warm drink. Gather around a fire pit and share stories with fellow travelers or family. Enjoy a late dinner and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
🥗Mid-range restaurant meal$15-25
Coffee and pastry$3-6
🚌Monthly transit pass$50-60
🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center)$1,200-1,800

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning access to Front Range outdoor recreation
  • Family-friendly communities with easy city access
  • Strong craft beer and dining scene nearby
  • Great variety of day trips within a short drive
  • Altitude can affect first-time visitors
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Touristy spots can be crowded on weekends
  • Winter driving conditions can be variable

Places to Visit in Cimarron Hills

Visit one of these nice places.

Garden of the Gods

Iconic red rock formations against blue skies, offering dramatic compositions at sunrise and sunset.

Seven Falls

A multi-tier waterfall with lush surroundings and striking canyon light, ideal for long-exposure shots.

Manitou Cliff Dwellings

Historic stone dwellings set against sandstone cliffs, great for architectural and cultural photography.

Old Colorado City Murals

Colorful street art and historic storefronts that provide vibrant backdrops for urban shots.

Red Rock Open Space

Rugged sandstone formations and sweeping vistas ideal for landscape photography and sunset silhouettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cimarron Hills

Cimarron Hills benefits from the broader Colorado Springs culinary scene, blending southwestern, Mexican, and modern American influences. You’ll find casual eateries, farm-to-table spots, and lively bistros within a short drive, plus neighborhood coffeehouses perfect for a morning pickup.

Cimarron Hills Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Green Chile Cheeseburger

A Colorado classic combining spicy green chile sauce with a beef patty and melted cheese; widely available at pubs and casual eateries around downtown CS.

Must-Try!

Rocky Mountain Trout

Freshly caught trout prepared grilled or pan-seared with herbs, often featured in farm-to-table and seafood-focused restaurants in the area.

Colorado Lamb Chops with Roasted Root Vegetables

A regional specialty showcased at upscale bistros and ranch-inspired eateries, pairing tender lamb with seasonal roots.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Colorado Springs Downtown Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering produce, local meats and cheeses, prepared foods, and handmade goods, with street-style bites from local vendors.

Manitou Springs Market

Scenic market with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and food stalls along the historic streets of Manitou Springs.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cimarron Hills experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Expect hot summers with frequent sunshine and cool nights, cold winters with occasional snow, and mild springs and colorful falls. Annual rainfall is modest, and the higher elevation means sun protection is important year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Friendly, straightforward greetings are common. A simple 'Hello' or 'Good morning' is appreciated in stores and cafes.

Respect for Nature

Stay on marked trails, pack out trash, and never feed wildlife. Respect quiet hours in residential and park areas.

Altitude Awareness

People may experience mild altitude effects; stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety tips include staying hydrated, watching for rapidly changing weather, and keeping valuables secure in crowded areas. Be mindful of wildlife in foothill areas, follow park rules, and drive with caution on Mountain and rural roads, especially during winter storms. Carry a basic map or GPS, and have emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Cimarron Hills

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Standard tipping in the U.S. applies: 15-20% of the bill at restaurants; 10-15% at bars; tips are appreciated for good service and can be left in cash or added to a card payment.

Payment Methods

Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in many venues.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with bright sun and low humidity. Thunderstorms develop in the afternoons—carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain shell. Trails can be crowded, especially on weekends.

Winter

Cold temperatures with potential snowfall. Sunny days are common, but winds can be brisk. Layer up and be prepared for slick trails.

Spring

Mild days with blooming flora and occasional showers. Moderate crowds; keep an eye on weather forecasts for short-lived storms.

Fall

Pleasant temperatures with turning foliage. Dry air and comfortable hiking conditions, though nights can be chilly.

Nightlife Guide

Cimarron Hills at Night

The nightlife in Cimarron Hills is relaxed and low-key, with a focus on craft breweries, casual pubs, and live music at nearby venues. Downtown Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs offer a handful of intimate bars and small stages, while weekends may feature local bands and trivia nights. Expect friendly atmosphere, scenic views, and accessible options rather than a major club scene.

Hiking in Cimarron Hills

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park Trails

Rugged foothill trails with wildlife sightings and panoramic views of the plains and peaks.

Garden of the Gods Trail System

A network of easy to challenging trails around the iconic red rock formations.

Manitou Incline (via nearby access points)

A popular, strenuous incline with dramatic valley views and a rewarding climb.

Ute Pass and Old Colorado City Loop

Scenic routes linking foothill canyons and historic districts, great for day hikes.

Airports

How to reach Cimarron Hills by plane.

COS - Colorado Springs Airport

A regional airport offering domestic flights and convenient access to Cimarron Hills, typically a short drive from the residential area.

DEN - Denver International Airport

A major international hub offering extensive domestic and international connections; about a 1.5–2 hour drive via I-25 depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is best in downtown and Old Colorado City areas, where compact shops, cafés, and parks cluster together. Cimarron Hills itself is more suburban, with convenient but car-reliant access to nearby attractions and amenities. If you enjoy long strolls, plan a few days to explore the nearby urban centers on foot and by short drives.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

White / Caucasian

Largest demographic group in the area, with diverse urban influence and family-oriented communities.

Hispanic / Latino

Significant and growing community contributing to the area’s cultural and culinary diversity.

African American

A smaller but active community contributing to local culture, arts, and events.

Asian

A growing segment with representation in schools, workplaces, and cultural activities.

Two or more races

A diverse population contributing to a broad cultural mix.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hiking

A staple activity with trails at Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, and nearby foothills.

Rock Climbing

Rock formations near Garden of the Gods and foothill crags attract climbers of varying levels.

Cycling

Road and mountain biking on scenic routes and trails throughout the region.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is moderate to heavy in peak commuting hours around Colorado Springs. Public transit options include limited local buses; most travelers rely on cars. Mountain corridors can see slowdowns during winter storms or event-driven crowds.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cimarron Hills.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many menus in Cimarron Hills and nearby Colorado Springs offer substantial vegetarian options. Look for veggie burritos, salads, grain bowls, and veggie-forward entrees. Don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions (no meat, no lard) and to request plant-based proteins like beans, tofu, or tempeh where available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access is solid, with facilities like UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central and regional clinics in Colorado Springs. For emergencies, call 911 and use local hospital services or urgent care as needed. Pharmacy services and specialty care are widely available within a short drive.

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