Cottonwood Creek Park

Park Overview

Nestled along Rangewood Drive in Colorado Springs, Cottonwood Creek Park sprawls across a generous 77 acres of community space. Regardless of whether you're an early bird or night owl, the park welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 11PM, offering something for just about everyone who walks through its gates.

Trails and Natural Features

Feel like stretching your legs? The park boasts about 2 miles of wheelchair-accessible walking paths, alongside unpaved trails for those seeking a more natural footfall. As you wander, you can find yourself tracing the gentle curves of Cottonwood Creek, where the peaceful babble of water creates a fantastic soundtrack for your stroll.

If you're looking for a longer adventure, the park connects to the broader Cottonwood Creek Trail - a 6+ mile pathway that represents a major artery through northern Colorado Springs. The urban world seems to fade away when you're following the creek's meandering path.

Sports and Recreation Facilities

For the athletes among us, Cottonwood Creek Park offers several options. The park houses four soccer fields and three lit softball/baseball fields complete with artificial turf. There are also tennis courts, basketball courts, and an in-line hockey rink that doubles as a smooth spot for roller skating practice.

Disc golf more your thing? The park includes a dedicated disc golf course that's popular among local players. Whether you're flinging your first disc or you're a seasoned pro, the course offers enough variety to keep things interesting without being overwhelming.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Got kids? The playgrounds scattered within the park provide good entertainment options. There are separate areas designed for different age groups - the little ones have their toddler zones while older children can tackle more challenging climbing structures, slides, swings, and obstacles that might actually tire them out (parents, we can hope!).

When hunger strikes, head to one of the picnic areas with tables and some covered seating options. Many are conveniently located near playgrounds and parking - because no one wants to lug a cooler halfway across the park.

Come winter, the park transforms into a snowy playground, with hills that become the go-to sledding destination for locals. There are gentler slopes for the younger crowd and steeper options for those seeking a more thrilling ride down.

Educational Features

Take a moment to explore the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden sponsored by Colorado Springs Utilities. This small but thoughtful installation showcases plants that thrive in our local climate without excessive water - offering a bit of inspiration if you're thinking about more sustainable landscaping for your own yard.

Additional Facilities

The YMCA Recreation Center within the park boundaries takes the recreational possibilities up a notch. Inside, you'll find an indoor pool complete with water slides, a lazy river, and even a wave pool - meant for those days when the weather doesn't cooperate with your outdoor plans.

As for the practical matters: portable restrooms are available throughout, with permanent facilities near the baseball fields. And yes, your four-legged friends are welcome - the park offers plenty of space for dogs to explore (just remember to bring those waste bags).

With views of Pikes Peak in the background, Cottonwood Creek Park provides a place where natural beauty combines with various amenities for relaxation and outdoor activities throughout the year.