Colorado Springs is preparing for one of its most significant outdoor expansions in years, with more than 14 miles of new trails scheduled to open in Blodgett Open Space by the end of 2026. The project, which has been under construction since 2025, will introduce a mix of hiking, multi‑use, and mountain‑bike‑only routes designed to reshape recreation on the city’s northwest side.

The expansion is part of a broader effort by the Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Department to implement the Blodgett Open Space Master Plan, approved in 2024. Early phases of the work have already begun, including the establishment of designated hiking and biking trails, decommissioning of illegal social trails, and construction of a new 50‑stall parking lot at the Quarry Trailhead.

A major component of the 2026 buildout is the introduction of dedicated mountain‑bike‑only trails. According to the Colorado Springs Mountain Bike Association, the plan includes three directional, bike‑only descent trails totaling 2.7 miles, located in the southern half of the open space. This area, informally known as “Blodgett Bike Hill,” will serve as a focused zone for downhill‑oriented riding, while the northern half of the open space will emphasize hiking‑only and multi‑use routes.

Construction crews have been working across multiple segments of the project, including a 10‑foot‑wide primary trail and several narrower singletrack routes. Timberline TrailCraft, one of the contractors involved, reports that sustainability is a key priority, with trails being cut into the hillside in ways that reduce erosion and withstand seasonal weather impacts. The full network is expected to open by late summer 2026.

The expansion comes as Colorado Springs continues to invest in outdoor recreation infrastructure, responding to rising trail use and population growth. Blodgett Open Space, which spans 384 acres and borders Pike National Forest, has long been a popular destination for hikers, runners, and wildlife enthusiasts. The new trail system is expected to distribute visitor traffic more evenly, reduce environmental degradation from unofficial routes, and offer new experiences for both casual users and advanced mountain bikers.

City officials say the improvements will enhance safety, accessibility, and long‑term sustainability of the open space. With construction underway and additional trail segments planned, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for outdoor recreation on the city’s northwest side.