Colorado · Hiking
Hiking in Calhan, Colorado
Calhan sits on the high plains of El Paso County at roughly 6,500 feet, and while it doesn't have the mountain drama of the Front Range an hour to the west, it has something genuinely worth the drive: the Paint Mines Interpretive Park.
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Calhan sits on the high plains of El Paso County at roughly 6,500 feet, and while it doesn't have the mountain drama of the Front Range an hour to the west, it has something genuinely worth the drive: the Paint Mines Interpretive Park. The eroded clay spires and pastel badlands there are unlike anything else on the Colorado plains, and the trails are short enough that most visitors can cover the area in a half-day without pushing hard. Beyond the Paint Mines, the hiking options around Calhan lean toward open country walking — County Road 86 and the Big Sandy Creek Road corridor offer flat to gently rolling terrain where you're more likely to see pronghorn and meadowlarks than other hikers. None of the listed trails are technically demanding; the difficulty ratings across the board sit at easy, making this a reasonable destination for families, older hikers, or anyone who wants miles without elevation gain. That said, the plains environment has its own challenges: exposed sun, afternoon thunderstorms in summer, and limited shade mean you need to think about timing and water even on a short outing. If you're coming from Colorado Springs, Calhan is about 35 miles east on Highway 24, and the Paint Mines trailhead is well-signed from town.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Paint Mines Interpretive Park, and how long does it take to hike?
Paint Mines is an El Paso County park protecting a stretch of eroded badlands with colorful clay formations in shades of white, pink, and rust. The trail system is short — most visitors complete a loop through the main formations in one to two hours at an easy pace. The terrain is flat to mildly rolling, so it's accessible for most fitness levels.
When is the best time of day to hike near Calhan?
Morning is the clear choice, especially from late spring through early fall. The plains get full sun with almost no shade cover, so temperatures climb fast and afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through August. Arriving at the trailhead by 7 or 8 a.m. gives you cooler air, better light on the Paint Mines formations, and a comfortable exit before midday heat builds.
What gear do I actually need for a day hike here?
Water is the priority — bring more than you think you need because there's no water available on the trails and the sun exposure is relentless. Sturdy walking shoes are fine for all the listed trails; technical footwear isn't necessary. Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) and a light rain layer for afternoon storms round out the basics.
Are there any regulations I should know about at Paint Mines?
Paint Mines is an El Paso County park, and the formations are protected — removing or disturbing the clay spires or any artifacts is prohibited. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leash. Check the El Paso County Parks website before your visit for current hours and any seasonal closures, as conditions can affect access.
Are the trails around Calhan suitable for kids or beginners?
Yes, straightforwardly. The Paint Mines Interpretive trails, County Road 86, and the Big Sandy Creek Road routes are all rated easy with minimal elevation change. The Paint Mines loop is particularly good for kids because the colorful formations give them something concrete to explore. Just keep an eye on weather and make sure everyone has water and sun protection.
