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Getting Around Colorado Springs

Getting Around Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs Rocky Mountains, USA Travel Guide

Public Transportation in Colorado Springs

Mountain Metro Transit operates the public bus system, serving many parts of the city, including attractions and major commercial areas. The system focuses on connecting residential areas with business districts, but also extends to tourist routes. The main transfer hub is the Downtown Transit Center at 127 E Kiowa St, where connections to various city-spanning routes are available. Routes cover major attractions like the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (via Route 12 or 12x connecting to Route 33 shuttle during peak season for the Zoo Shuttle) and areas closer to Garden of the Gods (Routes 3 and 33 serve proximity to the park). Detailed route maps and schedules are available on the Mountain Metro Transit website.

A single ride costs $1.75 (exact change needed for cash payments). Credit and debit cards are also accepted on the bus. A day pass grants unlimited rides for $4.00. Free transfers are available within a 90-minute window. The RideMMT app allows mobile ticketing on your Smartphone. Buses operate daily, with reduced service on weekends and holidays. All buses are wheelchair accessible. Using Google Maps or the RideMMT app for real-time tracking helps minimize waiting.

Public Transit Features

  • Mountain Metro Transit: city bus system.
  • Main Hub: Downtown Transit Center (127 E Kiowa St).
  • Fares: $1.75 per ride, $4.00 day pass. Accepts cash, credit/debit.
  • Mobile Ticketing: RideMMT app.

Taxi Services

Licensed taxis are recognizable by yellow or company branding. Fares are metered. Most accept cash and cards.

Ride-Sharing

Uber and Lyft are widely available. Confirm driver/vehicle details via the app before entering.

Walking & Cycling

Downtown, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs are pedestrian-friendly. Extensive paved trails exist.

Getting Around by Car

Rental Car Information
  • Valid driver's license (IDP if not English).
  • Major credit card for deposit and payment.
  • Major agencies at COS/DEN (DiscoverCars.com is an option).
Driving & Parking
  • Drive on the right; seatbelts are mandatory.
  • Check road conditions via CDOT, especially in winter.
  • Paid parking downtown; free parking often outside center.

Alternative Rental Options

Motorcycles

Limited rentals; specialty shops may offer.

Scooters

Less common for general touring or transport.

Bicycles

No city-wide sharing; local shops rent various types.

Specialty Vehicles

Tuk-tuks or jeepneys are not typically available.

Walking & Cycling in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs has many pedestrian-friendly areas and an extensive network of trails for walking and cycling. Downtown, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs are very walkable, featuring shops, restaurants, and historic districts. Garden of the Gods Park and Red Rock Canyon Open Space offer extensive trails suitable for walking and light hiking. The Perkins Central Garden Trail in Garden of the Gods is a paved, accessible loop through iconic formations.

Walking Routes

  • Downtown Colorado Springs: Walkable with shops, restaurants, public art.
  • Old Colorado City: Historic district with boutiques, art galleries, eateries.
  • Manitou Springs: Eclectic town with shops, restaurants, mineral springs.
  • Garden of the Gods & Red Rock Canyon: Extensive trails for walking and hiking.

Cycling Infrastructure & Safety

  • Extensive network of paved urban trails (Pikes Peak Greenway, Shooks Run Trail).
  • Always wear a helmet when cycling.
  • Observe all traffic laws and yield to pedestrians on shared paths.
  • Rent a mountain bike to explore trails at Red Rock Canyon or Cheyenne Mountain State Park.

Safety for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Colorado Springs is generally safe for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Avoid walking or cycling on major highways like I-25.
  • Exercise caution in isolated areas, especially after dark.
  • Stick to well-lit, populated routes at night.
  • Yield to pedestrians when cycling on shared paths and announce your presence.
  • Observe all traffic laws for safe urban and trail navigation.

Guided Tour Options

Sightseeing Tours

Several companies offer tours of Colorado Springs and its attractions, including Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods.

Self-Guided Walking

Enjoy self-guided walking tours of downtown, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs by exploring historical markers.

Local Guided Tours

Local companies provide guided walking tours focused on history, architecture, or ghost stories in older districts.

Specialized Transportation & Accessibility

Beyond standard options, Colorado Springs has unique ways to experience its attractions. The city is landlocked, so boat taxis and water transportation for public use are not applicable.

Unique Transport Experiences

  • Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Ascends to Pikes Peak summit.
  • Advance booking is highly recommended for the Cog Railway, especially in peak season.
  • Cave of the Winds Mountain Park: Features a small aerial tram for scenic views.
  • Hop-on-hop-off services are not as common as in larger cities.

Accessibility Services

  • Most public buildings, attractions, and newer hotels are ADA compliant.
  • Mountain Metro Transit buses are wheelchair accessible.
  • Wheelchair-accessible taxis may be available upon request.
  • U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum designed with high accessibility standards.

Accessible Attractions in Colorado Springs

U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum

Designed with wide pathways, ramps, elevators, and accessible exhibits.

Highly accessible for all visitors.

Garden of the Gods Park

The Perkins Central Garden Trail is a paved, accessible loop through iconic rock formations.

Accessible paved trails.

Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Offers an unique way to experience the mountain, with accessible cars available.

Accessible railway experience.

Other Local Transport Considerations

Bike Rentals
  • Local shops offer rentals, from road to mountain bikes.
  • Inquire with bike shops near popular cycling areas.
  • Great for exploring Red Rock Canyon Open Space trails.
Tour Buses
  • Several companies offer sightseeing tours of city and surrounding attractions.
  • Tours often include Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, and Royal Gorge.
  • Guided bus tours present structured sightseeing options.

Navigation Warning

  • While generally safe, caution is advised in isolated areas.
  • Avoid walking or cycling alone in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Stick to well-lit, populated routes for safety.
  • Avoid major highways like I-25 for pedestrian and cyclist travel.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist zones.
  • Protect valuables from petty theft in busy areas.
  • Always use common sense precautions during your travels.
  • Unforeseen events can occur; staying alert is a good practice.

Final Tip for Local Travel

While Colorado Springs has limited public transportation coverage compared to larger cities, the combination of options like buses, ride-sharing, and car rentals offers comprehensive mobility for travelers.

Consider your daily itinerary and budget when choosing your main mode of transport to optimize your experience.