El Paso County Parks and Trails Construction and Closures

Fountain Creek Regional Trail Temporary Full Closure

January 7, 2028 – A temporary closure of the Fountain Creek Regional Trail will begin Monday, January 12, 2026, to allow Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU) to complete a major power line infrastructure upgrade.

Colorado Springs Utilities is replacing existing wooden power line poles with modern steel monopoles to support a wider variety of electric transmission lines. The Fountain Creek Regional Trail serves as the only viable access route into the project area, which extends from the Stratmoor Valley neighborhood in the north to the northern end of Bandley Road near Camping World in the south.

The closure is expected to remain in place through Friday, April 24, 2026. During this period, the closed section of the trail will extend from Stratmoor Valley Park and Trailhead in the north to Camping World in the south. Northbound trail users are encouraged to turn around at John Ceresa Memorial Park.

Check back here for project updates. Questions or concerns can be directed to Parks@elpasoco.com

El Paso County to Renovate Ponds at Fox Run Regional Park

El Paso County will begin renovation of the two ponds at Fox Run Regional Park in the Fall of 2025. The project will include grading and drainage improvements to the ponds and surrounding trails, installing new pond liners, and replacing the existing gazebo with a new structure near the park’s amphitheater.

In addition, minor improvements will be made to the amphitheater to enhance the new gazebo and provide ADA access. The project also includes a new irrigation system and landscaping around the ponds, electrical improvements, and construction of a new ADA-compliant concrete parking area and sidewalk connecting the restrooms, gazebo, and amphitheater.

“This project is an important investment in one of our most popular parks,” said Todd Marts, El Paso County Parks Executive Director. “These renovations will ensure that Fox Run Regional Park continues to be a safe, accessible, and beautiful space for residents and visitors for years to come.”

Construction is expected to begin in October 2025 and is anticipated to be completed in 2026.

To learn more about El Paso County Parks, visit www.elpasocountyparks.com

Woodlake Trail Maintenance with Closure

El Paso County Parks will be conducting trail maintenance in August along the Woodlake Trail. During this time, heavy machinery and construction crews will be active in the area. For public safety, the Woodlake trail and trailhead will be closed for the duration of the project. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to improve the trail for future use.

Northgate Trailhead Permanent Closure

Permanent Trailhead Closure: The Northgate Parking Area and Trailhead that provides access to the New Santa Fe Trail have been permanently closed by the Air Force Academy due to the construction of the new visitors center. The nearest trailhead with open access will be Baptist Road. Once the new visitors center has been completed a new trailhead with parking will be implemented. The trail will remain open during this time. Unchanged: Permanent Trailhead Closure: The Northgate Parking Area and Trailhead that provides access to the New Santa Fe Trail have been permanently closed by the Air Force Academy due to the construction of the new visitors center. The nearest trailhead with open access will be Baptist Road. Once the new visitors center has been completed a new trailhead with parking will be implemented. The trail will remain open during this time.

For any questions or concerns please contact the El Paso County Parks office at (719)520-7529 or by email Parks@elpasoco.com