Captain Jacks Trail Head Parking Lot (Trail) — Attraction in Colorado Springs

This trail is a classic for the MTB community in Colorado Springs. It is fast, loose and challenging. If you are not from here, it does take a bit of getting used to the loose pea sized gravel, but it is part of what makes this trail fun and unique.

A note for hikers... while there are many people that hike it, the trail does not really offer any special attractions or rewards to hikers. There are no great views unless you get to the very top of the buckhorn climb, is too loose and narrow single-track.

This trail was originally created by dirt bike riders and is now heavily used by downhill bike riders. I would recommend to hikers not to go in this trail, just because of the dangerous possibility of a crash. If you want a challenge with descent reward, climb up the buckhorn side and descend via High drive road or go in 7 bridges, Mary's, Jones, those trails offer a more pleasant hiking experience with less...

First things first, this is a busy trail. It services hikers, mountainbikes, and dirt bikes...and is the only single track trail open to motorcycles in all of El Paso County, so expect to pass a few on basically any day you go. Traffic (foot or otherwise) on the trail can get pretty congested on the weekends and holidays. Most people you come across are pretty respectful and observe trail etiquette. Watch for mountain bikes! They can come up on you fast and unlike the dirt bikes, they make very little sound and you'll likely have little warning or time to dive out of their way. That said, as far as a moto single track goes, it's a fun trail. Nothing overly amazing, but there are some great views and some fun obstacles to navigate through. No restrooms or water fountain at the trailhead or on the trail, so...

This is a terrible place to start a hike. The trail is all blown out by motorcycles and mountain biking. There's no creeks or water and it's very popular for fast downhill mountain biking. For this reason, it's not a safe place to take young children or seniors. Much better hiking trails are 7 Bridges, Palmer Red Rock loop, Saint Mary's falls, red rocks...