
Rock Island Trail connection now open
The long-awaited connection of the Rock Island Trail, completing the Northern section of the Legacy Loop is finally open!
This new section of trail provides a safe connection, passing under both Nevada Ave and Cascade, for cyclists and pedestrians, connecting neighborhoods to the Shooks Run Trail, Popcycle Bridge, and Pikes Peak Greenway.
Join For The Official Ribbon Cutting
Wednesday October 2nd
1:00 p.m. at Shooks Run/Rock Island intersection
You’re invited to celebrate the completion of the construction of 1.25 miles of the Rock Island Trail, completing the north segment of the Legacy Loop and linking to Shooks Run!
Biking to the event is highly encouraged! We hope to see you there to celebrate this exciting connection!
COS Parks Department Facebook Event Link

September 2024 Update
Upcoming Improvements:
- Beacon/Van Buren Crossing: The pedestrian crossing at Beacon/Van Buren has been striped and will be marked with “yield to pedestrians” signs to enhance safety.
- Railroad and Bridge Crossing: The city and railroad are collaborating on improvements to the rail crossing and bridge crossing the creek under Beacon St. Asphalt work is scheduled to be completed in the spring due to temperature requirements.
- Trail Connectivity: During the spring asphalt work, there may be temporary disruptions to trail connectivity along the Pikes Peak Greenway. Detours will be provided to ensure uninterrupted access.
Please stay tuned for further updates on these projects as they progress.
Rock Island Trail Highlights
- Paved legacy loop link: Enjoy a smooth ride on the newly paved 1/2-mile section from Shooks Run Trail to PopCycle Bridge.
- Rock Island Trail Extension: Explore the 3/5-mile section of trail opened in 2023 connecting Templeton Gap Rd to Shooks Run Trail.
- Off-Street Connectivity: These two segments form a 1.25-mile section of trail offering a much improved off-street route.
- Grade Separated Crossings: Trail passes under Cascade and Nevada avenues allowing for safer east-west connections.
- Cascade Ave Connection: Trail linking Rock Island to Cascade allows trail users to access the new trail from the West Cascade Ave sidewalk.
A Decade in the Making: Thanks to numerous funding sources including local taxes, federal grants, state grants and the cooperation of the railroad, the Colorado Springs Parks Department has made this project a reality.
Celebrate This Achievement
Get out and explore this fantastic new addition to Colorado Springs’ trail network! Remember to be cautious of crews who may still be putting the finishing touches on the trail.
This new connection completes the Rock Island Trail from Powers Rd to the Pikes Peak Greenway, creating a continuous 6.6-mile off-street trail with minimal street crossings. Two of these remaining crossings will be improved later this year.
Join the Celebration
An official celebration has been planned for October 2nd to commemorate the completion of this trail. Join us for festivities and enjoy the full potential of this amazing new connection!
Let’s Hit the Trails! 🚴♀️🚴♂️