Sand Cave Trail – Pikes Peak Sp

Distance: 2.5 miles Elevation Gain: 300 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Loop Surface: Dirt/Rock Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 1-2 hours Fee: Free Dogs: Yes, on leash Permit: No

The Sand Cave Trail descends to a large sandstone shelter cave carved by centuries of water erosion. The cave entrance frames a photogenic view of the forested ravine below. Spring seeps support rare fern communities on the cave walls including walking fern, which propagates by touching its frond tips to the rock surface. The trail connects to additional cave features making it a worthwhile extension of the Pikes Peak visit.