Somewhere between the stretch of space roughly between Colorado Springs and Denver, you’ll find a geological destination unlike any other in Colorado – the Paint Mines.

Technically called the Paint Mines Interpretive Park, this destination that’s located in Calhan is a collection of spires and hoodoos in a wide range of colors, including shades of red, orange, and yellow. This spot can seem like it belongs on another planet.

A Deeper Look

Covering approximately 750 acres of land, the Paint Mines Interpretive Park might seem a little small compared to Colorado’s other natural spaces, but that doesn’t make it any less spectacular.

The name comes from the brightly colored clay that makes this spot unique, with early inhabitants of the area using this resource to paint. It’s important to mention that the phrase “early inhabitants” is no exaggeration in this case, with human life in this area dating back to 9,000 years ago. Aside from the colorful clay, it’s also been said that the unique gully formations created by the withering of fragile terrain created the perfect trap for hunters seeking big game – another reason early human inhabitants were attracted to this unique area.

You’ll find four miles of foot trails spanning the space, dipping into canyon-like formations and rising up to grassy plains. If you plan on walking around the entire system, expect to encounter approximately 500 feet of elevation gain (surprising for a relatively flat space).

You’re also likely to see a bit of wildlife during your visit to the Paint Mines. This spot is home to an extremely diverse ecosystem, representing prairie, badlands, and wetland terrain. Animal sightings might include coyote, deer, and hawks.

How to Visit

Visiting this destination is as easy as showing up during the hours that the park is open – dawn to dusk. You’ll find a couple different parking lots, but as long as you’re in a designated parking area, you won’t have an issue finding what you’re looking for. Each lot will have a trail map and additional information about the Paint Mines.

It’s also worth mentioning that there’s no entry fee here and that this park is open year round – just beware of incoming weather. Pending good weather, you’ll probably want to budget one to three hours for this stop.

If you’re planning on visiting the Paint Mines, you’re probably headed there from either Colorado Springs or Denver. Thankfully, the Paint Mines’ central location on the Front Range makes it convenient to visit from both.

If you’re headed to the Calhan Paint Mines from Colorado Springs, here’s the route you’ll want to take:

If you’re headed to the Calhan Paint Mines from Denver, here’s the route for you:

If you’re headed to the Paint Mines from somewhere else in the state, it’s an easy destination to find on Google Maps – just look for the Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Calhan, Colorado.

Tips for Visiting

Stay Off the Rocks – dangerous, damaging

Timing – Plan to spend approximately two hours at this attraction if you’re planning to explore.

Expect to Walk – Some routes to the main features of the

Pets are Prohibited – of all types.

Watch the Weather – Storms tend to roll in quickly in the Calhan area, and depending on the time of year, they can bring a lot of lightning with them.

Avoid Visiting When It’s Wet – dangerous, damaging

What to Bring

Water, comfortable shoes that are good for walking on unpaved terrain, sunblock

More Hidden Gems

Discover the best hidden gems Colorado has to offer, click here for more travel ideas to inspire your next outdoor adventure.

Note: Remember to check incoming weather, trail conditions, and open status of all destinations mentioned on OutThere Colorado prior to planning your visit. These things are subject to change at a moment’s notice and while we try to keep up with changes, there can be an occasional delay.