One of Colorado Springs locals’ favorite nature sanctuaries has a trail named for the act that great nature stirs. To contemplate is to be one with Red Rock Canyon Open Space. Though, on the Contemplative Trail, you likely won’t be alone with your thoughts; your best chance to avoid crowds is a non-summer weekday.

Regardless, in a short, gentle distance, you’ll experience this park’s vast beauty through a narrow, immersive corridor of outcrops, oak and pine. Contemplative Trail is perfect for kids, too. Those are reasons for adding it to our “Classic” catalogue of this series spotlighting the region’s outdoors.

We parked at the western lot of Red Rock’s entrance — newly built for summer 2020 and, on this Sunday morning, appearing to be relieving congestion in the main parking lot. The trailhead is here, to the right of the traffic circle as you drive in.

Along the wide path in the meadow, we soon came to a post on the left, marking the Sand Canyon Trail, which skirts the base of a sandstone fin. Amid the rocks and greenery, paths split, but worry not as they converge.

At a brief clearing, come to a post marking the Contemplative Trail to the right, toward more marvelous formations. The trail soon descends wood steps to an intersection; Contemplative Trail continues straight.

Ahead, where you could veer left for flat ground, take another set of steps up to a scenic ridge, where Cameron’s Cone and Pikes Peak dominate the view.

Contemplative Trail, a half-mile stretch, ends unceremoniously atop another short staircase and an intersection. Distance runners might continue straight, to the far reaches of the trail network. We recommend hanging left, following the upper Quarry Pass Trail. It’s a great way to see the opposite, eastern side of the park and will add about 1 1/2 miles to your trip.

Trip Report: 1.23 miles round trip (out and back on Contemplative)

Difficulty: Easy

Getting there: Red Rock Canyon Open Space at 3550 W. High St. Off U.S. 24, turn south for Ridge Road.

FYI: Hiking only on Contemplative Trail. Dogs on leash, pack out poop. Don’t leave valuables in car. Park open 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Nov. 1-April 30, 5 a.m.-10 p.m. May 1-Oct. 31.

SETH BOSTER, THE GAZETTE