In Colorado Springs, one of the most popular trails around showcases perhaps the city’s finest attribute: its wildness. Between the rocky, forested walls of North Cheyenne Canon, it’s a wonder to think downtown shops, bars and eateries are only a 10-minute drive away. It’s a wonder that might occur to the masses on Seven Bridges Trail.

As summer approaches, locals and tourists will once again converge on the trail touring North Cheyenne Creek over seven wooden bridges. Locals know many other options in the park — the nearby Buckhorn loop, St. Mary’s Falls beyond, the Daniels Pass trail network below, to name a few. Despite the crowds, many still can’t resist Seven Bridges.

During tourist season, they know it’s better to go on a weekday. If a weekend, one should start early or late in the afternoon for a parking spot at North Cheyenne Canon’s top parking lot. If late in the afternoon, you’ll be glad to beat the heat.

The route starts on the lot’s west side, on the wide and gated Gold Camp Road. Before three-quarters of a mile, see the trail sign marked 622 (the earlier sign for North Cheyenne Creek will be your cue). The trail escapes into the cool, creek-fed forest mixed with evergreens and aspen.

At the early set of stairs, hang left at the ‘T’ for more bridges. It’s tempting to count out the seven, but it’s better to lose track amid the melody of the water and humbling views of high, granite outcrops. You might also be distracted managing the fairly quick elevation gain over sometimes-slick rocks.

Going farther past the seventh bridge, out of the shade into a boulder field, views open to the distant city and plains between the canyon.

Trip log: 4 miles out and back, 1,314 feet elevation gain

Getting there: North Cheyenne Canon Park’s main entrance at Starsmore Visitor and Nature Center, 2120 S. Cheyenne Canon Road. Drive about 3 miles to top parking lot.

FYI: Park open 5 a.m.-9 p.m. Nov. 1-April 30; to 10 p.m. May 1-Oct. 31. Hiking-only recommended. Dogs on leash. Icy in winter; wear traction.

SETH BOSTER, THE GAZETTE