An extensive review of recreational activities at the North Slope Recreation Area (NSRA) on Pikes Peak is nearing completion, with final recommendations expected to be shared soon. The NSRA, located along Pikes Peak Highway, offers hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities and contains three drinking water storage reservoirs: South Catamount, North Catamount, and Crystal Creek. These reservoirs are owned and operated by Colorado Springs Utilities, while recreation management in the area is overseen by Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain (PPAM). The surrounding lands fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service.
The ongoing study involves collaboration between Colorado Springs Utilities, PPAM, and other stakeholders to assess current access policies, enhance public safety measures, and ensure protection of drinking water sources within the NSRA. A public engagement process began in June 2025 with two meetings and surveys conducted over the summer. Two additional meetings were held in October.
According to survey results collected through September 2025, both customers and recreational users prioritize safeguarding water supplies and maintaining environmental quality. They also indicated a preference for strategies that generate revenue or increase fees rather than restricting recreational access.
A smaller study completed in 2023 identified commercial guided recreation models and best practices aimed at protecting natural resources; its findings have been incorporated into this broader review.
Recommendations for changes to NSRA’s recreation plan or related policies will be presented to the Colorado Springs Utilities Board and City Council in early 2026. These recommendations are expected to include proposed trail realignments designed to improve public access while reducing risks to utility operations, infrastructure, and natural resources.
Recordings from public meetings, survey summaries, and maps showing potential trail realignments are available online at csu.org/NSRAreview. Public comments will be accepted until November 24 via engage@csu.org.
