When most people think of the Pikes Peak region, their minds go straight to the red rocks of Garden of the Gods or the grueling incline in Manitou Springs. But for those of us who call the 80817 zip code of Fountain home, we know that some of the most serene, wildlife-rich, and family-friendly outdoor experiences in Colorado are right here in our own backyard.
Fountain isn’t just a stop on the way to Pueblo or a suburb of the Springs. It is a unique ecological “oasis on the plains” where the high desert meets the lush riparian corridors of Fountain Creek. Whether you are a lifelong resident or a military family recently PCS’d to Fort Carson, taking the time to explore our local parks is the best way to fall in love with the Fountain Valley.
Here is your local’s guide to the hidden gems, nature walks, and quirky landmarks that make 80817 a nature lover’s paradise.
The Crown Jewel: Fountain Creek Nature Center
If you haven’t visited the Fountain Creek Nature Center (located at 320 Peppergrass Lane), you are missing out on what many locals call the “hidden jewel of El Paso County.”
While much of the surrounding area is defined by the dry, rolling prairies of the Front Range, the Nature Center sits on a lush 460-acre linear park that feels like another world. Because of the shallow water tables and the winding creek, this area stays green and vibrant even when the rest of the county is turning brown in the summer heat.
Why it’s great for Bird-Watching
Fountain Creek is a critical stopover for migratory birds. In fact, over 200 species of birds have been recorded here.
- The Great Blue Herons: One of the most majestic sights in 80817 is the Great Blue Heron. You can often see them standing perfectly still in the marshes of the Cattail Marsh Wildlife Area, waiting for a fish to swim by.
- The Seasonal Spectacle: In the spring and fall, keep your ears open for the “prehistoric” rattle of Sandhill Cranes passing overhead.
- The “Cackle” of the Kingfisher: If you walk the Front Range Trail near the creek, listen for the loud, rattling call of the Belted Kingfisher as it dives for a snack.
Pro-Tip: Head to the Nature Center’s “Viewing Room” inside the main building. They have floor-to-ceiling windows and comfortable seating where you can watch birds and squirrels at the feeders in climate-controlled comfort—perfect for those windy Colorado afternoons.
Walking the Trails: Easy Access, Big Views
One of the best things about the outdoor spots in 80817 is accessibility. You don’t need $200 hiking boots or a 4,000-calorie lunch to enjoy these paths.
1. The Nature Trail Loop (0.7 Miles)
This is the perfect “reset” button for a busy workday. It’s a flat, easy loop that takes you through woodlands, meadows, and marshes. It’s ADA-compliant and stroller-friendly, making it the go-to spot for young families. Keep an eye out for the local white-tailed deer; they are remarkably used to humans and often graze just a few feet from the path.
2. Willow Springs Ponds
Located just north of the main Nature Center area, these ponds are a favorite for local anglers. The ponds are regularly stocked with trout, and it’s one of the few places in the area where you can find a quiet fishing pier that feels miles away from the I-25 traffic.
Metcalfe Park: The Heart of the Community
While the Nature Center is for quiet reflection, Metcalfe Park is where Fountain comes to play. Located near the Old Town District, it’s the primary hub for local events like the annual Fall Festival.
If you’re planning a weekend outing, here are the best ways to utilize the park:
- The Picnic Gazebo: The large, iconic gazebo is the perfect spot for a birthday party or a family reunion. It’s shaded and offers a great view of the Pikes Peak foothills.
- The “Secret” Shaded Spots: For a quieter lunch, head toward the southern edge of the park near the riding stables. There are several large cottonwood trees that provide deep shade even on 90-degree days.
- The Pump Track & Skate Park: If you have kids with energy to burn, Metcalfe boasts one of the better-maintained pump tracks in the region. It’s a great place for them to practice their bike skills while you enjoy the mountain views.
The Quirkier Side: The “Giant Beetle” on Highway 115
No guide to 80817’s outdoors would be complete without mentioning the May Natural History Museum, affectionately known by locals as the “Bug Museum.”
You can’t miss it—just look for “Herbie,” the massive West Indian Rhinoceros Beetle statue that stands guard at the entrance on Highway 115. While the museum itself is indoors and features one of the world’s largest private collections of tropical insects, the grounds are a beautiful place to explore.
There are shaded picnic areas and a fishing pond on the site, and the atmosphere feels like a step back in time. It’s a bit of “Old Colorado” kitsch that has been run by the same family for five generations. It reminds us that Fountain has deep roots and a history that predates the modern suburban sprawl.
Living with Local Wildlife: What to Watch For
Because 80817 is a transition zone between the mountains and the plains, we get some incredible wildlife visitors. When you’re out on the trails, keep your eyes peeled for:
- Bobcats: They are elusive, but they frequent the thickets near Fountain Creek. They are smaller than you’d think—usually only twice the size of a house cat.
- Wild Turkeys: You will often see large rafter of turkeys wandering through the neighborhoods near the creek or along Ray Nixon Road.
- The “Hidden” Residents: If you’re lucky, you might spot a North American Beaver or a Muskrat working in the marshy ponds near the Nature Center.
Why the Outdoors Matter to Us at Integrity Home Buyers Colorado
You might wonder why a home buying company is talking about bird-watching and hiking trails. The answer is simple: We don’t just buy houses here; we live here. We know that a home isn’t just the four walls and the roof—it’s the community, the parks, and the morning walks that make life in Fountain special. When we help a homeowner in 80817, we aren’t just looking at a property; we’re looking at a piece of the neighborhood we love.
The next time you’re feeling the stress of the “real world,” skip the drive to the mountains and head down to Fountain Creek. Listen to the wind in the cattails, watch a hawk circle over the prairie, and remember why the Fountain Valley is one of the best places in Colorado to call home.