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 released soon. The NSRA, located along the Pikes Peak Highway, offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing and contains three reservoirs—South Catamount, North Catamount, and Crystal Creek—that serve as drinking water storage facilities.
The reservoirs are owned and operated by Colorado Springs Utilities, while recreation in the area is managed by Pikes Peak-America’s Mountain (PPAM). The land surrounding the NSRA falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service.
Colorado Springs Utilities has been working with PPAM and other stakeholders to assess current access arrangements, public safety measures, and protection strategies for drinking water sources within the NSRA. The review process began in June 2025 with two public meetings and included surveys conducted over the summer. Two additional public meetings took place in October.
According to survey results completed in September 2025, both customers and visitors to the NSRA identified protection of water supplies and operations as top priorities. Environmental protection and water quality were also highly valued. Respondents indicated a preference for revenue generation strategies and increased fees rather than restrictions on recreational activities.
A separate study conducted in 2023 focused on commercial guided recreation models and best practices for safeguarding natural resources; its findings have been incorporated into this broader review.
Recommendations for updates to existing NSRA recreation plans or policy changes 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 potential impacts on utility operations, critical infrastructure, and natural resources.
Recordings from public meetings, summaries of survey responses, and concept maps showing proposed trail realignments are available at csu.org/NSRAreview. Public comments will be accepted until November 24 via email at engage@csu.org.
