Colorado Parks and Wildlife opened nine miles of newly constructed trails August 15, 2026, at Fishers Peak State Park in Trinidad, expanding options for hikers and mountain bikers and creating new loop routes throughout the park.

The three new trails — Storyteller, First Spring and Chaquaqua (pronounced "cha-Kwak") — connect with Fishers Peak Trail, the park's primary route to the summit, allowing visitors to complete loops back toward the trailhead rather than retracing their steps. The additions will be especially useful during the park's annual peregrine falcon closure, which restricts summit access from March 15 through the end of July.

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"These trails give people more ways to experience Fishers Peak throughout the year," said Crystal Dreiling, Fishers Peak State Park Manager. "We plan our trails with the visitor experience in mind, from the views and landscape to the stories people can discover along the way."

Each trail name reflects the landscape and history visitors encounter. First Spring takes its name from a longtime landmark on the property. Chaquaqua is named for the Chaquaqua Plateau visible from the trail. Storyteller invites visitors to look more closely at the landscape, from lightning-scarred trees to signs of past human use. The trails pass through grasslands and piñon-juniper ecosystems into higher-elevation forests.

Also beginning August 15, Goldenrod Trail opened to mountain bikes for the first time. The 4.7-mile trail, previously designated for hikers only, becomes a dual-use trail, though bikers are permitted to ride uphill only.

Park staff invited the public to celebrate the trail openings Saturday, August 15, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the park trailhead, with an untimed "Poker Hike and Bike," activities with prizes, events for children and families, and official Fishers Peak State Park merchandise for purchase.

Fishers Peak State Park is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Pets are not currently allowed. A valid Colorado Parks and Wildlife parks pass or Keep Colorado Wild Pass is required for entry.

Hikers and bikers should begin early, carry plenty of water and food, prepare for rapidly changing mountain weather and remain on designated trails. Leaving designated trails can lead into steep, rugged terrain and may result in becoming lost or requiring a search-and-rescue response.

For current park information, trail maps and conditions, visit cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/fishers-peak-state-park.