Colorado’s Hidden Palette: Exploring the Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Karen Israel
Jan 22
4 min read

If you enjoy hiking and exploring unique natural landscapes, the Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado offers a fascinating experience. Known for its colorful rock formations and rich history, this park is a must-visit for travelers looking to combine outdoor adventure with a touch of geology and archaeology. This is a favorite spot of mine and I want to share a detailed itinerary, practical tips, and drive times from major Colorado cities to help you plan your visit.

Colorful rock formations under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds. White and yellow rocks form a canyon-like landscape. Quiet and serene.

What are the Paint Mines?

The Paint Mines Interpretive Park is one of Colorado's most unique open spaces. They received their name from the colorful layers of clay that were used by Native Americans to make paint. Evidence of human life dating back as much as 9,000 years as been found in the 750 acre park. The park features amazing geological formations including spires and hoodoos that have formed through erosive action that created incised gullies and exposed layers of selenite clay and jasper. The park includes a restroom facility, four miles of trails, interpretive signage, and many natural wonders.

Eroded rock formations with white and reddish hues under a clear blue sky. No visible text. Rugged and natural landscape.

Getting to Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Paint Mines Interpretive Park is located near Calhan, Colorado, about 35 miles east of Colorado Springs. Here are approximate drive times from some major Colorado cities:

Colorado Springs: 45 minutes
Denver: 1 hour 20 minutes
Pueblo: 1 hour 10 minutes
Fort Collins: 2 hours 15 minutes

The park is accessible via well-maintained roads, and parking is free. Since it’s a popular spot on weekends, arriving early helps avoid crowds and secures a good parking spot.

Pink gravel path through green grassland under blue sky with clouds. Peaceful and open landscape.

When is the best time of year to visit?

Spring or fall are generally the best times as it can get very hot in the summer and cold in the winter. By visiting in the spring or the fall, you can avoid the two extremes. Keep your eyes peeled for wildflowers in the spring/ early summer! If you choose to go in the winter, keep an eye on the weather for snow - although, a dusting of snow could help emphasize the colors of the rocks!

White rock formations with green shrubs under a blue sky, creating a serene and vast landscape.

Suggested Itinerary for a Day Visit

Plan to arrive around 9 a.m. to make the most of your day and find a parking spots before it fills up. Start at the visitor kiosk where you can pick up a map and read about the park’s history and geology. The park is open from dawn to dusk, so early arrival gives you cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos.

The Paint Mines feature a 3.5-mile loop trail that winds through colorful clay formations, hoodoos, and native prairie. The trail is mostly easy to moderate, suitable for hikers of all skill levels. Along the way, you’ll see vibrant yellow, red, and white clay deposits that Native Americans once used for pottery and paint.

Take your time to explore side paths and read interpretive signs explaining the natural and cultural history. Bring a camera because the unique shapes and colors make for stunning photos.

There are no food services inside the park, so pack a picnic lunch. The park has several picnic tables near the parking area where you can relax and enjoy your meal surrounded by nature. Additionally, plan to head to Colorado Springs after your visit and find a local restaurant or brewery there.

Colorful rock formations with white, pink, and yellow hues in a canyon under a blue sky with clouds. Lush greenery covers the area.

Exploring Additional Trails, Wildlife Watching, and Sunset Viewing

If you want to see what else this park has to offer, consider hiking the shorter trails that lead to less-visited areas. These paths offer quiet spots for birdwatching and spotting small mammals. The park is home to mule deer, rabbits, and a variety of birds, so keep your eyes open.

If you’re interested in geology, bring a field guide or download an app to help identify different rock types and formations.

The park’s open landscape provides excellent views of the sunset, especially over the distant Rocky Mountains. About an hour before sunset, try to catch the changing colors on the rock formations as the sun starts to sink below the horizon. This is a perfect way to end your visit.

Colorful rock formations with pink, yellow, and cream hues under a clear blue sky with a single fluffy cloud. Rugged, natural landscape.

Tips and Tricks for Visiting Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Wear sturdy shoes. The trails are dirt and clay, which can be slippery when wet. Hiking boots or trail shoes are best.
Bring plenty of water. There are no water fountains in the park.
Use sun protection. The park has little shade, so wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Respect the environment. Stay on marked trails to protect fragile formations and native plants.
Check the weather. Avoid visiting after heavy rain, as trails can become muddy and hazardous.
No pets allowed. To protect wildlife and preserve the park’s natural state, pets are not permitted.
Carry a small first aid kit. It’s always good to be prepared for minor scrapes or insect bites.
Download offline maps. Cell service can be spotty in the area.

Scenic view of chalk cliffs under a blue sky. A person walks on a path, with a wooden fence in the foreground. Lush green grass surrounds.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Paint Mines Interpretive Park

The Paint Mines Interpretive Park offers a different form of beauty than what you may expect in Colorado. This must see spot offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to see the local plants and animals of eastern Colorado. Whether you stay for an hour or the whole day, you won't want to miss out on this awe-inspiring location.