We’re excited to share meaningful progress on one of the most important pieces of the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative: the Regional Trail Ambassador Program.
In partnership with Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI), Pikes Peak Outdoors, and University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS), this three-year pilot is putting real boots on the ground across El Paso, Teller, and Fremont Counties. The goal is simple but powerful—promote responsible recreation, improve visitor experiences, and collect the data land managers need to make better decisions for the long term.
The Team is in Place
Three full-time Ambassadors—Carrie, Jen, and Mikayla—are now actively working across the region. You’ll find them at trailheads and on popular routes engaging with hikers, bikers, and other visitors. They’re answering questions, sharing Leave No Trace principles, providing safety information, offering local trail recommendations, and serving as a friendly, knowledgeable presence on public lands.
These Ambassadors are the face of the program and the critical link between the public and the agencies that manage our parks, open spaces, and trails.
Tools for the Job
To cover the large geographic area effectively, the program has purchased two Ford Broncos. These vehicles allow the team to reach remote trailheads and move efficiently between priority sites across the three counties.
Tracking 37 Key Locations
The Ambassadors are monitoring and engaging visitors at 37 locations throughout the Pikes Peak Region. These sites were selected in coordination with land managers based on visitation levels, resource concerns, and the need for better recreation data. The information gathered—visitor counts, use patterns, trail conditions, and educational interactions—will directly support planning and management decisions by city, county, state, and federal partners.
Why This Matters
This program grew directly out of community input through the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative. Residents and stakeholders consistently asked for more education, better on-the-ground presence, and stronger collaboration between recreation users and land managers. The Trail Ambassador Program is a practical response to those needs.
By combining RMFI’s deep experience in field stewardship, Pikes Peak Outdoors’ regional coordination role, and UCCS’s research and data capacity, we are building a model that can scale and adapt over time.
Stay Connected
You’ll start seeing the Ambassadors more frequently this season. When you do, say hello—they’re happy to help.
Follow the day-to-day work and location updates through:
- Rocky Mountain Field Institute: rmfi.org and @rmficolorado
- Pikes Peak Outdoors social channels
This is just the beginning. We’re proud of the progress already made and even more excited about the positive impact this team will have on the places we all love across the Pikes Peak Region.
Stay tuned for more updates as the season continues.
