As a Colorado native and long-time writer for Only in Colorado, I am constantly surprised by the number of hidden gem places I have never heard of, including quiet and beautiful nature preserves. If you, too, love discovering new-to-you, little-known diamonds in the rough, you will want to visit this Colorado nature preserve just waiting to be explored:

Welcome to the Aiken Canyon Preserve, "a place where birds and wildflowers abound."
AllTrails/Chelsea Burnett
Located a mere 16 miles south of Colorado Springs, the Aiken Canyon Preserve is 1,600 stunning acres that feature different types of landscapes, including one of the last bits of the southern Front Range foothills ecosystem.
AllTrails/Yamil Nieves
When you meander along the trails, you will discover all kinds of untouched nature a la tallgrass prairie meadows, mixed coniferous woodlands, canyon systems, and shrublands.
AllTrails/Richard Starks
Keep your eyes peeled, as Aiken Canyon is billed as a popular spot for birdwatching as the area is home to 100+ species!
Google/Jason Goz

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In addition to the birds, Aiken Canyon is also home to other kinds of wildlife (think bears, mountain lions, and elk) and countless types of plants and flora.
AllTrails/Hilary Kaufmann
To learn more about the Aiken Canyon Preserve and what makes it so special, please visit the Nature Conservancy's website.
AllTrails/Melinda Haggerton
Admission to the Aiken Canyon Preserve is free.
AllTrails/Ryleigh Smith
The Aiken Canyon Preserve is open every day from dawn until dusk year-round.
AllTrails/Trent Grace

Do you have a favorite attraction, event, or restaurant that you would like to see featured here on Only in Colorado? Remember to nominate it here! To discover even more of our favorite Centennial State hidden gems, you will want to check out one (or all) of These 13 Hidden Gems In Colorado Hold Historic Keys To The Past.

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Featured Addresses
Aiken Canyon Preserve, 3350 Turkey Canon Ranch Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80926, USA