El Paso County: The Equestrian Heart of the Pikes Peak Region

Discover a landscape where the spirit of the West thrives in the shadow of America's most famous mountain in El Paso County, Colorado. Centered around the vibrant city of Colorado Springs—known as "Olympic City USA"—this region offers one of the most dynamic and diverse environments for horse property owners in the entire state. From the wind-swept prairies of the east to the pine-studded foothills of the west, El Paso County provides a stunning backdrop for every type of equestrian lifestyle, blending rugged natural beauty with the conveniences of a major metropolitan hub.

A Tale of Two Landscapes: Forest vs. Plains

El Paso County is unique in that it offers two completely different terrains for horse owners, often within a 20-minute drive of each other. To the north lies the legendary Black Forest, a high-altitude community located on the Palmer Divide. This area is famous for its dense Ponderosa pine forests and sandy soil, which provides excellent natural drainage and footing for horses. It is a haven for those who want a secluded, woodland retreat where they can ride on shaded trails right from their backyard.

Conversely, if you look east toward Falcon, Peyton, Calhan, and Yoder, the trees give way to the expansive rolling plains. This is the region for serious grazers and ranching operations. Buyers here can find homes with significant acreage—often 40 acres or more—at a price point that offers incredible value. The open terrain here is perfect for building large indoor arenas, roping facilities, and keeping larger herds of livestock, all with unobstructed views of the Front Range mountains.

Unmatched Riding Trails and Facilities

Living in El Paso County means having access to some of the best public riding in Colorado. Bear Creek Regional Park on the west side offers miles of dedicated equestrian trails that wind through scrub oak and foothills terrain. In the north, Fox Run Regional Park and the Pineries Open Space offer serene rides through the timber. For those on the plains, the Homestead Ranch Regional Park provides a unique prairie riding experience with natural springs and bluffs.

The county is also a center for competitive riding. The Norris Penrose Event Center is a historic landmark that hosts the annual Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, a tradition since 1937. It serves as a community gathering place for team roping, barrel racing, and western trade shows, ensuring the cowboy culture remains central to local life.

Why Choose El Paso County?

El Paso County attracts a diverse mix of buyers, from military families stationed at Fort Carson and the Air Force Academy to retirees and professional equestrians. It offers a balance of rural independence and urban access that is hard to beat.

• Economic Value: Generally more affordable than neighboring Douglas County to the north, allowing buyers to get "more house and more barn" for their money.
• Climate: The "Banana Belt" effect of the mountains often keeps the city and surrounding plains milder and drier than other parts of the state, allowing for year-round riding.
• Community: A very strong 4-H and Pony Club presence makes this an ideal place to raise the next generation of riders.

Browse our extensive listings of El Paso County horse properties below to find your perfect match, whether it's a cabin in the woods or a ranch on the range.