Woodland Park
Wanting to get out of the bustling city, but not ready to fully seclude yourself? You’re going to love Woodland Park! Surrounded by the sprawling Pike National forest, this mountain town still features great restaurants and niche shopping, attractions for all ages, events for almost every major holiday, and an awesome Summer farmer’s market that brings thousands. Outdoors lovers won’t be disappointed with the abundance of camping, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding in the area. Come and see beautiful Woodland Park today!
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WOODLAND PARK, CO
Imagine waking up each morning to the crisp, clean air of the Rockies, where majestic mountain peaks frame your view and serene forests beckon you to explore.
Welcome to the city of Woodland Park. Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this home rule municipality offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a welcoming community. You can enjoy all of these– and more– if you choose to invest in Woodland Park, CO real estate.
THE CITY ABOVE THE CLOUDS
Situated approximately 19 miles northwest of Colorado Springs, Woodland Park covers over 6 square miles of total area, right where two major highways intersect: U.S. Highway 24 and State Highway 67. The entire city is surrounded by the vast green of the Pike National Forest, with the majestic Pikes Peak towering over the community. About 8,000 people reside here.
Woodland Park is known as the city above the clouds, which is also its motto. That’s because the city sits at a high elevation of around 8,400 feet above sea level. As a result, the city enjoys a cool alpine subarctic climate characterized by chilly evenings, even during the height of summer.
A glimpse into Woodland Park’s past
Woodland Park has a rich and storied past that dates back to the late 19th century. Originally known as a bustling sawmill town called Manitou Park, the area was first settled by European immigrants drawn to its abundant natural resources– mainly pine and spruce trees– and breathtaking landscapes.
The arrival of the Colorado Midland Railway in the late 1800s spurred rapid growth and development in the region, transforming Woodland Park into a vital hub for logging and timber production. As sawmills sprung up along the foothills of the Rockies, the town flourished, attracting settlers seeking new opportunities and a chance to carve out a life in the wild frontier.
Over the years, Woodland Park’s economy shifted away from logging and timber production towards tourism and outdoor recreation. As the demand for lumber waned and environmental conservation efforts gained momentum, the town embraced its natural surroundings and began to capitalize on its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Today, Woodland Park is renowned as a premier destination for tourists who want to experience the great outdoors of the Pikes Peak region or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of big-city life.
WOODLAND PARK, CO REAL ESTATE
Log cabins, single-family homes, mountain retreats that stand on private acreage, and undeveloped land you can shape into your own Colorado playground are some of the offerings you can expect as you explore Woodland Park, CO real estate.
Variety– in size and in type– is one of the defining features of residences in Woodland Park. Prospective buyers can choose from an array of options, including cozy cabins tucked away in the woods, stately mountain homes with panoramic views, and spacious ranch-style residences with ample acreage. Different architectural styles can be found all over the market, but you’ll find that many homes feature rustic details such as wood siding.
Average values of homes in Woodland Park hover around the $590,000s. Nearly most of the market consists of single-family homes, while townhomes and condos occupy smaller segments of Woodland Park, CO real estate. Approximately 60% of residential properties were built between the 1970s and 1990s, though there is a growing number of newer constructions across the city.
Great neighborhoods to live in Woodland Park
Subdivisions and residential developments can be found throughout Woodland Park, such as:
Paradise Estates: Situated on the southeastern edge of Woodland Park, Paradise Estates is a neighborhood of over 250 homes that enjoy easy access to major thoroughfares. These properties were built between the 1980s and 2010s and run the gamut of styles, from quintessential ranch to bi-level homes.
Westwood Lakes: A small community of just 160 single-family residences, Westwood Lakes is a short drive away from Woodland Park’s city proper, where Piney Point Road and Highway 24 meet. Due to the presence of small inland bodies of water in the area, residents get to enjoy an array of outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
Sunnywood Manor: At the northern end of Woodland Park lies the subdivision of Sunnywood Manor, which offers over 250 homes that range from 2,000 to 2,500 sq. ft. in approximate living space. Mostly built during the 1980s, many of the homes in Sunnywood Manor stand on spacious lots that are at least three quarters of an acre to an acre in size.
The Reserve at Tamarac: Located in northwest Woodland Park, The Reserve at Tamarac features about 100 luxury homes that range from 3,500 to 5,000 in total square footage. Half-acre to acre lots are prevalent throughout the neighborhood, offering room for expansion and growth. An HOA oversees some of the essential maintenance activities at The Reserve at Tamarac, such as snow removal.
Paint Pony Ranch Club: With only 55 homes, Paint Pony Ranch Club is considered one of the more exclusive communities in Woodland Park. Located in the northern section of the city, residents have access to both CO 67 and the Apache Trail, which are just outside the neighborhood.
Learn more about Woodland Park, CO real estate with Loren and Jacob of Thetford Team Real Estate. Click here to get in touch for a private consultation.
LIVING IN WOODLAND PARK
A sense of community, serene mountain living, and access to incredible outdoor recreation opportunities are just some of the things you can expect from living in Woodland Park.
Schools
The Woodland Park School District RE-2 oversees the public schools in the city, of which there are six in total. These include Columbine Elementary, Summit Elementary, Gateway Elementary, the Merit Academy charter school, Woodland Park Middle, and Woodland Park High.
A private school, Colorado Springs Christian School (CSCS), is located north of downtown Woodland Park and provides additional K-8 schooling options in the city. As for higher learning, Colorado Springs’ collection of colleges and universities (which include the University of Colorado – Colorado Springs or UCCS) are located 30 to 40 minutes away from Woodland Park. Even more educational opportunities await in Denver, which is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes north of the city.
Dining
There’s no need to travel to either Denver or Colorado Springs to satisfy your cravings; there are a bevy of dining options available right at home here in Woodland Park. Some of our favorites include:
The Hungry Bear if you’re in the mood for breakfast classics, no matter the time or day. The restaurant is especially known for their house-made pancakes, which you can have in a variety of ways– plain, healthy, or decadent. Their pancake batter is made fresh and from scratch every day, using only Grade AA eggs and butter, as well as high-quality fresh milk. While you’re here, try their crepes, omelets, scrambles, and for dessert, the banana split.
Grandmother’s Kitchen, a homey family-run restaurant located along the U.S. Highway 24 that’s famous locally for their breakfast and brunch specials. Keep your eyes peeled for the soup of the day, which frequently changes based on the best and freshest produce available for the season. To maintain quality and freshness, the daily specials at Grandmother’s Kitchen are made in limited quantities.
Judge’s Char-grill, another family-owned joint well-known in Woodland Park for its generous servings of tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and other “South of the Border” specialties. The restaurant also prides itself for only using 100% all-beef angus patties on their sandwiches and burgers. Come by during game day to experience Judge’s Char-grill at its liveliest.
Peak View BBQ & Taproom, a local institution dedicated to the arts of smoking different kinds of meat and serving proudly Coloradan beers. Many people go to Peak View BBQ for their smokehouse sandwiches, all of which are either hand-pulled, sliced, or fried and served together with a house-made side. And if you can’t make it to their location along the U.S. Highway 24, you’re welcome to order your favorites online and have them delivered.
Shopping
In addition to its culinary offerings, Woodland Park is also home to a diverse selection of shops and boutiques where you can indulge in a little retail therapy. Whether you’re searching for unique gifts, outdoor gear, or handmade treasures, you’re sure to find something special in one of Woodland Park’s charming storefronts, which include:
Woodland Hardware & Home, which has everything you need to tackle your next DIY project. Friendly staff and competitive prices make this local hardware store a favorite among residents.
Mountain Naturals Community Market, a cozy health food store offers a wide selection of organic groceries, supplements, and natural beauty products, as well as knowledgeable staff who are happy to answer your questions and offer personalized recommendations.
BierWerks Brewery, a local brewery that makes and sells German-style lager, sausages, and cheese platters throughout the year. They also sell Wisconsin cheese to pair with your cold cuts and tipple. Watch out for their seasonal offerings, which include the Weissbier for the summer, the rich Oktoberfest malt every fall, the golden Maibock in the spring, and malty Weizenbock, one of their winter specialties.
THINGS TO DO IN WOODLAND PARK
From scenic hiking trails to adrenaline-pumping adventures, you can enjoy a variety of activities in Woodland Park.
Explore the local trails
Boasting stunning red rock formations and sweeping mountain views, the Red Rock Canyon Open Space (approx. 22 minutes away from Woodland Park) offers miles of hiking and biking trails for all skill levels. Traverse winding paths through rugged terrain and discover hidden alcoves, natural arches, and breathtaking vistas along the way.
Closer to home, Pike National Forest is also home to a network of trails in varying difficulties. Those who are in the mood for a challenging hike with rewarding views should try the Catamount Falls Trail. This scenic trek takes you through dense pine forests and rocky terrain to a beautiful waterfall nestled amidst the mountains. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sturdy footwear, as the trail can be steep and rocky in places.
There is also the 63-mile Ring the Peak Loop Trail. It circumnavigates Pikes Peak, offering adventurers a one-of-a-kind experience. You can commit to the full length of the trail, or do a portion from your preferred starting point.
Go on a fishing trip
Crystal Creek Reservoir (approx. 25 minutes away) in nearby Cascade is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. Cast your line into the crystal-clear waters and try your luck at catching rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon, or rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the tranquil waters surrounded by towering peaks.
Another favorite fishing spot in the area is North Catamount Reservoir. Also located in Cascade, near the base of Pikes Peak, this scenic alpine lake is stocked with trout and offers peaceful surroundings for anglers of all ages. Pack a picnic and spend the day soaking in the natural beauty of the Rockies.
Learn about the region’s culture and natural environment
Step back in time and explore the prehistoric world at the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center. This fascinating museum features life-sized dinosaur exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
You can also immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the region at the Ute Pass Cultural Center. This community hub hosts a variety of cultural events, art exhibits, and performances throughout the year, showcasing the talents of local artists and musicians.
Meanwhile, wildlife enthusiasts can get up close and personal with some of the most majestic creatures of the Rocky Mountains at the Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center in Divide (approx. 15 minutes away). Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary and learn about the importance of wolf conservation while observing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
Engage in local events
One of the standout events in Woodland Park is the Mountain Arts Festival, a beloved tradition that showcases the talents of local and regional artists. It’s organized by The Mountain Artists, a dedicated group of local creatives, which also host a series of events, programs, and exhibitions throughout the year. The Mountain Arts Festival features a diverse range of artwork as well as live music, food, and interactive art activities.
Woodland Park hosts other annual events, including Fourth of July celebrations and tree-lighting events during the end of the year. Summers, for instance, bring the highly anticipated Woodland Park Farmers Market, which runs from June through September. It is held at Memorial Park and on Henrietta Avenue every Friday, from 8 in the morning until around lunchtime.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Whether you’re looking for real estate investment opportunities or planning to relocate permanently, consider partnering with Woodland Park, CO Realtors such as The Thetford Team. Their expertise, trustworthiness, and commitment to excellence make them the ideal partners as you turn your real estate goals into reality. Get in touch with The Thetford Team today! Give the team a call at any of the following numbers: 719.400.8771 // 719.627.1787 // 719.948.1099. You can also send an email here.