Cimarron Hills, CO
- About Cimarron Hills
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Nearby Attractions
- Transportation
- Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
- Museums
- Sport and Sports Legends
- Universities and Academic Institutions
- Healthcare Facilities and Services
Cimarron Hills is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in El Paso County, Colorado, forming an enclave within Colorado Springs.
About Cimarron Hills
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Cimarron Hills is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located in and governed by El Paso County, Colorado, United States . It is an enclave of the City of Colorado Springs and is part of the Colorado Springs, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area . The area is served by the Colorado Springs post office with ZIP Codes 80914, 80915, and 80922 .
Date of Foundation and Age
The United States Census Bureau first defined the Cimarron Hills CDP for the 1980 United States census . Before its designation as a CDP, the area's modern development followed the railroad's arrival in the late 19th century.
Geographic Location and Coordinates
Cimarron Hills is located in El Paso County at coordinates 38°51′35″N 104°41′58″W . The community sits at an elevation of approximately 1,965 meters (6,447 feet) above sea level . The CDP has a total area of 15.391 km² (5.942 sq mi), with a minimal amount of water .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Cimarron Hills functions primarily as a residential suburb within the Colorado Springs metropolitan area . Its economy is closely tied to the nearby military installations, including Peterson Air Force Base and the United States Northern Command, which is situated just 2.5 km south of the community .
Population and Demographics
According to the 2020 United States Census, the population of the Cimarron Hills CDP was 19,311 . This represents significant growth from 16,161 in 2010 and 6,597 in 1980 . The community covers 3,803 acres (15.391 km²), with a population density of approximately 1,300 per km² .
Geography
Mountains and Mountain Ranges
Cimarron Hills is situated in the Rocky Mountains region of the United States . While the community itself sits on rolling hills, the iconic Pikes Peak is visible to the west. This famous mountain, with an elevation of 4,302 meters (14,115 feet), is a defining feature of the Colorado Springs landscape and is located approximately 20-25 miles west of Cimarron Hills.
Water Bodies
The area around Cimarron Hills features several creeks and drainageways. Fountain Creek and its tributaries flow through the region, with the Fountain Creek Regional Trail providing access to these riparian corridors . Sand Creek also runs through the northern part of the area, near Sand Creek High School .
Climate and Weather
Climate Type and General Characteristics
Cimarron Hills has a cold semi-arid climate (Köppen climate classification: BSk) , characteristic of the high plains adjacent to the Rocky Mountains . The area experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers, cold winters, low humidity, and significant temperature variation between day and night. The region enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year .
Average Temperatures by Month
Summers in Cimarron Hills are warm with cool nights. The hottest month is July, with an average maximum temperature of 28°C (83°F) and an average minimum of 14°C (57°F) . Winters are cold, with the coldest month being December, averaging a maximum of 6°C (40°F) and a minimum of -7°C (17°F) . Daytime temperatures in winter often rise above freezing despite the cold nights.
Precipitation and Humidity
The average annual rainfall for Cimarron Hills is 286 mm (11 inches) , with the wettest period typically from April through August . The average annual snowfall is 136 mm (5 inches) , though actual snow accumulation can vary significantly from year to year . July is typically the wettest month, receiving much of its precipitation from afternoon thunderstorms .
Sunshine and UV Index
The region enjoys approximately 300 sunny days per year, characteristic of Colorado's Front Range. During summer months, the UV index regularly reaches high to extreme levels, making sun protection necessary for outdoor activities .
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cimarron Hills for outdoor activities is from mid-June to late August . This period offers the most favorable weather with warm daytime temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring nearby trails .
- Spring (March-May): Mild days with lingering cool nights. Increasing afternoon thunderstorms late in the season.
- Summer (June-August): Warm with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Ideal for higher elevation activities.
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant days with cooling temperatures. Excellent time for hiking with fewer crowds.
- Winter (December-February): Cold nights and mild days with occasional snow. Clear skies and mountain views are common.
Specific Weather Phenomena
The region occasionally experiences chinook winds during winter, which can cause rapid temperature increases. Afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through August, sometimes producing localized heavy rain, lightning, and hail .
Landmarks and Nearby Attractions
Military Installations
The United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) is located approximately 2.5 km south of Cimarron Hills . This is one of eleven unified combatant commands of the United States Department of Defense, responsible for homeland defense and civil support operations. Nearby Peterson Air Force Base and Schriever Air Force Base are significant installations in the area.
Parks and Recreation
Cimarron Hills residents have access to numerous parks in the Colorado Springs area, including Monument Valley Park, Bear Creek Regional Park, and Ceresa Park . The Fountain Creek Nature Center is located nearby, offering environmental education programs and access to natural areas .
Historic Railroad Route
The community has historical significance related to the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad, which built a main line through Cimarron Hills in 1888 . The famous Rocky Mountain Rocket provided passenger service along this route from 1939 to 1966. Although the tracks were removed in the 1980s, the railroad grade remains visible as a prominent U-shape in aerial images of Cimarron Hills .
Transportation
Major Airports
The Colorado Springs Airport (COS) is located just three miles south of Cimarron Hills, providing convenient access for residents and visitors . This airport offers commercial flights to major destinations across the United States. For more extensive international connections, Denver International Airport (DEN) is approximately 70 miles north via Interstate 25.
Major Highways
Cimarron Hills is situated 1.5 miles north of U.S. Highway 24, which provides access to Colorado Springs and points east . The community is approximately 9 miles from Interstate 25, the primary north-south corridor along Colorado's Front Range connecting Denver, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo .
Public Transportation System
The area surrounding Cimarron Hills is considered car-dependent, with a Walk Score indicating that most errands require a car . Transit options are minimal, and residents typically rely on personal vehicles for transportation. Mountain Metropolitan Transit provides bus services throughout the Colorado Springs area, though coverage in Cimarron Hills is limited.
Bikeability and Trails
The area has a Bike Score of 35, considered somewhat bikeable, with some infrastructure for cycling . The region benefits from an extensive network of trails through the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy program, including over 56 trails covering 442 miles in the greater Cimarron Hills area . Notable nearby trails include the Rock Island Trail (CO) , which follows the historic railroad alignment, and the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail along Monument Creek . The Fountain Creek Regional Trail and Bear Creek Trail provide additional recreational opportunities for walking, running, and cycling .
Historical Rail Transportation
Cimarron Hills has a rich railroad history dating back to 1888 when the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific Railroad built a main line through the area . The Rocky Mountain Rocket provided passenger service from 1939 to 1966. Later, the Cadillac and Lake City Railroad operated between Cimarron Hills and Limon. Today, while the tracks have been removed, parts of the route have been converted to recreational trails .
Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions
Cimarron Hills, as a suburb within the Colorado Springs metropolitan area, shares the rich and evolving culinary landscape of its larger neighbor. The dining scene here is a reflection of the region's Western heritage, its love for bold flavors, and its access to high-quality, local ingredients. While specific restaurants within Cimarron Hills's immediate boundaries are not widely documented, the area is just minutes away from some of the most iconic and beloved dining experiences in Colorado Springs .
Green Chile: The Region's Signature Staple
No culinary exploration of the area is complete without tasting Pork Green Chile. This is not just a sauce; it's a cornerstone of local cuisine, a bold and smoky concoction made from roasted green chiles, pork, and spices. It's a versatile staple that finds its way onto everything, from breakfast burritos and cheeseburgers to being served as a hearty, soul-warming soup . This dish embodies the region's love for robust, southwestern flavors and is a must-try for any visitor. You can find exceptional versions of green chile at local institutions just a short drive from Cimarron Hills, such as King's Chef Diner (famed for its green chili since 1956) or Jose Muldoon's Restaurant, where it's served as a nourishing soup .
Local Game and Bison: A Taste of the West
Reflecting the area's frontier and ranching history, game meats, particularly bison, are a celebrated part of the local diet. A standout dish is Bison Chili, often found on menus at brewpubs and casual restaurants. For a truly upscale experience, some restaurants feature locally sourced Wagyu beef from Eagles Nest Ranch . This dish showcases the region's capacity for producing world-class ingredients and transforming them into exquisite culinary creations. The connection to the land is also evident in hearty breakfast offerings like the Rocky Mountain Corned Beef Hash, which combines slow-roasted corned beef with local flavors .
Inventive American and International Fare
The culinary scene near Cimarron Hills is also known for its creativity and diversity. You can find unique fusion dishes, such as the Nitro Stout Braised Short Ribs served with five-spice BBQ hoisin, which masterfully bridges American comfort food with Asian-inspired flair . For a more casual but equally inventive bite, the Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese at Cerberus Brewing Company elevates a classic with house-smoked brisket and green chiles . International options are also present, including a Mediterranean-inspired "cafe tray" at Shuga's and authentic German cuisine, complete with a famous German Chocolate Cake, at the long-standing Edelweiss Restaurant .
Sweet Treats and Local Specialties
To round out a meal, the area offers distinct desserts. The Mountain Toffee from the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is a rich, decadent treat made with milk chocolate, nuts, and espresso beans . For a more over-the-top indulgence, the Giant Biscuit Cinnamon Roll at the Denver Biscuit Company is a local legend, known for its pillowy texture and generous icing . Another unique local style is Colorado Style Pizza, characterized by its fluffy, thick crust and heaping amounts of melted cheese and toppings, perfectly exemplified by the enormous "14er" pie at Molly's Mountain Pies, named after Colorado's famous high peaks .
Museums
Cimarron Hills is strategically located near Colorado Springs, which is home to an extraordinary array of museums. Residents and visitors can explore world-class institutions dedicated to aerospace, art, history, and culture, many of which are just a short drive away .
Museums in Nearby Colorado Springs
Art and Cultural Museums
- Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center at Colorado College: Located in Colorado Springs, this is a premier institution for art in the region. Built in 1936, it grew out of the esteemed Broadmoor Art Academy. Its permanent collection and rotating exhibitions feature a wide range of American and global art, and it is a vibrant hub for the local arts community .
- Cottonwood Center for the Arts: Also in Colorado Springs, this center is dedicated to making high-quality arts and culture accessible to everyone. It provides studio space for artists, galleries for exhibitions, and classes for the community, reflecting the area's thriving creative spirit .
- Michael Garman Productions & Gallery: This unique museum and gallery in Colorado Springs features over 500 handmade sculptures by Michael Garman, celebrating "American Heroes from all walks of life." It's a fascinating stop for those interested in realistic and narrative sculpture .
- Gallery 113: Located in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, this artist-run cooperative gallery showcases an eclectic mix of fine art from local painters, photographers, and sculptors .
Museums of History and Heritage
- Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum: Housed in the beautifully restored 1903 El Paso County Courthouse, this museum is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of the Pikes Peak region. Its collections examine Indigenous histories, the city's founding era, and the stories that have shaped modern Colorado Springs .
- McAllister House Museum: This restored 1873 house was built for Maj. Henry McAllister, who assisted General William Jackson Palmer in developing Colorado Springs. The museum offers a glimpse into the city's early days, with original and period furnishings .
- Old Colorado City History Center: Located in the historic Old Colorado City, this center preserves the history of the area's original settlement, offering insights into the region's past before it became part of Colorado Springs .
- Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site: This living history farm and ranch depicts life in the Pikes Peak region from the 1860s to the early 1900s. It offers a hands-on, immersive experience of the area's agricultural and domestic history .
Specialized and Unique Museums
- National Museum of World War II Aviation: This exceptional museum in Colorado Springs is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of aviation in World War II. Its 40,000 sq ft hangar houses a stunning collection of restored aircraft from all combatants, allowing visitors to walk among the planes and learn their stories .
- Peterson Air and Space Museum: Located on Peterson Air Force Base, this museum was established in 1982 as the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Visitors Center. It tells the story of the U.S. Air Force's presence in the region and the history of aerospace defense .
- U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: This architecturally striking museum in Colorado Springs is a one-of-a-kind, interactive tribute to the Olympic and Paralympic movements, with Team USA athletes at the center of the story. It's a must-visit for sports fans .
- Space Foundation Headquarters and Discovery Center: As the region's first interactive space, science, and technology center, this destination advances space-related education and exploration. It offers engaging exhibits for all ages .
- ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy: This museum educates the public about rodeo, its history, and its impact on Western American culture. It's the ultimate destination for understanding this unique sport .
- American Numismatic Association Money Museum: Located in Colorado Springs, this museum invites visitors to explore the history of money through fascinating displays, including rare coins and currency from around the world .
- Colorado Springs Military Museum: This museum offers a deep dive into American military history, with a vast collection of artifacts, vehicles, and memorabilia spanning various conflicts .
- Rocky Mountain Motorcycle Museum: For enthusiasts, this museum in Colorado Springs showcases a collection of vintage and classic motorcycles, celebrating the history of motorcycling in the Rocky Mountain region .
- Lester L. Williams Fire Museum: This museum, operated by the Colorado Springs Fire Department, displays historic firefighting equipment and apparatus, honoring the history of fire service in the city .
- Pikes Peak Children's Museum: A hands-on, interactive museum designed to spark curiosity and learning through play for young children and their families .
Museums in the Broader Pikes Peak Region
Venturing a little further from Cimarron Hills opens up even more specialized museums, particularly for science and natural history enthusiasts .
- Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center: Located about 30 minutes away in Woodland Park, this 20,000 square foot museum is a premier destination for paleontology. It features impressive fossils and life-sized reconstructions of dinosaurs and marine reptiles that once roamed the area .
Sport and Sports Legends
Cimarron Hills is located in a region with a profound connection to sports, from amateur participation to professional and Olympic-level competition. The nearby city of Colorado Springs is a hub for athletic activity, serving as the headquarters for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and hosting numerous sports organizations.
Major Sports Venues
- U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: While technically a museum, this 60,000-square-foot facility is an interactive and immersive sports destination in its own right. It celebrates the achievements of Team USA athletes and offers visitors a chance to experience the spirit of the Games through cutting-edge exhibits .
Professional and Amateur Sports Teams and Organizations
- U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee Headquarters: As the national governing body for Olympic and Paralympic sports in the United States, its presence in Colorado Springs makes the city a central training ground and administrative hub for countless elite athletes .
- Colorado Springs Adult Sports Leagues: The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services department organizes extensive adult sports programs. For example, the Colorado Springs Adult Basketball league offers 5-on-5 and 3-on-3 basketball for men, women, and coed teams across multiple skill levels (Recreational Red, White, and Blue) throughout the year. Games are held in local facilities, providing a structured and competitive outlet for adult athletes in the region, including those from Cimarron Hills .
Major Sporting Events and Tournaments
The region regularly hosts a variety of sporting events, from local recreational leagues to national championships. The presence of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum and numerous national governing bodies makes Colorado Springs a frequent site for trials, training camps, and competitions in sports like cycling, swimming, and track and field.
Sports Museums and Halls of Fame
- U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: This is the premier sports museum in the region, offering an in-depth look at the history and stories of America's Olympic and Paralympic athletes .
- ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy: This institution serves as the hall of fame for the sport of professional rodeo, honoring its greatest champions and preserving its history .
Universities and Academic Institutions
While Cimarron Hills itself does not host a university campus, it is situated within the Colorado Springs metropolitan area, which is home to several institutions of higher learning. Students from Cimarron Hills have convenient access to a range of educational opportunities, from nationally ranked research universities to specialized institutions .
Major Universities in Colorado Springs
- University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS): UCCS is the primary public research university in the city and a key institution for the region. It offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. In the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings, UCCS was listed among national universities . It is a campus known for its scenic location at the foot of Pikes Peak and its strong programs in business, engineering, and the sciences.
- Colorado Technical University (CTU): CTU is a private, for-profit university also located in Colorado Springs, known for its focus on career-oriented education, particularly in technology, business, and health sciences. Like UCCS, it was also included in the 2026 U.S. News & World Report rankings of national universities .
Other Higher Education Options in the Pikes Peak Region
Beyond the two main universities in Colorado Springs, residents of Cimarron Hills are within commuting distance of other notable institutions in the Front Range corridor, such as Pikes Peak State College, which offers a wide variety of associate degrees and certificate programs.
Healthcare Facilities and Services
Residents of Cimarron Hills have access to a robust healthcare network, primarily centered in nearby Colorado Springs. While Cimarron Hills hosts local dental and primary care offices, major medical centers and specialized clinics are located just minutes away.
Major Medical Centers in Colorado Springs
Although a specific comprehensive hospital is not listed within the immediate boundaries of Cimarron Hills, the area is served by several major hospital systems in Colorado Springs. These facilities likely include Penrose Hospital, UCHealth Memorial Hospital, and Children's Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs, which provide a full spectrum of medical services including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments.
Specialized Clinics and VA Services
- Union Boulevard VA Clinic: This facility is part of the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System and is located nearby in Colorado Springs. It provides a wide range of health services specifically for veterans, including primary care, mental health care, laboratory and pathology services, and nutrition counseling with registered dietitians. This clinic is a critical resource for the veteran community in Cimarron Hills and the surrounding area .
Local Dental and Medical Offices
Cimarron Hills has a number of local healthcare providers, particularly in dentistry. For instance, several general dentists, as well as specialists in periodontics, endodontics, and orthodontics, are located within a mile or two of the Cimarron Hills area, offering convenient access to routine and specialized dental care . Additionally, the community has access to resources for navigating health insurance, including local agents for Medicare plans .