Woodmoor, CO

Woodmoor is an unincorporated community and a census-designated place located in El Paso County, Colorado, United States.

About the City

Official Status and Administrative Affiliation

The full official name of the community is Woodmoor. It is an unincorporated community and a census-designated place (CDP) located in and governed by El Paso County, Colorado, United States . The CDP is a part of the Colorado Springs, CO Metropolitan Statistical Area . The area is served by the Monument post office (ZIP Code 80132) . El Paso County is known for containing the city of Colorado Springs, a major center for military installations, tourism (with attractions like Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods), and high-tech industries .

Date of Foundation and Age

The United States Census Bureau first defined the Woodmoor CDP for the 1980 United States Census . As an unincorporated community, it does not have a formal date of foundation. However, the area has developed over the latter half of the 20th century and into the 21st, with the population growing from 1,490 in 1980 to 9,536 in 2020 .

Geographic Location and Coordinates

Woodmoor is located in central Colorado at the approximate geographic coordinates 39.1063° N, -104.8456° W . It sits in the Tri-Lakes area, just north of the town of Monument and approximately 15 miles north of Colorado Springs along the Front Range urban corridor . The center of Woodmoor is about 1.5 miles due east of the center of Monument, Colorado . It is a community nestled among rolling, wooded terrain at the foot of the Rampart Range of the Rocky Mountains . The elevation of the CDP is approximately 7,300 feet (2,225 meters) above sea level . Geographically, it is a residential, foothills community.

City Type and Economic Specialization

Woodmoor is primarily a residential community and a commuter town. Its economy is not based on local industry but on its residents, many of whom work in the nearby Colorado Springs area or commute north to Denver . The area functions as a "bedroom community" characterized by a high quality of life, access to outdoor recreation, and highly-rated local schools . Key local economic activities are centered around professional, scientific, and technical services, healthcare, and education .

Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Woodmoor was 9,536 . By 2023, estimates placed the population around 8,800-8,900 . It is a small town or community by population. Woodmoor is characterized by a relatively affluent and older demographic, with a median age of 49 and a median household income of approximately $174,000, which is significantly higher than both the state and national averages . The population is predominantly white (around 89%), with a high rate of homeownership (over 90%) and a very low poverty rate (around 2.2%) .

"City's Calling Card" (Briefly)

Woodmoor's calling card is its identity as a serene, wooded residential enclave that offers a quintessential Colorado lifestyle. It's known for its large, custom homes nestled among towering ponderosa pines, its private lake, and extensive trail systems . Located in the Tri-Lakes area, it provides residents with peaceful, nature-immersed living while maintaining easy access to the urban amenities of Colorado Springs and Denver .

Geography

Mountains and Mountain Ranges

Woodmoor is situated at the base of the Rampart Range of the Rocky Mountains. The most prominent nearby peak is Mount Herman (2,727 meters / 8,947 feet) , located approximately 7.1 km (4.4 miles) to the west . It is a popular local destination for hiking and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The area also provides access to trails leading to Sundance Mountain and Spruce Mountain .

Water Bodies (Rivers, Lakes, Waterfalls)

Woodmoor is part of the "Tri-Lakes" area, named for the three local lakes :

National and Natural Parks

While Woodmoor itself doesn't contain a national park, it is home to or directly adjacent to several regional parks and open spaces:

Climate and Weather

Climate Type and General Characteristics

Woodmoor has a climate that is transitional between a humid continental climate (Dfb) and a cold semi-arid climate (BSk) , due to its high elevation and location on the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains. It is characterized by mild summers, cold and snowy winters, and significant diurnal temperature variation (warm days and cool nights). The area enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year . The climate is often described as "bracing" due to the combination of sun, altitude, and low humidity .

Average Monthly Temperatures

Due to its elevation of 7,300 feet, temperatures in Woodmoor are cooler than in nearby Colorado Springs.

Precipitation and Humidity

Specific Weather Phenomena

Seasonality and Best Time to Visit

Landmarks and Attractions

[Fox Run Regional Park]

Fox Run Regional Park is the premier park within the Woodmoor community . This 417-acre natural area features 4 miles of scenic trails that wind through forests and open meadows. The park is renowned for its two beautiful lakes, Aspen Lake and Spruce Lake, which are connected by trails and feature a gazebo, making it a popular spot for photography and weddings . It also has open fields with playgrounds, picnic areas, and is a hub for local residents to enjoy nature .

[Woodmoor Lake and Trail System]

Woodmoor Lake is a private, resident-owned lake that serves as a central natural feature of the community. Surrounded by a peaceful trail system, it provides a quiet escape for walking, running, and enjoying the scenery without leaving the neighborhood . It is a key part of the outdoor lifestyle that defines the area.

[Monument Rock]

Monument Rock is a major natural attraction in the region. This breathtaking giant rock formation offers excellent opportunities for photography and is a popular destination for hikers . Numerous trails lead to this point, allowing visitors to adjust the length of their hike. The rock is a defining landmark for the nearby town of Monument.

[The Woodmoor Commons]

The Woodmoor Commons are a series of common areas and bridle trails located throughout both North and South Woodmoor . In 1994, volunteers from the Woodmoor Improvement Association mapped and named these areas, creating the first guide to these open spaces. They offer residents a network of natural, undeveloped land for hiking and horseback riding, contributing to the community's wooded, private character.

[New Santa Fe Regional Trail]

This regional trail is a scenic pathway perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing . It allows users to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area as they traverse through forests, meadows, and rolling terrain. The trail provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers of all skill levels and connects to a wider network of trails in the region.

Other Nearby Attractions

While not within Woodmoor's immediate boundaries, several attractions are located nearby in the Tri-Lakes area and Colorado Springs:

Transportation

Major Airports

The primary airport serving Woodmoor is Colorado Springs Airport (COS) , located about 20-25 miles south of the community. It offers non-stop service to many major US cities. For a wider array of international flights, residents and visitors use Denver International Airport (DEN) , which is approximately 70 miles north via Interstate 25.

Major Highways

Woodmoor's major transportation advantage is its proximity to Interstate 25 (I-25) , the main north-south artery along Colorado's Front Range . The community is just minutes from I-25, making commuting to Colorado Springs and Denver straightforward. Local access is provided by county roads, including Woodmoor Drive, which winds through the community.

Public Transportation

Public transportation options within Woodmoor itself are very limited, reflecting its character as a low-density residential area. The primary mode of transport is the personal automobile, with over 90% of residents driving to work and an average car ownership of 2 vehicles per household . The average commute time for residents is around 28 minutes, indicating that many travel to employment centers in Colorado Springs or elsewhere along the Front Range . Some regional bus services provided by Mountain Metro Transit may connect Monument and Colorado Springs, but service within Woodmoor is minimal.

Local Cuisine and Culinary Traditions

Woodmoor is a primarily residential neighborhood within the Tri-Lakes area, and it does not have a distinct culinary identity of its own. For dining and local flavors, residents and visitors typically explore the nearby towns of Monument and Palmer Lake .

The historic downtown Monument, located just 5 minutes from Woodmoor, offers a charming dining scene. Here you can find independent restaurants alongside a craft brewery and a distillery, providing a taste of local Colorado flavors . During the summer, a lively farmers' and artisans' market is held in Monument on weekends, offering fresh local produce and goods .

For more extensive dining options with a variety of chain restaurants, the Outlets at Castle Rock, a short drive away, feature a food court . Both Monument and Palmer Lake have a collection of restaurants ranging from casual to elegant, serving a mix of American and international cuisines .

Museums

Woodmoor itself is a residential community without its own museums. However, the region is rich with cultural and historical attractions, with the most prominent being the United States Air Force Academy.

The United States Air Force Academy

Located just 5 miles south of the Tri-Lakes area, the United States Air Force Academy is one of Colorado's most popular visitor destinations . While not a traditional museum, its iconic Cadet Chapel is a stunning architectural marvel and a must-see landmark . Visitors can also explore the Visitor Center to learn about the history and mission of the Academy .

Museums and History Nearby

The broader Pikes Peak region, including Colorado Springs about 20 minutes away, is home to numerous museums. Visitors can discover the fascinating history of the area through various attractions and historical sites .

Sport and Sports Legends

Woodmoor is a quiet residential neighborhood, and as such, it is not home to any major professional sports teams or stadiums. However, the area is a haven for outdoor sports enthusiasts, and the nearby city of Colorado Springs is a major hub for Olympic sports.

Outdoor Recreation and Sports

The Tri-Lakes area offers miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. A key attraction is the Santa Fe Regional Trail, a 15-mile graveled path that starts in Palmer Lake and runs south through Monument. It is one of the largest continuous trails in El Paso County and is popular for biking, hiking, and horseback riding. In the winter, it is used by cross-country skiers and snowshoers . The three lakes—Lake Woodmoor, Monument Lake, and Palmer Lake—offer year-round activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing in the summer .

Nearby Sports Landmarks and Events

Universities and Educational Institutions

There are no universities located directly within the residential community of Woodmoor. However, the area is in close proximity to a world-renowned federal service academy and several colleges in the Colorado Springs area.

United States Air Force Academy

Located approximately 5 miles south of Woodmoor, the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) is one of the nation's premier military service academies . It is a four-year federal service academy that educates and commissions officers for the United States Air Force and Space Force. The Academy's stunning campus, with its iconic Cadet Chapel, is a major landmark and a testament to academic and military excellence .

Nearby Colleges and Universities

For undergraduate and graduate studies, residents of Woodmoor have access to several institutions in Colorado Springs, about a 20-minute drive away. These include:

Local Schools

The Woodmoor area is part of the highly acclaimed Lewis-Palmer School District 38, which serves the Tri-Lakes communities . Schools serving Woodmoor include Lewis-Palmer Elementary School and Palmer Ridge High School, both known for academic excellence .

Healthcare Facilities and Services

Woodmoor is served by a network of healthcare providers and facilities in the surrounding Tri-Lakes area and the larger Colorado Springs region.

Local Clinics and Services

Residents have access to primary and specialized care within a short distance.

Nearby Hospitals and Medical Centers

For more complex medical needs, residents typically go to Colorado Springs, which is about a 20-minute drive from Woodmoor . As a major city, Colorado Springs offers several full-service hospitals and specialized medical centers, including Penrose Hospital and UCHealth Memorial Hospital.

Physicians per Capita

Woodmoor has 201 physicians per 100,000 population, which is very close to the national average of 210 per 100,000 people, indicating solid access to medical professionals .

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