Magnum Shooting Center - South: Colorado Springs’ Top Outdoor Hub for Adventure and Skill
Magnum Shooting Center - South offers an unmatched blend of precision sport and outdoor adventure just outside Colorado Springs. From expertly designed shooting ranges to inviting hiking trails, it’s the go-to spot for enthusiasts who want a practical and thrilling way to engage with Colorado’s landscape.
Adventure Tips
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails feature mixed terrain with loose gravel and packed dirt; shoes with grip minimize slips and support steady footing.
Bring Adequate Water
Colorado’s dry air demands consistent hydration, especially when combining shooting with physical activity outdoors.
Arrive Early for Cooler Weather
Morning hours ease hiking and shooting conditions, avoiding the harsher midday sun, particularly in summer months.
Follow Range Safety Protocols
Respect all firearm handling rules and stay within designated areas to maintain a safe environment for everyone.
Magnum Shooting Center - South: Colorado Springs’ Top Outdoor Hub for Adventure and Skill
Magnum Shooting Center - South stands as more than just a shooting range near Colorado Springs, CO; it’s the pulse of outdoor activity where adrenaline meets precision and nature invites exploration. Located just a short drive from downtown Colorado Springs, this vast outdoor complex offers everything from disciplined firearm ranges to rugged trails and open spaces that challenge both body and mind.
Walking into Magnum Shooting Center - South, you’re greeted by the crisp Colorado air that plays with the scent of pine and earth. The facility’s layout respects the natural contour of the land, giving shooters clear sightlines framed by low scrub and towering trees, which themselves seem to watch over each session with quiet patience. Adjacent to these ranges are hiking and biking routes that invite visitors to explore the terrain’s raw textures — rocky outcrops, open fields, and shaded forest paths where the wind dares you forward.
With multiple shooting bays accommodating everything from pistols to long-range rifles, Magnum delivers a staged environment for practicing marksmanship or competing in timed challenges. But what truly distinguishes it is the blend of intense activity and access to Colorado’s lively outdoors. After a shooting session, many find the on-site trails an ideal way to reset—paths range from easy 2-mile loops to more challenging 6-mile routes with roughly 500 feet of elevation gain, suitable for hikers and mountain bikers alike.
Terrain here transitions smoothly from dense ponderosa pines to scrubland, offering varied footing with patches of loose gravel and packed dirt. Each step lets you feel the push of the landscape underfoot, while wildlife like mule deer and hawks occasionally emerge, as if curious about your progress. The vantage points along the trails provide wide-angle views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding foothills, rewarding effort with sweeping panoramas that don’t demand a long trek but feel fiercely earned.
Preparation is straightforward but essential: sturdy footwear with good traction is vital for the mixed surface trails, and hydration can’t be overstated given Colorado’s dry climate. Timing your visit to avoid midday heat in summer or early snowfall in winter can enhance comfort dramatically. For shooters, the facility maintains a safe, regulated environment but arriving with proper safety gear and understanding range protocols will ensure a smooth experience.
Magnum Shooting Center - South is a crossroads where focused sport meets the untamed spirit of Colorado’s outdoors. Whether fine-tuning your aim or carving time out for a brisk hike, it’s a destination built around engagement—with the environment, with your skills, and with the demanding, fiercely alive landscape that surrounds it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are firearms available to rent at Magnum Shooting Center - South?
Yes, the facility offers firearm rentals for a variety of guns, including handguns and rifles, but it’s best to call ahead and reserve specific models.
Can beginners take lessons at the Magnum Shooting Center?
Absolutely, certified instructors provide instruction for all skill levels, making it a welcoming place for novices eager to learn safety and shooting fundamentals.
Are pets allowed on the hiking trails at Magnum Shooting Center - South?
Dogs are permitted on-leash on designated trails, but be sure to check for any seasonal wildlife warnings and clean up after your pet to keep the area safe and clean.
What wildlife might I encounter while hiking nearby?
Visitors commonly see mule deer, red-tailed hawks, and occasionally coyotes. Early mornings or late afternoons increase chances to observe these animals in action.
Is there parking available on site?
Yes, the center offers ample parking adjacent to the shooting ranges and trailheads, allowing easy access for day use.
Are there any quiet zones for non-shooting visitors?
Designated hiking areas are separate from shooting bays, offering peaceful zones where visitors can enjoy nature uninterrupted by range activity.
Recommended Gear
Hiking boots
Support and grip for mixed terrain ensure stability on uneven trails.
Hydration pack
Keeps you hydrated during hot weather and prolonged outdoor activity.
Shooting ear protection
Protects hearing during range sessions and maintains focus.
Layered clothing
Allows adapting to quickly changing temperatures common in Colorado’s shoulder seasons.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "The overlook near the 4-mile trailhead offers unobstructed views of the Rocky Mountains with far fewer visitors."
- "A small, shaded grove halfway along the longer loop serves as a natural rest stop often overlooked."
Wildlife
- "Mule deer patterns shift seasonally; autumn brings more visible herds grazing near the edges of the range."
- "Listen for the occasional call of red-tailed hawks patrolling overhead."
History
"Magnum Shooting Center evolved from a modest local range established in the 1980s to a comprehensive facility, reflecting Colorado’s growing outdoor sports culture."