Colorado Springs is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With the majestic Rocky Mountains as its backdrop, visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re into hiking, rock climbing, or just soaking up the scenery, Colorado Springs has something for everyone. Here are a few must-see places for outdoor adventure in the area:
The Garden of the Gods is a breathtaking park filled with towering red rock formations. Visitors can explore the park by foot, bike or even rock climb. The trails are well marked and offer stunning views of Pikes Peak. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery!
The Manitou Incline is a challenging but rewarding hiking trail just outside of Colorado Springs. The trail includes over 2,000 steps and ascends over 2,000 feet in less than a mile. At the top of the trail, hikers are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Pikes Peak is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can drive to the summit or take a scenic train ride for stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and surrounding landscape. The peak is also a popular spot for hiking and photography.
This park offers miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the mountains. The Seven Bridges Trail is particularly popular, offering a challenging yet rewarding hike through the canyon.
Located just outside of Colorado Springs, the Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers over 1,500 acres of hiking trails, rock climbing, and beautiful views of the rock formations. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife.
These are just a few of the top destinations for outdoor adventure in and around Colorado Springs. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or just looking to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, Colorado Springs has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure in one of the most beautiful places in the US!
Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is undoubtedly one of the top attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. The park is a natural wonder, featuring magnificent towering red rock formations that are sure to leave you in awe. Visitors can choose to explore the park by hiking, biking, or even rock climbing. The park has numerous trails of varying degrees of difficulty, so there is something to suit every level of fitness. But regardless of the activity you choose to undertake, the views from the park are simply breathtaking.
When you visit Garden of the Gods, you will be surrounded by an incredibly diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to over 130 different species of birds, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. You can also spot different animals like mule deer, coyotes, and even mountain lions. For those who want to explore the park in a more structured and interactive way, the park offers guided tours that take you through all the different hidden gems within the park.
Overall, Garden of the Gods provides an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its dramatic red rock formations and stunning scenery, it’s a destination that has to be seen to be believed.
Manitou Incline
The Manitou Incline is not for the faint of heart – this popular hiking trail is a steep climb that takes you up over 2,000 feet in just under a mile. But don’t let the challenge deter you – the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. You’ll see stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making the difficult climb well worth the effort.
Keep in mind that this trail is not an easy hike – it’s essentially a giant staircase made up of over 2,700 steps. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and snacks. You’ll also want to be in good physical shape, as the steep incline can be quite grueling.
- Distance: Approximately 1 mile
- Elevation gain: Over 2,000 feet
- Difficulty level: Strenuous
- Tips: Wear good hiking shoes, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be in good physical shape
If you’re up for the challenge, the Manitou Incline is definitely an experience you won’t want to miss during your visit to Colorado Springs.
Pikes Peak
For a truly breathtaking view of Colorado Springs, a visit to the top of Pikes Peak is a must. This iconic mountain stands at 14,115 feet tall and offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors have the option to drive their own car to the summit or take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for a scenic train ride. The train takes you through lush forests, past alpine lakes, and above the treeline for a truly spectacular experience.
Once at the summit, visitors can take in the magnificent views of the Rockies, including nearby Garden of the Gods and the bustling city of Colorado Springs below. With its cool mountain air and expansive vistas, Pikes Peak is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and simply taking in the breathtaking natural beauty of Colorado.
For those looking for a more challenging and adventurous experience, the Barr Trail hike offers an incredible trek to the summit of Pikes Peak. This 12.6-mile round trip hike boasts stunning views, including the famed “13 switchbacks” on the way up to the peak. No matter how you choose to experience Pikes Peak, it is a must-see destination for any outdoor enthusiast visiting Colorado Springs.
North Cheyenne Cañon Park
North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The park offers miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging hikes. Visitors can also enjoy picnicking in the beautiful picnic areas while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
One of the most popular hiking trails in the park is the Seven Bridges Trail, which takes hikers through a beautiful canyon with seven bridges crossing a rushing stream. This trail is perfect for those seeking a more moderate hike with breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.
In addition to hiking and picnicking, North Cheyenne Cañon Park offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the local wildlife and history of the park through educational exhibits and programs. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, black bears, and mountain lions.
Overall, North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a wonderful destination for those looking to experience the beauty of Colorado’s nature. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a challenging hike, this park has something to offer for everyone.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Red Rock Canyon Open Space is located just outside of Colorado Springs and is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. This park offers over 1,500 acres of hiking trails, rock climbing, and stunning views of the rock formations.
- The park has more than 10 trails that vary in difficulty level, making it suitable for hikers of all experience levels.
- Rock climbing is also a popular activity in the park, with numerous routes available for climbers.
- The park is known for its spectacular red rock formations, which make for great photo opportunities.
- Visitors can also enjoy picnicking, bird watching, and horseback riding within the park.
Overall, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a fantastic destination for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in nature. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture some of the park’s magnificent vistas!
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is a must-visit destination for those traveling to Colorado Springs. This beautiful state park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and geocaching. One of the park’s most popular trails is the Dixon Trail, which takes visitors up to the summit of Cheyenne Mountain. The summit offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a great spot for a picnic.
In addition to the hiking trails, Cheyenne Mountain State Park also has numerous picnic areas and campgrounds for visitors to enjoy. The campgrounds have both tent and RV sites and offer amenities such as electricity and water hookups. The park’s picnic areas are spread throughout the park and offer beautiful views and a chance to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is just a short drive from Colorado Springs, making it an accessible and convenient destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a family looking for a fun day out, Cheyenne Mountain State Park has something for everyone.
Royal Gorge Bridge and Park
Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is an hour’s drive from Colorado Springs and is an exciting destination for adventure seekers. Its main attraction is the suspension bridge that spans over the Royal Gorge, providing spectacular views of the Arkansas River and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a walk across the bridge or opt for a more thrilling experience by taking a zip line tour. The bridge is 956 feet long and stands 956 feet above the river. It is the highest suspension bridge in the United States.
Aside from the suspension bridge, the park also offers other outdoor activities such as rock climbing and hiking. Visitors can hike the park’s trails and enjoy the beautiful views of the Colorado Rockies. There is also a visitor center where visitors can learn more about the history of the area and the construction of the bridge.
The park is open year-round and offers various events and activities, such as a haunted zip line tour during Halloween and a winter lights show during the holiday season. Visitors can also enjoy dining options and shopping in the park.
Cripple Creek
Cripple Creek is a must-visit location for anyone travelling to Colorado Springs. The town is famous for its old western charm and magnificent mountain vistas which are breathtakingly beautiful. Visitors to this historic mining town will love exploring the historic district and discovering the unique architecture and history of the area.
But that’s not all Cripple Creek has to offer. Gamblers will find no shortage of casinos in the area, with numerous options for those looking to try their luck. The casinos are also an excellent source of entertainment for non-gamblers, with regular shows, events, and dining options available.
After a day exploring the town’s historic district, try your hand at one of the area’s many casinos or take in a show. Whatever you choose to do, Cripple Creek is the perfect destination for a day trip or an overnight stay.
Breckenridge
Breckenridge is a year-round destination that offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy. The town is most famous for its skiing, but it also has hiking and mountain biking trails that are popular in the summer months. Visitors can explore the beautiful mountain vistas while getting some exercise.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, Breckenridge also has a charming historic district that is well worth exploring. The town has preserved many of its Victorian-era buildings, and visitors can take a stroll down Main Street to admire the architecture and do some shopping. The town also has a thriving food scene, with many restaurants specializing in locally sourced ingredients.
One of the highlights of Breckenridge is its ski mountain, which boasts 2,908 acres of skiable terrain. The mountain has something for skiers of all skill levels, with plenty of beginner runs as well as more challenging terrain. Visitors can also try their hand at snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or dog-sledding.
Overall, Breckenridge is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys exploring charming mountain towns. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, the town offers something for everyone.
