Top 5 Summer Adventure Activites in Colorado Springs
This easily overlooked city is the second largest in Colorado and is full of surprises. Founded as a resort town in 1871, Colorado Springs has drawn travelers from around the world for decades offering unrivaled natural beauty, 300 days of sunshine a year, and more than 60 man-made and natural attractions. In this Colorado Springs Activity Guide I am going to share my Top 5 Adventurous Activities to do while exploring Colorado Springs in the summer.
A note on Altitude
Don’t underestimate altitude and the effects of it. Colorado Springs sits even higher than Denver, the Mile High City, at 6,035 feet. For lowland travelers who are new to the area or visiting on a weekend trip, altitude can produce some uncomfortable effects such as dizziness, nausea and headaches.
My best suggestions for you to avoid the effects of altitude sickness are to give your body time to adjust, drink lots of water, and avoid excess alcohol and caffein as your body will process them differently at altitude.
Best Summer Adventure Activities in COS
Explore Garden of the Gods park
To kick off your visit to Colorado Springs, I recommend you start at Garden of the Gods Park. With over 21 miles of trails and non stop views, this could easily take up a morning or afternoon. This public park is open from dawn to dusk, which is 5am - 10pm in the summer months. If you don't mind the extra mileage you can park in the dirt lot before you enter. Otherwise, once you enter the park you will follow a one way, counterclockwise road and there will be a parking lot on your left as you pass the first big rock feature. If you struggle to find parking here just follow the road around and there are a couple more opportunities.
Depending on the day of the week or time of day this park can get quite busy, however even on the weekends I have never felt overcrowded. Plan to go in the early morning or on a weekday if you are looking to avoid the crowds.
Also, please note this is a popular route for cyclists and they do have a designated bike lane. Please do not drive in their lane and keep a lookout for them when you are driving.
Cost: FREE
2. Visit Cave of the Winds Mountain Park
Now that you’ve gotten your walk in, book an activity up at Cave of the winds Mountain Park. Located only a couple miles up highway 24 towards Manitou Springs, Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is way more than just a cave, offering activities like Zip lining, Cave Tours, a mega swing called the Terror-dactyl and my favorite the Via Ferrata! If you haven't heard of a Via Ferrata, it is an exhilarating climbing activity involving a system of cables and ladders that help you navigate around mountain paths. On this via ferrata you are provided with a specially designed Via Ferrata harness system, helmet and gloves and led by an experienced guide throughout the entire way.
Be sure to call ahead to book activities at Cave of the Winds, their availability and staffing varies per season.
Cost: $0 - $90 Depending on the activity. You can enjoy the park and the views for free!
3. Experience The art of Falconry with Broadmoor Outfitters
Next, you can be introduced to the Art of Falconry. During this experience you will get the chance to interact with a variety of captive-bred, trained birds, including owls, falcons, and hawks. The lesson begins with a flying demonstration and a chance to learn about the fascinating history of this sport. After learning the appropriate techniques from their professional guides, you will get to hold a trained hawk on your fist. You can book one of their three lesson categories on their website. Note that you will need to complete the beginner lesson before being able to book the intermediate.
The entire duration of this experience is about 1.5 hours. Be sure to use the restroom at the checking because there is no access to one after you leave to head to the falconry area.
Cost: $165 - $310
4. Put your western Skills to the test with Broadmoor Outfitters Wild West Experience
If birds aren't your thing or you want to double up on activities, then you can put your western skills to the test by booking the Wild West Experience with the Broadmoor Outfitters. During this 2.5 hour excursion you will be taken up to their mountain camp where you will get to throw tomahawks, shoot pellet guns and try out Archery. This excursion requires closed toed shoes and has a minimum age of 8 years.
Also, remember to use the restroom at the check-in because there is no access to one after you leave to head to the mountain camp.
Cost: $154 per person
5. Hike the Manitou Incline.
And last but certainly not least, if you are feeling ambitious, take on the mile long staircase that gains over one mile in elevation along the way. While the breathtaking views can make it worth it, I would only recommend this hike for those in good shape and are acclimated to the elevation. This one mile can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours one way. Keep in mind, the world record is 20 minutes and the average hiker takes just over an hour to the top.
