3 Best Tips to Prepare for Your Ziplining Adventure

How to Prepare for Your Ziplining Adventure

Whether you’re a nature lover, a thrill seeker, or a tourist hoping to see Colorado from a different perspective, ziplining is one of the most exciting outdoor activities to take advantage of when you’re visiting Colorado Springs. Our ziplining tours attract thousands of visitors yearly, and boast some of the most incredible views in the area.Here are a few things visitors should know before embarking on one of our Colorado Springs ziplining adventures.

Be aware of altitude

Colorado ziplining is an amazing experience, but altitude sickness can easily put a damper on your adventure if you’re not properly prepared. Symptoms like headache, tiredness and shortness of breath are no fun to deal with when you’re on a ziplining excursion, so you’ll want to make sure you are well hydrated, well rested, and are performing activities at your own pace. If you are experiencing severe altitude sickness when you arrive, it may be best to reschedule your time with us for your owns safety, as we want you to enjoy your experience to the fullest!

Dress for the occasion

Comfort is key during a ziplining adventure and appropriate attire is a must. Opt for clothing that’s easy to move around in, and do consider the weather when deciding on layers. Typically, you can’t go wrong with long shorts or leggings paired with a T-shirt or tank top for summer, but you will want to bundle up with a jacket or sweater during chilly temperatures. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes that are sure to stay on as you fly through the sky are also important, and don’t forget to pay attention to your hair if you are sporting long locks, as your guide may ask you to wear it tied back for your safety and so not to obstruct your view.

Leave behind personal belongings

Keeping personal items on you while ziplining is not advised. Any items that fall or get lost as you navigate the course are unlikely to be recovered from down below. Instead of carrying things like your smartphone and keys in your pockets, consider handing off your belongings to someone in your group, or wear a secure fanny pack to take with you as you zip down the line.

Have fun!

Ziplining is guaranteed to get your heart pumping, but there are also plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy when you’re visiting Colorado Springs. Some of these include rock climbing, mountain biking, and even paintball. Broadmoor Outfitters ziplining participants also receive free admission to stunning Seven Falls, so be sure to pencil this into your itinerary for the day. Afterwards, relax and reflect on your awesome day when you grab a bite at one of several nearby restaurants.

We can’t wait to see you through your next exhilarating ziplining adventure. Call us to book your Colorado Springs outdoor tour today!

4 REasons Scanver Hunts are Great For Team Building

Top 4 Reasons Scavenger Hunts are a Safe Bet for Team Building

Your corporate event is an opportunity to bring your entire team together for a day of fun. Luckily, Colorado Springs provides a stunning backdrop for any number of exciting corporate and team-building activities, each more exciting than the next! The Broadmoor Hunt, one of our most popular Colorado Springs tours, sees participants embark on a fun-packed journey through renowned resort The Broadmoor, where you’ll encounter a series of tasks for a race to the finish line. You’ll also have a free, interactive app on your side to help your team through your journey. 

Scavenger hunts like these are a popular choice for corporate tours and team building for a variety of reasons. From promoting teamwork to encouraging trust and elevating team morale, here are a few reasons why a team scavenger hunt may be the perfect corporate activity for your team in the months to come.

Employee Engagement

Engaging your employees is crucial during times of stress and is important for maintaining a positive office culture. According to studies, employees feel happier and more fulfilled in their careers when they feel like they are working toward a greater purpose. By keeping your employees continually engaged, you’ll end up seeing results in the long run. This is where corporate events like scavenger hunts really shine. Our Colorado Springs scavenger hunts are ideal for teams hoping for a fun-filled experience that challenges their strength and their critical thinking skills. By honing these, you’ll be building a better, stronger team overall, and help each team member realize their part. 

Improving Communication

Strong team communication, especially during times of remote working, is crucial for productivity and the general flow of any team. Scavenger hunts provide an excellent opportunity to promote strong communication among your team as you face a series of obstacles and challenges. You’ll need to work together to solve problems, and by the end of the hunt, you’ll be able to bask in a collective win that sees your entire team beaming with pride. 

Building Trust

Trust is a cornerstone of any successful team, and you’ll need plenty of it to make it through the modern-day scavenger hunt. By relying on each other and working together to achieve a common goal, your team will experience a newfound appreciation for one another.  

Having Fun

The pressures on today’s employees can be a lot to handle, which is why it’s so important that teams take some time away from the hustle and instead enjoy each other’s company for an afternoon. The Broadmoor Hunt is just one of many scavenger hunts capable of bringing your team together, and you’re sure to reap the benefits down the road. 

Colorado Springs boasts an awesome array of outdoor activities for your corporate tour or team-building event. From throwing an axe, shooting archery, hiking to mountain biking and rock climbing in between, your team is sure to enjoy the beauty of Colorado to the fullest when you book your tour with Broadmoor Outfitters. Give us a call to schedule your upcoming team outing. 

Preparing for High Altitude Activities

4 Best Tips to Prepare for High Altitude Activities

How to Prepare for Outdoor Activities at High Altitude

Millions of tourists flock to Colorado each year to soak in the fresh air, clear skies, and stunning views of nature. Colorado Springs is home to some of the most amazing sights in North America. But with beautiful mountain views comes high altitude, which can present various issues for visitors who don’t take precautions beforehand. At Broadmoor Outfitters, we’re committed to offering exciting outdoor tours to accommodate a wide variety of visitors, and we want you to enjoy your experience in Colorado Springs to the absolute fullest. That’s why we’ve compiled this short list of things to do to prepare for your outdoor adventure. 

Take it easy

With an elevation of over 6,000 ft., it’s safe to say Colorado Springs is an ideal spot for outdoor enjoyment. However, the stress of altitude can take a toll on visitors that aren’t yet acclimated to the higher elevation. Taking it slow is one way to avoid overexerting yourself. Take your time when hiking outdoors or uphill, and don’t be afraid to ask your tour guide for a breather if you find one necessary. Our Colorado Springs tours are meant to be enjoyed and remembered, and we want everyone to feel safe as they navigate their time with us. 

Drink more water

Ample hydration is crucial to avoid the pitfalls of altitude sickness. We can’t stress this enough. Your body dehydrates more quickly at higher altitudes, so you should definitely keep this in mind when on your Colorado Springs tour. You can even start preparing on the ride over. Whether you arrive by plane or by land, start drinking more water and make sure to keep it up for the entirety of your time in Colorado Springs. 

Limit alcohol intake

The effects of alcohol are exacerbated by high altitude. By drinking alcohol cautiously or perhaps not at all, you’ll give yourself a fair shot at enjoying your Colorado nature tour to the max. Not to mention, going easy on the alcoholic beverages will ensure you wake up bright-eyed and ready to tackle the adventure coming your way. In our opinion, that’s the best way to experience Colorado Springs. 

Document your adventure

There is no shortage of gorgeous sights to behold when you’re enjoying the great outdoors of the American West. Feel free to bring along your favorite digital camera to document all of the excitement. These are memories you’ll definitely want to look back on.

Your safety is always the top priority when participating in outdoor activities in Colorado Springs. Whether you’re embarking on an exciting day of zip lining, rock climbing, falconry or mountain biking, we’re here to show you the very best of Colorado Springs. Book your tour with Broadmoor Outfitters to embark on your thrilling Colorado adventure today! 

EXPLORING THE BROADMOOR SOARING ADVENTURE

EXPLORING THE BROADMOOR SOARING ADVENTURE

Seven Falls is home to the best Colorado Springs Zip Line Tours. This is where the fun begins for guests visiting Colorado Springs, The Garden of the Gods, USAFA and The Broadmoor who are looking for a little heart-racing fun. Imagine adventures high above the ground and cruising across The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado. Zip-lining has never been more fun than in the South Cheyenne Canyon. Seclusion is what you get when you book The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure.

BROADMOOR SOARING ADVENTURE AT SEVEN FALLS

Ten zip-lines spread across two different courses ranging from 300 feet to an impressive 1,800 feet give you a fantastic view of waterfalls and South Cheyenne Canyon. Also included here are hiking trails that are moderately challenging, rope bridges, and a sizeable 180-foot rappel controlled, of course.

It is perfectly fine if you do not have any experience with zip-lines. After a cool 15-minute ground school, Broadmoor Soaring Adventure expert guides will have you set up with the appropriate harness, gloves, the correct helmet, and instructional guidelines on how to navigate the courses carefully and safely.  In no time, you will be soaring above magnificent views as you come across suspension bridges that make you feel like you are in an Indiana Jones film.

Ensuring that there is no environmental impact to the spectacular Seven Falls, Broadmoor Outfitters and The Broadmoor entrusted the expertise of Bonsai Design to create remarkable adventures in the air.

THE COURSES

Woods Course

The Woods Course will give guests astonishing views of pine trees, winding creeks, Midnight Falls, a natural granite arch, and hiking trails that venture down to the falls. Guides will ensure that you have a memory building outing from when you start going up the mountain to the time you set off for your heart-stopping adventurous moment.

Fins Course

The Fins Course provides guests an opportunity to ease into enjoying their adventure. Five zip-lines become progressively longer as you fly high above the impressive steep drops, jagged cliffs, and rock formations that are unique in their own sense. Other incredible features of this course include numerous custom-built suspension bridges and being able to rappel down to the canyon floor when you end.

COURSE INFORMATION

The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure is a hot outdoor recreational adventure for guests visiting Colorado Springs, The Garden of the Gods, USAFA and The Broadmoor; therefore, reservations made in advance are required. For full excitement, book the four-hour option. If you are not sure about soaring through the air for that long, consider booking The Woods course or Finns course separately.

As you are booking your sensational outdoor adventure, remember that tax and gratuity are not included in the course fee, but the Seven Falls park entry fee is. Also, weight restrictions for any of the courses are 90 and 250 pounds. Children that are between the ages of eight and fourteen are welcome as long as an adult comes along.

CONCLUSION

The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure is a thrilling outdoor recreational adventure that offers The Broadmoor guests a once in a lifetime experience. Ten zip-lines, rope bridges, hiking, and rappelling opportunities will have you planning your next trip with friends, family, or your next office retreat.

Excellent Places for Fly Fishing in Colorado Springs

Summertime is coming, and this offers up an excellent array of outdoor recreational fun! Folks travel from all over the world and descend on Colorado Springs for a fantastic fly-fishing experience. Whether you are staying at The Broadmoor, another resort in the area, or are local, these are some excellent places for fly fishing in Colorado Springs.

THE BROADMOOR FLY FISHING CAMP

You have finally made it to Colorado Springs and The Broadmoor, ready to experience excellent fly-fishing. Next up, an awesome adventure taking you 75 minutes to the west and over to the Tarryall River. The five-mile stretch of this famed river provides Colorado Springs visitors an outstanding exclusive escape to indulge in world-class fishing, exquisite dining, and accommodations. While on this retreat, you will be able to view the beauty of the neighboring 120,000 acres of the Lost Creek Wilderness. Professional guides of The Broadmoor traverse you through these fantastic waters.

Fishing for wild brown and brook trout has never been more amazing. Five miles of a private river location, surrounded by timbered canyons and meticulously grassy green meadows, is a great way to highlight your fly-fishing style, whether it is dry flies or nymphs.

Camping at The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp is fantastic for a quick overnight stay, corporate meeting retreats, and those annual family reunions. Enjoy the wraparound deck at the Main Lodge, along with relaxation and meals, while seven rustic cabins await your arrival.

Other activities to enjoy while here includes hiking, horseback riding, and viewing the superb Colorado wildlife, so do not forget your camera!

11 MILE RESERVOIR

The 11-mile reservoir is the perfect spot for those that may be new to fly-fishing. It is also a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing. With waters that are known to be calming and peaceful, the beautiful Colorado Springs scenery offers a great way to learn or work on your fly-fishing skills.

Those with their equipment can experience the 11-mile reservoir and make a day out of it. Others that may not be able to access a fly-fishing rod or are visiting have the option for a guided tour. Another perk of this reservoir is breathtaking Rocky Mountain views.

ARKANSAS RIVER

When you drop a line in glistening waters, the feeling is warm and fuzzy, fly-fishing in Colorado Springs, and the Arkansas River up that feeling. It does not matter if you are standing on the riverbanks, in the middle of the river, casting your line in these pristine waters get you closer to the largest trout your eyes have seen.

SOUTH PLATTE RIVER

The South Platte River is considered a paradise for fly-fishing and fishers. Accessing the river is relatively easy, and there is a tremendous amount of fish, including rainbow trout and brown trout. Flowing through Cheesman Canyon, you will experience in streams, large boulders that have fallen from the canyon walls. With the unique exfoliated granite, unique shapes created, these are spectacular items that could draw your focus from the river. During weekends and various times throughout the week, the South Platte River becomes crowded, so factor this as you set out on your outdoor fly-fishing adventure.

CONCLUSION

It does not matter if you are a beginner or advanced fly-fisherman; these exciting places for fly-fishing in Colorado Springs are excellent for dropping a line. The trout will be waiting for you whether you are out on a solo adventure or a guided excursion.

Safer Outdoors–Outdoor Activities to Improve Your Health During COVID-19

Venturing out to the great outdoors regularly can have a positive, lasting impact on physical health, but in the era of COVID-19, it’s even more important to get out there and embrace the fresh air. While the coronavirus pandemic has caused the closure of many forms of indoor entertainment, outdoor activities have become a great source of comfort for millions. According to scientists, the outdoors is also the least likely place to contract COVID-19, so long as social distancing measures are followed. Colorado Springs provides the perfect backdrop for exciting, outdoor adventure, and at Broadmoor Outfitters, it’s our mission to craft one-of-a-kind experiences our guests will never forget. Here are a few Colorado Springs activities to help improve your mental and physical well-being during difficult times.  

 

Colorado Springs Hiking Adventures

Colorado Springs and surrounding areas house some of the most beautiful hiking trails in North America. With many gyms still closed to patrons, hiking serves as a fantastic source of exercise and an opportunity to enjoy the incredible fresh air that Colorado Springs has to offer. Broadmoor Outfitters has a number of guided hiking trails to ensure a safe, serene trip for everyone hoping to get moving amid COVID-19. Our guides are able to provide a wonderful experience, all while taking appropriate cautions to ensure guests’ safety is always top of mind. 

 

Broadmoor Outfitters Biking Tours

Biking around Garden of the Gods while the sun shines upon you is one of the best ways to escape the confines of your home. Not only does biking burn calories, but it’s also one of the best ways to take in the beauty of Colorado Springs. Broadmoor Outfitters hosts various biking tours to help you make the most of your time in the city. With Pike’s Peak off in the distance, our late afternoon and sunset make for the perfect memory for you and/or loved ones. 

 

Zip Lining Courses 

Nothing screams “fresh air” like flying through it at 500 ft.! Our Colorado Springs zip-lining adventures are ideal for the adrenaline-seekers among us, or anyone hoping to escape the indoors for some much-needed physical activity. Breeze by some of Colorado’s most magnificent natural landscapes on any one of our zip-lining adventures. We have multiple courses to choose from to ensure a spectacular view. 

 

Rock Climbing Excursions

At Broadmoor Outfitters, we always play it safe, but that’s not to say we don’t like to be daring. Our Colorado Springs rock climbing tours offer the chance to put your physical and mental skills to the test. Colorado Springs natural rock formations allow for some of the most thrilling rock climbing in the U.S., and we’re proud to offer a variety of rock climbing tours to accommodate varying skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or of a more advanced skill set, we’ve got a rock just for you. 

 

There has never been a better time for outdoor enjoyment, and we can’t wait to show you what we’ve got in store for you. Call us to book your next Colorado Springs outdoor adventure.  

Family taking a guided hike in the Garden of The Gods, Colorado Springs

An exhaustive guide to simpler traveling with small children

Getting ready to come to Colorado Springs. Great, there is a lot to do for you, and your family. Mary Kearl gives us some great tips and hints to bringing your young ones along.

I spent the first half of 2019 traveling with my husband and our one-year-old throughout South America, where we managed to visit some remote places, such as the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, the floating islands of the Uros people in Peru, and Ushuaia, in Argentina, also known as the end of the world.

When we talk about this, many fellow parents ask how we did it. Most of them say it’s a challenge to take their kid to the mall or the restaurant down the street, let alone travel with them to the other side of the world. The funny thing is that it’s always hard—putting your child’s needs first and keeping them healthy, happy, and entertained will always be difficult no matter how far from home you are.

Having visited 14 countries and 16 U.S. states on a total of 77 trips (and counting) with our child, I’ve learned a thing or two about traveling with babies and toddlers. It’s hard, but it’s possible.

Documentation

It may seem obvious, but no matter how young your child is, they’ll need a passport to leave the country—but it involves more than simply filling out a form. Getting a minor a passport requires demonstrating proof of citizenship, and the primary method is to submit a copy of their birth certificate. This document usually becomes available one month after a child’s birth, but may take longer. In our case, this proved challenging because our child was less than a month old when we first sought out a passport. We tried our local court, but finally obtained the document from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health for $28.

Health preparations

Thinking something might happen to you or your partner while away from home can be scary, but those fears amplify tenfold when you’re traveling with a young child. “Truth be told, most places are pretty safe for kids,” says Dr. Katherine Williamson, vice president of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “Travel is accommodating for families of all ages.”

But of course, being prepared makes things a lot easier for both the parents and the baby. Just add these items to your checklist before you hit the road:

Consult with your pediatrician

Ahead of your travels, it’s always a good idea to make an appointment with or talk to your pediatrician about any further advice regarding your child.

Medication

If your child is undergoing any kind of medical treatment, make sure you pack enough to last for the entirety of your trip. To be on the safe side, Williamson recommends packing a couple of extra doses and a prescription in case you need to purchase the medication while abroad.

Vaccinations

Make sure your child is up to date on their routine vaccines. Start by protecting them against influenza with the flu shot for kids aged six months and older, and check the Center for Disease Control guidelines about what other vaccines they’ll need for particular countries or specific outbreaks that might be occurring. One of the biggest concerns involving travel outside the U.S. is measles. Routine vaccines starting at age one will protect against this highly contagious disease, but your child can get the measles vaccine as early as six months if you’re traveling, Williamson says.

Plan ahead to ensure proper sleep

The first two to three days are key, and you should try to get ahead of jet lag as much as possible by gradually adjusting your kid’s bedtime. For time changes greater than two or three hours, Williamson recommends you give toddlers between 0.5 to 1 milligram of melatonin while you’re on the plane at what will be bedtime at the destination you’re visiting. This will help them start sleeping at the right time. Conversely, once you get to your destination, help your child adjust to time zone changes by having them be active during waking hours, exposing them to sunlight during the day, and not letting them nap longer than normal.

Talk to people who’ve been there

There’s only so much online research you can do before being overloaded with information. The best way to get a sense of a place is to talk to somebody who’s actually been there and ask whatever questions Google couldn’t answer for you.

Packing

Let's play a game: try spotting the toddler among the suitcases.
. Popular Science

As of this writing, our family of three has been living out of two suitcases, a backpack, and a diaper bag for exactly 10 months. That sounds challenging for two adults alone, but packing requires a whole new level of expertise when an infant or toddler is involved. Fear not—we’ve been learning from our mistakes so you don’t have to. Next time you embark on an adventure with your little one, make sure you always have these items handy:

Enough clothes

When our child was an infant, my packing rule of thumb was to bring about three daytime outfits and two pajamas per day to account for spills, getting sick, and diaper leaks. It’s a lot, but with the transition to toddlerhood, I kept following this rule with great success, only breaking it when I know I’m going somewhere we’ll be able to wash our clothes.

Diapers, wipes, and diaper rash cream

These are a must, whether you’re flying across the world with your toddler or visiting a friend on the other side of town. The key here is to ensure you’ll never have to depend on finding a store, so even though it may sound over-the-top, I pack double the amount of diapers and wipes I think I’ll need. In my experience, no matter how big an airport or transit station is, it’s not likely even the most essential baby products will be readily available.

Plenty of entertainment

This will take up space, so be prepared to carry this stuff in its own bag if necessary. To start with, we pack a lot of board books—10 for trips of any size, since we may read through all of them before our child is ready for nap time. Hopefully, it’ll take fewer with yours, but be prepared to have options, or you’ll be stuck reading the same two or three stories on a loop. Also, include several toys and stuffed animals. Make sure you bring extra, since it’s almost certain you’ll lose some along the way.

A baby carrier

A great alternative to the traditional stroller. We used this for our seven months of international travel, since most places we visited had uneven terrain and were not stroller-friendly.

Car seat

This is important whether you’re driving your own car or not, since there’s no guarantee one will be available or in good condition through your rental car company. Plus, the rental price of a seat can be more than the cost of a new car seat, depending on the length of your trip.

A travel bed and baby blanket

Some parents will try to save themselves some trouble and co-sleep with their babies. But the APP doesn’t recommend this for children younger than a year old, so bringing a travel bed for your baby is absolutely necessary. More on this later.

Other essentials

Nail clippers, baby thermometer (digital or traditional—it’s up to you), travel first aid kit (it’s easiest to buy one and complement it with additional necessities for you and your child), two bottles, and two sippy cups (it’s best to have two of each to replace a lost one or stand in for a dirty one).

The medical packing list

Being sick while traveling is bad, but for babies it's even worse. Make sure to pack everything your child needs if something goes wrong. Here's hoping you'll never use any of it.
. Popular Science

You know when you travel and you feel tired and grumpy, and sometimes that even leads to physical pain or discomfort? Well, young children go through the same, and they usually don’t know how to cope with it. Williamson recommends packing these essentials to avoid or quickly placate any illness:

Acetaminophen (safe for infants and toddlers) or ibuprofen (safe for children at least six months old).

  • Use for general pain and discomfort.
  • These help with almost anything, from flight-related pressure to a fever. If your child is having a hard time, Williamson recommends to giving it to them mixed with a drink or soft food, like pudding or yogurt.

Cetirizine and loratadine (safe for kids aged two and up) or diphenhydramine (safe for six months and up).

  • Use to prevent travel or motion sickness, and to treat minor allergic reactions that only entail skin rashes. If, while traveling, your child develops any allergies that include swelling of the lips, eyelids, or extremities, or starts vomiting or has difficulty breathing, see a doctor immediately.

Hydrocortisone cream and calamine lotion.

  • Use for mosquito bites.
  • For all bug bites, Williamson suggests applying hydrocortisone cream and then a layer of calamine lotion on top.

Ondansetron (consult with your pediatrician), a powdered electrolyte replacement , and potentially antibiotics for if you contract traveler’s diarrhea from consuming contaminated food or water (consult with your pediatrician)

  • Use for motion sickness, nausea, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
  • For some kids, it’s common to get sick in the car or on the plane. If that’s the case with your child, Williamson recommends talking to a pediatrician about getting a prescription for ondansetron, which can also help with gastrointestinal issues, such as an upset stomach. If your toddler is experiencing nausea or diarrhea, rehydration solutions such as an electrolyte replacement can help ensure your child stays hydrated. And if you’re traveling somewhere where traveler’s diarrhea is a concern, you should ask your pediatrician if getting a prescription antibiotic for the condition would be appropriate for your child.

Other medical devices and medications as needed. If your child has known conditions, pack all the things you’ll need to treat them. This includes an inhaler or nebulizer (for children with respiratory issues), an epinephrine injector (for children with severe allergic reactions), and antibiotics (for children prone to ear infections).

Preparing a “shortcut” bag

When you’re packing for a toddler, consider two levels of packing: everything you’ll need for your trip, and the bag of whatever you want to have handy when you’re on the go—no matter how you’re traveling. Our diaper bag is always so stuffed with all the above necessities that I usually throw it in the overhead bin or keep it at our accommodations when we head out to sightsee. What I do instead is pack another bag, such as a lightweight foldable backpack, that serves as an accessible baby emergency kit. Here’s what to pack:

  • A sippy cup and bottle
  • Snacks, such as cereal, crackers, fruit, and nuts (once your child is eating solids)
  • Formula (up to 12 months) or whole milk (1 year and up)
  • Wipes, and one or two diapers
  • One change of clothing for your toddler
  • A couple of favorite toys and books
  • A plastic bag (in case your baby gets motion sickness, or to store a diaper until it can be disposed of)
  • (Optional) A change of clothing for the parents—especially if your kid is prone to motion sickness. We learned this the hard way after our baby got sick on our laps, and all of our clothes were packed away in checked bags under a plane.

Surviving the journey

It'll be exciting and exhausting. And not just for you.
. Popular Science

I remember how terrified I was ahead of our first cross-country flight—I didn’t want to be that family everybody hates because their baby won’t stop crying. Most people with small children will get to know this fear, but they won’t travel enough to figure out just how to deal with a small kid on a plane. With our now-two-year-old having logged 63 flights and counting, I can confirm what you may have already suspected: there’s no science to the perfect trip with a small child. That said, there are some strategies that will help.

Always pick the aisle seat

From diaper changes to crying sessions, you’ll want the easiest possible access to the bathroom and aisle.

Assume every carry-on item will require extra screening by airport security

Even though liquids, such as breast milk and juice, are allowed on planes when you’re traveling with an infant or toddler, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration says it “may need to test liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items.” We have missed flights due to extra screening, so be sure to factor this in when you calculate the amount of time you’ll need to arrive at the gate in time.

Take advantage of early boarding

Families with small children usually get the privilege of boarding planes first. Use the extra time to arrange your seat so you’ll have easy access to all those go-to travel items listed above, one last diaper change, and bathroom trips for the adults.

Plan for the worst

This means arranging everything as if your baby won’t sleep for a minute of the journey and there will be travel delays. At first, people recommended we take night flights so we’d all be more likely to sleep. This worked well and our little one became the ideal traveler, sleeping for most, if not all, of any given flight. But that has changed, and our child has begun sleeping less consistently on the plane. Now we book daytime flights and plan as if everyone is going to be awake (and will need to be entertained) the entire time.

Don’t be scared

Some people will be annoyed to find themselves sitting next to you and your kid on a plane, but that seems to be the exception to the rule. In my experience, most people understand how much harder travel is with a young one, and go out of their way to help you.

Sleeping

Ahead of our first cross-country trip with our baby, my husband and I opted for a portable bassinet which met our search criteria by having the following features:

  • Sides made of breathable mesh
  • Removable, washable padding
  • Could be folded to fit under the seat of a plane
  • Could fit a baby for up to six months (some are only recommended for the first three to four months, making a $50-$100 purchase quickly obsolete)

The bassinet worked great for the first six months, but after that, and as our child grew, we had to get creative. Co-sleeping with our baby in our beds didn’t work because our presence distracted our otherwise sound sleeper, who woke several times during the night. We also tried creating a makeshift bed out of pillows and blankets, which worked fine until our baby started crawling and began moving out of the nest. After that, we considered a portable travel crib, but because it’s the size of an oversized backpack when folded, it falls into a grey area when it comes to baggage policy, and can sometimes qualify as a suitcase (at a cost) for discount airlines.

Ultimately we landed on the $15.99 Wayfinder TravelTot baby tent, which works just as well as more expensive options, such as the portable crib. But unlike other alternatives, this tent folds down to a thin sleeve that fits in my carry-on backpack. Since it has no padding, we usually request extra bedding and stack one or two thick quilts underneath the bed and layer a baby blanket inside. The bed survived 11 countries, 61 different Airbnbs and hotels, 30 flights, dozens of ferries and buses, and helped us maintain nap and sleep schedules during a 17-hour flight delay in Bariloche, Argentina. After all that wear and tear, we’re now on our second one.

While our baby’s bed has remained consistent, everything else—the sounds, lighting, temperature, and time zones—has been in constant change. The first two weeks of our international journey, we saw our normally easy sleeper taking longer and longer to fall asleep. Now we make an effort to keep the bedtime routine as consistent as possible—every night, no matter where we are in the world, we have a half-hour wind-down period for a bath and reading books. Things improved almost immediately.

Setting realistic expectations

Yeah, this is not it.
. Popular Science

Family trips with our baby have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my life. That said, the travel life is different when one member of the family is sleeping half the day, needs to eat more than three meals a day, and has a variable attention span.

While it is possible to travel with a baby, it is important to ground your expectations, and most likely change the way you’ve been traveling so far. For us, this has meant having a more limited list of things we want to see and do, or even staying longer than recommended in a place to complete it.

We’ve also realized we cannot do everything together as a family, and sometimes it’s a good idea to part ways. In the Ica Desert in Peru, my husband went on a dune buggy ride while baby and I went swimming in the Huacachina oasis, and in the Amazon, I went on a night crocodile tour while my husband and baby slept. It is a great way to ensure everyone gets to do what they want to do.

Needless to say, we don’t see much nightlife due to the child’s bedtime, and it’s always a good idea to opt for free or lower-cost activities, museums, and live performances rather than investing money in ones we may not be able to fully enjoy.

As a lifelong traveler, I wanted to share my love of travel with my child—and it’s paid off.

Written by Mary Kearl for Popular Science and legally licensed through the Matcha publisher network. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@getmatcha.com.

Colorado Springs Team Building

Take Your Corporate Tour to the Next Level with Broadmoor Outfitters

Take Your Corporate Tour to the Next Level with Broadmoor Outfitters With companies across the world affected by COVID-19, now may be the perfect time to wrangle your team together in order to refocus and regroup. Colorado Springs and the sprawling natural beauty that surrounds it make for the ultimate backdrop for corporate tours, outings, and team trainings. Broadmoor Outfitters offers a variety of specially-designed tours to help businesses get the most out of their time in Colorado Springs. Our corporate tours are expertly crafted to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience your team will never forget. Here are a few ways Broadmoor Outfitters can assist teams hoping to enjoy some outdoor adventure. Colorado Springs Corporate Tours With over 27 years of experience dealing with high-level clients and guests across all industries, we know a thing or two about engaging a group. First, our team works closely with yours to determine your goals. Whether your it’s improving trust among your team, boosting morale, or strengthening your team dynamic, we’ll use your goals to craft a 5-star event that sees your team embark on a day of adventure. Activities are designed to drive cooperation and teamwork each step of the way, and with activities suitable for all fitness levels, no member of your team is ever left behind. Carefully Crafted Experiences Trust in your tour guide is important. Our Colorado Springs outdoor tours are guided by a team of professional facilitators with years of experience in planning adventures for groups of all sizes. Whether you are set on an action-packed day that challenges your team, or a calming, serene escape that focuses on improving mental health, our team at Broadmoor Outfitters is dedicated to delivering an experience that captures the essence of Colorado Springs and the great outdoors. Colorado Springs Outdoor Team Building Activities There’s no shortage of adventure when you’re visiting Colorado Springs. At Broadmoor Outfitters, we specialize in crafting thrilling experiences, and we do this with careful consideration for our guests’ comfort and safety. Groups that book with Broadmoor Outfitters can select from exciting outdoor activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, or even falconry. Each of these encourages cooperation, trust, and teamwork to help you make the most of your team-building trip. The Famous Broadmoor Hunt  Scavenger hunts are a great way to bring your entire team together for a common goal. Our version, the Broadmoor Hunt, is a modern twist on the classic. Gather your team for a heart-pumping day of scouring around Colorado Springs in search of adventure. This app-based activity is both challenging and fun for participants, with a great sense of accomplishment after completion. Other team activities, such as The Amazing Race, FireQuest, and Battle of the Bridges, are a sure way to keep guests engaged for hours. Are you ready to take your next corporate event or team-building day to the next level? Call us to start planning your next day in Colorado Springs.
Hiking the Barr Trail

3 Colorado Springs Area Hikes Worth the Adventure

Pike’s Peak and the Colorado Springs beauty brings outdoor
enthusiasts to the area daily and ever since the 1880s. Hiking trails are
routed all around this remarkable city and are available year-round.

Whether it is a moderate, difficult, or easy trail you are
seeking, these three Colorado Springs area hikes are worth the adventure. 

Lace-up your best pair of hiking boots and set off on in
search of refreshing air and exercise.

Barr
Trail

Extreme adventures looking for a 26.2 roundtrip trail will be in heaven when looking for a path that will take them to Pikes Peak. Barr Trail starts at Manitou Springs, located less than ten miles of Colorado Springs, and will have you up at the top of Pikes Peak when completed.

This trail is on the difficult side. Be prepared for some
intense hiking, as Barr Trail is an advanced trail, or plan to stay overnight
at Barr Camp. The amount of time to reach Pikes Peak summit is around six to
ten hours. Remember to take into consideration temperature, weather changes,
and altitude.

Some crucial areas along Barr Trail include mile 9, and open
shelter area for hikers to build a campfire, and mile 13, Pikes Peak Summit.

Fido is welcome on this trail if he stays on his leash. Bicycles
are also able to travel here. Hiking is not available year-round, just from
April to October. There is also a fee to park at the Barr Trail parking lot.

Rainbow
Gulch Trail

While in the Manitou Springs area and looking for an easy trail, consider Rainbow Gulch Trail. Start at Rampart Range Road close to Woodland Park and end at Rampart Reservoir, a 400-acre recreation area that lies in the Pike National Forest. At less than three miles long, every skill level will enjoy this delightful hike.

Bird lovers will be in heaven, walking along this trail. Do
not forget your camera! Nature and scenery are fabulous, and you will want to
capture the beauty.

The Intemann
Trail

At less than five miles, 4.81 to be exact, Intemann Trail is excellent for hikers of all levels. The trail connects Manitou Springs to Section 16 and Bear Creek Regional Park. It is also a way to get from Manitou Springs to Colorado Springs. Of course, the trek is completed solely by trails.

During your hike, be amazed at views of the Garden of the
Gods, Manitou Springs, and Red Rock Open Space. Hiking is permitted all year.
What an incredible way to see the leaves change, the snowfall, spring flowers,
and so much more.

Bicycles, horses, and dogs on a leash are frequent visitors
of the Intemann Trail, so keep an eye out for them.

Conclusion

When searching
for endless outdoor recreation and adventure near Colorado Springs, consider trying
your hand at one of these three hiking trails.

There are many more hiking trails in the Colorado Springs area if these amazing trails do not satisfy your wanderlust. One to note is Heizer Trail, a moderate-difficult trail that will take you across Cascade Mountains Summit.

Contact Broadmoor Outfitters if you have any questions or need any local planning advice.

Geocaching with Broadmoor Outfitters in Colorado Springs

Geocaching: A Family Adventure or Solo Fun in the Colorado Springs Area

Are you looking for an outdoor recreational activity in the Colorado Springs area that could be a family adventure or solo fun? Then look no further than geocaching. Getting started is simple; all you need is your mobile device, GPS receiver, or some other navigational tool to look up the coordinates.

What is a Geocache

For the normal geocache, first, a geocacher places a logbook (including pen or pencil), items to trade in a container, and records the coordinates of that cache. Next, the coordinates and location become shared on a listing site. Those that geocache then finds the coordinates on the site take their GPS devices and go hunting. Once they find the location and item, enter the entries into the logbook and online.

 

In the world of geocaching, treasures, or swag, are items that do not have a substantial monetary value. They may, though, be personal to those who hide the loot. Typical swag includes books, little toys, coins, hat pins, and different types of buttons.

 

Do not forget to return the cache to where you found it so that others may find it. The item, except the logbook, pen, or pencil, may be taken if you have something to leave in its place.

 

Some caches that move from one place to another. Hitchhikers, as referred to, usually have detailed goals assigned to their items. Some examples include placing the cache xx amount of distance from home.

 

Travel Bugs and Geocoins are specific caches that have websites for people to log and follow where they have been online.

 

Almost anything is as a cache except for food, drugs, andanything illegal. Refer to the rules of the listing site.

 

Some great places to geocache in and around Colorado Springs include the Fallen Firefighter Memorial or the Nature Center at Garden of the Gods.

 

Types of Geocache

 

Challenge Cache

This type of geocache requires the geocacher to complete individual geocaching goals before they can record that they found the cache. Possible tasks would include finding five caches in a particular category or locating a cache every day for 30 days.

 

Geocaching.com classifies this type of cache part of the Mystery cache. Other listing sites may consider the challenge cache a standalone class.

 

Mystery Cache

Solve a puzzle or locate specific information, and you will be participating in a mystery cache to find precisely where your cache is.

 

Night Cache

You guessed it! Break out the flashlights, see where the reflectors take you and find that prize location! Some listing sites may classify this as a type of mystery cache.

 

Multi-Cache

The Multi-cache occurs in one or more steps. Locate one, gather the coordinates, move to the next, again recording coordinates, and finally finding the container with the logbook.

 

Traveling Cache

After you have obtained the coordinates from the listing site, head out, find the cache, and then take it somewhere else. You would record the coordinates of where you placed the item so that the next geocacher can continue the cycle.

 

Location Cache

Location caches are close to a scavenger hunt. The geocacher has a description of what to locate. The item you are searching for could be a yellow fire hydrant, brown door, red and black boat, or pink flamingo. After finding the article, use your GPS device and record the location. A picture of both the object and device occurs as well. No one else can use this location as a find.

 

Traditional Cache

Traditional caches are widespread and common. A container with a logbook is standard, as are exact coordinates for locating the cache.

 

Conclusion

Geocaching is an excellent outdoor recreational activity to do with family or solo in the Colorado Springs area. Broadmoor Outfitters  can help you get going. Whatever site listing you decide on utilizing your observation and detective skills will be put to the test looking for those containers.

Geocaching is a great way to social distance exercise at the same time. So, gather up the family or lace up your tennis shoes and have some fun. Contact Broadmoor Outfitters  for more information and how to get going.