What is Colorado Springs Famous For?

The fame of Colorado spreads far and wide. The entire state is known for its breathtaking mountains, sweeping vistas, and huge amounts of outdoor recreation. There are plenty of cities that you can call home, from Boulder and Denver to Grand Junction and Durango.

Out of all these areas, Colorado Springs tops the charts at number one on lists like America’s Best Cities by Outside Magazine and Best Big City in Money magazine. 

So, with all of the hot spots spread throughout the state, why is Colorado Springs so popular? 

Location, Location, Location

For starters, this big city sits in one of the most prime locations in the entire state. The city is just over 6,000 feet up in altitude and located only 60 miles south of Denver. Not only do they have easy access to the sun and the bigger city here, but there’s also quick access to Pikes Peak, one of the most well-renowned mountains in the entire country.

This location brings the area some of the best weather to be found just about anywhere. The altitude brings a strong and warming sun, and the city only gets an average of 41 inches of snowfall each year. There are rarely huge piles of snow sitting downtown, but you can get to the slopes and ski to your heart’s desire in no time at all. 

The foothills of the Rockies are a pristine example of beautiful locations for outdoor recreation. Colorado Springs is best known for Garden of the Gods, a massive National Natural Landmark with biodiversity as it sprawls from the grasslands up into the mountains. With a playground like this, locals rarely need to travel far to find exactly what they’re looking for.

Strong Sense of Community

Although the city has a population of well over 450,000, there is still a tight-knit community that holds strong regardless of numbers. Any time you visit, there are arts festivals, farmer’s markets, or music events somewhere in the city. There’s constantly something to do because everyone wants to make this a fun and diverse place to live. 

The community shares one main thing in common: the outdoors.

People here are keen on getting out and exploring, which may be why the town’s dress code seems to be “business casual.” Patagonia jackets and Prana pants are the typical attire worn around the city, ready to get out into the mountains at all times. Everyone wants to help others get outside.

That’s also why there are so many great outdoor tours in Colorado Springs

This love for the outdoors transfers into a love for general health. It always finds its way onto lists about the Healthiest Cities in America, and you can see why. Not only is there a ton of access to active weekends, but it also has some of the cleanest air in the entire state. People here care about the environment, and it shows. This is only one of the many reasons that quality of life is so high. 

Home to the Olympics

Another unique part of this majestic city is the Olympic Training Center. The US Olympic Headquarters has made its home here, seeing the opportunity for a great location to train athletes. 

On-site, there is an Olympic museum that displays the past accomplishments of our country’s athletes. You can learn a lot about how athletes train to become the best of the best as they all race to achieve their dreams. 

The 35-acre campus can be a lot to explore on your own, so you can jump onto a guided tour just about any time during the week. There are tours open, and available Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 4 pm. It’s well worth the exploration to get an insight into a completely different lifestyle. 

Pets Rule

If you’re a dog person, a cat person, or even an iguana person, this city is for you.

This is one of the most pet-friendly places out there, with dog parks all around and pet-friendly trails, so you never have to leave anyone at home. 

Education Centered

Colorado Springs is well-known for the focus it places on providing a top-notch education for its residents. The city scores highly on all standardized tests, and its high schools emphasize college preparation as part of their curriculum. 

There are several universities and colleges that call this city home, such as the University of Northern Colorado and the University of Colorado. Plenty of students commute to and from the city just because it is a place worth living, even if you need to drive every day. 

Families and married couples are drawn to this city to raise their children and receive some of the best education around. It’s a phenomenal place to raise children, as you won’t ever be bored or seeking out others to play with. 

Things to Do

There’s so much to do inside and outside the city limits. The list is endless. The downtown has an active nightlife that appeals to night owls that want to get out and dance. It also has cozy coffee houses where you can go and read a book or get work done. All of these bakeries, bars, nightclubs, and restaurants boast a magnificent view of the Rocky Mountains right from your seat.

If you are looking to get outside of the city and explore, the list gets even longer. There are plenty of Colorado Springs attractions near the city limits, like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. There are massive parks all around where you can hike, mountain bike, ride horses, fish, and be. 

It’s time to get out to Colorado Springs and see what it has for you. There’s only so much that words can tell you, and this is a place that you genuinely need to see for yourself. 

Our Favorite Hikes Near Colorado Springs

The landscape of Colorado is calling for everyone to come hiking. The stunning mountains, waterfalls, and red rocks make for a unique experience, no matter your skill level. Undoubtedly, one of the best ways to start your exploration of Colorado is by checking out the hikes near Colorado Springs. 

Nestled in the foothills of the mountains, Colorado Springs gives quick and easy access to some of the most diverse trails in the state. Remember that some hikes in the area may require a permit. For ease of use, we selected trails that match those in beauty, but there are no permits required for hikes.

Best hikes near Colorado Springs

Muscoco

Location: Mount Cutler/Mt. Muscoco Trailhead

Elevation Gain: 1,292 feet

Round Trip Mileage: 4.0 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Views of the mountains sweep out to your right, and Colorado Springs lays the backdrop to your left as you head up to the summit of Mount Muscoco. This moderate trail is located just southwest of Colorado Springs in the North Cheyenne Cañon Park. It’s a quick drive out to a hike that is well worth the final climb. 

The Mount Muscoco trail is well-known for the wildflowers that it boasts in the springtime, making it a great trail to do as the snow starts to melt. 

The Mount Cutler trail takes you to the trail that you are truly looking for. About a mile down the Mount Cutler trail is the Mount Muscoco trail. This trail will take you straight to the summit, but beware, the final climb is where all of the difficulty lies in this trail. 

For this hike, in particular, quality hiking boots are highly recommended. The final climb is rocky, and sneakers aren’t suitable to give your feet the support they will need. 

The Crags Trail

Location: Near Divide, CO

Elevation Gain: 820 feet

Round Trip Mileage: 4.8 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

We suggest checking out the Crags Trail for a great introduction to the area. Not only does it display some of the best landscapes of the area, but it also won’t push you too hard and make you not want to hike again. The trail is long enough to make it a workout and is relatively flat, with a total elevation gain of about 820 feet. 

The Crags Trail gives you a view of some of the most unique geological features in all of Colorado. Granite slabs erupt from the ground in large numbers, forming massive cliff sides and sheer-faced walls. The trail also takes you through some huge aspen forests that allow you to see another part of Colorado’s brilliant landscape. Head out on this trail in the fall and be prepared to have your world blanketed in gold by these magnificent trees. 

Another reason why this trail is perfect for beginners is the ease of use. It’s well-marked, as trail number 664, and well-maintained. The forest service has recently constructed new parking, so you don’t need to rush there at 6 in the morning to get a spot. 

If you’re a beginner wanting to start exploring these areas, ensure that you are prepared. Read up on Colorado hiking safety and know before you go. 

Garden of the Gods – The Palmer, Buckskin-Charley, Niobrara, and Bretag Trail Loop

Location: Garden of the Gods Park

Elevation Gain: 449 feet

Round Trip Mileage: 4.0 miles

Difficulty: Easy

When avid hikers think about Colorado Springs, one of the first places that come to mind is Garden of the Gods. This National Natural Landmark is well-known for the sandstone towers that color the sky with their vibrant reds. Come here once, and you’ll be itching to come back and try the climbing, horseback riding, or mountain biking that the park has to offer. 

This trail, in particular, is a phenomenal introduction to the park. It combines four popular trails to make an easy four-mile loop, providing a taste of everything in the park. The route starts on the Palmer Trail and takes twists and turns through the most well-known towers in the park. 

Columbine Trail

Location: North Cheyenne Cañon Park

Elevation Gain: 1,607 feet

Round Trip Mileage: 7.6 miles

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Now, here’s another trail to add to your list of Fall hiking in Colorado Springs. North Cheyenne Cañon is surrounded by mountains (some of which have also made this list) and provides an array of different views and landscapes to please everyone that tags along. 

The Columbine Trail has three different options for where to start. One of the best places to start, in our opinion, is the Starsmore Discovery Center. This center has a wealth of knowledge about the local flora and fauna, making it a great start or end to your hike. 

No matter what you are looking for, you can find it on the Columbine Trail. There are babbling brooks, warbling birds, and huge mountain vistas. While the trail is on the longer side, the elevation gains are evenly spread out, so you will barely notice it. 

Buckhorn

Location: North Cheyenne Cañon Park

Elevation Gain: 859 feet

Round Trip Mileage: 3.9 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Another hike in North Cheyenne Cañon Park makes the list, showing off what this one place truly has to offer. If you’re trying to figure out where to hike in Colorado Springs, this park is a great place to start. 

Mount Buckhorn Peak is a quick hike up to a beautiful 8,380-foot summit that gives you a full 360-degree view of the world around you. The hike itself takes you through a forested setting that is a must-see in the fall. Once you are at the top, you can turn this trail into a quick out-and-back or continue down Buckhorn trail and return to where you started. 

The summit itself is somewhere you could spend an entire day. Once you are up there, you can scramble around on the huge number of boulders trying to find the highest one. This is an excellent hike if you want to take time to explore. 

Best Lodging in Colorado Springs for Hikers

There are many great reasons to stay in Colorado Springs, but the main draw for tourists is outdoor recreation. If you’re coming into town to hike, bike, climb, or do any of the other many exciting outdoor activities in our area, you also need a place to stay. 

Websites and services like Airbnb or even Glamping Hub have made it easier to customize your experience to fit your needs. There are pros and cons to all types of lodging in Colorado Springs. So, first, identifying your personal travel needs and budget can help you narrow down the options. 

Since Colorado Springs has grown to be such a popular travel destination, you have a variety of options to choose from, including, hotels, lodges, vacation rentals, campgrounds, van rentals, cabins, and resorts. 

To help you get the best of all of the options, we’ve put together a list of our top choice for hotels, lodges, and resorts. That way, you’ll have only the top recommendations in each category to contend with, helping you get one step closer to the best experience Colorado Springs has to offer. 

Our Favorite Hotel for Hikers: Best Western Plus Peak Vista Inn & Suites

Booking a lodge or staying at a resort isn’t for everyone. That’s why we’ve included one of Trip Advisor’s Traveler recommendations as our top hotel choice for hikers. 

The Best Western is in the prime location for families and other travelers to check out local attractions like Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs. You’re also in a prime location to enjoy many of the local restaurants and shops. You’ll have easy access to main roads, hiking, tours, and more.

This hotel is pet-friendly and has lots of green space for walking your pet around when you’re at the hotel. So, consider this an optimal stop-over point for those of you who always travel with your dog. 

Like most standard hotels, you can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, wi-fi, guest laundry, a pool, and a fitness center. We will say, if you’re looking for a clean and affordable place that has friendly staff and a good location, this hotel is a top contender. You’ll also be relatively close to the Broadmoor Outfitters meeting location if you stay here. 

Do not expect additional perks or services when staying in a hotel, though. Consider our recommendations below if you’re looking for a more “all-inclusive” stay in Colorado Springs. 

Top Rated Lodge in Colorado Springs: The Lodge at Flying Horse

As a 2020 TripAdvisor Traveler’s choice lodge, we felt the need to include the Lodge at Flying Horse on our list. Adventure couples especially enjoy this facility with the two private 18-hole golf courses, access to swimming pools, an athletic club and spa, and attractions within driving distance. 

As far as a lodge experience goes, this one is excellent. We will say that the drive is about 25 minutes to Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak Railway from here. So, you’ll want to make sure you have a vehicle or book a tour.

The lodge itself is picturesque, and many guests enjoy rooms with a patio and mountain views. There is on-site dining, so after a day hiking or biking on nearby trails, you can head back to the lodge to freshen up, enjoy dinner, and relax. 

The Broadmoor Resort

The Best Resort for Outdoor Families: The Broadmoor

Although our first two options offer amazing experiences, if you are looking for a gorgeous resort, wilderness experience, and you want to discover adventure, look no further than The Broadmoor. As far as places to stay in Colorado Springs, The Broadmoor offers longstanding impeccable accommodations, services, and distinct amenities. 

You’ll rediscover the spirit of adventure with the unique opportunities and proximity to mountains, streams, and canyons. What’s even better is that The Broadmoor is home to countless outdoor adventure tours. 

Experience Colorado Springs like never before with once-in-a-lifetime zipline tours, guided hikes, and family-friendly adventures. When you get back to the resort, relax at the spa and enjoy the personalized luxury only The Broadmoor can provide. 

If you book any adventures with Broadmoor Outfitters, our trips leave from basecamp as a Broadmoor guest, making the adventure even more convenient. Non-hotel guests meet at the activity booth located across from Golden Bee restaurant on 6 Lake Ave. 

How to Layer for Fall Hiking in Colorado

If you are a big hiker or nature enthusiast, you know that fall is arguably the best season for hiking. The energizing nip of crisp air on your face, the colorful foliage as nature buckles down for winter – personally, it’s my favorite time of year. If you are hoping to enjoy fall hiking here in Colorado, you certainly need to know how to layer for hiking. These tips on proper layering techniques will help ensure you are prepared for the weather you might encounter on a fall hike in the beautiful Rocky Mountains.

The Principles of Layering for Colorado’s Fall Weather

The first thing to know is that the term ‘layering’ doesn’t mean just wearing more and more clothes. In order to brave the elements and stay comfortable and safe, you need to wear the proper clothes in the proper order. First, the base layer serves to keep you dry when you sweat. Next, the middle layer is insulating to help retain body heat in Colorado’s colder weather. Finally, the outer layer protects against the harsher conditions you may experience on a fall hike.

We’ll start at the base layer and work our way out, so you understand what fabrics are best for each layer. We’ll also learn how to layer for the specifics of fall weather in Colorado and the hikes you are planning. As you likely know, fall in Colorado can range from warm to very cold. The weather can change quickly, and conditions can worsen with no warning. Especially if you are hiking to a higher elevation, say summiting one of the state’s many fourteeners, you will find temperatures and precipitation requiring a much different outfit than what you had on in the parking lot. It’s important to dress and pack well, as you will learn.

Image by David Mark from Pixabay

The Wicking Base Layer 

You can think of the base layer as the clothing that touches your skin. This is more than just a t-shirt and shorts or a long-sleeved shirt and long underwear. Remember that the base layer also includes underwear (boxers, briefs, bras, and more) and socks.

The main goal of the base layer is to wick away moisture and keep your skin dry. As you know, sweat cools you down, stealing your body heat much faster than a cold breeze. In the hot summer, you may not mind a cotton shirt absorbing and holding your sweat. In the fall and winter, though, cotton is at the top of the “Absolutely Not” list. Seriously, it’s one of the most important hiking safety tips of all time.

Photo by Stephen Leonardi on Unsplash

The Best Base Layer Materials

The best synthetic fabrics for base layers are polyester and nylon. You likely have these in your closet as your running or exercise clothes. You can go by personal preference, as long as it is ‘moisture-wicking,’ ‘dry-fit,’ or the like. Again, make sure your bras and boxers meet these criteria, too. A great natural fabric, especially for socks, is wool, as it wicks moisture and provides great heat retention. Wool is good for clothing, too, if you are in colder temperatures or hiking Colorado’s many mountains. It will keep you warm without being too heavy, but it also is more expensive than synthetic fabrics.

There are a few different options in terms of the weights of base layers, and you can decide based on the time of year and anticipated weather. No matter what you choose, your base layer should always be moisture-wicking. This layer should also fit snugly against your skin. You don’t want gaps between your skin and the material as it won’t be able to wick sweat away as effectively. A tight but comfortable base layer will keep your skin dry, which in turn will keep you warm and prevent skin irritation, like chafing and blisters.

Base Layering Tips for Colorado’s Fall Weather

Base layers are organized by weight; lightweight or ultra-lightweight for hotter weather and midweight or heavyweight for the colder months. This might mean shorts and a t-shirt in early fall when Colorado temperatures are in the 50s or 60s, and long johns and long-sleeved shirts in late fall when it’ll be in the 30s and 40s on average. Because the weather can change quickly here, especially in the mountains, I prefer to keep my base layer light and carry a heavier middle layer in my day pack.

Remember, the goal of this layer is moisture-wicking, where warmth is the job of the middle layer. That’s why lighter base layers make sense in Colorado’s fall conditions. You can always add more clothes later if the temperature drops up the mountain. The one exception to this is socks. My feet always run cold, so I highly recommend a thick wool sock for fall hikes, ones that cover your ankles! As long as your hiking boots are breathable, your feet will be happily dry and warm.

The Insulating Middle Layer

Next up, it is the job of the middle layer to retain body heat and keep you warm in colder temperatures. Where base layers tend to be stretchy and thin, you’ll recognize your middle layer pieces by their soft and puffy qualities. When shopping, you may see middle layer options listed as ‘soft shells.’ Depending on the weather, you can choose a lighter or heavier option, so it’s a good idea to have multiple middle layer pieces if you are planning on frequent fall hikes in Colorado. 

Photo by lucas Favre on Unsplash

Middle Layer Options for Fall in Colorado

For lighter wear, you might go with a microfleece pullover or hoodie. Fleece is nice because it dries quickly and stays warm. It is also breathable so that you won’t overheat. This is a great option for the early fall in Colorado. However, if it’s windy, you will definitely need an outer shell, or you’ll find the breathability a weakness.

For the colder days, a down jacket is the best middle layer. I am partial to synthetic down, both for the animals and the water resistance. Down insulated jackets don’t hold up well when wet, but they compress better than synthetic down if you need to save space in your pack. If a softshell is all you plan on wearing, I’d recommend one with a hood, so your neck stays warm. In this case, though, you will definitely need to pack a waterproof outer shell, as the fall in Colorado sees rain or snow regularly.

The Defending Outer Layer

Once you’ve got the dry and warm inner layers set, the last part of knowing how to layer for hiking is protecting against the elements. Fall in Colorado can be all over the map in terms of weather conditions, and this outer shell is key for making sure the wind, rain, and snow don’t penetrate and leave you cold and miserable.

Photo by Daniel Lincoln on Unsplash

The Best Outer Layers for Colorado’s Fall Season

For both jackets and pants, you will want waterproof outerwear. Trust me when I say that “water-resistant” is not good enough! If you get caught in a downpour, a water-resistant layer is going to soak and leave you shivering. Also, be sure it has a hood. Rain dripping down your neck and back is truly an uncomfortable and dangerous way to spend a hike.

In addition to water- and wind-proof material, your outer layer should also be breathable. These pieces are more expensive, but if you plan on exploring Colorado’s fall hikes, this feature is a must. Breathable jackets, ones with zippers in the armpits and such, are key for longer hikes because they keep you dry while you work hard. If the inner layers are wicking away moisture, but your outer layer isn’t breathable, the moisture will condense against it and soak your middle layer. You need breathability to allow fresh air to move through and clear out the humidity. 

One final feature of a good outer layer is durability. Since this layer has to brave the elements, you want something that will stand up to a bit of a beating, especially for pants that you’ll sit on, trek through the brush, and more. If your outer layer gets torn, you’ll have leaks when it rains. And with the expensive nature of these clothes, you want to make sure to buy something that is a good investment.

Packing for a Fall Hike in the Rockies

Now that you know the options for layering clothes, let’s talk about how to pack for day hiking in Colorado. Seasoned hikers are always carrying day packs, and it’s not just for the granola bars. 

When you start at the trailhead, you might be in your base layer and outer shell. Mid-fall in Colorado is comfortable, and you might reason that it’ll only be a few hours. But as you hike up the mountain, the weather changes. It will get colder and windier the higher you go, with less protection from surrounding trees. You may even get an unexpected shower or snow flurry. 

Before you leave, always check the weather to know what to expect. Then, pack that insulating middle layer anyway. A light fleece or down jacket won’t take up much room or add much weight, and you will be glad you have it when you need it. Wearing appropriate clothing and knowing how to layer for hiking will keep you comfortable and protected during your hike so you can enjoy mother nature, no matter what weather she brings.

What is Geocaching and Where Can I Do It?

Treasure maps and long-form expeditions to find a secret stash of goods are no longer just for youth ages 3 to 10. Geocaching can be seen as a “grown-up” version of a treasure hunt, and it will take you places you may have never been before.

Not only is it a great form of exercise and exploration, but it also reignites the kid inside of you. Today that may be precisely what we all need.

What is Geocaching?

Yes, a treasure map and exploration sounds great, but that doesn’t tell us exactly what geocaching is. It doesn’t involve digging in random spots to find a buried chest or a compass that points to your one true desire, but rather it gives you a goal to seek out, without compromising the natural integrity of the world around it. Done correctly, it can be enjoyed by hundreds for years on end without making much of an impact at all.

Geocaching is a simple concept made possible and accessible by the technology we all carry around in our pockets. With the Geocaching app, you can find hidden caches just about anywhere around the world, as there are now over 3 million recorded caches worldwide. The sport has become much more popular as a way to get outside and add a bit of flair to your regular daily walk. 

To start, download the Geocaching app, or find a local website that directs you to sites near you. Next, you need to prepare yourself for a long hike that could end up being a long day in the woods. Some geocaches are hidden in downtown, urban areas, while many of them live in more natural environments. You should pack for the unexpected, as geocaching can quickly turn into a true adventure. 

Once you’re out on the trail, you need to channel your powers of observation to spot the camouflaged spot where the geocache lives. Once you find the cache, sign the logbook and add your touch to the cache. Geocaches are most often based on the principle of “take something out, leave something of your own.” 

Getting Started Geocaching

To start, we recommend simply using your smartphone and the Geocaching app. You can buy a GPS unit that will often have geocaching features, but it isn’t fully necessary. Family-friendly geocaching tours are a great way to get started and stoke the entire family for future geocaching adventures. Geocaching for kids builds a sense of adventure and can help to develop helpful skills like navigation. 

Once you have your guidance tech figured out, you can decide on a cache to hunt down from the comfort of your couch. One of the best parts of Geocaching is that you can plan trips around the entire world from a single spot. There are limitless options of where to start as more and more caches are being put out there every day. 

Now that you have a target in mind, you can put in some more prep work. This will not only include packing your backpack for a day hike, but it will also be planning your route to get to the cache. The app will show you where the cache is, but it doesn’t offer you the best route. This means you’ll need to pay attention to the landscape and study how to get to this spot. 

Many caches will not be right off a trail. You’ll need to head off into the forest to find caches that aren’t as commonly found. Remember to take the proper precautions and stay within your experience level. 

Once you’ve found the cache, there are a couple of pieces of etiquette that you need to keep in mind:

  • Grab the cache and examine its contents away from where you found it. Spending too much time where you found it can leave traces that make it too easy for others to discover it, thus removing a lot of the fun. 
  • Sign the logbook and leave a quick note if you want!
  • Take an object (if you want to) only if you are prepared to leave something of equal or greater value. This allows the cache to continue giving to future explorers. 
  • Seal the cache tightly and place it back exactly where you found it so it can wait for the next adventurer to stumble onto it. 
Geocaching with Broadmoor Outfitters in Colorado Springs
A young woman finding a geocache in Colorado Springs

Where can I Geocache in Colorado?

190 countries across the world have geocaches, and over 3 million caches spread out amongst them. Over 22,000 of these caches are located in the state of Colorado. With that many caches out there for you, it makes geocaching a popular sport that can be enjoyed for years without repetition. 

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has an extensive list of where you can find caches in the state parks. They encourage visitors to come and explore the area to find the caches and ask that explorers use Leave No Trace methods to leave everything in pristine condition. 

Parks and Wildlife points out that there are potentially hundreds of more caches that have not been documented with them. Colorado Springs alone has thousands of caches on record. These hunts take you up and down the trails and mountains surrounding the beautiful city and have some of the oldest caches in the state. 

So to answer the question more directly, you can Geocache just about anywhere in Colorado. This is a state that is based on exploration and outdoor adventure. When you start Geocaching and eventually catch the bug, you can expand the sport and bring it to even more distant and remote places throughout the state. The explorations and possibilities are endless.