Group Destinations and Activities in Colorado Springs

There is an undeniable power in the shared experience. Whether you are on a scout troop guided trip, corporate retreat, or large family reunion, there are few places better catered to team building and creating lifelong memories than Colorado.

From casual escapes into nature to adrenaline-pumping activities that will push you and your crew to the edges of their comfort zone, the group activities in Colorado Springs can’t be beaten. When planning your next corporate outdoor activity or group retreat, bump the Centennial State to the top of your list.

Not yet convinced? Check out these five most popular group activities offered right here at Broadmoor Outfitters. 

1. Zip Lining

Number of Participants: 8 per tour, multiple tours available 

Duration: Woods Course – 3 hours, Fins Course – up to 4 hours 

Ages: All ages for the Woods Course, 10 – 80 for the Fins Course

Level: Woods Course – Easy, Fins Course – Intermediate

In the past couple of decades, zip lining has experienced a meteoric rise in popularity across the globe. It is a fun thing to do when traveling and an excellent team-building activity for large corporate getaways and scout troop guided trips alike. Zip lining is incredibly fun, very exhilarating, offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, and is accessible for just about anyone.  

The Woods Course is our more beginner-friendly option and is accessible for thrill-seekers of all ages. Lasting about three hours, this group activity will have you traveling high above the forest and canyon floor on five individual lines reaching a maximum height of 150 feet. Those brave enough will enjoy unrivaled views of waterfalls, launch off of spectacular granite rock features, and travel smoothly through the trees. 

For even more airborne adventure, give the Fins Course a try. Similar to the Woods Course, this adventure puts participants on five separate zip lines. These lines, however, are much higher (maxing out at 500 feet above the ground!) and longer (the longest measuring in at 1,800 feet), and the course also includes two rope bridges and a rappel.

For a full day, combine the two courses!

Geocaching with Broadmoor Outfitters in Colorado Springs

2. The Broadmoor Hunt

Number of Participants: 5 – 100

Duration: 2 hours

Ages: All ages

Level: Easy

For the ultimate activity for groups of all sizes, ages, and abilities, schedule a day to complete the Broadmoor Hunt. This Amazing Race style scavenger hunt traverses all over the Broadmoor property and includes over 35 unique challenges. From riddles and clues to activities and photo captures, you can break your large group into smaller teams for some friendly competition and team building.

The hunt works off of your smartphone, and each group can strategize their path to victory. From corporate retreats to family reunions, The Broadmoor Hunt is a fun and interactive way to explore and learn all about the historic Broadmoor and the surrounding area. There’s nothing like a bit of competition to bring a large team together! 

Colorado Springs Falconry at The Broadmoor
The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs

3. Falconry

Number of Participants: 14 per group

Duration: 1.5 hours

Ages: 5 and older

Level: Easy

Falconry is undoubtedly one of the most unique group activities in Colorado Springs – allowing you and your group to learn about hunting with birds of prey. The lesson will start with a fair bit of education, where your group will learn all about this 4,000-year-old pastime, sport, and way of life, as the experts give a flying demonstration and you get to meet many of our captive-bred trained birds of prey. The day closes with a bang, as everyone in your group will have an opportunity to hold a trained hawk after learning proper technique.  

Those that have completed the beginner lesson can advance to an even more exhilarating experience: the opportunity to walk scenic trails with a guide as a trained Harris Hawk flies through the trees, returning to your glove on your command. Whether your group stops at the beginner lesson or takes your falconry education to the next level, it is sure to be an experience no one will soon forget. 

4. The Wild West Experience

Number of Participants: 12 per group

Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

Ages: 5 and older

Level: Easy

If you have come to the mountains searching for group activities in Colorado Springs, perhaps none are more fitting than the Wild West Experience. Gain an appreciation for the skills that allowed people to survive and thrive in mountain landscapes for thousands of years. The three-part Wild West Experience is undeniably the best bang for your buck as you learn how to use a bow, air rifle, and throwing ax. 

Guides will walk your group through traditional archery skills and accompany you to a range where you will then put your skills to the test. From there, your guides will instruct your group on rifle shooting. Then, test your meddle with .22 caliber air rifles on a range with many different moving and stationary targets. Close your western skills experience with an ax-throwing session. Following more direction from an expert instructor, your group will have the opportunity to toss tomahawks into wooden targets. 

The Wild West Experience provides the perfect avenue for skills and team building, cooperation, coaching and support, and friendly competition – depending on the angle you would like to take. No matter how you slice it, though, this is one of the best group activities in Colorado Springs. 

5. Rock Climbing

Number of Participants: 12

Duration: Half day to full day 

Ages: 12 and up

Level: Easy to challenging

There is no better way to add some adventure to a large group getaway than with a day of guided rock climbing. No matter your group’s skill, fitness, or comfort level, the professional rock guides promise to deliver an unforgettable day. Push your physical and mental limits, and coach each other through enjoyable challenges in the mountains. You will learn climbing knots and belay techniques from expert guides and practice your skills on real outdoor cliff faces. 

With many picturesque climbing areas right out our front door, we have the opportunity to cater the entire day to your specific needs. Your group will coach each other up the wall and perfect your technical skills from one challenge to the next!


Group travel is an incredible way to create a shared experience and foster lasting memories with people you care about. Scheduling free time and exploring on your own is a necessity when planning these types of trips, but guided group activities and tours in Colorado Springs can add a meaningful exclamation point to an already unforgettable trip. Regardless of the group activities you choose, the Rocky Mountains will always find a way to bring people closer together.  

Hiking Pikes Peak in Colorado Springs

There are countless reasons to visit Colorado, and the plethora of world-class outdoor recreational activities is near the top of that list. Whether you are drawn to the skiing, fat biking, ice climbing of the winter season or the hiking, climbing, and fishing of the summer, The Centennial State has something for everyone.

No matter where they are coming from, many visitors to Colorado have the dream of standing on top of one of the state’s fourteeners – the fifty-eight mountain summits standing over 14,000 feet above sea level. Towering just twelve miles west of downtown Colorado Springs is Pikes Peak, one of the most sought after these peaks.

If you plan to visit Pikes Peak, reaching its summit should make your must-do list. Lucky for you, there are a variety of ways to do so. The Manitou and Pikes Peak Railway is the world’s highest cog railroad and will bring you right to the summit. Alternatively, you could also drive your vehicle to the top using the Pikes Peak Highway.  

However, for the more ambitious, there truly is no better way to enjoy this beautiful mountain than with a Pikes Peak hike. To hike Pikes Peak is to deeply immerse yourself in nature and embrace the challenge of earning a fourteener summit under your own power. If this sounds like a worthy endeavor, you have a couple of options available to you, and this guide to hiking Pikes Peak is here to help. 

Photo by Joe Dudeck on Unsplash

Pikes Peak hike on the Crags Trail

Length: 14.5 miles round trip

Trail Difficulty: Moderate

Elevation Gain: 4,400 feet

Best Seasons: June to October

Map: The Crags Trail

Directions: Take US 24 west from Colorado Springs to Divide, where you turn south on Colorado Hwy 67 for approximately 4 miles. After passing Mueller State Park, turn left on Forest Service Road 383. 

The Crags Trail is the easier hike to the summit of Pikes Peak, covering a shorter distance and less elevation than the Barr Trail described below. Despite being easier, it sees less foot traffic and generally offers hikers a little more solitude on the trail. The views from the trail of the Continental Divide, once above the treeline, cannot be beaten. 

After leaving the trailhead (about 1/10th of a mile into your hike), you will hit Fourmile Creek, where you will need to turn right and cross a bridge to get onto trail #664A. Hike through the forest for a little while before eventually hitting a series of switchbacks that will deposit you above treeline.

From here, the real climbing begins as you approach a mountain saddle at 12,750 feet and Devil’s Playground just beyond, with the route and summit finally coming into view. Cross the Pikes Peak Highway before beginning the final 2-mile slog up a boulder field to the summit. The final push requires hikers to keep a close eye out for cairns marking the path of least resistance to the top.

Parts of this route can see snow late into spring. So, the best time to hike is in early summer to late fall. The summer months offer excellent wildlife viewing, whereas fall is breathtaking in its own right with brisk mountain air and the changing colors of the leaves.  

Hike Pikes Peak on the Barr Trail

Length: 25 miles round trip

Trail Difficulty: Advanced

Elevation Gain: 7,434 feet

Best Seasons: June to October

Map: The Barr Trail

Directions: Take US 24 east into Manitou Springs and take a left at the circle to get onto Ruxton Ave. Travel on Ruxton Avenue until the very end. Then, turn right up a steep pitch and into the trailhead parking lot. Have a credit card ready to pay for parking, and arrive early to secure a parking spot. 

The most popular and most demanding route to the summit of Pikes Peak is via the Barr Trail. The trailhead sits at 6,700’ in Manitou Springs, and it takes a whopping 13 miles and nearly 7,500’ to reach the top! If you are up to the challenge, it is worth every bead of sweat.    

In the first six miles, there is almost 4,000 feet in elevation gain. The first three of those miles being the steepest. Along the way, you will see a sign denoting the Fremont Experimental Forest. Use the single-track trail and avoid the temptation to hop onto the wider path to your left. 

At just over 10,000 feet, you will reach Barr Camp and a pseudo-halfway point for the climb. If you intend to divide your trip into two days, this is a great place to spend the night. Barr Camp has hostel cabins, lean-tos, and tent camping, but it is very popular and reservations are necessary. If you intend to make this into a multi-day affair, pack the right equipment and plan accordingly.

From Barr Camp, you will enjoy a mellow stroll for a couple of miles before hitting a set of switchbacks akin to those that you encountered from the trailhead. Just above 12,000’, you will find an a-frame which is a first-come, first-served shelter for anyone to use. Soon after this checkpoint, you will encounter a sign proclaiming that there are only three more miles to the summit. At this sign, take a sharp right turn and begin the steep, high elevation switchbacks on uneven terrain until you proudly stand atop the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak.

Photo by Joshua Forbes on Unsplash

Tips for your Pikes Peak Hike

Altitude

If you are visiting from a lower elevation or sea level, take Colorado altitude seriously. Allow yourself plenty of time to acclimatize before your climb. Do some warmup hikes to get your body used to the elevation, and move slowly! 

Weather

High country weather changes quickly and often, and your trip planning should account for this. Bring plenty of clothing layers that can address your needs in both very cold and very hot temperatures, as well as the common afternoon rain shower.

If there are any signs of lightning or an encroaching thunderstorm, do not push for the summit. Leave early in the morning. Depending on your pace and fitness, you’ll avoid both midday heat and afternoon storms. 

Hydration

The importance of drinking plenty of water cannot be overstated. Your body will be dealing with physical exertion and altitude, and staying hydrated is key to mitigating the potential adverse effects of both. There is no potable water on Pikes Peak, so be sure to bring a purifying system to refill your bottles along the way. 

Food

No matter how you choose to hike Pikes Peak, you will be putting in a considerable amount of effort. Your body will need the energy to keep up! High protein snacks like bars or jerky are excellent snacks, but also pack a lunch for halfway through the day. Sugary snacks are great for the quick jolt when you need them, but do not rely on sugar to get you to the top. 

Anytime you approach objectives in the mountains, it is crucial to do so with a realistic mindset. If hiking Pikes Peak seems a bit out of reach this visit, enjoy a trip to the summit on the cog railroad or Pikes Peak Highway. Everyone on top gets to enjoy the same sweeping Rocky Mountain panorama, no matter how they got there!

There are plenty of other opportunities nearby to scratch your hiking itch, including with a professional guide with our guided hiking tours in Colorado Springs. From nature walks to summit bids, we guarantee that there is a hike on Colorado’s Front Range for every adventurer. No matter where you choose to explore, the Rocky Mountains are sure to impress. 

Best Beginners Rock Climbing in Colorado Springs, CO

The Centennial State is a paradise for any outdoor enthusiast, with seemingly endless options for recreational activities for residents and visitors alike. While each corner of the state has its own brand of exciting outdoor opportunities, Colorado Springs is conveniently located to offer access to just about any activity you could want to pursue in the Rocky Mountains.

From world-class hiking and fishing to mountain biking, skiing, and rock climbing for those more fueled by adrenaline, The Springs boasts unrivaled access to it all. If you have always wanted to try rock climbing but were unsure where to go, some of the best beginner climbing in Colorado is right here in our backyard.

Many of the best places to climb near Colorado Springs are very beginner-friendly while simultaneously offering terrain to excite even the most experienced climbers in your party.  

Photo by Intricate Explorer on Unsplash

What to Look for in a Beginner’s Climbing Area

If you are new to the sport, seek out guided rock climbing in Colorado Springs to safely learn about rock climbing. If you want to give it a shot on your own – or perhaps are taking out a friend for their first time – here are a few things to consider when identifying beginner climbing in Colorado Springs:

The Approach

Avid rock climbers know that some of the most rewarding climbs may require many hours – or perhaps even an overnight – on a trail to access the routes they seek to climb. When looking where to climb near Colorado Springs for beginners, consider crags that require a minimal approach to access.  

Type of Climbing

There are a variety of types of rock climbing ranging from beginner-friendly to expert.  

Bouldering is performed on small rock formations – often boulders – without the use of ropes or harnesses. Routes generally do not get too high off the ground, and crash pads help protect from a fall. Bouldering is a beginner-friendly style of climbing but often requires considerable strength to navigate the more dynamic moves.  

If you are hoping to use ropes and harnesses, top rope accessible routes are the most beginner-friendly options available. When top roping, the rope runs from the climber through anchors at the top of the route and back down to a belayer at the bottom. This offers the most protection should the climber fall or need a break during the climb. 

Sport climbing utilizes preplaced bolts in the rock, which a climber clips with a quickdraw on their way up the wall for periodic protection. This type of climbing is more consequential, as coming off the wall will usually result in a larger fall. 

Traditional climbing, or trad climbing, requires climbers to place gear and protection as they navigate a route and remove all gear upon completion. Leading a trad climb is not recommended for beginners.  

Ratings

When seeking beginner climbing in Colorado, checking route ratings is imperative. Using the Yosemite Decimal System, ropes are recommended for all 5th class climbing. Beginner rock climbs then fall between 5.0 – 5.8 in rating, and climbing areas with many routes in that range are great for novice rock climbers. Bouldering uses the V Scale, with beginner routes ranging from V0 – V3.

Photo by Alexis Gethin on Unsplash

Best Beginner Climbing Areas in Colorado Springs

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Location: 10 Minutes from Downtown

Type of Climbing: Mostly sport climbing with some top rope options available 

Recommended Routes: Head to The Whale for the biggest selection of beginner sport routes

This young park located just outside of downtown Colorado Springs is owned by the city and managed by a dedicated team that aims to protect and preserve this natural and recreational asset for many generations. With nearly 100 unique routes between the east and west canyon walls, Red Rock has one of the best selections of beginner and moderate routes in the region. 

Given its proximity to Colorado Springs, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Not only is the park virtually located in town, but most of its climbing areas boast incredibly easy access as well. Whether you have a full day to explore or just a morning or afternoon, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is undeniably one of the best places to climb near Colorado Springs. 

Shelf Road

Location: North of Canon City

Type of Climbing: Mostly sport climbing with accessible anchors to set up top rope routes

Recommended Routes: The best beginner routes can be found at  The Bank and Cactus Cliff 

If you were to ask a local where to climb near Colorado Springs, they would likely point you to Shelf Road. Located just a little over an hour southwest of Colorado Springs, this climbing hotspot has well over 1,000 unique routes to explore. Climbers from around the world come here to test their mettle, but there are many beginner-friendly routes at Shelf Road as well. While sport climbing is the modus operandi, many of the bolted anchors can be used to set up a top rope with relative ease. 

As a bonus, many of the walls on Shelf Road boast very friendly approaches, and the quiet and beautiful backdrop is worth a visit alone. Coupled with excellent camping options nearby, Shelf Road has quickly become one of Colorado’s premier climbing destinations. 

Garden of the Gods

Location: Off of US Highway 24

Type of Climbing: Mostly traditional and sport with some quality bouldering and a few top rope options

Recommended Routes: 

Big Sky (5.7 Sport) and New Era (5.7 Trad, 2 pitches) at Kindergarten Rock

The Prow (V0+) and West Face Left (V2) at The Snake Pit Area

We would be remiss to discuss rock climbing in Colorado Springs and not mention Garden of the Gods. This is the area’s most famous destination. In addition to over two miles of hiking trails, ample road and mountain biking options, and easy access right out of town, this National Natural Landmark is also a great place to go rock climbing.

While not as beginner-friendly as the other places on our list, the conglomerate sandstone, and limestone formations beckon to be climbed. Routes range from easy bouldering problems to complex traditional climbing routes. With just a little sleuthing, you can find something for everyone.  

No matter your outdoor interests, The Centennial State has you covered. If this is the year you decide to give rock climbing a try, some of the best beginner climbing in Colorado is located right here in Colorado Springs. Explore the area on your own or with the best guided rock climbing in Colorado Springs, and prepare to rope up and have the time of your life.