Colorado Springs offers a plethora of outdoor experiences perfect for families looking to bond and create lasting memories. With its stunning landscapes and diverse activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful get-together in nature, these outdoor challenges are sure to bring your family closer together.
1. Scenic Hiking in the Garden of the Gods
Explore the majestic rock formations and enjoy the panoramic views with family-friendly hiking trails suitable for children and adults alike. The Garden of the Gods is a place where nature’s artistry stuns at every turn. This park offers a variety of trails that cater to different preferences and fitness levels, making it perfect for a family outing. As you traverse the well-marked paths, you’ll encounter awe-inspiring red rock formations that contrast beautifully with the blue sky and distant mountains.
Consider starting your adventure with the Gateway Trail, a relatively easy trail that provides a spectacular introduction to the park’s unique landscapes. More adventurous families might attempt the Palmer Trail, which is moderately challenging but rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding area. Along the way, interpretative signs offer a chance to learn about the geological history and cultural significance of these marvelous formations.
2. White Water Rafting on the Arkansas River
Experience the thrill of navigating the rapids together, an adventurous way to build teamwork and communication skills as a family. White water rafting on the Arkansas River offers an exhilarating challenge for families seeking both an adrenaline rush and the opportunity to bond through teamwork. From calm waters where you can appreciate the scenery to roaring rapids that demand focus and coordination, rafting brings family members together like few other activities can.
3. Zip Lining Over the Seven Falls Canyon
Soar above stunning landscapes on a safe and exhilarating zip line tour, perfect for adventurous families seeking a new perspective. The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to view the dramatic canyon landscapes from above. Suspended hundreds of feet in the air, you glide from one side to the other, soaring past rocky outcroppings and open skies, giving you a bird’s-eye perspective of the remarkable nature that surrounds you.
Zip lining is not only about the thrill; it’s also an opportunity for family members to encourage and support each other. For those hesitant to take the leap, these experiences can transform fear into euphoria, creating shared stories and laughter that become treasured family memories. Moreover, certified guides ensure the highest safety standards, allowing everyone to focus on the joy of the moment.
4. Mountain Biking in North Cheyenne Cañon
Challenge yourselves with scenic mountain biking trails that cater to different skill levels and offer breathtaking views of the canyon. As a family, you can select from a range of trails, such as the easier Columbine Trail or the more challenging Captain Jack’s Trail. Each path delivers its own unique experience, allowing you to test your skills while basking in the natural beauty of the area.
5. Camping in Pike National Forest
Reconnect with nature and each other by spending a night under the stars, a perfect opportunity for storytelling and stargazing. Pike National Forest provides numerous campsites nestled amid thick woods and rolling hills. As you set up camp, the fresh scent of pine fills the air, and the sounds of wildlife create a serene backdrop. After a day of exploration and play, gather around a campfire for an evening of marshmallow toasting and story swapping.
As nightfall blankets the forest, the sky comes alive with stars, free of urban light pollution. This is the time for stargazing, where family members can lie side by side, mapping constellations as elders share myths and younger ones behold the vast expanse of the universe. The simplicity of camping strips away the everyday distractions, offering a rare chance for families to be fully present with one another.
6. Rock Climbing at Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Test your physical limits and build trust with each other through guided rock climbing sessions ideal for families with older children. Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a hotspot for rock climbers, known for its accessible routes and stunning sandstone formations. Families can take part in a beginner-friendly climb or push their limits with more challenging ascents, all under the watchful eye of experienced guides who provide essential safety instructions and techniques.
7. Horseback Riding in the Woods
Saddle up and explore scenic trails on horseback, offering a tranquil yet exciting outdoor experience for the entire family. There’s nothing quite like the peaceful rhythm of horses trotting through a shaded trail, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Horseback riding offers a unique vantage point to enjoy forests, meadows, and abundant wildlife.
8. Fishing at Quail Lake Park
Spend a relaxing day by the lake, casting lines and sharing stories, perfect for families looking to enjoy a quiet time together. Quail Lake Park provides an idyllic setting for a family fishing trip. The calm waters and picturesque surroundings invite playful exchanges, reflective moments, and easy laughter as family members wait patiently for the fish to bite.
9. Paddleboarding at Prospect Lake
Balance and glide on calm waters, a fun and unique way to enjoy the outdoors while getting a great workout as a family. Paddleboarding on Prospect Lake combines exercise with tranquility as family members navigate the gentle waves. It’s an activity that encourages balance, coordination, and perseverance—all necessary skills for achieving a serene glide across the water.
10. Wildlife Watching at Bear Creek Nature Center
Discover the diverse fauna and flora of the area with educational programs and trails suitable for all ages. Bear Creek Nature Center is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts, offering guided wildlife tours and educational programs that enrich understanding of the local ecosystem. Families can enjoy leisurely walks through trails that reveal the vibrancy of Colorado’s natural world, from chirping birds to scampering squirrels.
11. Picnicking at Palmer Park
Enjoy a delightful picnic amidst scenic beauty, a perfect and relaxing opportunity for family conversations and bonding. Palmer Park’s diverse landscapes provide ideal settings for a family picnic, where city views meet the tranquility of nature. Spread a blanket under the shade of towering trees or choose a sunny meadow for the perfect picnic spot.
12. Nature Photography in Stratton Open Space
Capture stunning natural photos and encourage creativity in every family member, a memorable way to document your outdoor adventures. Stratton Open Space is a treasure trove of photographic potential, with its varied terrain offering endless opportunities for capturing the beauty of nature through the lens. Whether it’s the vibrant wildflowers or the distant mountain-scapes awash in golden light, the scenery inspires creativity and an appreciation for the natural world.
Families can embark on photography hikes, where each member brings their unique perspective and captures the outdoor experience. This shared activity allows for friendly competition and shared laughter as family members compare their photographs. Moreover, it’s a wonderful way to preserve the cherished moments spent together in Colorado Springs.