Colorado Springs for Thrill Seekers

Colorado Springs is an excellent place to be an outdoors enthusiast. There are so many ways to enjoy nature and the beauty of Colorful Colorado. But if you like to get the adrenaline pumping and hiking doesn’t cut it for you, you are probably wondering where in Colorado Springs you can go for some real excitement. From zip-lining to rock climbing, and mountain biking to white water rafting, there are plenty of heights and sights for everyone. So if you are a serious thrill seeker, we’ve got the perfect list for you. Let’s take a look at the top outdoor activities near Colorado Springs.

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Zip Lining Courses Near Colorado Springs

There is no better way to get the blood pumping than with a high-altitude zip-lining course. On Broadmoor’s Wood Course, you can reach speeds up to 45 miles per hour as you cruise above a canyon and a waterfall at heights of 150 feet. If you need even greater thrills, the Fins Course is for intermediate zipliners and reaches heights of 500 feet. Zip lining is an awesome outdoor activity! It’s a great way to see the landscape around Colorado Springs and enjoy an action-packed day. It’s perfectly safe, great for kids, and a fun way to make memories with friends.

Best Mountain Biking Spots near Colorado Springs

If you are a cyclist looking for more adventure, you’ve surely considered getting into mountain biking. To get started mountain biking, you will need the proper bike and safety gear. You’ll also need some tips and tricks for navigating rocky trails. Once you’re ready to try it out, Red Rock Canyon Open Space has some of the best beginner mountain biking trails in the Colorado Springs area. 

One of the best thrill-seeker biking activities, however, is not actually a mountain biking trail. Biking down Pikes Peak is a 19.5-mile road course that starts with you taking the famous Cog Railway up to the summit of Pikes Peak. Then, the guided biking tour zigzags down the mountain. You’ll enjoy epic views and as much speed as you can handle. This adventure is one serious thrill for cyclists. 

Where to Go Rock Climbing in Colorado Springs

While indoor rock climbing is a fun way to get the blood pumping, it’s nothing thrill-wise compared to climbing outdoors. There are tons of amazing spots for outdoor rock climbing near Colorado Springs. Without any ropes for safety, bouldering is definitely a scary and thrilling way to climb. You can boulder pretty much anywhere climbing is allowed, and Colorado Springs has no shortage of options. One noteworthy place for bouldering is Ute Valley Park, which has a wide range of bouldering problems. Beginners to advanced boulderers can enjoy a day climbing in this park – just be sure to bring crash pads and a friend to spot you!

Another thrilling form of climbing is sport climbing. Unlike top rope climbing where the rope is above you, sport climbing involves lead climbing and sometimes setting your own gear. One popular location for sport climbing is Red Rock Canyon Open Space, which has mostly bolted climbing routes. This means that you don’t need to set anchors as you climb – just clip in and go. Be aware that you will need to acquire a free permit in advance. If you aren’t ready to invest in rock climbing gear or still need to learn the ropes, consider signing up for a guided rock climbing tour. You can enjoy the thrill of outdoor climbing, see the best sights Colorado Springs has to offer and decide if the sport is for you. 

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How to Hike a Colorado Fourteener

Maybe hiking alone isn’t an adrenaline-pumping activity. But thrill seekers will love the opportunity to cross a Colorado Fourteener off their list. There are a number of beginner-friendly 14er hikes near Colorado Springs to get you started on your mountaineering journey. You can plan a training regimen for hiking at altitude and enjoy breathtaking views of the Front Range of the Rockies when you summit your first fourteener.

Colorado Springs White Water Rafting Trips

We’ve got the best thrill-seeker activity for water lovers: white water rafting. Colorado Springs is chock-full of awesome places to dip in on a hot summer day. The Arkansas River is particularly well known among water enthusiasts as having some amazing rapids in this region. A white water rafting trip typically has rapids between Class II-IV, which is perfect for folks who aren’t too experienced with the sport but still want a wild ride. Some of the waves can get up to three feet high, giving this white water rafting tour a roller-coaster feel. You’ll certainly end up wet and smiling after a day floating down the river on a Broadmoor white water rafting tour

Unique and Exciting Sights near Colorado Springs

Last but not least, we’ve got some thrilling adventures that are less exercise-based. If you are in the Colorado Springs area and trying to get outdoors but not necessarily exercise, we’ve got you covered. If you are looking to go wildlife spotting, you can expect to find bighorn sheep, bison, and elk near Colorado Springs. While Rocky Mountain National Park is a safe bet, there are wildlife refuges and parks closer to Colorado Springs that are popular for wildlife spotting and birdwatching. Golden and Commerce City, outside of Denver, are two great spots that make for a great day trip from Colorado Springs.

One popular and thrilling day trip from Colorado Springs has to be Royal Gorge Bridge. It’s over an hour from Colorado Springs. This adventure park has a ton of options for thrill seekers and relaxed tourists alike. Aside from standing on this suspension bridge 956 feet over the Arkansas River, there is also a gondola, a zip line, a sky coaster, and more.

Final Thoughts

There are unlimited ways to have fun in Colorado Springs. It is the perfect place to be if you are looking to get into a new outdoor sport or hoping to see something cool in nature. No matter what you choose to do, make sure to wear the recommended safety gear and obey the law. Consider starting with a guided tour as it is the best way to get all the beginner instruction you need before you branch off on your own.

Celebrating with Broadmoor – Party Ideas in Colorado Springs

Are you looking for an exciting and unique way to celebrate a birthday, promotion, or anniversary? With all the amazing outdoor venues around Colorado Springs, there are many different ways to plan a fun outdoor celebration. Looking for celebratory event ideas? Broadmoor is one of the best places to have a birthday party in Colorado Springs.

Broadmoor Outfitters has a variety of innovative and engaging guided activities that will make any celebration unique and memorable. Whether you’re planning a party for a little one or celebrating a milestone as an adult, there’s an option for you. From invigorating zipline courses to the decked-out paintball arena, the Broadmoor’s property is a well-equipped party venue in Colorado Springs.

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Party Ideas for Kids

Small Group Party Idea: Wood Course Zip Line

This three-hour beginner zip line course is a thrilling activity perfect for adrenaline junkies of all ages. The course has five zip lines that range from 250 to 1500 feet. Riders can also reach speeds of up to 45 mph, and attain heights up to 150 feet in the air! The guided zipline activity is a great experience for a small group of friends looking to try a new experience. The zipline course can accommodate a maximum of eight participants.

On the Woods Zip Line Course, you will soar over a waterfall and enjoy stunning views of Colorado Springs. Add in the thrill of zip lining, and it’ll surely be a memorable birthday. The exciting experience covers technical guidance from professionals and beginner zip lines for participants to acclimate to the experience. This is the more beginner-friendly of Broadmoor’s two zip lines courses. So it is perfect for a low-stress, enjoyable birthday party. 

Large Group Party Idea: Outdoor Movie Screening

Give your kid a unique gift and a memorable birthday party. The 26-foot inflatable movie projector screen is perfect for an outdoor evening celebration. You can rent the outdoor movie theater and bring it anywhere as it is very portable and easy to set up. This is a great option for large groups and celebrations taking place in spacious outdoor venues near Colorado Springs. 

With the ability to project anything onto this massive screen, you can take a celebration to the next level. Share old photos at a large family reunion, enhance the visuals at a musical concert or theatrical production, or play funny videos in the background of a mixer. There are endless ways to use an inflatable movie projector! This a top-notch addition to any celebration near Colorado Springs. 

Party Ideas for Adults: Happy Hour Celebrations 

Moving on to the adults, If you are looking to celebrate a birthday or anniversary with a few drinks, there are tons of fun ways to spice up a simple cocktail hour with friends. But let’s avoid cramming a large group into a crowded bar. Instead, you can have a private birthday party in a unique outdoor venue. 

The Broadmoor has plenty of unique and thrilling opportunities for adults. You can really make your birthday celebration memorable with the addition of an archery course or the tomahawk toss challenge. If you are looking for a low-key celebration that still has elements of excitement, consider a professional demonstration with birds of prey at a falconry cocktail hour. You can do these activities at the Broadmoor property or rent the equipment to bring to your own space. 

Whether you need to plan a meet-and-greet or a birthday party with different groups of friends, these activity-based happy hour parties will give your friends something to talk about and keep the energy flowing. Broadmoor Outfitters’ happy hour party ideas are fun, stress-free, and surefire ways to please your guests.

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Outdoor Party Ideas Near Colorado Springs

If your idea of a good time involves an outdoor adventure, anywhere can be a party venue! This is especially true in Colorado Springs with its high concentration of outdoor opportunities. With so many parks, mountains, and bodies of water, you don’t have to travel far to find a great party venue in Colorado Springs. 

From drinks in the park to a group hike, there are nearly unlimited ways and places to celebrate. What’s more, Broadmoor Outfitters has guided activities around Colorado Springs for people of all ages and interests. You could bike down Pikes Peak, rock climb in Garden of the Gods, mountain bike through North Cheyenne Cañon, or stand up paddle board at Catamount Reservoir. All of these outdoor activities make for interesting and memorable celebrations, sure to bring you and your friends closer together.

One of the party venues in Colorado Springs is actually the Broadmoor Outfitters property. Located in southwest Colorado Springs, it is a spacious area with a lot of fun activities to do right on site. You can compete against your friends in a scavenger hunt, geocaching search, capture the flag, or other fun challenges. If you haven’t been, these all make for great excuses to explore the Broadmoor property. 

Party Ideas for Coworkers

Finally, Broadmoor Outfitters has a ton of fun happy hour options and team-building exercises designed for corporate retreats. Whether you are planning a celebration to reward your team for a job well done or hoping to bring your team closer with a corporate team-building challenge, The Broadmoor is a great place to unite coworkers outside the office. For a deeper dive into all of Broadmoor Outfitters’ opportunities for colleagues, be sure to check out our tips for planning a corporate event.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Colorado Springs is an amazing place with almost unlimited ways to enjoy the outdoors and try new activities. Before you stress over a house party or plan a boring night at a restaurant, check out all the amazing outdoor adventures near Colorado Springs that you could include in your birthday celebration. There is no better time than your birthday to invite your friends to learn a new skill with you, and there is no better place either. The Broadmoor is one of the best places to have a birthday party or celebration in Colorado Springs. Plus, thanks to their guided activities, you can let Broadmoor Outfitters handle all the equipment needs and just enjoy your day!

Zip Lining Colorado Springs – How to Do It

How to Get Started Zip Lining Colorado Springs

Beginning as a way to transport goods and materials across rough terrain and rivers, ziplines quickly became a safer alternative for the workers, too. Nowadays, the sport has become more and more popular, with zip lines popping up in tourist areas all over the world. Zip lining is a great summer activity, a way to see awesome views of the surrounding area, and a thrilling ride for those looking for a rush of adrenaline.

What Is Zip Lining?

In zip lining, riders sit in a harness and hang under a long cable that starts higher on a slope and ends somewhere in the distance. You are connected to the cable via a pulley, whose wheels coast seamlessly along the cable, allowing you to fly through the air at awesome speeds, upwards of 40 miles per hour. 

Ziplines are often set up in forests or jungles, high in the trees. You may also find a zipline across a river or canyon or going down a mountain. In addition to a harness, zipliners must wear helmets. It is also suggested to wear pants and gloves to protect yourself from scratches by rogue branches. 

Image by AaronHM from Pixabay 

Why You Should Try Zip Lining

If you’re not already thrilled at the opportunity to fly through the air, there are plenty of other reasons to try ziplining. First, it’s a great way to experience nature. Ziplines often start at great heights – Broadmoor’s highest point is more than 500 feet in the air. You’ll get amazing views of the Front Range as you soar over the trees on this upside-down roller coaster. 


Next, zip lines immerse you in nature. These courses, which are among the best Colorado Springs attractions, include rope bridges, hikes, and rappels. While you’re on the zip line, you’ll get views of the forest canopy like you’ve never seen before. Colorado Springs has some amazing wildlife and scenery, and these zipline courses are unique and thrilling ways to experience that nature.

Is Zip Lining Safe?

All outdoor and adventure activities come with some risks, but zip lines in the United States are certified by an agency that notes a one-in-a-billion chance of one breaking. When properly constructed and run by trained professionals, ziplines are one of the safest ways for adrenaline seekers to get that rush.


The Broadmoor’s ziplines also have a minimum weight requirement of ninety pounds to make sure that riders can properly wear their safety equipment. All this is to say that a zipline course is an awesome family-friendly activity, and you can rest assured that ziplines are safe for kids.

Image by sebastian del val from Pixabay 

Zipline Courses in Colorado Springs

Now that you’re convinced to try it, let’s discuss the best zip line courses Colorado Springs has to offer. Between the Woods and Fins Courses, the Broadmoor property has eight zip lines of up to 1,800 feet in length and heights up to 500 feet.

The Woods Course

The first and more beginner-friendly course offered at Broadmoor for zip lining Colorado Springs, the Woods Course, travels over Midnight Falls and includes 5 zip lines ranging from 250 to 1500 feet long. The tallest starts 150 ft high in the air, and you’ll reach speeds upwards of 45 miles per hour. 

This thrilling course starts with two shorter zip lines to allow riders to get used to the experience. After a short walk, the third zip line takes you over a beautiful granite canyon and creek 150 feet down below. The fourth zip line leads riders to the top of Seven Falls, and the final 1,500-foot ride brings you back to the hiking trail. 

The Fins Course

If you want something a little more blood-pumping, the Fins Course is the way to go. This extreme ziplining adventure takes you to high altitudes, steep drops, and an experience in the Front Range like you’ve never had before. 

This half-day adventure has 5 zip lines of 250 to 1800 feet long and heights up to 500 feet. The course also involves two rope bridges, and a 180-foot assisted rappel. This awesome journey is definitely not for those who fear heights!

The course has two introductory zip lines, just like the Woods Course, before the third zipline takes you to Seven Falls Canyon and its rock fins. You’ll walk across two rope bridges and enjoy views of Colorado Springs before the fourth zipline takes you over the canyon to the south side of Mt. Cutler. Being 500 feet above the canyon road provides stunning view and an experience you’ll never forget. Finally, the last zip line leads back to the canyon, where you will rappel 180 feet down to the canyon floor.

The Combo Course

If you can’t choose between these awesome options, you’ll be relieved to know that you don’t have to! The Broadmoor’s combo course allows you to experience both the best zip lines in Colorado Springs. 

This four-hour day starts with the Woods Course, including the introductory zip lines and the awesome Midnight and Seven Falls rides, then all of the Fins Course, from the rope bridges to the thrilling ziplines to the assisted rappel. All in all, this exciting course has 8 zip lines and a 25-minute hike between the two courses. This great half-day adventure introduces you to the world of ziplining and provides other unique experiences in nature.

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When Is the Best Time to Go Ziplining In Colorado Springs?

If you are wondering when you can go zip lining here in Colorado Springs, Broadmoor’s courses are open year-round. While it is fun to go zip lining anytime, there are definitely better months and some weather tips to keep in mind. Summer is the best time for zip lining Colorado Springs. With the sunny, hot weather, the relief of wind and fast speeds will feel great. Spring and fall are also beautiful times to enjoy the weather from a zip line, and don’t forget about the gorgeous foliage you’ll see.

If you choose to go zip lining in the winter or colder weather, be aware of the temperature drops. On top of the mountains, it will be colder and windier. And with the ziplines propelling you to speeds greater than 40 miles per hour, you will want warm clothes and wind protection. Gloves and face protection are necessary for certain conditions to prevent frostbite. The only other risk is storms or lightning, which might result in closed courses until the bad weather passes.

Final Thoughts

Zip lining is an invigorating way to experience nature and see the stunning vistas of Colorado’s Front Range. This family-friendly activity is accessible from downtown, where you’ll have access to some of the best ziplines in Colorado. Simply make a reservation, dress well, and you’ll be all set. At Broadmoor, we include all the gear and instruction from trained guides. So all you need to do is show up and you’re sure to have a memorable time zip lining Colorado Springs – Enjoy!

Best Places to See the Fall Colors in Colorado Springs

The fall transforms Colorado into a gold-rich state once again. The colors of the aspens flow through like liquid gold, rushing in and out quickly, so you need to know exactly where to see fall colors in Colorado. 

It’s time to cozy up and tackle the brisk Autumn air to let your eyes soak up Colorado Springs at one of its finest moments. These trails will take you to some popular, easy-access views and some hard-to-reach, hidden gems in and around Colorado Springs. 

Best places to see the Fall colors in Colorado Springs

Photo by Devonshire on Unsplash

1. Pikes Peak

One of Colorado Springs’ local Fourteeners brings a wide variety of options for those looking to get one of the best fall colors tours Colorado has to offer. At 14,115 feet of elevation, you are looking down on thousands of acres of national forest. The bird’s eye view lets you grab a completely different perspective from walking down on the ground.

It’s a view that everyone should take the time to see in their lifetime and one that everyone can. You can take the easiest route of driving to the top for a short day or hop on the Barr Trail for a 25-mile trek that will genuinely make you work for the views. The most challenging part of Pikes Peak is determining how you want to experience the mountain. 

Another option for the more adventurous is to hop on a bicycle and give your legs a real workout. Don’t worry. There are plenty of places to stop and catch your breath while enjoying the view. 

Check out our newest Cog Up, Bike Down Tour that shuttles you to the top of Pike Peak and turns the bike ride into a downhill cruise. 

2. Pikes Peak Greenway

In the fall, Pikes Peak Greenway gets a little less green and a whole lot more golden. 

Urban trails offer easy access and many options with how far you want to go and for how long. Plus, you can walk down to one of your favorite restaurants while still getting the feeling of an Autumn hike. 

The Pikes Peak Greenway runs through Colorado Springs. It’s mostly paved, sometimes gravelly, and is a well-maintained trail that connects several other local trails. Most bikes and all feet can take you around town to see how the fall colors transform Colorado Springs. 

The Greenway gives you easy access to loads of the local parks in Colorado Springs. This is the perfect choice for a walk around town that can end in a picnic overlooking beautiful fall colors. Stop off at Monument Valley Park, Boddington Park, or America the Beautiful Park for a great spot to sit and spend the day with a thermos full of warm drinks and a bag of delicious goodies. 

3. Cripple Creek

Just outside of Colorado Springs lies Cripple Creek, a small mining town that sits in a nest of aspen groves shining brightly in the fall. 

You can cruise towards town in several ways that allow you to experience the countryside differently. In town, you can hop onto the Cripple Creek and Narrow Gauge Railroad for a slow crawl through the forests you have been looking at from afar. 

Just make sure to get there in time; the railroad only runs until October each year. 

4. Mount Esther Trail

Just northwest of Colorado Springs sits a relatively small mountain dubbed Mount Esther. While the peak is “only” 9,505 feet above sea level, the climb to get there will test your endurance. 

The Mount Esther trail is 4.2 miles round trip. Trust us, it is worth the energy and the short, but steep climb. 

The treasure at the top of the trail is a golden meadow that reflects all of the colors of Colorado’s autumn season. If you push forward just a bit further, you will find yourself at the Crystal Creek Reservoir. Here, the colors are reflected off the glassy waters, bringing even more color to your world. 

5. Gold Camp Road

While there are loads of great drives in the area, some can be a bit more adventurous than others. Not all roads are smoothly paved yet, and those that aren’t let you get to some of the less traveled, more unique spaces of the Pikes Peak Region. 

If you’re equipped with a 4×4 or an AWD vehicle, be sure to check out Gold Camp Road, as it is where to see fall colors in Colorado with a bit of bump and spicy adventure. 

The name does a pretty good job of encompassing what the drive is going to get you. The rugged drive takes you through tunnels and corridors of aspens that puts you amongst some of the brightest fall colors the area has to offer. 

6. Best Fall Colors Tour in Colorado Springs 

If you’re looking to add in a bit of adrenaline to help warm you up on a brisk autumn day, a zipline tour is one of the best ways to see the fall colors of Colorado Springs. This option gives you a unique view that is constantly changing as you fly through the air. 

This zipline tour will engrain the memories of fall colors into your mind in a way that is hard to find doing anything else. 

An 1800 foot zipline gives you the chance to take in sweeping views of the colors while feeling the breeze across your body. A 1500 foot line takes you over a 150-foot deep canyon, really giving you a unique view of the forests below you.

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.  

Join our Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Tour – Top Overall Experiences in the World

Colorado is a wonderland of unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and doing the Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour is one of them you need to add to your bucket list. 

While we construct all of our tours as top-of-the-line, first-class activities, the people have spoken for us! 

Our Fins Course Scenic Zipline Tour was recently voted to be one of the top 10 overall world experiences on Tripadvisor for 2021. The Traveler’s Choice experiences are chosen by other travelers worldwide that love adventure trips like white water rafting, hang gliding, or zip-lining. 

There are three categories in the Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best, including United States, World, and Regions. 

“Such a breathtaking experience! The views were amazing, the bridges were a rush, and the ziplines? Well worth the price alone!”

Experience one of the top zipline courses in the world with heights up to 500 ft, two rope bridges, five zip lines (250-1800 ft long), and a 180 ft assisted rappel. With so much adventure jam-packed into one zipline course, it is no wonder that the Fins Course is an extreme adventure seeker’s delight. 

While we have other zipline courses, The Fins Course has steeper drops, added exposure, and includes high altitude zip lining. This course isn’t for the faint of heart, but the good news is that we do also have a milder option, our Woods Course. Some travelers like to combine both the Woods Course with the Fins Course to build up to the adventure with our Combo Course.

Ziplining is an activity that the whole family can enjoy, and the Fins Course takes you on a breathtaking tour, immersing you in nature as you zip through Seven Falls canyon in Colorado. The scenic surroundings make the experience far more memorable, and the adrenaline boost helps a bit too. 

“A must do on a Colorado Springs trip! The course was awesome with some of the most beautiful views of the mountains and Colorado Springs. The guides were knowledgeable about the area and had great tips, recommendations, and jokes! 100% recommend adding this to your trip to Colorado Springs! This was an amazing time!”

You’ll spend 3-4 hours on the Fins Course, and it does start much like our Woods Course with two warm-up zips before you have a chance to experience the cliff condition zips that increase with length. Per the name “Fins Course,” our course takes you through one of Colorado’s most breathtaking areas of Seven Falls Canyon and Colorado Springs to land you near the “fins.” The fin formation of the rocks is where our course gets its name.

The gradual build-up to the cliff-style zips prepares most adventure seekers enough to truly enjoy the views of the canyon. Once you’ve made your way across the foot rope bridges and all five ziplines, the adventure is just beginning. The Fins Course has a unique finish as you rappel 180 feet to reach the canyon floor.

The Fins Course is genuinely a zipline people from all over the world can enjoy. Come and see for yourself why we were voted into the top 10 Tripadvisor tours worldwide! 

“For the last few years, ziplining is how I spend my birthday. The zipline at Seven Falls surpassed the other ziplines I have been on by far. A breathtaking experience. The bridges and last two zips definitely got my adrenaline going. Beautiful views, a wonderful experience.”

“Wow!! I’ve ziplined many places and this has some of the best views, highest dropoffs, and most extreme platform locations I’ve seen. Super safe with double redundancy on the trolley, and a shielded cable makes for a very quiet and smooth ride. Great enthusiasm and energy among the guides, too! Can’t wait to go again.”

Are Ziplines Safe for Kids?

Soaring through the air at top speeds connected to a thin wire and a harness brings worry to any parent. It seems unnatural, but as ziplines continue to become more popular, we must ask the question:

Are ziplines safe for kids? 

We understand your concerns. Ziplines are popping up all across the United States, and with them, there are the typical injuries that follow. This doesn’t immediately tell us that ziplines are unsafe, though. It gives us the ability to have the insight to find the right ziplines for kids.

Every company follows similar, but often different, rules and regulations for ziplines. This means becoming familiar with the guidelines you’ll want to look out for when choosing a place to zipline. To help you do that, we’ll break down ziplines and talk about how they work and their history.

Image by Dragan Tomić from Pixabay

A Brief History of the Zipline

Ziplines were first used to move goods across huge expanses of open air. They originated in mountain communities where moving food or supplies over a river took ages without any form of help. Stringing up a line meant an easy delivery across even the most treacherous terrain. Soon, humans also used the lines rather than face the dangerous swim ahead of them. 

Since their first uses, ziplines have come a long way. One of the largest regulators of zipline codes is the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT). The ACCT certifies challenge courses and ziplines across the world with a strict code of safety regulations. 

Even with these regulations available worldwide, there are shoddy designs and backdoor businesses that you need to look out for as a parent. Zipline systems have moved from a slow crawl across a ravine to a high-speed flight across tremendous gaps in jungles. With the increased risk, there needs to be an increase in safety measures. Luckily, plenty of people are working to fill in the safety gaps and instill a culture of safety. 

Zipline Safety

According to the ACCT, the chances of a zipline breaking are one in a billion. With the proper construction, equipment, and training, a zipline course for kids will be one of the safer activities out there. There is an inherent risk in any adrenaline-seeking activity, but following the proper guidelines can ease the worried mind of parents. 

The ACCT has been taking on the most problematic part of ziplines: the lack of consistent guidelines.

The American National Standards Institute accredited ACCT’s zipline standards, moving the push for consistent regulations forward. While it is often an issue handled on a state-to-state basis, looking for a zipline built by and running on these standards is a great and easy place to start. 

Of course, the safety of sending yourself careening over a large valley at 45 miles per hour is still something to question. No matter the regulations, it can be nerve-racking. With these kinds of activities, we are fighting our human instinct to protect ourselves. To overcome that fear and self-protection, learning about the systems is the best possible way forward. 

Construction and Inspection

The ACCT accredits certain vendors to go out and build challenge courses and ziplines for any company. These vendors are certified to construct courses on-site and often are in charge of training the on-site staff. This is one of the largest factors that anyone concerned about the safety of a course should consider before strapping in and jumping blindly. 

Experiential Systems is another nationwide inspector of ziplines. Any safe zipline course Colorado has to offer will be looked at by the state-based inspection service. They also provide training for instructors that will further ensure the safety of any participant on a zipline. 

Before you send your child off any zipline course, ask for proof of who constructed the zipline and inspected it most recently. These inspections need to be done consistently. Ziplines are most often outdoors, which exposes them to the weather that can slowly decrease safety levels. When an inspection is done, any problem found must be fixed before the operation can resume. 

Image by patrick gantz from Pixabay

Safety Equipment

Just like riding a bike, there are easy ways to avoid most injuries that can occur while on a zipline. While most organizations will provide the proper safety equipment. Familiarize yourself with what is considered the “right” safety equipment. 

The two most essential pieces of gear on a zipline course will be your harness and your helmet. There is also the trolley and tether connected via carabiners, but most of these are in place and much less susceptible to human error. 

Most harnesses are capable of holding over 2000 pounds of weight. At Broadmoor, the weight limit is 250 pounds (with a minimum weight of 90 pounds), so there is nothing to worry about if you are wearing a harness correctly. Listen to the instructors and ensure that all of the harness straps are tightened down.

Nowadays, it’s not a bad idea to wear a helmet to the grocery store. So, naturally, you will wear a helmet while flying through the air at 45 mph. These courses are built inside of the trees where branches will grow in the way of the zipline or can fall from above you. A helmet is the best way to protect yourself. Make sure your child is wearing a helmet. Maybe not at the grocery store, but most definitely on a zipline. 

Training

The final, and arguably the most important, standard to examine when looking for a good zipline course for kids is the training every instructor has received. You can easily get this information by asking the company or camp your kid will be ziplining with. 

There are a couple of different levels of certification that you can be aware of. The ACCT does a great job of offering these trainings and training other companies in instructor training. Your guides should at the very least have a Level I or Level II Practitioner Certification. You can also keep your eye out for a Certified Challenge Course Manager or any Professional Ropes Course Association certifications. These expand beyond just a zipline but often include that Level I or II Practitioner Certification. 

So, are Ziplines Safe? 

Well, “safe” is a problematic guarantee when looking at activities with any inherent risk involved.

Can this, or really anything, be 100% safe? No.

Can we, and do we, consider every professional piece of advice there is to keep our participants as safe as possible? Yes. 


Ensure you are choosing a zipline tour that has followed proper regulations and guidelines. The strict certifications and procedures that are the industry best are the safest place to start, which is precisely what we do here at Broadmoor.