5 things to do in Colorado Springs

Best things to do in Colorado Springs

1. Garden of the gods – a real geological wonder

This park opens early with the birds at 5 a.m. You could spend all day there taking in the natural beauty and marveling at the humongous rocks because the park closes at 11 p.m. But don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sun rise around this beautiful place. A registered national natural landmark, Garden of the Gods was named for its unique redrock formations that only the gods could have created.

“How Did Those Red Rocks Get There?”

Technical climbing is permitted on established routes inside the park.

Camping is NOT permitted in the Park.

Garden of the Gods Park is free and always will be.

Entry to the park is free. The visitor center is open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the summer and 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. in the winter.

Hike Garden of Gods

One of the most popular ways to experience the Garden of the Gods is on your own two feet. The Garden of the Gods offers 15 miles of trails winding throughout the formations. There are various hiking options, including super easy options on paved walkways suitable for families.

You want to set aside at least a half-day for exploring, though a full day will allow you to veer off on some of the smaller trails that are less crowded.

Ride a segway

If you’re looking to slow things down, but don’t like it too slow, the Segway Tours are right up your alley!

Drive

Drive through or take a jeep tour .The auto route through takes anywhere from 20 minutes and up, depending on how long you stay.

Via horseback

Led by real cowboys and cowgirls who share the flora and fauna with you as you saunter the trails on beautiful, well-trained horses.

Mountain bike :

Mountain biking is allowed off road only within the designated mountain biking area on marked trails and in the bike lane on all roads. Remember, the mountain biking trails are multi-use, so watch for other visitors. Please obey speed limits and remember all the drivers are also checking out the view.

Rock Climb :

all climbers are required to register at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center. Proper climbing gear is required.

2.Admire the Pike’s Peak

Pikes Peak is a gigantic, tallest, most significant mountain seen for miles. You can see it from about anywhere in Colorado Springs . The summit reaches up to 14,115 feet and you can drive, take a train or ,if you are feeling adventurous, hike up the mountain. The hike is comparable to a marathon , with low oxygen . Colorado’s slogan, “Breathe Deep,” definitely applies here.

3.Old Colorado city

Beautiful little stores and galleries with great street art along the way.

Just west of downtown Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City at some point was competing to be the original capital of the Colorado , but Denver took that spot. Today you can embrace the original 19th century Wild West Feel , strolling down its tree lined streets filled with shops, art galleries and restaurants for every budget and taste .

There is a lovely pet store with great products for you fur babies.

4.Royal Gorge Bridge and Park (45 minutes away)

The Royal Gorge has one of the world’s highest suspension bridges with jaw dropping rides. All it takes to see miles of amazing natural Colorado beauty is a 45 minute drive to Canon City

5.White Water Rafting in Colorado Springs (40 minutes away)

Don’t be overly concerned with sinkholes or hidden rock beds. Fear is part of the thrill of river rafting

White water rafting is a favorite pastime in Colorado . In fact , Colorado is one of the world’s top destinations for heart-pumping paddling. The season lasts from April through October, centering around when the warmth melts the snow on the mountains (May and June, mostly), raising water levels and, afterwards, the speed of the current.

There are white water rafting adventures for every experience level, from scenic floats where you get a chance to view wildlife or relax and blend with the nature, to jaw dropping ,heart-stopping whitewater rafting trips with crashing waves. You can also find trips that allow you to do both in one day.

The Arkansas River is the most popular river for rafting in the United States, offering both family-friendly and high adventure experiences. Those seeking the ultimate in world class whitewater should choose the scenic , famous Royal Gorge route . 

Colorado has about 30 main white water rafting areas, so a nearby river and professional outfitter is not hard to find.

6.Visit the hot springs

One guaranteed way to chill out these days is in a hot spring at a thermal spa. You just have to soak in the hot springs , because, after all, that’s what made the town famous.

Colorado Springs is the gateway drug for the soaking junkie:there are spas on every corner , for the wild-river soakers and the ones who like a cocktail after their recharging treatment . Hot spring pools that are 100% natural and filled with beneficial minerals ,mineral-rich, bacteria-free waters said by local Indians to have curative powers.

Colorado is an ideal place for soaking excursions.

Not all hot springs evoke embryonic bliss. Others can be social affairs, resembling a Vegas hotel pool with more sulfur and body hair.

There are three major hot springs in Colorado –Glenwood Springs, Hot Sulphur Springs, and Great Pagosa Springs. Each of these was originally used by Native Americans for their rich mineral content , and their natural healing abilities. Hot Springs have long been used for their therapeutic benefits.

The Sun Spa offered semi-private rustic pools (man made ) with the silky pea-green water, sauna and other facilities you can use for just $25 person day pass . As you soak in one of their top floor pools , you can see snow-capped peaks the tips of your toes. Soaking here in winter must be absolutely magical as you float in the water watching the snow fall.

Stretch out in the healing water,drop your head back and exhaling all your tension . Welcome to Colorado Springs !