Colorado Springs sits at the base of Pikes Peak in a region where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountains, creating a natural playground that offers everything from gentle nature walks to extreme alpine adventures. The city’s elevation of 6,035 feet provides a head start toward the high country while maintaining comfortable year-round temperatures that make outdoor activities possible in every season.
The surrounding landscape includes 14,000-foot peaks, red rock formations, alpine lakes, and sprawling wilderness areas that challenge adventurers of all skill levels. Here’s a list of 18 outdoor adventures that showcase the incredible diversity of recreational opportunities within reach of Colorado Springs.
Pikes Peak Summit
America’s Mountain rises 14,115 feet above sea level, offering multiple routes to reach the summit that inspired the song ‘America the Beautiful.’ The Barr Trail presents a challenging 13-mile hike that gains over 7,400 feet of elevation through diverse ecosystems ranging from montane forests to alpine tundra.
The Pikes Peak Highway provides vehicle access for those who prefer to drive, though the winding road with 156 turns requires careful attention and frequent stops. The summit’s panoramic views extend across four states on clear days, revealing the vast scale of the Rocky Mountain region.
Garden of the Gods
These towering red sandstone formations create a geological wonderland where visitors can hike, rock climb, and photograph some of Colorado’s most iconic scenery. The Central Garden Trail provides easy access to the most famous formations, including the Balanced Rock and Three Graces spires that have become symbols of Colorado Springs…