Exploring the Outdoors with Kids in Colorado Springs

Introduction

Colorado Springs is an outdoor playground for kids of all ages. With its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and wide variety of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. From hiking and biking trails, to camping and rock climbing, there is no shortage of ways to explore the great outdoors with your children. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best ways to get your kids outdoors in Colorado Springs and make the most of your family adventure.

Hiking and Biking Trails

Colorado Springs is home to an abundance of hiking and biking trails, making it a great place for families to explore. Whether you’re looking for an easy, family-friendly hike or a rugged mountain bike trail, there’s something for everyone. The Garden of the Gods is a popular spot for families, offering stunning views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. For an easier trek, try the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Trail, a two-mile loop with plenty of wildlife sightings along the way. For mountain bikers, there are trails ranging from beginner to expert, such as the Palmer Park Loop, a nine-mile trail with plenty of technical sections and stunning views.

Camping and Fishing

If you’re looking for a more adventurous way to explore the outdoors, camping and fishing are great activities to consider. Colorado Springs offers a wide variety of campgrounds, from traditional tent camping to cabins and luxury lodges. For a true camping experience, try the Cheyenne Mountain State Park, which offers over 200 sites for tents, RVs, and cabins. For fishing, the city has plenty of lakes and streams, including the Eleven Mile Reservoir, a popular spot for trout fishing.

Rock Climbing and Caving

For an even more thrilling outdoor adventure, consider rock climbing and caving. Colorado Springs is a great place for both activities, with plenty of cliffs and caves to explore. For rock climbers, there are plenty of routes to choose from, ranging from beginner to expert. Some of the most popular spots include Garden of the Gods, the Red Rock Canyon Open Space, and the Red Rocks Amphitheater. For caving, the nearby Manitou Springs Cave is a great spot to explore, with an abundance of fascinating formations and plenty of bats!

Horseback Riding and ATV Tours

For those looking for a more unique way to explore the outdoors, horseback riding and ATV tours are great options. Horseback riding is a great way to explore the trails of Colorado Springs, with plenty of places to rent horses. For an adrenaline-filled experience, try an ATV tour, which will take you on an exciting ride through the rocky terrain and breathtaking scenery of the Rockies.

Kayaking and Rafting

For those seeking a truly thrilling outdoor experience, kayaking and rafting are excellent activities to consider. Colorado Springs is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in the country, with plenty of rapids ranging from Class I to Class V. For a less intense experience, kayaking is a great option, with plenty of tranquil rivers and lakes to explore. Some of the most popular spots include the Pueblo Reservoir and the Arkansas River.

Skiing and Snowboarding

For winter outdoor adventures, skiing and snowboarding are excellent options. Colorado Springs is home to some of the best ski resorts in the country, with plenty of slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Some of the most popular spots are Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and Keystone, all of which offer stunning views and plenty of terrain for everyone to enjoy.

Museums and Parks

For families looking for a more educational outdoor experience, Colorado Springs is home to some fantastic museums and parks. The Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the city, while the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers an interactive experience with plenty of animals to observe. There are also plenty of parks to explore, including the Garden of the Gods, which offers stunning views of the Rockies, and the Red Rock Canyon Open Space, which is perfect for hiking and picnicking.

Golf and Disc Golf

Golf and disc golf are great activities for families looking for a more leisurely outdoor experience. Colorado Springs is home to some of the best golf courses in the country, including the Broadmoor Golf Club, a popular spot for both beginners and experienced golfers. For those looking for a more casual game, disc golf is a great option, with plenty of courses to choose from.

Rocky Mountain National Park

For a truly unforgettable outdoor experience, head to Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short drive from Colorado Springs. With its stunning views of the Rockies, abundant wildlife, and wide variety of outdoor activities, the park is a great destination for families. Hike the trails, camp in the wilderness, or take a scenic drive along the Trail Ridge Road for some of the best views in the entire state.

Summary

Colorado Springs is an outdoor playground for kids of all ages, with plenty of ways to explore the great outdoors. From hiking and biking trails, to camping and fishing, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy. For a truly thrilling experience, try rock climbing, caving, horseback riding, ATV tours, kayaking, rafting, skiing, and snowboarding. For a more educational experience, explore the city’s museums and parks, or head to Rocky Mountain National Park for an unforgettable family adventure. No matter what activity you choose, you’re sure to have a great time exploring the outdoors with your kids in Colorado Springs.