Colorado's Popular City Is An Outdoor Recreation Haven For Hikers And Nature Lovers

At the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountains, where America's greatest mountain range meets the Great Plains, sits Colorado's second-largest city. It lies at the foot of a famous mountain called Pikes Peak, which belongs to a particular category of mountains in Colorado that are known for reaching heights of over 14,000 feet, also known as "fourteeners." The city is therefore a hub for outdoor adventurers from around the world, but is also friendly to those who might prefer to enjoy Colorado's majestic landscapes at a gentler pace. 

Colorado Springs has a long history of connecting folks to the outdoors. In the early 1900s, a natural spring ran through the area. Known as Tamaha Spring, it drew in visitors seeking a refreshing retreat, according to Colorado Public Radio. Although that natural source was covered up in the 1960s due to flooding, the name Colorado Springs stuck. For anyone who is interested in natural springs, you don't have to go far. The neighboring town of Manitou Springs, just a few miles west of the city and tucked into the mountains, still has drinkable natural springs that are open to the public.

Colorado Springs is situated near two of the state's most iconic landmarks: Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. Visitors can stay in the city and reach both sites easily by car. This convenience is part of what makes the area especially appealing. You can spend the morning walking among towering sandstone formations in the Garden of the Gods, then drive to the summit of Pikes Peak later that same day.  Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure, serene wilderness, or a detour into fascinating Rocky Mountain history, Colorado Springs offers something for all.

Garden of the Gods is only about 5 miles from central Colorado Springs. The National Natural Landmark is known for its dramatic red rock fins that rise nearly 300 feet high. Walking paths, longer hiking trails, and designated rock climbing routes make it accessible to a wide range of visitors with varying interests and skills. Its otherworldly beauty attracts roughly 6 million visitors per year, from across the country and around the world. The best part? Admission is always free.

Just over an hour's drive west of Colorado Springs, Pikes Peak rises 14,115 feet above sea level. The mountain draws hikers, cyclists, and drivers who want to experience one of Colorado's most famous summits. Visitors can reach the top by road, by the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, or on foot via the challenging Barr Trail. At the summit, the landscape opens to panoramic views of plains, forests, and distant mountains. The viewpoint is so high that you might find yourself above the clouds.

Beyond Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs has many other outdoor areas that appeal to nature lovers. In the central part of the city, Palmer Park spans 730 acres and offers over 25 miles of trails amid rock formations and scenic viewpoints. North Cheyenne Cañon Park in southwest Colorado Springs is another popular area, with ancient granite cliffs and several waterfalls, including Silver Cascade Falls and Helen Hunt Falls. The park features multiple hiking trails that lead to waterfalls — among them is the Seven Bridges Trail, named after the seven wooden bridges that visitors encounter along the way. 

Though outdoor recreation can be enjoyed year-round in Colorado Springs, the best time to visit is from late spring through early fall. Summer tends to be warm, but the heat is not as extreme as what you'd experience in the outdoorsy desert towns around California and Arizona. Average daytime highs hover at 79 degrees Fahrenheit in June, and in July — the warmest month of the year — it climbs to 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The higher elevations around Pikes Peak can feel about 30 degrees cooler than the base. Winter temperatures are cold, but the city enjoys around 300 days of sunshine per year, which makes you want to bundle up and get outside anyway. Winter snowfall also offers opportunities to check out the region's skiing and snowboarding areas, such as Monarch Mountain and Ski Cooper.

Accommodations in Colorado Springs range from hostels and budget hotels to upscale resorts with mountain views and full-service amenities. The downtown core, known as the Tejon Corridor, is a charming area filled with historic buildings home to boutiques, art galleries, and gear outfitters, as well as a wide selection of cafés, restaurants, local breweries, and more. Colorado Springs makes it easy to combine outdoor activities with relaxation and convenience.

Colorado Springs is served by Colorado Springs Airport (COS). It is the closest airport to the city center and offers domestic flights from several major U.S. hubs. Many travelers also arrive through Denver International Airport (DEN) about 85 miles to the north, as it has a larger selection of flights and rental car options. From Denver, the drive takes roughly 75 minutes. A few shuttle services are available from Colorado Springs to some of the most popular nearby attractions, such as Pikes Peak. However, if you're planning to chart your own path, renting a car is the most practical choice. Driving will also make it easier to extend your travels with side trips to these underrated Colorado mountain towns.