Outdoor Attractions

The most popular way to experience Pikes Peak is by driving the Highway yourself, letting you set your own pace and stop wherever you like for photos—or race straight to the summit.

For those who’d rather relax than focus on the curvy roads, Gray Line offers expert-guided trips from Downtown Colorado Springs, complete with wildlife spotting and fascinating stories. With open windows for fresh mountain air, the tour lets you fully enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving.

Family-owned since the 1970s, this outfitter offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hot air balloons and Jeep tours to Segways, mountain biking, guided hikes and zip lines. With so much to do, you might want to add an extra day to try it all.

This whimsical Christmas-themed park, created in the 1950s by a Disney designer, delights visitors of all ages with rides, zip lines and a chance to meet Santa.

The Flying W Ranch offers a true taste of Colorado Springs’ western heritage with a chuckwagon feast, live stage shows and the chance to meet the animals and wranglers. It’s the perfect way to experience the city’s cowboy spirit.

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings let you get hands-on with 700 years of history, exploring recreated Puebloan architecture up close. Visitors can climb ladders, grind corn, and learn about the people and their crafts in the onsite museums.

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park offers fun both above and below ground, from climbing walls and thrill rides to guided tours winding over a mile through the historic cave discovered in 1881. With so much to do, a package pass and sunscreen are highly recommended.

Family-owned since the 1970s, this outfitter offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hot air balloons and Jeep tours to Segways, mountain biking, guided hikes and zip lines. With so much to do, you might want to add an extra day to try it all.

For over 40 years, Echo Canyon has been the premier outfitter on the Arkansas River, offering everything from gentle family floats to thrilling level 4 and 5 rapids. With rafting excursions, onsite lodging and a great restaurant, it’s the perfect spot to relax, adventure and make new friends.

The Royal Gorge is Colorado at its most breathtaking, and the Royal Gorge Bridge—the highest suspension bridge in the country—offers the perfect vantage point. For even more thrills, try the zip line, sky coaster, gondola or via ferrata.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a complete package, with a variety of animals, conservation programs, natural habitats and spectacular mountain views. With a skyride, antique carousel and hands-on experiences, the whole family will have an unforgettable visit.

Garden of the Gods is a must-see Colorado Springs park, best experienced on a guided horseback tour that explores its iconic red sandstone formations. This sacred space, long cherished by local tribes and early settlers, offers a perfect way to unplug and connect with nature.

Broadmoor Outfitters makes outdoor adventure easy and fun, from falconry experiences to zip line tours across Cheyenne Canyon. They also offer guided rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking and paddle boarding, customizing each activity to your skill and comfort level.

The trail to Seven Falls, long called “The Grandest Mile of Scenery,” winds through towering rock faces before revealing waterfalls that plunge nearly 200 feet into the canyon below. Stop at the base to soak in one of Colorado’s most breathtaking natural displays.