Summer is rolling around, and as soon as it heats up, there is no better way to take advantage of that warm Colorado sunshine then spending time outdoors. Colorado Springs offers a variety of different ways to enjoy the summertime, whether you’re a hiking enthusiast or just want to relax.
If being active is your goal, head up to Eleven Mile State. Just 38 miles west of the city on Highway 24, Eleven Mile offers an excellent location for hikes and camping. The reservoir has great fishing, and there are two boat ramps on its shores. Powerboats, sailboats, and windsurfers are all a common sight during the summer months. The park has nine different campgrounds, and several trails that offer short, relaxing hikes.
Another great place for a leisurely hike is Garden of the Gods in West Colorado Springs. Nestled along the northwestern side of Colorado Springs’ mountains, Garden of the Gods is a registered national natural landmark. The beautiful red sandstone formations are a must-visit in Colorado Springs, and the park is a perfect place for a light hike, family picnic, or a run with you pet. Climbers can enjoy some challenging technical climbs and bouldering on established routes throughout the park. The visitor’s center offers daily naturalist-guided walks, where you can learn about topics ranging from wildflowers to Colorado history.
Explore another beautiful natural sight by visiting Seven Falls. Oft-called the “grandest mile of scenery in Colorado,” the falls reach nearly 200 feet in the Cheyenne canyon. Just minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, this phenomenon is another must-see. Visit at night in the summer, when the falls are lit up in a glowing display of colored lights. Families can enjoy tons of activities, from short hikes to authentic Native American dancers who perform during the summer months.
For outdoor fun within city limits, head over to Memorial Park, located just east of downtown, and hoem to Prospect Lake and a 1.25 mile jogging trail. In the summer months the lake is open for swimming, and paddle boats can be rented. Relax on the grass, feed the ducks, and let the kids loose on the playground. This park is a favorite of dog-owners, roller-bladers, and bikers alike.
For a fun, social way to burn some calories and play outside, considering joining the Jack Quinn’s Running Club. The weekly 5K run in sponsored by Jack Quinn’s, a pub located in downtown Colorado Springs [where: 21 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903], and a staple to both the city’s nightlife and live music scene. Every Tuesday, hundreds of runners, families, college kids gather to run the course, which loops around downtown. To help motivate you through the course, the pub offers up a free buffet to all racers, as well as tasty pints for $2.50 to quench your thirst.
If relaxing is more your thing, but being outside is still your aim, head downtown to enjoy the many restaurants and bars that have outdoor patios. Enjoy a margarita and some tacos on Jose Muldoon’s [where: 222 N Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903] giant backyard patio, complete with a fire pit. Chill out and read a good book while enjoying a blended Chai smoothie on the rooftop deck of Pike’s Perk [where: 4 S Tejon St, Colorado Springs, CO 80903]. Take an evening stroll down Tejon, and set your end destination at Josh and John’s [where: 111 E Pike Peak, Colorado Springs, CO 80903] for some homemade ice cream.
In Old Colorado City, Jake and Telly’s [where: 2616 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80904] offers outdoor roof seating, where you can enjoy their excellent Greek food. For elegant dining with a view, head to The Cliff House’s Veranda in beautiful and eclectic Manitou Springs [where: 306 Canon Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829].
Summer is the time when sports fans rejoice. Baseball fans don’t have drive to Denver to get their fix either. Catch a Sky Sox game at Security Service Field in Powers on “$2 Tuesdays” for the ultimate in affordable fun. Parking, tickets, and draft beers are all only two dollars, so you can root on the home team without emptying your wallet.
To gear up for all your outdoor activities, look no further than downtown. Mountain Chalet, a locally owned mountaineering shop, has all the hiking boots, tents, and climbing gear that you’ll need for your outdoor summer adventures. Just a few doors down, Title Nine offers stylish and comfortable outdoor clothes for women. Just a bit further south is Colorado Running Company, where you can pick up new running shoes. They’ll find just the shoes for you, whether you want to run up trails, or just down the street to some free appetizers at Jack Quinn’s.
One thing is for sure, no matter how you choose to spend the summer months outside, Colorado Springs has tons of amazing ways that you can do so.
