2021-12-03 13:36:57
If you’ve soaked up all the historic attractions and museums you can handle, it’s time to discover why this is one of the state’s favorite places to play. Here are a few ways to soak in its handily located Rocky Mountain splendor. Hiking If you’re looking for a gentle stroll or a brag-worthy test of calf-and-quad endurance, you’ll find it’s easy to get on a trail. Take in geological marvels on the gentle pathways at Red Rock Open Space and Paint Mines Interpretive Park. Bear Creek Dog Park has amenities for you and your furry pal, Cheyenne Mountain State Park has 21 different trails to choose from, and the Pikes Peak Greenway rolls along for 16 miles and connects to two other long-distance trails around the city. For alpine feats, there’s no beating the famed Manitou Incline — it’s a 2,800-step ascent along old tracks originally built for a cable car. Visit trailsandopenspaces.org for more options. Biking Colorado Springs is incredibly bicycle friendly, and whether you BYOB or need all the gear to get on the trails, outfitters can get you set up and show you the best routes. Follow a historic rail trail through Cheyenne Canyon, take the gentle and shady Black Forest Section 16 trail, get Pikes Peak views along the Palmer Park Loop right in town, or challenge yourself on a technical ride at Ute Valley Park. Rafting Just a short drive from the Arkansas River, one of the country’s most popular whitewater-rafting destinations, more than a dozen outfitters can find you just the amount of thrills you’re after. Golfing All that thin air makes for shots that soar at more than a dozen courses in the area, all with amazing clubhouse views to accompany post-round relaxation. The Broadmoor hosts two world-class championship courses and Pine Creek Golf Club winds through a valley of grassland, creeks and links layouts. Horseback Riding Explore the area’s canyons, parks and trails while communing with nature and your new best friend. Ranches and stables around town have several ways to make you feel like a real cowboy or gal. Rides through Garden of the Gods and inside Pike National Forest are two close-to-town options. Other Options Balloon rides, ziplining, ATV and Jeep tours, rock-climbing adventures, Segway spins, wildlife-watching excursions, kayaking or stand-up paddling, fishing, hunting and more can be had at the drop of a hat from trusted guides sensitive to your comfort level.
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