Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado's second-largest city, stands at an elevation of 6,035 feet, presenting expansive views of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. It is a place where the grand Pikes Peak looms large, and striking red rock formations, like those found in Garden of the Gods Park, create a dramatic landscape. The city blends natural splendor with a lively culture, drawing visitors with its outdoor adventures, historic districts, and a strong sense of community.

Known as 'Olympic City USA,' Colorado Springs is home to the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center and Museum, reflecting its active and athletic spirit. Beyond its iconic landmarks, the city cultivates a thriving arts scene, numerous local businesses, and a dry, sunny climate that encourages outdoor living year-round. Whether seeking thrilling hikes, cultural experiences, or simply a refreshing escape, Colorado Springs offers a unique blend of urban amenities and direct access to the raw beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

From Frontier Outpost to Resort City

The Pikes Peak region carries a long history, with the Ute people inhabiting the area for at least a thousand years, calling Pikes Peak 'Ta-Wa-Ah-Gath' or 'Sun Mountain.' Spanish explorers, arriving in the 16th century, named the peak 'Almagre' for its red coloring. The first American official to encounter the mountain was Lieutenant Zebulon Montgomery Pike in 1806, who named it Grand Peak, a name that eventually gave way to Pikes Peak.

The discovery of gold in 1859 spurred the first permanent settlement in the region, Colorado City, which served as a supply camp for miners heading to the central Rockies. For a brief period, Colorado City even served as the Colorado Territory capital. However, the incorporated city of Colorado Springs was founded with a different vision. In 1871, Civil War hero and railroad magnate General William Jackson Palmer established Colorado Springs as a planned resort community. Palmer envisioned a sophisticated town, laying out broad streets, planting thousands of trees, and constructing elegant buildings with a European flair.

Colorado Springs quickly gained a reputation as 'Little London' due to its popularity with English tourists. It also became a destination for health seekers, particularly those with tuberculosis, who believed the dry climate, fresh air, and mineral springs offered healing properties. The city's fortunes further soared after the 1891 discovery of gold in Cripple Creek, just west of Pikes Peak, leading to a period where Colorado Springs had more millionaires per capita than any other place in the country. Many of these newly wealthy individuals contributed to the city's development, establishing iconic sites like the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo.

The 20th century saw the growth of a significant military presence in Colorado Springs, beginning with the establishment of Camp Carson (now Fort Carson) in the 1940s during the Korean War. This was followed by the United States Air Defense Command, Ent Air Force Base, and the United States Air Force Academy in the 1950s. In 1966, the main facility for NORAD (North American Aerospace Defense Command) was built inside Cheyenne Mountain, solidifying the city's role as a vital military center. Today, Colorado Springs continues to evolve, balancing its deep history with its modern identity as a center for defense, technology, and tourism.

The city offers a diverse array of sights, from natural wonders to historical landmarks. A visit to Garden of the Gods Park is essential, where towering red sandstone formations create a dramatic contrast against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. Explore its numerous hiking and biking trails, or take a guided tour to learn about its unique geology. Ascend Pikes Peak – America's Mountain, either by driving the scenic highway, riding the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, or hiking the Barr Trail, to reach its 14,115-foot summit. The panoramic views from the top are said to have inspired Katharine Lee Bates's poem, 'America the Beautiful.'

For a glimpse into the past, Old Colorado City retains its frontier spirit with distinctive shops and unique restaurants, a living legacy of the region's early settlements. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo offers a singular experience as America's highest zoo, home to the largest herd of reticulated giraffes in the country. Do not miss the United States Air Force Academy, where you can tour the impressive modernist Cadet Chapel. For a deeper dive into local history, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum and the Western Museum of Mining and Industry provide insights into the area's rich heritage.

The ideal time to visit Colorado Springs is during the summer months, from June to August, when temperatures are warm (averaging in the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit) and the city is lively with events. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds. For fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures, consider visiting in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to October). Fall offers the added benefit of radiant golden aspen foliage, particularly west of the city. Winter, from November to February, brings colder temperatures and snow, but still offers abundant sunshine and opportunities for outdoor activities, along with potentially lower accommodation prices.

Colorado Springs is situated at an elevation of 6,035 feet, so it’s advisable to stay hydrated and allow yourself time to acclimate, especially if you plan on strenuous outdoor activities. The city operates on a grid system, making navigation relatively straightforward. Public transportation is available through Mountain Metro Transit, which offers bus services connecting various neighborhoods, shopping areas, and attractions, including free shuttles for downtown and tourist areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. For exploring sites like Garden of the Gods, a car is often recommended due to accessibility. The Colorado Springs Airport (COS) serves the city, with ground transportation options including taxis, ride apps, and shuttle services to and from the airport.

Colorado Springs is a dog-friendly city, with numerous off-leash dog parks. Many overnight visitors travel with pets, so pet-friendly accommodations and activities are common.