10+ Outdoor Things to Do Around Colorado Springs, Colorado

Colorado Springs is one of those destinations where you could fill an entire weekend without ever running out of things to do outside. Between mountain views, unique hiking trails, scenic drives and some of Colorado’s most recognizable landmarks, there’s a little bit of everything within driving distance of the city.

I put together 10 of my favorite outdoor things to do in and around Colorado Springs, including a few stops that require a little extra driving but are absolutely worth adding to your itinerary. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or turning Colorado Springs into part of a bigger Colorado road trip, save this list for your trip!

Pikes Peak

You can't talk about Colorado Springs without including Pikes Peak. Make your way to the top for some of the best views of the trip — and even the drive itself is part of the experience. If you don't feel like driving or if you were worried about your car transmission or brakes, take the railway up! Make sure to get donuts while you were on top of the mountain!

Garden of the Gods

One of the most iconic stops in Colorado Springs — and for good reason. The massive red rock formations against the mountains make this one of those places that's impressive whether you spend a couple of hours hiking or simply drive through and stop at the overlooks.

Cave of the Winds Mountain Park

If you want something a little different from hiking, add Cave of the Winds to your itinerary. You can explore underground caves while still getting plenty of mountain scenery above ground. We took the actual cave to her and were blown away by the stellar rock formations!

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

If you want another beautiful hiking area without leaving Colorado Springs, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is an easy addition. You'll find red rock formations, trails and mountain views, but it has a different feel from nearby Garden of the Gods. It's free to enter and has a lot of beautiful trails.

Manitou Springs + Manitou Incline

Spend some time exploring Manitou Springs, and if you're looking for a serious challenge, take on the famous Manitou Incline. The climb is intense, but the views — and bragging rights — make this one for the bucket list. I've actually never climbed the steps, but we've always spent time in Manito Springs exploring the shops and local restaurants! Make sure to check out Manitou Brewing.

Manitou Cliff Dwellings

This is an easy stop to pair with a day around Manitou Springs. The cliff dwellings give you something completely different from the mountain hikes and scenic overlooks that make up most of this itinerary! I love going and looking at ancient ruins and artifacts. If you like doing this stuff too, you definitely need to check out the spot. It's incredible to see how they had built their homes within the cliffside

Red Rock Trail — Woodland Park

Head toward Woodland Park for another chance to get out on the trails and experience a quieter side of the area. This is a good one to work into a day when you're already venturing farther outside Colorado Springs.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

Cheyenne Mountain State Park is another great option if hiking is a priority for your trip. With miles of trails and views of the surrounding landscape, you can choose how much or how little time you want to spend exploring.

Add: Your trail, entrance/parking experience and how much time you'd allow.

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

This one is a drive from Colorado Springs, in Morrison , but if your road trip takes you toward Denver, it's absolutely worth working into the route. Even when you're not there for a concert, you can explore the famous amphitheater, walk the stairs and take in the surrounding red rock scenery.

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Paint Mines is another stop outside Colorado Springs that feels completely different from the mountain scenery you'll see throughout the rest of the trip. The colorful geological formations make it a particularly fun addition if you're willing to venture farther east toward Calhan. I've actually been here a couple of times and we really enjoy going! This is a great spot to get photos done too if you are looking for a beautiful spot to get some celebratory pictures taken.

Colorado Springs makes such a great home base for an outdoor Colorado getaway because you can experience so many different landscapes without having to travel far between adventures. From standing at the top of Pikes Peak to hiking among red rock formations and exploring some of the smaller towns surrounding the city, you can pack a LOT into a long weekend here.

And don't feel like you have to check all 10 places off in one trip. Pick a few favorites, leave yourself time to actually enjoy them, and save the rest as an excuse to come back.

Planning more adventures? Follow along with Through Becs Specs for more road trips, travel guides and places worth adding to your list. 🏔️