With a heatwave coming soon, spring break may provide perfect weather for excursions. Whether you’re looking to go outdoors or get some exercise in general, Colorado Springs has many options for you.
Hiking
If you want to stay near campus, consider a trek up Pulpit Rock trail. Located by the baseball field on campus, the elevated view gives you a beautiful outlook of downtown and Pikes Peak.
The hike’s length comes to about five miles, conveniently making a loop, so you’re able to get back to your car without getting lost. For more information on the hike, check out AllTrails.
If you’re looking for a change of scenery and are willing to drive half an hour, the Seven Bridges Trail in North Cheyenne Cañon Park is mountainous option with a little more water.
This 3.4-mile trail earned its name from the seven bridges placed sporadically throughout the hike. Although steep, the feeling of hitting the seventh bridge is highly rewarding. You can access more materials about this trail on AllTrails.
Climbing
If you are new to climbing, then you should introduce yourself to Springs Climbing Center. This warehouse dedicated to rock climbing is accessible for anyone on the scale from beginner to advanced.
A day pass is going to run you $20. Rental shoes will cost $5. If you need a chalk bag for grip, then it’ll add an additional three bucks, making the total cost $28. To research more, check out their website.
If you are more experienced and are looking to climb outdoors, then North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a great option once again. Although you will need to hike to your destination, there are tons of boulders to explore, 151 to be exact.
To access directions and maps of the boulders, consult the Mountain Project website to begin planning what routes you’re going to take!
Trail Running
Tired of running around the neighborhood or want to get into running in general? Palmer Park is a solid option if you don’t want to stray far away from campus.
Palmer Park has 25 miles worth of trails to be explored. If you are new to running, then the Grandview and Cheyenne Trail Loop might be the way to go for you — it’s the shortest trail at 1.9 miles.
However, if you are experienced and are looking for something longer, you can always trek the outskirts of the park which equates to a 7.4-mile run. For more information on the running trails in Palmer Park, check out AllTrails.
14er
Instead of driving to the top of Pikes Peak, why not traverse it?
Pikes Peaks Barr Trail is a 24.2-mile trek. The trail begins halfway up the mountain, gaining 7,444 feet once you’ve reached the top.
It is free to hike the trail. However, it’ll cost $30 for parking at the trailhead. For more information, read the AllTrails website.
Manitou Springs Incline
This famous stairway of 2,700 steps might be the holy grail of workouts this spring break. Fortunately, once you reach the top you have the option to traverse back down the steep steps or take a side hike back down to your vehicle.
The trail has a $5 parking fee, and the lot is open from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. To see more materials, Manitou Springs website has lots of information to offer.
A view of UCCS from a hike. Photo by Connor Strange.