Are you planning a trip to Colorado Springs in July 2024? If so, you’re in for a treat! Colorado Springs is a beautiful city with plenty to offer visitors, from stunning mountain views to charming shops and restaurants. But if you’re looking to get off the beaten path and explore some hidden gems, check out these seven secret places.
From a hidden waterfall to a secret garden, these places are sure to surprise and delight you. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
1. The Lost Gulch Trail
This 3.5-mile trail is located in the Cheyenne Mountain State Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is relatively easy to hike, making it a great option for families with young children. Along the way, you’ll pass by a waterfall and several small ponds. The trail ends at the Lost Gulch Overlook, which offers panoramic views of the park.
2. Helen Hunt Falls
This beautiful waterfall is located in the North Cheyenne Cañon Park. The waterfall is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and swimming. There are several trails that lead to the waterfall, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. The most popular trail is the Helen Hunt Falls Trail, which is a 2.4-mile loop trail. The trail is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding canyon.
3. The Garden of the Gods
This geological park is located on the west side of Colorado Springs and is home to some of the most iconic rock formations in the state. The park is open 24 hours a day, and there is no entrance fee. There are several trails that wind through the park, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate. The most popular trail is the Perkins Central Garden Trail, which is a 1.5-mile loop trail that takes you past some of the park’s most famous rock formations, including the Balanced Rock and the Kissing Camels.
4. The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
This zoo is located on the slopes of Cheyenne Mountain and is home to over 750 animals from all over the world. The zoo is open every day of the year, and there is an admission fee. There are several exhibits at the zoo, including the Primate Panorama, the Rocky Mountain Wild, and the African Rift Valley. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events.
5. The Broadmoor
This historic hotel is located on the west side of Colorado Springs and is known for its luxury and elegance. The hotel has been welcoming guests since 1891 and has hosted many famous people over the years, including President Ronald Reagan and Queen Elizabeth II. The Broadmoor offers a variety of amenities, including a golf course, a spa, and several restaurants. The hotel also has a beautiful garden that is open to the public.
6. The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center
This art museum is located in downtown Colorado Springs and is home to a collection of over 30,000 works of art. The museum has a variety of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events. Admission to the museum is free for members and children under 5. For everyone else, admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.
7. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway
This train takes you on a scenic journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, which is the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains. The train has been operating since 1891 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Colorado. The train ride takes about 3 hours round trip, and there is an admission fee. Once you reach the summit, you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
In addition to these seven secret places, Colorado Springs has many other attractions to offer visitors. The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
When planning your trip to Colorado Springs, be sure to consider the following factors:
Culture: Colorado Springs is a vibrant city with a rich culture. The city is home to several museums, art galleries, and theaters. There are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, such as hiking, biking, and fishing.
Best Months to Visit: The best time to visit Colorado Springs is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry. However, the city is also beautiful in the spring and fall, when the leaves are changing color.
Nearby Transportation: Colorado Springs is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The city is located about an hour south of Denver International Airport.
Local Food: Colorado Springs has a variety of restaurants to offer visitors, from fine dining to casual eateries. The city is also home to several breweries and wineries.
Best Hotels: There are several great hotels in Colorado Springs to choose from, including the Broadmoor, the Cheyenne Mountain Resort, and the Garden of the Gods Resort and Club.
I hope this article has given you some ideas for your trip to Colorado Springs in July 2024. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable experience.