Things to do this Summer in Colorado Springs 2024

Table of Contents

Summer is the ideal time to explore; the kids are out of school, and things seem to slow down a bit. Colorado Springs, The Front Range, and Colorado all have so much to see and do that you don’t even need to get on a plane to get away and experience some extraordinary moments.

“Exploration is really the essence of the human spirit.”

– Frank Borman

This area offers activities ranging from swimming in secluded mountain springs and climbing 14ers to enjoying concerts, festivals, and much more.

We’ve put together this post to help you make the most of the season by showcasing various activities that cater to all interests and ages.

Colorado Springs and its surrounding areas have something for everyone, whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures like hiking through picturesque trails or indulging in cultural experiences like visiting art galleries and museums.

Additionally, you’ll find recommendations for family-friendly attractions, places to swim, and exciting events that will make your summer memorable. So, embrace the spirit of exploration, delve into the rich offerings of this beautiful region, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Dive into Summer: The Ultimate Guide to Cool Swimming Spots

Pools are not common in Colorado, the season is short, maintenance is challenging, and water is expensive. Because of this, most of the swimming opportunities are isolated to private clubs or institutional pools. Let’s take a look at your options.

Public Pools

Outdoor

The Pikes Peak YMCA has two outdoor pools open to the public (for a fee)all summer long.

• The Monument Valley Pool, located in downtown Colorado Springs in Monument Valley Park
• Wilson Ranch Pool in northwest Colorado Springs. A summer pass can be purchased for both of these pools.

Indoor

Two popular indoor pools in the area are open to the public:

• The YMCA also has an indoor pool that’s open for public use. This pool is located in the Cottonwood Creek Family Center YMCA on the northeast side of Colorado Springs.
• The City of Manitou Springs also has an indoor pool that is open to the public. You’ll need to purchase a pass, but this facility also offers several programs and classes—more information on the Manitou Springs Pool.

Unique Outdoor Swimming Options

Paradise Cove: If you’re interested in something unique, you need to check out Paradise Cove. This hidden gem offers adrenaline-packed adventures, with cliff jumping and exploring mesas and canyons. This unforgettable destination is about 1-hour southwest of Colorado Springs outside and 15 minutes east of Guffey, Colorado.

The area has several private pools; some are part of a much larger health club, while others are individual neighborhood pools. If you are in a neighborhood with a private pool you could certainly look to join here are a couple of the more popular private neighborhood pools.

Private Pools

• The Little Dipper – This pool is located in the Skyway neighborhood of southwest Colorado Springs.
• The S.A.A. (Security Athletic Association) Family Pool! It’s this great swimming pool right in Pi-Ute Park in the Security/Widefield neighborhoods. The pool was established way back on August 17, 1957. That’s how long it’s been bringing people together for fun in the sun. You’ve got to see it for yourself!
• The Swimmery! Formerly known as Village 7 Swim Club from 1970 to 2011, this place has been a favorite summer destination for generations of locals. It’s a lively gathering spot where families and friends celebrate life and create unforgettable memories.

Rafting

Rafting is immensely popular in Colorado during the summer months. Pristine rivers and breathtaking canyons create a perfect backdrop for adrenaline-pumping adventures. With a robust snowpack from winter snowfall, Colorado’s rivers benefit from strong currents during spring and summer, which is ideal for rafting.

Several options are available for Colorado Springs residents looking to check out some whitewater. Canon City is a short drive to the south and is home to the Royal Gorge. The Royal Gorge is over 1,200 feet deep and over 10 miles long. This makes it ideal for rafters of all skill levels. Here are some of our favorite companies to take you down the river.

• River Runners
• Raft Masters
• Royal Gorge Rafting

Hiking

Hiking is almost synonymous with Summer here in Colorado. The combination of clear blue skies, warm sunshine, and breathtaking mountain vistas creates the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The Pikes Peak region offers an extensive network of trails that traverse diverse landscapes, and there’s something for everyone, from serene nature walks to challenging summit hikes.

• Cheyenne Canon – Located in the southwest part of Colorado Springs, this area offers a wide variety of trails + views of city & area rock formations.
• Fox Run – Located in the northern part of Colorado Springs and at the edge of the Black Forest area, this trail is great if you want to get a quick few miles with challenging ascents.
• Calhan Paint Mines – This is a hidden gem with “easy” options and views of really unique rock formations. Located just east of Colorado Springs in the Town of Calhan

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is a fantastic summer activity, and you’ll be thrilled to discover the diverse array of riding destinations in the Pikes Peak region. From the challenging and technical trails around Cheyenne Mountain and Mount Herman in Monument to the more accessible trails like the Santa Fe Trail and Fox Run Regional Park, there’s something for every skill level. Let me share a couple of our favorite trails that are perfect for novice riders and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

• Santa Fe Trail – The 14-mile trail section traces the former Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad paths. Starting from Palmer Lake, the regional gravel trail remains straight and level for 6.5 miles. A pivotal 6.9-mile trail segment is made possible by an easement agreement with the U.S. Air Force Academy. Trail users must stay on the six-foot-wide trail surface while passing through the Academy. Additionally, cyclists are required to wear helmets.
• Fox Run Regional Park is excellent for beginner to intermediate mountain bike riders. The park is in a dense forest of ponderosa pines, and this hidden gem offers a tranquil atmosphere and well-maintained trails. Located in the northern part of El Paso County and at the edge of the Black Forest area. This is a remarkable destination, perfect for both tourists and locals alike.
• Red Rocks Open Space – This is a prime location for mountain biking. With stunning red rock formations, diverse and well-maintained trails, and breathtaking views, it offers an exhilarating experience for riders of all skill levels.
• Legacy Loop – This is a valuable asset for cyclists. This 10-mile loop trail encircles downtown, offering safe and scenic biking with dedicated lanes and connecting to other trails. It promotes community engagement, accessibility, and a sustainable biking environment in the city’s heart.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular summer activity in the Pikes Peak region and throughout Colorado. The region offers a variety of fishing opportunities, ranging from lakes and reservoirs suitable for traditional fishing to serene and stunning streams perfect for fly fishing. Here is a list of some of the most beloved fishing spots in the Pikes Peak region.

• Eleven Mile Reservoir – 11 Mile Reservoir in Colorado is a prime fishing spot. With clear waters, diverse fish species like trout, salmon, and pike, and options for shoreline fishing or boating, it provides an ideal setting for anglers. Its serene surroundings make it a tranquil and rewarding fishing destination.
• Pueblo Reservoir – Pueblo Reservoir is a fantastic destination for fishermen. Known for its abundant fish population, including bass, walleye, trout, and catfish, it offers excellent fishing opportunities. The reservoir’s expansive size and diverse habitats provide a range of fishing experiences, whether from shore or boat. With its scenic beauty and thriving fishery, Pueblo Reservoir is a paradise for anglers seeking a fruitful and enjoyable fishing trip.
• Spinney Reservoir – Spinney Reservoir is a paradise for fishermen. Renowned for its trophy-sized trout, including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat, it offers exceptional fishing opportunities. The reservoir’s tranquil waters, picturesque surroundings, and limited fishing pressure make it an angler’s haven. Whether from the shoreline or a boat, fishermen can enjoy a rewarding experience and the chance to reel in impressive catches at Spinney Reservoir.
• The Arkansas River – This is a prime destination for fly fishing enthusiasts. With its abundant trout population and diverse ecosystems, ranging from rapids to calm sections, it offers thrilling angling opportunities. The river’s stunning mountain backdrop and consistent insect hatches create an ideal setting for an unforgettable fly fishing experience.

Festivals and Events

Summer festivals are super popular for a bunch of reasons. These events are all about celebrating the season and making the most of those longer days and warm weather. They’ve got all kinds of stuff going on, like awesome live music, cool art exhibitions, tasty food trucks, and displays of different cultures. Festivals bring people together to have a blast and feel like part of a community.

The best part? They usually happen outside in parks or by the water, so you can soak up nature while having a great time. Plus, they’re perfectly timed with school vacations and time off, so it’s easy for everyone to join in and get the full festival experience.

• Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Fan Fest – The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Fan Fest is an exciting event held in downtown Colorado Springs. It brings together fans of the iconic hill climb race for a lively street party featuring driver meet-ups, thrilling motocross stunts, and attractions like the Michelob Ultra Beer Garden.
• Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo – The Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo is a premier rodeo event that takes place over four days in July. It attracts top talent in competitive rodeo, including bull riders, steer wrestlers, and barrel racers. With substantial prize money at stake, it showcases thrilling rodeo performances while celebrating Colorado Springs’ Western heritage.
• Rocky Mountain State Games – The Rocky Mountain State Games is a thrilling multi-sport event held in the Rocky Mountain region. It showcases a wide array of sports competitions, attracting athletes of all ages and skill levels. The games provide a lively and inclusive environment, making them a joy to watch as athletes demonstrate their dedication, passion, and sportsmanship.
• Cripple Creek Donkey Derby Days – This is a lively event featuring donkey races and festivities held in Cripple Creek, Colorado. It offers a unique and entertaining experience as spectators cheer on jockeys racing atop these lovable and sometimes unpredictable creatures. The quirky nature of the event makes it a delightful and fun-filled spectacle for all.
• Colorado College Summer Music Festival – The Colorado College Summer Music Festival is an annual event that brings together talented young musicians and renowned faculty for captivating concerts and educational programs. The festival offers diverse classical music performances, masterclasses, and workshops, creating a vibrant and immersive musical experience for all.
• 2024 USA Weightlifting National Championships – This event is in the Olympic City for 2024. The USA Weightlifting National Championships is a prestigious event that showcases the country’s top weightlifters. It is a highly competitive tournament where athletes compete in various weight classes to determine the national champions. The championships exhibit incredible strength, technique, and athleticism, making it a thrilling event for weightlifting enthusiasts.