If you’re looking to escape the city life and enjoy fresh mountain air, Colorado Springs is the perfect starting point for an adventurous weekend.
With its prime location in the heart of Colorado, you’re surrounded by beautiful mountains, lakes, forests, and charming towns that make quick weekend getaways easy and unforgettable.
Whether you’re craving hiking trails, hot springs, or scenic drives, here are the 15 best outdoor weekend getaways near Colorado Springs that will recharge your spirit.
1. Garden of the Gods
Only minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is an iconic natural wonder that feels worlds away.
The towering red sandstone rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak create a postcard-perfect landscape.
Spend your weekend hiking, biking, or even rock climbing in this free public park.
For a slower pace, join a guided nature walk or capture the scenery at sunrise or sunset.
2. Pikes Peak
Known as “America’s Mountain,” Pikes Peak is one of the most famous destinations in Colorado.
The 19-mile scenic Pikes Peak Highway leads you to the summit at 14,115 feet, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views stretching as far as Kansas on clear days.
For a more adventurous weekend, take the Barr Trail hike, which is challenging but worth it.
At the summit, treat yourself to the famous Pikes Peak donuts.
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3. Manitou Springs
Just a short drive from Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs offers a mix of outdoor fun and charming small-town vibes.
Surrounded by mountain trails, this artsy town is perfect for hiking, exploring the historic Cliff Dwellings, or relaxing in the mineral springs.
Don’t miss the Incline Trail—an intense climb of nearly 3,000 steps—for an unforgettable challenge.
Afterward, stroll through downtown and enjoy local cafés and shops.
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4. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Located about an hour southwest of Colorado Springs, Royal Gorge is home to one of the highest suspension bridges in the world.
A weekend here offers thrilling outdoor experiences, including gondola rides, zip-lining across the gorge, or simply hiking along the rim for breathtaking views.
The Arkansas River below is also popular for whitewater rafting adventures, making it a great spot for thrill-seekers.
5. Cripple Creek
This historic mining town is less than an hour’s drive away and is surrounded by beautiful mountain landscapes.
Cripple Creek is a mix of outdoor adventure and history—you can explore scenic hiking trails, drive the Gold Belt Scenic Byway, or visit the historic gold mines.
In the evenings, enjoy the vibrant casino scene or catch a performance at the Butte Theater.
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6. Mueller State Park
For a peaceful nature-focused weekend, head to Mueller State Park, located west of Colorado Springs.
The park features over 5,000 acres of meadows, forests, and rolling hills with 55 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Wildlife lovers will enjoy spotting elk, mule deer, and black bears. Camping is available year-round, making it a perfect weekend retreat in any season.
7. Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
Just 45 minutes away, this fascinating destination combines natural beauty with prehistoric history.
You’ll find massive petrified redwood stumps and thousands of plant and insect fossils preserved in stone.
Trails wind through scenic meadows and forests, offering both hiking opportunities and a look into Earth’s ancient past.
It’s a unique weekend trip that mixes science, history, and the outdoors.
8. Eleven Mile State Park
If fishing and water activities are your idea of a weekend escape, Eleven Mile State Park is a great choice.
Located west of Colorado Springs, the reservoir is known for its excellent trout and pike fishing. Kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding are also popular on the calm waters.
Surrounding trails and campgrounds make it easy to spend the entire weekend immersed in the outdoors.
9. Woodland Park
Nicknamed “The City Above the Clouds,” Woodland Park sits at 8,500 feet and offers cooler temperatures and stunning mountain views.
Just 30 minutes away, this mountain town is surrounded by Pike National Forest, making it a hub for hiking, camping, and mountain biking.
You can also visit the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center, a fun stop for families.
10. Cheyenne Mountain State Park
This hidden gem lies right on the edge of Colorado Springs and offers easy access to nature without long drives.
With over 28 miles of hiking and biking trails, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained campgrounds, Cheyenne Mountain State Park makes for a great weekend staycation.
The views of Colorado Springs from the trails are especially beautiful at sunset.
11. Buena Vista
A bit farther out, Buena Vista is about a two-hour drive from Colorado Springs and is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities.
The Arkansas River flows through town, making it a hotspot for whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Nearby, you’ll find endless hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and access to Collegiate Peaks Wilderness.
Don’t miss the hot springs for a relaxing soak after your adventures.
12. Great Sand Dunes National Park
Located around three hours away, this destination is worth the drive for a weekend getaway.
The massive sand dunes—the tallest in North America—are a surreal landscape for sandboarding, hiking, or stargazing at night.
With the Sangre de Cristo Mountains as a backdrop, it’s a dreamlike setting for outdoor lovers.
Nearby Zapata Falls also makes a refreshing stop on your trip.
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13. Breckenridge
About two and a half hours from Colorado Springs, Breckenridge is a year-round outdoor playground.
In winter, it’s a world-class ski resort, while in summer, you can enjoy hiking, biking, and scenic gondola rides.
The historic downtown adds charm, with its local shops, restaurants, and breweries.
A weekend here blends outdoor adventure with cozy mountain-town atmosphere.
14. Salida
This artistic mountain town is about two hours southwest of Colorado Springs and offers both adventure and culture.
Surrounded by the Arkansas River and mountains, Salida is ideal for kayaking, rafting, hiking, and mountain biking.
The town also has a lively arts district, natural hot springs, and excellent local dining, making it a well-rounded weekend escape.
15. Estes Park & Rocky Mountain National Park
For a longer weekend trip, head about three hours north to Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park.
With over 300 miles of hiking trails, alpine lakes, and wildlife like elk and moose, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Estes Park itself is a charming base with shops, lodges, and riverfront walks, making it one of the best getaways near Colorado Springs.
With so many stunning destinations just a short drive away, Colorado Springs is the perfect base for outdoor weekend adventures.
Whether you prefer hiking, camping, fishing, or simply relaxing in a mountain town, these 15 best outdoor weekend getaways near Colorado Springs offer something for everyone.
Pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and get ready to explore the beauty of Colorado.
