A Weekend In {Colorado Springs}
Rocky Mountain High
Words & Photos by Katy Chadwell
It’s no secret that Colorado is a great destination at any time of year. With average summer temperatures in the 80s and incredible fall foliage, one can experience the vistas of the Rocky Mountains without breaking a sweat.
Friday
En route from Denver International Airport to Colorado Springs is the United States Air Force Academy. The Visitor Center serves as the gateway to the campus where patrons can learn about the history of the Academy and the rigorous cadet way of life. Follow the .3 mile paved nature trail east of the facility to the Cadet Chapel. The aluminum, glass and steel structure features 17 spires that shoot 150 feet into the sky. Completed in 1962, it is considered among the most beautiful examples of modern American academic architecture and features contemporary stained glass on the interior.
Located on Cheyenne Lake at the foot of the Colorado Rockies, The Broadmoor Resort is an iconic luxury property set on over 3,000 acres. Hit the links, grab the tennis racquets, or simply relax by the pool or read in the exquisite library.
Once settled, grab the camera and hop on the shuttle to Seven Falls, which is less than a mile from the resort. Referred to as “The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado,” access the 181-foot falls via a stroll on the paved path or by purchasing a ticket on the tram. Upon reaching the falls, enjoy the view from the bottom and then get up close by taking the trip up to the viewing deck via elevator or the 224 steps to the top.
Saturday
No trip to Colorado Springs would be complete without a visit to Garden of the Gods. Spend the morning hiking the trails amongst the towering sandstone rock formations. Much of the park features paved trails so it is easily accessible for all ages. From there, take the scenic highway up the mountain to the top of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s 53 fourteeners at 14,115 feet at its peak. End the day in downtown Colorado Springs with a delicious dinner at Four by Brother Luck.
Sunday
Enjoy brunch at Good Karma Cafe, a yummy coffee shop and breakfast spot in nearby Manitou Springs. Spend the afternoon exploring the cute shops along the main street there and be sure to visit the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. Relocated in 1907, the ancient Anasazi dwellings were formerly located in southwest Colorado but were moved for preservation reasons. The 40-room site has been carefully restored to allow visitors to walk through the buildings.
If you go…
How to get there: Several major carriers have direct flights from Austin to Denver. Rent a car, and it’s an easy 75-minute drive south to Colorado Springs.
Where to stay: The Broadmoor is perfect home base for exploring Colorado Springs. The original part of the complex was built in 1918 and provides European charm alongside modern amenities like a full service spa and championship golf course. The other buildings are more recent and are all connected by a path along the lake, where guests can rent bikes and paddle boats in the summer.
Katy Chadwell is a member of the team at Austin-based Century Travel and would welcome the opportunity to help you plan a trip to Colorado or wherever your travels may lead you! Contact her at katy@century-tvl.com, and let her take the stress out of planning your next vacation!
