Mountain Biking in Colorado Springs
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The 4 Reasons Why Mountain Biking Is the One of The Best Heart Health Way To Exercise

How Mountain Biking Can Boost Your Health

The Colorado wilderness boasts some of the most beautiful sights in North America, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Each year, thousands take to the mountains of Colorado Springs to enjoy exhilarating biking and exquisite views, but what makes it such a popular past time for residents and tourists? Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of mountain biking and how you can incorporate this exciting outdoor activity into your exercise regime. 

Why Choose Colorado Springs Mountain Biking Tours

According to the Outdoor Industry Foundation, nearly 40 million people mountain bike all over the U.S. on any given year, making it one of the most popular activities for outdoor recreation. 

There are many reasons why so many find mountain biking to be the perfect past time. For one, mountain biking can lend way to some truly exquisite views. But for many, it’s the thrill of the ride and the subsequent health benefits that render mountain biking the ideal activity for outdoor fun.

Here are a few health benefits associated with mountain biking:

A healthier heart

Regular exercise, such as mountain biking, can improve your health in more ways than one. This type of physical activity has been proven to improve cardiovascular health, as mountain biking calls for the use of large muscle groups that require higher levels of oxygen to operate. By working your heart steadily on a regular basis through mountain biking, you may be able to improve your heart’s fitness by 3-7%. One study by the British Medical Association even showed a 50% decrease in risk for coronary heart disease for those who biked 20 miles or more per week. This significant boost in heart health is enough for many to pick up mountain biking as a form of exercise. 

Elevated mood

Not only is mountain biking an excellent form of exercise, but it also has the power to do wonders for your mental health. Mountain biking is demanding on the body, which in turn releases endorphins. These feel-good hormones are responsible for the decrease in stress you may feel as you navigate the mountains on bike. You may even find mountain biking to be a good source of meditation, which can further elevate your mood and pave the way for creativity. 

Whole-body workout

Ideal for building muscle and stamina, mountain biking targets a broad range of muscles, rendering it an effective whole-body workout. This non-load bearing form of exercise is easy on joints, which reduces your risk of injury. From arms and upper body to abdominal and core muscles, mountain biking’s effects on the body are just one of its many overall benefits.  

Better sleep

There’s nothing like a thrilling day of mountain biking to tire you out. Did you know this type of exercise makes for a better, more restful sleep? The current pandemic has caused millions to experience feelings of anxiety and in some cases, insomnia. Athletic activities like mountain biking that stimulate the body and mind may be just what you’ve been looking for to help you achieve better sleep.

Are you ready for your next mountain biking adventure? At Broadmoor Outfitters, our mountain biking tours are designed to help you make the most of your time in Colorado Springs. Call us to schedule your Colorado Springs mountain biking tour today! 

Fly Fishing with Broadmoor Outfitters
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3 Top Fly Fishing spots in the Pikes Peak Region

Fishing is a fantastic way to spend time together or getaway by yourself. What better place to cast a line than in the Pikes Peak Region? Here are three incredible recreational areas where you can do just that.

SOUTH SLOPE RECREATION AREA

Grab your fishing gear and get ready for a high-altitude outdoor experience at the South Slope of Pikes Peak!  The McReynolds and Mason Reservoirs are where the action is, as you can fish to your heart’s desire with lures and flies.         

McReynolds Reservoir is currently more suited for those who wish to fish from the shore, as the low water levels are not ideal for your non-motorized boat, and wading is not permitted. This reservoir is catch and release only, so do not forget the camera for that awesome photo to show you caught the big one.

Do not let that discourage you, though, Mason Reservoir is still a hot spot and waiting for you to cast that line. Remember to remain in your non-motorized boat that is powered only with paddles and oars. There is no stream fishing or wading here.

Remember that if you are older than 16, you will need a Colorado fishing license, and it must be valid to possess your one fish that is 16 inches or smaller. Those younger than 16 will not need to worry about a license to take home their full day’s possession.

A Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device is to be worn by everyone on the boat. The only exception to this is if you have a belly boat, then one is not mandatory.

South Slope Recreation Area is open during the latter part of the week, Thursday to Saturday, this permit only outdoor secluded, high-altitude, recreation paradise is a treasure for those looking to catch the “big one.”

There are only a limited number of vehicles and people allowed to visit each day to help maintain the prestige uniqueness in the area for future generations. Therefore, a pre-registered permit is required.

NORTH SLOPE RECREATION AREA

Breathtaking views and beauty await you along Pikes Peak Highway when you visit the North Slope Recreation Area for recreational fishing fun. Brook, Brown, Lake, and Rainbow trout are just a sampling of what waits for your line at three-cold water reservoirs.

When fly-fishing is on your list, hit the North Catamount Reservoir, a secluded reservoir that only allows lures and flies. A possession and bag limit of four trout, of which only two may be lake trout, are the limits.

Crystal Creek and South Catamount Reservoirs offer up over three miles of shoreline for you to catch that prized trout and make your fishing partners jealous. Just remember that while these reservoirs allow the use of bait, minnows are not allowed.

No trailers are allowed on the Pikes Peak Highway, so plan accordingly. Throw your boat up on the car carrier or in the back of your pick-up truck. When you arrive at your destination, you will need to carry your boat, as there is no access to the water for vehicles. Electric motors are good to go, but gas is not. Please make sure there are enough personal flotation devices that are Coast Guard approved onboard for everyone to wear while they are on the water.

Anyone over 16 who wishes to throw out a line needs a valid Colorado fishing license, except for those under 16.

FLY FISHING CAMP

What better way to spice up your family reunion then booking The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp? This tucked-away retreat is a slice of paradise that mixes world-class fishing, with exquisite dining and lodging.

Found on its own five miles of the Tarryall River, and 75 miles west of The Broadmoor, Fly Fishing Camp offers magnificent views of bends, canyons, and meadows. Partner with your favorite cousin and head out for some excellent fly fishing for wild brown and brook trout as you style out your dry flies and nymphs.

After your time on the water with your amazing Broadmoor guide, retreat to the impressive restored Main Lodge. While waiting for your tasty meal, and before venturing back to one of the seven rustic cabins, relax under the stars on the wraparound porch and reflect on the day.

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EXPLORING THE BROADMOOR SOARING ADVENTURE

EXPLORING THE BROADMOOR SOARING ADVENTURE

Seven Falls is home to the best Colorado Springs Zip Line Tours. This is where the fun begins for guests visiting Colorado Springs, The Garden of the Gods, USAFA and The Broadmoor who are looking for a little heart-racing fun. Imagine adventures high above the ground and cruising across The Grandest Mile of Scenery in Colorado. Zip-lining has never been more fun than in the South Cheyenne Canyon. Seclusion is what you get when you book The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure.

BROADMOOR SOARING ADVENTURE AT SEVEN FALLS

Ten zip-lines spread across two different courses ranging from 300 feet to an impressive 1,800 feet give you a fantastic view of waterfalls and South Cheyenne Canyon. Also included here are hiking trails that are moderately challenging, rope bridges, and a sizeable 180-foot rappel controlled, of course.

It is perfectly fine if you do not have any experience with zip-lines. After a cool 15-minute ground school, Broadmoor Soaring Adventure expert guides will have you set up with the appropriate harness, gloves, the correct helmet, and instructional guidelines on how to navigate the courses carefully and safely.  In no time, you will be soaring above magnificent views as you come across suspension bridges that make you feel like you are in an Indiana Jones film.

Ensuring that there is no environmental impact to the spectacular Seven Falls, Broadmoor Outfitters and The Broadmoor entrusted the expertise of Bonsai Design to create remarkable adventures in the air.

THE COURSES

Woods Course

The Woods Course will give guests astonishing views of pine trees, winding creeks, Midnight Falls, a natural granite arch, and hiking trails that venture down to the falls. Guides will ensure that you have a memory building outing from when you start going up the mountain to the time you set off for your heart-stopping adventurous moment.

Fins Course

The Fins Course provides guests an opportunity to ease into enjoying their adventure. Five zip-lines become progressively longer as you fly high above the impressive steep drops, jagged cliffs, and rock formations that are unique in their own sense. Other incredible features of this course include numerous custom-built suspension bridges and being able to rappel down to the canyon floor when you end.

COURSE INFORMATION

The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure is a hot outdoor recreational adventure for guests visiting Colorado Springs, The Garden of the Gods, USAFA and The Broadmoor; therefore, reservations made in advance are required. For full excitement, book the four-hour option. If you are not sure about soaring through the air for that long, consider booking The Woods course or Finns course separately.

As you are booking your sensational outdoor adventure, remember that tax and gratuity are not included in the course fee, but the Seven Falls park entry fee is. Also, weight restrictions for any of the courses are 90 and 250 pounds. Children that are between the ages of eight and fourteen are welcome as long as an adult comes along.

CONCLUSION

The Broadmoor Soaring Adventure is a thrilling outdoor recreational adventure that offers The Broadmoor guests a once in a lifetime experience. Ten zip-lines, rope bridges, hiking, and rappelling opportunities will have you planning your next trip with friends, family, or your next office retreat.

Picture of Hampton Madsen

Hampton Madsen

Electrical Engineer turned Outdoor Professional! Hampton grew up in the outfitting world and when push came to shove, she adopted her favorite motto #Forget Engineering and returned to the industry she loves. She is a mother of two wonderful boys, and if you need a little nerdy humor, she can throw it your way.
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Why Visit The Garden of the Gods

Why Visit Garden of the Gods?

Consider visiting Garden of the Gods with all the recent discussions on social distancing and getting out for some fresh air. Hiking, rock climbing, Jeep, and Segway tours are just a few of the recreational activities to enjoy during your visit.

Welcome to Garden of the Gods

Formerly known as Red Rock Corral, Garde of the Gods in Colorado Springs, Colorado, offer up some impressive geological features. Unique rock formations that have evolved over the early years have created some remarkable hogbacks, such as the Kissing Camel and Cathedral Valley.

The most visited public park in Colorado Springs is undoubtedly Garden of the Gods, attracting over two million outdoor enthusiasts every year.

What to do at Garden of the Gods

Rock Climbing

During your visit to Garden of the Gods, gear up and hit the rocks. Rock climbing is extremely popular here thanks to the steep rock formations. Should you be a beginner, consider trying out Cowboy Boot Crack.

More daring climbs include Anaconda, Triple Exposure, and Scarecrow. Watch out for the deception of the routes and always remember safety. All climbers that wish to traverse the rocks of Garden of the Gods need an annual permit. The yearly application is on the City of Colorado Springs website.

Climbers must also adhere to the Technical Climbing Regulations and Guidelines. Safety measures include proper equipment, having two or more in your party, and not staining chalk. There is also no climbing after rain or snow, as the rocks become unstable after they are wet.

Hiking

Lace-up your best pair of hiking boots and enjoy the 1.5-mile Perkins Central Garden Trail. This trail is excellent for wildlife viewing, walking, running, is paved, wheelchair accessible, welcomes dogs on a leash, and is open all year round.

Perkins Central Garden Trail starts at the North Parking Lot and leads you across Garden of the God’s gigantic and beautiful red rocks.

Should you be looking for longer trails, consider any of the twenty trails that are available when you visit Garden of the Gods. Any of these trails are excellent for social distancing and exercise.

Jeep and Segway Tours

Hook up with one of the local companies that provide jeep and Segway tours through Garden of the Gods. Enjoy checking out Cheyenne Canyon, waterfalls, spectacular views, and historical districts. Take in the flora, fauna, and geology the park has to offer.

Electric Bike Tours

Enjoy the magnificent beauty of Garden of the Gods and conquer the hills easily with an electric bike rental. Hook up with a group for a bike tour or venture out on your self-guided tour when you pick up a rental.

Mountain Biking

Load up your mountain bike and venture out onto a designated mountain bike trail when you visit Garden of the Gods. Hikers also utilize these trails, and equestrian riders, so watch out for them

Remember to abide by Garden of the God’s regulations for mountain biking as you are enjoying your day. Stay on the trail, be sure to dismount from your bike when you see a horse coming towards you, watch for wildlife, pack out what you pack in, control that speed, and most of all, have FUN!

Conclusion

Social distancing, along with exercise, is natural when you visit Garden of the Gods. Going out into the fresh air and enjoying all the park has to offer is a win-win situation.

For more information, or to plan your trip to Garden of the Gods, contact Broadmoor Outfitters for all your planning needs.