Just 60 miles south of Denver, the Rocky Mountain town of Colorado Springs is a paradise for lovers of outdoor sports. Its mountains and foothills — including the 14,115 foot Pikes Peak — are brimming with challenging trails, so it’s no wonder that both the U.S. Olympic Training Center and the U.S. Air Force Academy have made Colorado Springs–which sits at 6,000 feet– their proving grounds. Even in town, the numerous city parks and open spaces seem to invite in an atmosphere of exercise. Note: Be aware of the altitude and make sure you adjust and hydrate when running in Colorado Springs.
Local running experts say to start out on the Pikes Peak Greenway. This popular long trail cuts conveniently right through the center of town, so you can pick it up almost anywhere. If you’re more of a trail runner, you can find the route of your dreams at one of the many local parks, including Garden of the Gods, Bear Creek, and Ute Valley. Part of the joy of running in Colorado Springs is the spirit of adventure, so don’t be afraid to get out and explore any of these parks near you.
A car can add to the convenience of your exploration, but it’s not 100% necessary. The Mountain Metro bus system is actually quite extensive, and they offer a handy tool to find the closest bus stop and next arrival near you. With all transportation barriers out of the way, you can get out and train like an Olympian!
