Colorado is an incredible destination for both summer and winter fun. Opened in 2019 and nestled in the foothills of Colorado Springs, Candlewood Suites® on Fort Carson, an IHG® Army Hotel makes a great base to plan your vacation around. There’s something for everyone, from awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife to a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, mountain biking, or exploring the state’s many forests, and of course mountain sports. IHG Army Hotels helps make trips to Colorado accessible to all.
Take a Trip to the Royal Gorge for Breathtaking Views
~1-hour drive from Fort Carson
VISIT THE BRIDGE
If planning your visit during spring, a trip to the Royal Gorge can be as adventurous as you want to make it. The bridge itself over the gorge is an incredible sight to see with breathtaking views, and many adventure seekers take advantage of the springtime and summer white water rafting on the Arkansas River.
WHITE WATER RAFTING
The best time to go rafting is generally from April to the beginning of September. White water rafting can be a fun and memorable family activity. Family-friendly trips are available on the Arkansas River through several different rafting companies, allowing families to bring kids age 7 and up on Class II or Class III rapids.
THE ROYAL GORGE ROUTE RAILROAD
Another opportunity is to take the Royal Gorge Route Railroad. During the holidays, rides are themed around Christmas and Santa, making this the perfect low-key family holiday excursion.
Explore the Natural Beauty of Colorado’s Rock Formations
GARDEN OF THE GODS
~30-minute drive from Fort Carson
Garden of the Gods is one of the most famous sights to see near Colorado Springs. The park is a National Natural Landmark, and there’s no wonder why with the amazing 300-foot sandstone rock formations throughout the park. With over 21 miles of trails, you’ll have plenty of hiking options. The park’s self-guided program offers an hour-long outdoor scavenger hunt, making this a great activity to do with the kids. You can find the park’s entire calendar, including Guided Nature Walks to learn about the geology and park history here.
CAVE OF THE WINDS
~30-minute drive from Fort Carson
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park lets you explore a complex system of underground caverns. Our favorite family-friendly tour is the Cave of the Winds Discovery Tour. This hour-long guided tour takes you below ground to learn all about the caves and how they were discovered. The park also offers a quarter-mile zip line adventure and outdoor climbing for those seeking a thrill.
MANITOU CLIFF DWELLINGS
~30-minute drive from Fort Carson
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings are authentic cliff dwellings anywhere from 800 to 1000 years old, perfect for a little historical architectural fun! You’ll have the chance to explore the ruins on a self-guided tour.
Take a Trip to the North Pole
~45-minute drive from Fort Carson
Santa’s Workshop is a Christmas family-themed amusement park open annually from June through December. The park features fun rides for the whole family, including infant-friendly rides with everything from an antique car ride to a candy cane roller coaster. You’ll also be able to visit Santa! If visiting in November or December, make sure to grab tickets in advance as the park becomes very busy.
Visit the Iconic Pikes Peak
~1.5-hour drive from Fort Carson
Pikes Peak towers above the plains of Colorado at 14,115 feet and if you’re staying on Fort Carson you’ll be able to see it to the West! If you’re already at Cascade after visiting Santa’s Workshop at the North Pole, you are right at the beginning of the drive up to the top of Pike’s Peak, known as Pikes Peak Highway. There are a few different ways to get to the top of the mountain, but we recommend either the 19-mile drive or the newly opened Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The cog railway is a 3.5-hour round trip journey to the Summit from the city of Manitou. The amazing views from the top of the summit are worth the journey! Keep in mind that winter conditions often close the highway, so it’s best to check in advance.
Ski or Snowboard at a Mountain Resort
If you’re planning your trip to Colorado to ski or snowboard, we’ve outlined several resorts to help you choose the best fit for your family. With so many mountains to choose from, it can be difficult to choose just one resort. Below we detail a few resorts near Fort Carson. You can also take lessons geared towards your skill level at each resort if you want to learn a winter sport or simply improve your technique!
MONARCH MOUNTAIN
~2.5-hour drive from Fort Carson
One of the more affordable mountains, Monarch Mountain offers a great daily military discount rate for skiing and snowboarding. Monarch is typically less crowded than other resorts, so it offers a great opportunity to avoid the crowds. The resort is slightly smaller than the others we’ve listed here, at only 670 acres. There are only 5 lifts, so keep in mind that expert skiers will need to hike in order to reach more advanced trails. We recommend this resort to families who are new to skiing and snowboarding and looking for an affordable skiing vacation. If you are looking for a one-day skiing or snowboarding excursion, the discounted lift tickets make Monarch Mountain a fantastic option!
BRECKENRIDGE
~2.5-hour drive from Fort Carson
Breckenridge offers world-class skiing and snowboarding. The resort is well-planned with a gorgeous backdrop. There are many different lifts for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, with plenty of mountain lodges to escape the cold. The mountain boasts over 3,000 acres of terrain up to 13,000 feet elevation with new gondolas that will speed you to the top of the mountain. For those who enjoy snowboarding in a terrain park, Breckenridge is your best option. If you qualify, the Military Epic Pass is a great way to save money if you want to spend a few days skiing or snowboarding.
Keystone
~3-hour drive from Fort Carson
Keystone Resort connects 5 different mountains together by gondola. You can spend all day exploring the different mountains and there is something for everyone of all skill levels. The resort is known as being one of the most family-friendly resorts in Colorado. Due to the resort’s proximity to Denver, the resort can get crowded, especially during the weekends. There are a lot of different options for intermediate ski and snowboarders, as well as learning areas for beginners. There are also several areas just for kids. Keystone’s Adventure Point also has both day and night tubing sessions for children over the age of 4. The Military Epic Pass is also accepted at Keystone Resort.
BEAVER CREEK
~3.5-hour drive from Fort Carson
Beaver Creek is a medium-sized resort with 23 lifts and 2 gondolas covering over 1,800 acres of terrain. If you want a pampered ski or snowboard experience, Beaver Creek is an option. Escalators take you from the slopes to the plaza areas with valets to store your gear and keep it warm at the lodge. Although Beaver Creek offers a high-end skiing experience, it gets less traffic than other ski resorts in the area. The resort offers something for family members of all skill levels and also accepts the Military Epic Pass.
RENT WINTER SPORTS EQUIPMENT ON POST TO SAVE
If you need to rent equipment, don’t forget about Fort Carson’s Outdoor Recreation Complex’s Mountain Post Outfitters. Rates start at just $36 per person for a weekend or $120 for a week for both skiing or snowboarding. You won’t find anything close to this price if you wait to rent at a resort!
Regardless of which activities you choose to plan on your Colorado vacation, IHG Army Hotels takes the stress out of travel, giving you the chance to relax and enjoy your family vacation or trip together. Vacation in Colorado year-round with summer and winter sports activities for the entire family.. Enjoy the Pikes Peak Region of Colorado with IHG Army Hotels on Fort Carson!
