North Cheyenne Canyon Park 1

This is my stomping grounds, and about a stones throw from my parents’ house. It’s a gorgeous area that makes you want to thank the military-powers-that-be for stationing you in Colorado. Start by seeing Starr Kempf’s amazing metal sculptures that grace what used to be his front lawn at 2057 Pine Grove, Colorado Springs, CO. They’re worth the few minutes it takes to absorb them! Then head into the Canyon. Grab a map at The Starsmore Discovery Center. Drive up to Helen Hunt Jackson Falls. Take the kiddos, hike up the falls, snap some pics and then head up the trail for a beautiful hike. The views will blow you away, and the trail will get the energy of the kiddos out! Take a picnic lunch and round out your day.

On the way back, instead of heading down the canyon, head up a little further and drive lower Gold Camp Road back down into Colorado Springs.Make sure to drive slowly along these curves, it’s hard to tell if another car is coming toward you. The upper portion has been closed since 1987, when a tunnel collapsed, and the full trip to Cripple Creek is now rerouted through Old Stage Road (located on Cheyenne Mountain). Wind down the road and you’ll end up with gorgeous views of Colorado Springs.