EXPERIENCE THE GREAT OUTDOORS SAFELY DURING COVID-19

Get outside for some fresh air and much-needed adventure with these great offerings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the order, residents can leave their homes to engage in outdoor activities, such as walking, hiking, biking or running. For purposes of outdoor activity, state parks will remain open to the public to engage in walking, hiking, biking, running, and similar outdoor activities but all playgrounds, picnic areas, other similar areas conducive to a public gathering, and attended areas shall be closed.

SOCIAL DISTANCING IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS

• Trails & Open Space Coalition – ​The team at TOSC is busy putting together some suggestions for alternative outdoor spaces that they are finding to be less crowded. When possible, stick close to home and check out your local park or trails. Enjoy virtual hikes for people to enjoy online as well as mapped locations for walking, hiking, biking and more.
• UpaDowna – They have created a page with many ways for people to stay active and healthy (both mentally and physically). They also offer virtual trail cleanups and hikes, photo scavenger hunt challenges and more. Learn more by visiting their site or Facebook page. Also accepting donations.
• Parks & Recreation – Garden of the Gods, North Cheyenne Canon Park, Mueller State Park, Fossil Beds National Monument, or other hiking opportunities in Teller County (i.e. The Crags) and Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site remain open. Playgrounds, pavilions and other gathering spaces are closed.
• Fremont Adventure Recreation – Compiled a list of “easy” trails that can be accessed and utilized by folks of all ages and abilities. Resources online for kids and families.
• Teller County – Hiking and biking options are a great choice and relieve overburdened trails in the COS/El Paso County area.
• Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) – For those wondering if you can go to a local park, trail or campsite, PPORA has put together a page with the region’s land manager’s information on what is open/closed. You can also experience new trails and prepare for your adventure with equipment and tips from the experts on the site.
• Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) – With help from local, state and federal partners, COTREX is now monitoring trail-related COVID-19 closures across Colorado on a daily basis.
• Angler’s Covey – You can still outfit your fly fishing adventure – whether tying flies or preparing for your next on-water adventure! Angler’s Covey is available 9:00am-1:00pm each day for online and phone orders and curbside pick-up during the stay at home order. You’re also able to book future guided fly fishing trips!
• Dragonfly Paddle Yoga – Classes will commence May 2nd. They will follow social distancing and prevention protocols for everyones safety. Pre-season classes (May 2-17) are now available to book. Stay tuned for announcements on specials – including Season Passes – plus the full class schedule.
• Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain – Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain will resume accepting cash and credit cards beginning Friday, May 1. To minimize interaction between visitors and staff, a 20% discount will be available to guests who purchase tickets online in May. Visit www.pikespeakcolorado.com and use the code “May20” to receive the discount. We ask for your patience as these new procedures may slow interactions. Gateway hours are 9 a.m.– 3 p.m.
• Royal Gorge Bridge and Park – Will open on a drive through only basis for $20.00 a car load, 10 am – 7 pm beginning Friday, May 1. The Royal Gorge Bridge and Park is allowing regular passenger cars, motorcycles, SUV’s and minivans holding 8 persons or less to drive across the bridge in compliance with the Safer At Home guidelines issued by the State.  The park will continue to open gradually in phases permitting more activities in the park as ordinances permit by Fremont County and the State of Colorado, according to Brent Hargrave, Chief Operating Officer.

(Article originally published online at https://www.visitcos.com/carry-on-colorado-springs/carry-on-outdoor-adventure/)