By Kathy Reak
White-knuckled, heart-pumping, push-to-the-ultimate-limit adventure awaits groups in Colorado Springs and the Pikes Peak region. Glide more than 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River on the country’s highest zip line, muffle screams on the one-of-a-kind TERROR-dactyl and navigate the winding turns of the no-guardrail Pikes Peak Highway. If your group loves the thrill of heights, twisting mountain roads or extreme recreation, these attractions will have attendees living on the edge. There also are tamer options to satisfy any level of adventurer coming to Colorado Springs for a meeting or group function.
Manitou Springs’ Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is home to the one and only TERROR-dactyl. Specially built for the location, the seat dangles 200 feet above Williams Canyon. Afterwards, self-navigate the series of ropes and platforms on the Wind Walker Challenge course. Discounts are offered for group cave tours and outdoor attractions, and there’s space for a group meal in the scenic pavilion.
Enjoy stunning views from venues like the Pavilion at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park. Courtesy VisitCOS.com.
Cross North America’s highest suspension bridge at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. Feel a bit of a sway on a windy day before looking down. Strap into the Zip Rider 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River, and reach up to 40 miles per hour on the world’s second highest zip line. Make it a triple threat with the Royal Rush Skycoaster that swings high over the Royal Gorge. Ask for group discounts, onsite catering and even lodging and meeting space at the Big Horn Mountaintop Lodge.
Try out the thrilling rides at Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. Courtesy VisitCOS.com.
Pikes Peak is known as America’s mountain for inspiring the words to America the Beautiful and boasting a 19-mile highway above the clouds. Twist and turn while enjoying the breathtaking scenery and wildlife. Now fully paved, the no-sissies-allowed highway does not offer guard rails of any kind. Reward the trip with a delicious donut at the 14,115-foot summit. Want a more relaxing trip? Groups can take the world’s highest cog railway to the top.
Navigate the twists and turns of the no guardrail Pikes Peak Highway on a bike or in a car. Courtesy VisitCOS.com.
Another option is navigating the roaring waters of the Arkansas River. With some of the most bodacious waters in the state, rafters can choose between half-, full- and even multi-day trips. The rapids range from class II to V in the scenic Royal Gorge. Connect with one of the area’s awesome guides for some amazing team-building.
Rafting the Arkansas River is the ultimate outing for team-building. Courtesy VisitCOS.com.
Colorado Springs is the ideal choice for your group’s next meeting or event.
Kathy Reak joined the Colorado Springs CVB in 1998 and serves as director of convention sales. She handles meetings and conventions for religious and corporate markets as well as associations in Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Texas and Wisconsin and works with ConferenceDirect associates.
