Hiking
and Trail Running
in Colorado
.Springs......................
Adventures
Out West holds
the only hiking permits for the Pike National Forest west
of Colorado Springs, CO.
Pikes Peak is one of the most famous mountains
in the world. Its slopes are covered with trails that
allow you to enjoy this natrual beauty at all levels.
Our Guides, Gary Thornburg and Greg Wellens have been
running around these hills for 20 years and will show
you the best routs.
As a running mecca, The Pikes Peak Marathon
is held in Colorado Springs annually drawing thousands
of runners. Come run on the training hills of champions
with AOW.
These
hikes are suitable for anyone without physical limitations,
capable of walking 1 to 4 miles at an altitude of 6000
- 9000 feet above sea level. We hike to your level and
ability at your speed. Some like to Sweat and some like
to Stroll your wish is our comand. Hikes are guided along
gorgeous trails in North Cheyenne Canyon ranging from
GREEN
(real easy)
to BLUE (moderate) to
BLACK
(challenging)
to DOUBLE
BLACK(Running).
No
special equipment is needed, however guests do
need sturdy footwear designed for walking, jogging or
hiking... not sandals, or dress shoes. 
Clothing
should be casual and comfortable... You may even get dirty.
Each guest is provided with a fanny pack containing a
disposable rain poncho, water bottle and snack. Our knowledgeable,
CPR-trained guides are equipped with extra water, first
aid kits and cellular phones for your comfort and safety.
.
Hikes
can be scheduled from two to six hours (door to door)
to accomodate your schedule....
Trail
Running tours! The
routes listed below can be run as well. We'll put you
up against our guides and who see gonna suck wind. Trail
runner Gary Thornburg. has completed the Pikes Peak Marathon
and routinly runs the Acent. For twenty years he has been
running these hills and now leads tours at AOW, aka da
Sweed.
Same Cost less time.
Weather Conditions
Our
beautiful climate in Colorado is subject to change from
hour to hour. Be sure to bring your sunscreen for our
numerous sunny days - over 300 every year! 
The
temperature in Colorado Springs may be warm in the summer
months, however gains in altitude will guarantee cooler
temps or the chance of a surprise
thunderstorm. Cloud cover causes
the temperature to drop dramatically and suddenly. Dressing
in layers and wearing sunscreen is highly recommended.
Flora & Fauna..
... ...
You
may be fortunate enough to spot wildlife while hiking.
The
rich diversity of life in our sub-alpine habitat include
bear, mountain lion, bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer, bobcat,
fox, squirrels, rattlesnakes, and over 100 species of
birds. Bring your cameras or binoculars & appropriate
shoes and clothing (layers are best). Hikes led by trained,
knowledgeable, CPR-Certified guides. All times are from
hotel. Water/snacks are provided.
Please use caution and good sense if you encounter wildlife
on your hike.
Aspens, various pines,
oaks and cottonwoods... Sunflowers, wooly muliens, columbines
and mosses ... The plants of the Front Range of the Rockies
are lush and diverse from the plains to the top of Pikes
Peak. In the spring, summer and early fall, mountain wildflowers
are in bloom and can be observed, phot
Trail
Routes
GOLD
CAMP rd. 2 hrs / 2mi round trip
This trail takes
you along an easy grade on historic Short Line Rail /
Gold Camp Road through beautiful Pike National Forest,
where you can expect to see a variety of birds and small
animal life. 
Tennis
shoes ok. Trail rated EASY* and
suggested for all ages and abilities.
*Green
$50 per person
........................ 2-person
min
BOOK
NOW
7 Bridges 2.5-3
hrs / 3mi round trip
Forget
where you are with this tranquil hike along N Cheyenne
Creek. Starting at Gold Camp Rd we will walk approx. 1
mile on the roadbed (easy), turning off at the junction
with N Cheyenne Creek & hike over 7 bridges on our way
to a breathtaking view of the plains beyond. Trail/hiking/tennis
shoes required. Trail rated MODERATE*
and
suggested for those wanting a bit more exercise.
*Blue
$60
per person ......................2-person
min
BOOK
NOW
St Mary's Falls 3.5-4
hrs / 4.5mi round trip
Starting
at Gold Camp Rd we walk approx. 1.5 mi on the roadbed
(easy), then we turn off above Helen Hunt Falls and follow
the creek to our destination at 9800 ft: St Mary's Falls.
Be prepared for a great afternoon in the forest. Trail/hiking/tennis
shoes required. Trail rated STRENUOUS* and suggested for
those in good physical condition.
*Black
$70 per person .........................
2-person min
BOOK
NOW
Jones Park & Bear
Creek Canyon 4-5 hrs / 6mi round trip
Journey
through the Pike National Forest beginning at Gold Camp
Rd and 7 Bridges trail. When the going gets tough, we
keep on climbing! The trail eventually crests a ridge
and we descend into Jones Park (original route to summit
Pikes Peak) Trail then descends 4000 ft along Bear Creek
over 3 miles to the end where your Jeep driver will be
waiting. Trail/hiking/tennis shoes required. Trail rated
STRENUOUS* suggested for those in good physical condition.
*Black
$80 per person
......................... 2-person min
BOOK
NOW
