Weekend getaway around Colorado Springs

Next up: a trek to the top of Pikes Peak. If you’ve never been to the top of a 14er (climbers’ speak for mountains over 14,000 feet), there are a few things to know, and Pikes Peak’s tourism guides do a stellar job of keeping visitors informed.

If you choose to drive to the top, expect it to take three to four hours. You'll pay $15.00 for adults and $5 for kids. Consider purchasing the $5.00 CD guide as well; it’s synced with your drive and shares interesting facts about the shifting terrains, waterfalls, and wildlife you’ll pass. The guide also will give you valuable tips about driving down the mountain—Your brakes will thank you.

If you’re more of the adventurous sort, there are a couple routes to hike to the top of Pikes Peak. Pre-arrange for someone to meet you at the top to drive you back down, or give yourself extra time to descend in case the high elevation tires you out faster than you expect.

Be prepared to feel a little winded once you reach the summit—either because of the decrease in oxygen or the breathtaking landscape, or a combination of the two factors; This is the scene that inspired the song, “America the Beautiful” after all. Staying well-hydrated throughout your visit will help fend off elevation sickness, and there’s medical staff on hand just in case. On your drive back down, take your time to pull over to take in more amazing views, and maybe a glimpse of a mountain goat or a skier shuttling down the slope in the distance. Oh, and while you’re at the top, don’t forget to grab some “magic” donuts as well: frying dough at this elevation makes the treats extra light and fluffy!

Make your next stop the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. They were erected 800 to 1,000 years ago by the Anasazi people, and are still standing to this day.

After browsing the two museums that showcase ancient artifacts, go inside and walk in the footsteps of the Native Americans who built these impressive dwellings. You’ll also find a gift shop that offers reproductions of these items along with modern Native American pottery, jewelry, and more here as well. Pack a picnic lunch; you can munch at one of the site’s tables while taking in the incredible view of the dwellings and Pikes Peak.

As far as one-of-a-kind eateries go, The Airplane Restaurant is pretty unforgettable. Should you land here for lunch or dinner, you’ll have the option of dining inside the fully intact Boeing KC-97 tanker or the nearby extended dining area. Either way, make a reservation—especially if you want to eat on the plane—and snap a photo in the cockpit before leaving.

In search of more thrills? In Cañon City, hanging 955 feet above the Arkansas River, sits the Royal Gorge Bridge. It held the record of being the highest bridge in the world from 1929 until 2001, when it was surpassed by the Liuguanghe Bridge in China. At its widest point, the bridge spans 938 feet, and is covered by a wooden walkway that is 1,292-feet long. Hopefully you aren't afraid of heights because you have to experience the thrill of walking across it, or better yet, zip-lining across it. To do either of these things, you’ll need to buy a ticket to the park. Admission will also give you access to several other rides and activities, and it’s redeemable for a second day if you’re staying in the area.

Don’t forget, you can white-water raft the Arkansas River below!

Sand isn’t just for the beach! Build a castle, feel your toes in the sand and climb to the top of the world’s tallest dunes. The park offers opportunities for all sorts of activities, but definitely plan to sandboard or sled. Make sure you rent or buy a board meant for use on sand, though; these versions are different from those you would use on snow. Beyond the dunes you can find opportunities to hike, backpack, swim, horseback ride, and fish. Keep in mind that Great Sand Dunes National Park is at a high elevation in the Rocky Mountains; it can get rather windy, and the weather isn’t always predictable, so remember to bring a sweater or jacket. Like many parks in the area, Great Sand Dunes welcomes canine friends, but the sand can be really hot on their paws, especially in the mid-afternoon sun, so plan accordingly.

Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site is a fully reconstructed 1840s fur-trading post along the Santa Fe Trail. This is the type of place where traders, trappers, and travelers would have met up with Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes to discuss peaceful trading terms and for special events. The reconstruction of this site was extremely detailed, so it feels very authentic.

In addition to providing a shaded picnic area, the site also offers a shuttle so people who can’t walk from the parking area still can experience a taste of history. If you’re coming from La Junta, Colorado, you can catch the Amtrak Southwest Chief train, which carries volunteer narrators who will give you an introduction to the fort before you even arrive.