Colorado Springs Expedition $888

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Below is a sample itinerary.  Wild Trek is proud of our flexibility during trips.  We may notice the weather is better for a certain activity and move days around.  Or our staff may find some hidden gem that we just have to see and bump another hike for a new discovery.  Or there may be a local event in town that we think the kids would like and we may go there.  Our staff's flexibility is what makes our trips special!  

 The expedition begins with an evening train departure. Settle in for an overnight journey across the rails as the landscape shifts toward the mountains. Please remember to bring your own sack dinner and drinks for the ride. 

Arrive in Colorado early Sunday morning and fuel up with a continental breakfast at the station. The first destination is North Cheyenne Canyon, a dramatic 1,000-foot-deep granite canyon that has served as a public park since 1885. After exploring the canyon, head to the KOA resort to handle cabin assignments and settle in. Spend the remainder of the afternoon enjoying the resort amenities and relaxing by the campfire.  

 Monday is dedicated to the rugged beauty of Cheesman Canyon. Following a 60-minute drive, embark on a geology-focused hike along the South Platte River, where millions of years of water erosion have carved massive boulder formations. The day includes ample time for swimming and relaxing in the canyon before hiking back out and returning to the resort for the evening. 

 On Tuesday, the scenery shifts to the vibrant "Paint Mines" out on the plains. Historically, American Indians collected clay from these formations to create colorful pottery; today, you will hike a 3-mile loop through the striking hoodoos and spires. The afternoon continues at Red Rock Canyon Open Space, a site that served as a gypsum mine and stone quarry in the late 1800s. Return to the resort in the evening for a cookout and dessert.  

 Midweek, the trek heads to the Pancake Rocks trailhead for a mountain ascent. This hike leads to unique, flattened rock layers—resembling stacks of pancakes—that were created by the distinct weathering patterns of Pikes Peak granite. After enjoying the views and eating among the rocks, head back to the KOA for a refreshing smoothie bar and a relaxed afternoon at the resort. 

 Thursday morning offers a variety of activity choices, including the challenging Manitou Incline—a 2,744-step trail following a former cable car route—a casual hike, or resort play. In the afternoon, visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, America’s only mountain-side zoo, which sits at an elevation of 6,714 feet. The day concludes at the Garden of the Gods, a National Natural Landmark featuring massive red rock fins that were once prehistoric sand dunes, where the group will stay through the 8:25 pm sunset. 

 The adventure wraps up on Friday morning as you pack up and depart the resort by 10:00 am. The route home passes through the historic town of Pueblo for a walk along the Arkansas River Riverwalk. Before reaching the train station, the group will stop in Rocky Ford, the agricultural heart of the valley, to sample their world-famous melons. A final short walk through the main street of La Junta leads back to the station for the train ride home.