A Local's Guide to Every Season in Colorado Springs: When to Visit & What to Do

Everyone asks, “When is the best time to visit Colorado Springs?” The truth is, there’s no single right answer. The best time for you depends entirely on the kind of adventure you’re craving. Are you here for sun-drenched hikes to alpine lakes, golden aspen drives, or cozy nights by the fire after seeing a million holiday lights?

This isn’t your average list of attractions. This is your seasonal playbook, a Colorado Springs travel guide built from years of figuring out the perfect time and place for everything. We’ll skip the obvious and give you the real-deal tips for making the most of your trip, no matter when you arrive.

Spring (March - May): The Great Thaw and Rushing Waterfalls
Summer (June - August): Peak Season and Beating the Crowds
Fall (September - November): Golden Aspens and Crisp Mountain Air
Winter (December - February): A True Rocky Mountain Wonderland
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Colorado Springs

Spring in Colorado Springs (March - May): The Great Thaw

Spring in the Pikes Peak region is a season of dramatic transition. One day might feel like a warm preview of summer, and the next could bring a surprise snowstorm. But for those willing to pack layers, it’s a spectacular time to visit. The trails are less crowded, the landscape is waking up, and the waterfalls are absolutely roaring.

See the Waterfalls at Full Power

After a long winter of snowpack accumulation, the spring melt turns our local waterfalls into thundering spectacles. This is, without a doubt, the best time of year to see them.

The Broadmoor Seven Falls: This series of seven cascading waterfalls is a classic attraction, but it’s truly epic in May. The secret is to go on a weekday morning right when they open. You’ll avoid the biggest crowds and might even get the 224-step staircase to the top all to yourself for a few minutes. The drive through South Cheyenne Cañon to get there is half the experience. The falls are located at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd.
Helen Hunt Falls: Located in North Cheyenne Cañon Park, this is a more natural, less-developed waterfall experience. It’s easily accessible from a parking area, but the real gem is the moderate hike up the Silver Cascade Trail above the main falls for even more views. In spring, the trail can be icy in spots, so bring microspikes just in case.

Hike Without the Crowds

Summer gets all the hiking glory, but spring offers a unique window. The lower elevation trails are often dry and sunny, while the iconic peaks are still beautifully snow-capped.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space: Just a stone’s throw from Old Colorado City, this park is a local favorite. It has the same stunning red rock fins as Garden of the Gods but a fraction of the tourists. The Contemplative Trail is an easy loop with fantastic views, perfect for a crisp spring morning.
Paint Mines Interpretive Park: About a 45-minute drive east of the city, the Paint Mines are an otherworldly landscape of colorful clay and hoodoos. It can get blazing hot in the summer, making a cooler spring day the ideal time to explore this geological wonder. The trails are short and easy, making it a great family outing.

Enjoy Indoor Attractions on Snowy Days

If a late-season snowstorm does roll in, don’t despair. It’s the perfect excuse to check out some of the city’s fantastic indoor spots.

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum: Housed in the beautiful 1903 El Paso County Courthouse, this museum offers a deep dive into the region’s fascinating history. It’s completely free and a perfect way to spend a few hours. Find it at 215 S Tejon St.
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum: This state-of-the-art museum is an inspiring and interactive experience for all ages. You can test your skills on virtual simulators and see an incredible collection of Olympic torches and medals.

Summer in Colorado Springs (June - August): Peak Adventure Season

Summer is classic Colorado. Long, sunny days, vibrant blue skies, and every trail and attraction buzzing with energy. It’s the most popular time to visit for a reason, but that doesn’t mean you have to be stuck in a crowd. With a little planning, you can have an incredible summer adventure.

Experience the Icons (The Smart Way)

You can’t come to Colorado Springs and not see Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. But you can be smart about how you see them.

Garden of the Gods Pro-Tip: The main parking lot at the north end of the park is a zoo by 9 AM. Instead, drive to the Garden of the Gods Trading Post on the south side. Park there, grab a coffee, and enter the park on foot via the less-traveled Siamese Twins Trail. It offers a stunning, unique view of Pikes Peak framed by the rock formation.
Pikes Peak Pro-Tip: The drive up the Pikes Peak Highway is a bucket-list item, but the switchbacks can be nerve-wracking. The absolute best way to experience the summit is by booking a seat on the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. You get all the jaw-dropping views without the white-knuckle driving. Crucial detail: Book your tickets months in advance, as they sell out fast for summer.

Cool Off in Manitou Springs

When the afternoon sun gets intense, the quirky, artistic town of Manitou Springs is the perfect escape. Nestled in a canyon at the base of Pikes Peak, it’s always a few degrees cooler.

Drink from the Mineral Springs: Walk through town and sample the water from the eight different natural mineral springs. They each have a unique taste due to their mineral content. Bring a water bottle!
Penny Arcade: A must-do for all ages. This massive, old-school arcade has everything from vintage pinball machines to classic skeeball, and many games still only cost a penny or a nickel. It’s located at 900 Manitou Ave.

Where to Stay for Summer Fun

Being close to the action is key in the summer. You want a basecamp that lets you get out early for hikes and provides a perfect place to relax in the evenings. For a group of up to 8, a spot like Views | 2 mins to OCC | Fire Pit | Games | Pets is ideal. Located at 1112 Arch St, this Colorado Springs vacation rental puts you incredibly close to Old Colorado City and Red Rock Canyon. After a long day of exploring, gathering around the private fire pit is the perfect way to enjoy a cool Colorado summer night.

Fall in Colorado Springs (September - November): Golden Aspens & Crisp Air

Ask any local their favorite season, and many will say fall. The summer crowds have thinned, the air is crisp and cool, and the mountainsides ignite in a blaze of golden aspen leaves. September and early October are pure magic here.

Go Leaf Peeping

The main event of a Colorado fall is watching the aspens turn. The peak color window is fleeting, typically lasting from mid-September to early October, so timing is everything.

Gold Camp Road: This is the locals’ choice for fall colors. This unpaved road follows an old railroad grade, winding through shimmering aspen groves with incredible views of the city below. You don’t need a 4x4 for the first several miles, and it’s far less crowded than the more famous mountain passes.
Cripple Creek: For a full-day adventure, take the scenic drive up to the historic mining town of Cripple Creek. The highway is lined with some of the most spectacular aspen forests in the state. Once there, you can explore the town’s history or ride the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad for a unique view of the fall foliage.

Enjoy Fall Festivals & Events

Autumn is a time for celebration in the Pikes Peak region.

Emma Crawford Coffin Races: If your trip lines up with late October, you have to experience this bizarre and hilarious Manitou Springs tradition. Teams dress in costume and race coffins down the main street. It’s wonderfully weird and quintessentially Manitou.
Local Farmers’ Markets: The harvest season is in full swing. Visit the Old Colorado City Farmers’ Market on a Saturday morning to pick up local produce, freshly baked goods, and maybe even some roasted green chiles.

Cozy Up After a Day of Exploring

Fall evenings call for comfort. It’s the perfect time to visit a local brewery or find a restaurant with a cozy patio and fire pits. After a day spent chasing fall colors, nothing beats coming back to a warm and inviting space. Many visitors find that booking a vacation rental provides the perfect home-away-from-home feeling for a fall getaway.

Winter in Colorado Springs (December - February): A True Rocky Mountain Wonderland

While Colorado Springs isn’t a ski town like Vail or Aspen, it transforms into a stunning and festive wonderland in the winter. The snow-dusted peaks create a breathtaking backdrop, and the city comes alive with holiday cheer. Plus, with over 300 days of sunshine a year, you’ll likely have plenty of bright, beautiful days to explore.

See the Holiday Lights

Colorado Springs goes all-out for the holidays. The light displays are some of the best in the state.

The Broadmoor: Strolling the grounds of The Broadmoor resort in December is a magical experience. They put up over a million twinkling lights, creating a spectacular display around the lake. It’s free to visit, and a great way to get into the holiday spirit. My tip: park in their garage and get your ticket validated by purchasing a hot chocolate at Espresso’s.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s Electric Safari: The zoo comes alive at night with enormous, illuminated animal sculptures. It’s a fantastic event for families and a unique way to experience the zoo. Be sure to buy tickets online in advance as popular nights sell out.

Embrace the Winter Sports (and Fun)

Ice Skating at Acacia Park: In the heart of downtown, this outdoor rink is a classic winter activity. It’s perfect for a fun afternoon followed by dinner at one of the many nearby restaurants. The rink is located at 115 E Platte Ave.
Snowshoeing at Mueller State Park: Just a 45-minute drive from the city, Mueller State Park offers miles of trails perfect for snowshoeing. You’ll wander through quiet evergreen forests with stunning views of the western slope of Pikes Peak. It’s a peaceful and beautiful way to experience the Rockies in winter.

The Ultimate Winter Family Retreat

For a larger family or group looking for the perfect winter escape, having a home base with plenty of indoor fun is a game-changer. Imagine coming back from a day of seeing the lights to a place with its own private sauna, hot tub, and even an indoor mini-golf course. The Epic Family Home: Mini-Golf, Sauna, Hot Tub, Games, a Springline Stays property at 19 Clover, offers exactly that. This Colorado Springs vacation rental is designed for making memories, ensuring that even on the coldest days, the fun doesn’t have to stop. It’s an unbeatable choice for a holiday family gathering or a cozy winter trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Colorado Springs

What is the best month to visit Colorado Springs?

The best month really depends on your goals. For peak hiking and warm weather, July and August are fantastic. For stunning fall colors and fewer crowds, September is unbeatable. For a winter wonderland experience with holiday lights, choose December. For gushing waterfalls and pleasant temperatures, May and June are ideal.

How many days do you need in Colorado Springs?

To see the main highlights like Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Manitou Springs without feeling rushed, plan for at least 3 to 4 full days. If you want to explore more hidden gems, take longer hikes, or enjoy a day trip to the Royal Gorge, a 5 to 7-day trip is even better.

Is Colorado Springs better in summer or winter?

Neither is “better”—they just offer completely different experiences. Summer is for those who want to maximize outdoor recreation like hiking, biking, and rock climbing in warm weather. Winter is for visitors who love holiday festivities, a cozier atmosphere, snow-dusted scenery, and activities like ice skating and snowshoeing.

Do I need to rent a car in Colorado Springs?

Yes, it is highly recommended. While downtown and Old Colorado City are walkable, the top attractions like Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo are spread out. A car will give you the freedom to explore the entire Pikes Peak region at your own pace.

No matter which season you choose, Colorado Springs offers a unique and unforgettable adventure. The key is to embrace what each time of year has to offer, from the roaring falls of spring to the golden glow of autumn.

When you’re ready to plan your trip, consider making one of our properties your home base. By choosing to book direct with Springline Stays, you’ll always get the best rates and personalized service for your perfect Colorado getaway.

Old Colorado City — a must-visit near our Colorado Springs properties.