Colorado Springs is a dream for outdoor lovers, and whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident, there are plenty of ways to get involved, expand your interests, and meet like-minded adventurers. You are about to have your best summer yet and these eight non-profits offer incredible opportunities through events, education, and community-building initiatives. Get ready to explore, learn, and connect this summer!
UpaDowna
UpaDowna is all about making outdoor adventure accessible to everyone. Their free “Pedal Party” bike rides, hikes, and climbing meetups are a greatway to get active and connect with others. They also offer gear rentals and educational workshops on outdoor skills, making it easy for anyone to get outside, regardless of experience level.
Catamount Institute
Focused on environmental education, the Catamount Institute provides hands-on experiences for kids and adults alike. Their summer camps teach youth about conservation through hiking, wildlife observation, and hands-on science experiments. For adults, they host educational programs and volunteer opportunities that deepen understanding of Colorado’s unique ecosystems.
Blackpackers
This organization is dedicated to increasing outdoor access for underserved communities by providing gear, education, and adventure opportunities at little to no cost. Their group hikes, camping trips, and rock-climbing clinics foster a welcoming and diverse outdoor community, ensuring everyone has the chance to enjoy nature.
Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance
PPORA connects residents with outdoor recreation opportunities while advocating for responsible land use. Their “Pikes Peak Litter Letter Project” and other stewardship events help keep local trails clean and sustainable. They also host networking events that bring together outdoor enthusiasts and professionals to discuss conservation and recreation initiatives.
El Paso County Nature Centers
Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers offer year-round educational programs, guided hikes, and family-friendly events. Their summer camps and interpretive trails provide a fun and interactive way to learn about local wildlife and ecosystems, making them perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
(El Paso County Nature Centers)
Colorado Mountain Club
For those looking to enhance their outdoor skills, CMC offers guided hikes, climbing courses, and backcountry safety training. Their “Pikes Peak Group” hosts regular outings, workshops, and social events, making it easy to connect with other outdoor enthusiasts and build confidence in the wilderness.
(CMC.org)
Colorado Springs Mountain Bike Association
Mountain bikers of all skill levels can get involved with COSMBA through trail maintenance days, group rides, and advocacy efforts. They work to improve and expand biking trails in the region, ensuring that both new and experienced riders have access to safe and exciting routes.
Kids on Bikes
Kids on Bikes is dedicated to getting more children on two wheels by providing free and affordable bikes, education, and community programs. Their summer bike camps teach kids cycling skills, safety, and confidence. They also offer earn-a-bike programs, group rides, and volunteer opportunities, making cycling more accessible and fun for all ages.
Get Involved and Make This Summer One to Remember
With these incredible non-profits, there’s no shortage of ways to get outdoors, meet new friends, and grow your love for adventure. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, conservation, or community events, these organizations offer something for everyone. Get involved, give back, and make the most of everything Colorado Springs has to offer!
New to camping? Want a downloadable list of what to bring? Read our blog Camping Guide for Beginners! for top questions about camping answered and our free downloadable camping list.
What does it mean to hike responsibly? Head over to our blog Trails, tips and tricks to hike responsibly in Colorado Springs to read up on tips we have for hiking responsibly, where to shop for hiking gear that’s sustainable (hint: MER is one) as well as 4 of our favorite hiking spots.
