Cowboy up in Colorado Springs

Colorado SpringsNorth AmericaSports and Recreation

cowboy up

The West is where the cowboys roam, and there’s no better place for you to experience the cowboy life than when you travel to Colorado Springs. The adventures here range from mild to wild, appealing to real cowboys and those who just want to spend a couple of days in the saddle. So lace up your boots and get ready to experience the ride of your life in this charming cowboy city.

ProRodeo Hall of Fame

There’s nothing quite like seeing a man tightly holding on for his life with one hand while his other hand is extended high in the air waving his cowboy hat as everyone waits to see how long he can ride a bucking bull. While this isn’t an actual rodeo, it’s the next best thing. The ProRodeo Hall of Fame is the world’s only heritage center completely devoted to professional rodeo — the American cowboy’s sport. You watch a short film about rodeo’s history and then you can view the Western art exhibits and the clothing worn and materials used by cowboys in rodeos. Make sure you also spend time in the Hall of Champions, an area dedicated to respected cowboys in various rodeo events.

Ghost Town Museum

The Ghost Town Museum takes you back in time, more than 100 years ago, giving you a historic taste of what life was like for a cowboy in an old western Colorado town. Explore through the blacksmith’s shop, the general stores on Main Street and of course, a cowboy’s favorite hangout during the late 1800s, the saloon. This Wild West museum amuses people of all ages with its history and hands-on activities, including playing old arcade games and searching for gold.

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

Go back even further in time, back to the 1700s, to experience a day in the life of those who lived, worked, raised families, hunted and herded cattle in the Pikes Peak region. Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is a living history museum and farm that educates you about the time when the American Indians lived here and 3 other time periods from the 1800s to the early 1900s as you walk through the ranch and historic buildings that have been restored to their original state. You’ll leave with the knowledge of the lifestyle of those who lived here and a better appreciation for the challenges these people faced in this area.

Horseback Riding

A dog is a man’s best friend, but a horse is a cowboy’s best friend. Riding a horse is not only a great way to feel like a cowboy, it’s the best way to see the amazing sights of Colorado Springs. Trails and parks provide riding opportunities through different national parks and forests, or if you want to ride in the wide-open spaces of Colorado Springs, then head to one of the many dude ranches in and around the city. Zapata Ranch offers horseback riding and ranching opportunities, giving you an authentic cowboy experience. Academy Riding Stables guides you through the tranquil landscape of the Garden of the Gods and has horses suited to whatever riding ability you are, from beginner up to advanced riders. About 20 minutes from Colorado Springs is the Stables at the Broadmoor, where you can ride trails inside Pike National Forest, take a horse-drawn ride, go on a wildlife safari or ride horses and search for gold.

Image Source: Sarah Page

Image Source: Sarah Page

Colorado Springs is an exciting city filled with towering mountains, tall green trees, beautiful views and every kind of cowboy activity you’d want to try. So giddy up, cowboy! Book your Colorado Springs hotel room, and get riding into your Wild West adventure.

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