Colorado Springs Archives - Our Changing Life

Up-Close Encounters at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Jeff & Crystal — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Our visit to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo felt more like an animal adventure than a typical zoo trip. Tucked into the slopes above Colorado Springs, this mountaintop menagerie makes it easy to connect with wildlife in ways you don’t often find. We were face-to-face with so many creatures—without glass or distance between us—that it felt like stepping into their world. Known as the highest zoo in the U.S. at over 6,700 feet in elevation, it’s built for immersive experiences. This isn’t just a place to view animals—it’s a place to meet them. Founded in 1926 by philanthropist Spencer Penrose, the zoo continues to evolve while staying committed to conservation and hands-on learning. Each encounter felt like a personal invitation into the animals’ daily routines. It was the kind of up-close connection that stays with you long after you’ve returned to the flatlands.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Views

It’s not just the animals that make the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo unforgettable—the landscape plays a major role. Built right into the side of the mountain, this zoo winds along forested slopes with occasional switchbacks and scenic overlooks. At times, it felt like we were hiking a nature trail as much as exploring a zoo. Elevation changes opened up stunning vantage points of Colorado Springs below, adding another layer of awe between exhibits. The natural terrain shaped the layout in fun and unexpected ways—steep paths led us to treehouse-style overlooks. Winding trails dipped into animal habitats that felt nestled right into the wilderness. You can’t help but feel a bit more adventurous with every turn.

Penguin Walk Creates Cuteness Stampede

One of the unexpected delights at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo came waddling right toward us. We noticed a small crowd forming while strolling a path near the penguin exhibit. A zookeeper emerged, followed by a flurry of black-and-white tuxedoed friends: the African penguins were out for a walk—no barriers, no fences—just a sidewalk full of adorable birds mingling with amazed guests. The penguins seemed as curious about us as we were about them, peering up and occasionally letting out squeaky squawks as they ambled along. It was one of those moments where the line between animal and human interaction disappeared most charmingly. Everyone nearby was grinning ear to ear. The penguins took center stage, happily marching through a cloud of cameras and laughter. It was hands-down one of the most engaging moments we’ve ever had at a zoo.

Wallaby Stops By for a Surprise Visit

Crystal has always had a soft spot for animals, but nothing prepared her for the sudden appearance of one right at her side. While walking through the Australia Walkabout section of Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, we were already enjoying the open layout when a friendly little wallaby decided to come check us out. With no fence between us, the experience felt spontaneous and incredibly personal. The curious marsupial hopped over with calm confidence, gently sniffing Crystal’s leg, before pausing for a photo-worthy moment. Their eye-to-eye interaction lasted only seconds but left a lasting impression. These kinds of encounters are what make this zoo so memorable. Instead of watching from a distance, you become part of the story. The animals here are comfortable and cared for, and just as eager to meet you as you are to meet them.

Giraffe Feeding

One of the zoo’s most iconic attractions is its giraffe feeding deck, and it lived up to the hype. Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is home to one of North America’s largest herds of reticulated giraffes, and these gentle giants aren’t shy. As we stepped up to the railing, long necks and even longer tongues reached out in greeting. Crunchy lettuce leaves disappeared from hands, and we tried not to laugh at their slurping enthusiasm. The giraffes moved with elegance but wasted no time when food was involved. They hovered around the platform like curious tour guides, each with its own personality. One even lingered long enough for a selfie. This interaction exemplifies the zoo’s hands-on charm. Here, visitors are active participants, not just observers. It’s not every day you get a giraffe grin inches from your nose!

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Adventure

After all the up-close encounters and hillside hikes, we capped off our Cheyenne Mountain Zoo visit with a ride on the Mountaineer Sky Ride. The open-air chairlift glides up the mountain for an unmatched panoramic view of Colorado Springs and the surrounding landscape. It was the perfect way to wind down and reflect on everything we’d experienced. The crisp mountain air, quiet swoosh of the cables, and birds-eye perspective made for a peaceful finale. We looked over the zoo’s layout, retracing the path we had explored—from the wallabies to the giraffes and everything in between. At over 6,700 feet, this truly is the highest zoo in the U.S.; seeing it from above gave us a whole new appreciation. The ride isn’t just about the scenery—it’s a graceful exhale at the end of a day packed with wonder.

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Cliff Dwellers Museum: A Journey Into Ancient History

Jeff & Crystal — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:05:43 +0000

Overlooking Colorado Springs, the Manitou Cliff Dwellers Museum offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans. This small but captivating museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the ancient people who once inhabited the region. While the museum’s exhibits provide an in-depth look at the artifacts and structures of the cliff dwellers, it’s the setting itself that adds to the sense of mystery and wonder. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the region’s past, the Cliff Dwellers Museum is a must-see stop on any journey through Colorado Springs.

Nestled in the Mountains

An unexpected bonus of our visit to the museum was its stunning location, which offered breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. As we stood in the parking lot, the sight of the distant peaks left us in awe. It’s a reminder of how these ancient people lived in such a dramatic and rugged landscape. For those seeking an even more incredible view, visit Pike’s Peak, which offers unparalleled vistas. Both the museum and Pike’s Peak serve as testaments to the natural beauty and historical significance of Colorado Springs.

Relocated Buildings

The Cliff Dwellers Museum is home to structures that were once near McElmo Canyon in the southwest corner of Colorado. It was a three-year project to dismantle, move, and reassemble in their current location. The buildings are part of the historical story of the cliff dwellers, as they represent the types of homes and communal spaces used by the Ancestral Puebloans. Despite the relocation, the structures still retain much of their historical authenticity, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Exploring the Cliff Dwellers Museum

During our visit, we explored the cliff dwellings up close. Stooping through the narrow, low-ceilinged passageways gave us an immediate sense of what daily life must have been like for the Ancestral Puebloans. I couldn’t help but reflect on how small and confined the passageways felt—an experience that made me appreciate just how resilient these people must have been. As I ducked through each doorway, I couldn’t help but imagine life in such close quarters. It’s a humbling reminder of the resourcefulness needed to thrive in such challenging environments.

Unique Living Quarters

Crystal was particularly intrigued by the living quarters within the dwellings. As we explored the rooms, she discovered that multiple clans would share these structures, creating tight-knit communities. It was fascinating to think about how these spaces, which might seem small by modern standards, were once home to entire families. It made us reflect on the sense of togetherness that must have existed in these shared spaces, with each family contributing to the group’s survival and prosperity.

The Kiva and Its Ceremonial Significance

An impressive feature of the cliff dwellings is the Kiva—a circular, subterranean structure used for ceremonies and rituals. The Kiva holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Ancestral Puebloans, and its design speaks to their sophisticated understanding of architecture and community. As we stood over the Kiva, we could almost sense the echoes of the ancient ceremonies that would have taken place there. It was a powerful reminder of the spiritual connection these people shared with the land and with one another.

The Horno: A Cultural Staple

In addition to the living spaces and ceremonial structures, the site also features the “Horno.” The Ancestral Puebloans used this beehive-shaped oven for baking bread and other food. This simple yet ingenious structure was central to daily life, providing the community with a reliable means of preparing food. The Horno reminded me of an oversized pizza oven, and I’m sure it worked similarly. It would have been an essential feature for food preparation in the community.

Cliff Dwellers Artifacts

The Cliff Dwellers Museum also features onsite exhibits that showcase artifacts and items, offering more profound insights into the lives of the cliff dwellers. The artifacts, ranging from pottery to tools, tell the story of a people deeply connected to their environment and traditions. While I was intrigued by the weapons on display, Crystal spent most of her time examining the cradleboards.

Plan Your Cliff Dwellers Museum Visit

Visiting the Manitou Cliff Dwellers Museum was an eye-opening experience that allowed us to connect with the past in a meaningful way. From exploring the ruins to learning about the daily lives of the Ancestral Puebloans, every moment was a chance to step back in time. Have you visited the museum, or do you have any experience with cliff dwellings? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below—share your stories and join the conversation about these fascinating historical sites.

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Pike’s Peak Cog Railway: A Historic and Scenic Journey to the Summit

Jeff & Crystal — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 11:34:31 +0000

At the heart of Manitou Springs, the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway offers an unforgettable journey to the summit of America’s Mountain. As the world’s highest cog railway, this historic train has been carrying passengers to breathtaking heights since 1891. The ride offers a unique combination of history, adventure, and stunning alpine scenery. That makes it a must-experience attraction for travelers seeking an extraordinary perspective of the Rocky Mountains.

All Aboard the Pike's Peak Cog Railway

Our adventure began at the Cog Station, where we marveled at the sleek, new railcars that replaced the aging fleet we had experienced years before. The updated trains offer larger windows, improved seating, and a smoother ride. This enhanced our experience while maintaining the railway’s historic charm. As the train prepared for departure, the excitement among passengers was growing, with everyone eager to ascend the famous 14,115-foot peak.

Other Ways to the Summit

While the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway provides the most relaxing way to reach the top, it’s not the only option. The Pikes Peak Highway allows visitors to drive up the mountain, offering flexibility and stunning overlooks along the way. For the truly adventurous, the Barr Trail presents a challenging but rewarding 13-mile hike to the summit. Each route provides its unique perspective, but the cog railway remains the most iconic and hassle-free way to experience the mountain.

A Scenic Journey Upward

As our train climbed, the landscape transformed from dense forests of pine and aspen to vast alpine tundra. Along the way, we spotted a group of bighorn sheep, a thrilling sight for wildlife enthusiasts. At one point, our train passed another cog heading downhill, showcasing the remarkable engineering that allows these trains to scale steep inclines. Every turn of the track revealed panoramic views that stretched for miles, making the journey just as exciting as the destination.

The Summit Visitors Center

Upon arrival at the summit, we spotted the newly renovated Summit Visitors Center. This state-of-the-art facility provides a wealth of information about the history and geology of Pike’s Peak. Expansive windows offered breathtaking views, shielding us from the chilly gusts that often blow at the summit of Pike’s Peak. Whether warming up inside or venturing out onto the viewing platforms, every angle provided a picture-perfect moment.

Informative Displays and Exhibits

Inside the Summit Visitors Center, we discovered exhibits that detail the fascinating history of Pike’s Peak and its geology. These displays provide an educational aspect to the trip, enriching the overall experience. An exhibit about the impact of altitude on the human body hit close to home. Crystal experienced a bout of altitude sickness during our previous visit, which was a reminder that the mountain’s thin air can affect even seasoned travelers.

Discovering the 1873 Ruins

A short walk from the visitors center led us to the remains of the 1873 summit house, an early shelter for those who braved the mountain’s harsh conditions. Though only ruins remain, the site offers a glimpse into the rugged past of Pike’s Peak. The history behind these remnants adds another layer of intrigue to the visit, reminding travelers of the pioneering spirit that first brought people to these heights.

Tasting the Famous Donuts

No trip to Pike’s Peak is complete without sampling the world-famous summit donuts. Made using a special high-altitude recipe, these sweet treats are a must-try. With the crisp mountain air enhancing our appetites, we eagerly indulged in the warm, sugary goodness. The unique flavor and texture make them unlike any other donut, a true reward for reaching the top. It went deliciously with the famous words of Katharine Lee Bates, who was inspired to write “America the Beautiful” after reaching the summit in 1893.

Breathtaking Summit Views

It’s challenging to find a location that rivals the unparalleled views from the summit. On a clear day, the landscape stretches across Colorado and beyond, with distant mountain peaks and vast plains visible in every direction. During this visit, a haze prevented us from seeing as far as we had during our last visit. What was visible made us feel as though we were on top of the world. We took it all in as we waited for the time to return to the base station.

Wrapping Up the Journey

As our train made its descent back to Manitou Springs, we reflected on this incredible experience. This iconic attraction was one of the ‘must-see’ stops during our visit to Colorado Springs. Whether you come for the history, the scenery, or the thrill of riding the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, this journey offers something for every traveler. Have you ever ridden the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway? We’d love to hear what your favorite part of the experience was.

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Experience Broadmoor Seven Falls

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 24 May 2023 11:51:01 +0000

Being flatlanders, the raw beauty of the mountains always captivates us. Colorado Springs sits on the eastern edge of the peaks. On a previous visit, we discovered that there were too many sites for us to see in one trip. It took a few years, but we finally made our way back for more exploring. On this trip, we were looking for some challenges. That’s not hard when you find yourself at 6800 feet elevation. Fortunately, we had already been in the region for a couple of days. Having acclimated, we were ready to experience Broadmoor Seven Falls firsthand.

It Starts with a Hike

Sunny skies and moderate temperatures made the perfect setting for a new adventure. Access to experience Seven Falls starts at their offsite lot, which is located at 1045 Lower Gold Camp Rd. We made our way to the parking lot, where a shuttle would take us four miles to the park entrance. The shuttle is free, but tickets to the park were $18.00 each. It was one of the few times we have had to pay to see waterfalls, but the intrigue created a need to see this place for ourselves. After securing our tickets, we headed into the park. The first part of the visit includes a hike that’s just under a mile in one direction. The path slowly gains altitude, but nothing like the hikes we found in Arches National Park. There is a tram service, which costs a couple of bucks but we opted to give our legs some exercise. Hopefully, we wouldn’t regret the choice.

Counting the Falls

Before long, I found myself paying more attention to the people on the stairs. The stairs along the falls seemed to be wide enough for about 1 1/2 persons. A series of platforms allow for passing. Once on top, there are a couple of hiking trails, if the stairs didn’t wipe you out. Here’s where I made the decision not to undertake the 224 stairs that lead to the top of Seven Falls. Since hitting 60 years old, my body isn’t as accepting of stairs. We had hiked at The Flatirons, in Boulder, earlier in the week. While it was exhausting, it was also exhilarating. Now I was feeling the after effects of the climb, as parts of my body signaled their disapproval.

Experience Seven Falls

Back at the base of the falls, we found a couple of chairs that offer a firsthand view of Weimer Falls. The roaring of the falling water made conversation futile. Instead, we chose to just take in the raw beauty of nature. We relished the time we had to experience Seven Falls, but the reality of travel started to creep back in. With hunger gnawing at us, we knew it was time to start the hike back. My knees had forgiven me but I decided it would be prudent to just stroll. I think all attractions, that include elevation gain, should have the climb at the start of the visit. It was a pleasant downhill walk all the way back to the tram. So, how many of you have climbed those stairs?

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Garden Of The Gods – Waiting On The Sun

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 24 May 2023 11:38:29 +0000

All of the planning in the world won’t change the weather. When we arrived in Colorado Springs, we found ourselves under a heavy cloud deck. With a limited amount of time for exploring, we weren’t about to let it dampen our spirits. It had been quite a few years since our last visit and we had a long list of places to see and adventures to enjoy. This meant that we didn’t want to be waiting on the sun to brighten up our vacation. Time to make the most of what we had, so we made our way to our lodging before heading to the Garden of the Gods for some hiking.

Buffalo Bicycle Lodge

When selecting lodging, we have a lot of boxes to check. As I researched options, I spotted a locally-owned motor lodge that caters to cyclists. While we don’t do a lot of riding, we were intrigued by some of the daily options. The clouds followed us to our destination, but rain seemed to be holding off for now. We were hoping it would be overnight showers that left us free to roam during the day. Buffalo Bicycle Lodge is just a few blocks from the Garden of the Gods Park entrance. What a perfect home base for exploring this region. They even offer loaner bikes for those who want to do some pedal-based exploring.

America's Mountain

After a refreshing dinner at a nearby restaurant, we decided to do a little reconnaissance in the park. The park is designated a National Natural Landmark. I wasn’t able to uncover what the Native tribes named this place, but the early Europeans called it Red Rock Corral. In 1859, a couple of surveyors were exploring the site and one of them decided it would make a good beer garden. The other stated that it was a space fit for the gods to assemble. During this quick visit, we made a couple of stops to take in the majesty. It seemed like we were always in the presence of Pikes Peak, which sits about 10 miles away. Since the rain was still waiting, we even found time to scramble among some of the more popular outcroppings.

The next morning we found the sun had returned. Our first stop was at the lodge for breakfast. With a day of hiking and scrambling ahead of us, we fueled up with plenty of protein. Buffalo Bicycle Lodge includes breakfast in their room rates, so it makes the price even more appealing. They also have live entertainment on weekends, so we were excited to check it out later in the week. With our bellies full, as well as our coffee mugs, we headed back into the park for more adventure.

The Sun Breaks Out

Since Garden of the Gods is a free attraction, we knew we would use it as a filler if we had free time open up during our stay in Colorado Springs. We started with a visit to the Visitors Center. Here we found trail maps, food and beverages, souvenirs, and bathrooms. It’s a good place to take a break from hiking and grab an ice cream cone. (Yeah, we did that!) Heading into the park, we soon found a parking lot that led to a series of trails. Time to grab our backpack and head out on foot. As we made our way along some paved paths, we spotted a climber on one of the rock features.

A small crowd had assembled to watch the progress. He slowly made his way to the top and we wondered how he would get down. Before he could even begin, another climber appeared. It quickly became apparent that the first climber was setting the path upward. We paused for a moment longer before finally heading back down the trail. There was a lot of the park to explore and daylight was burning. The majority of the roads are one-way, so we found ourselves doubling back at times. No problem there, as it gave us another view of the amazing landscape.

Waiting On The Sun

Scrambling among the red rocks reminded us of our visit to Arches National Park (Read about that trip here). The Garden of the Gods has a lot of accessible spaces, so it is truly user friendly. The sunshine quickly escalated the temperatures, so we curtailed our hiking by lunchtime. We knew that there would be more chances in the evenings and early mornings. In the meantime, we had plenty more to explore around Colorado Springs. Have you ever visited garden of the Gods?

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4 Things Not To Miss At The Airplane Restaurant

Jeff & Crystal — Wed, 24 May 2023 11:21:37 +0000

When was your last in-flight meal? It seems like we are barely offered peanuts and a drink on current commercial trips. The glory days of commercial flight seem to have passed but we found a way to recreate the experience on a new level. During a visit to Colorado Springs, we found 4 things not to miss at The Airplane Restaurant. The name of this eatery piqued our interest, so we dropped in to learn more about this dining destination. Approaching the Boeing KC-97 Tanker, we were fascinated by the way it dominated the landscape.

1) Seating Options

The Airplane Restaurant is a 275-seat restaurant but only 42 passengers can occupy the actual plane. This leaves plenty of space for the ground lovers. Looking around this space, we found that there was plenty of interesting memorabilia to take in. The décor lifted our spirits to new heights, as we took in the various aircrafts suspended from the ceiling. We also noticed an assortment of aviation artifacts that detail add interest to the rooms.

2) Prepare For Takeoff

Since our visit landed between lunch and dinner times, we found the crowds small. When the hostess gave us a choice of seating, we quickly jumped onboard with dining off the ground. We followed her up the stairs and into the aircraft. Being a workhorse vehicle, it has limited window seats, but we were able to snag one. During our meal, I was able to imagine ourselves cruising high above the land. Of course, being grounded in Colorado offered a quieter meal.

3) Visit the Cockpit

After placing our meal order, I headed off with camera in hand to do a little exploring. This airplane served much of its life as a refueling asset for the U.S. Air Force. Built in 1953, it was equipped with 4 engines, each offering 3500 horsepower. The 97s were considered the first long-range transport and this version was the second largest produced in the United States. I made my way to the cockpit, which still retains its controls and gauges. Here was another opportunity to let my imagination run, as I sailed through the clouds on my way across the Atlantic Ocean. Reality pulled me back and I returned to our table in time for our meals to arrive.

4) Sample the Flavors

The last in-flight meals I remember happened well before we entered the 21st Century. Most of these were eaten out of necessity, as they lacked any culinary exuberance. I was confident that one of the 4 things at The Airplane Restaurant was a higher regard for freshness and flavor. After being pulled away from my imaginary ocean crossing, I was in the mood for Fish & Chips. The menu hinted of a delightful beer batter, so it made my decision easy. I opted to swap out the standard French Fries for some crispy Onion Rings. Crystal chose the Guacamole Chicken Sandwich. This classic is constructed with a grilled chicken breast, a hearty helping of Guacamole, Swiss cheese, and red onion. Crystal substituted the Sweet Potato Fries for her side dish.

4 Things Not to Miss at The Airplane Restaurant

While we dined, our discussion revolved around this unique setting. We checked off all of the boxes that this place offers. Unusual dining setting: check; delectable dishes: check; interactive opportunities: check. We settled our bill and asked our server for a favor. She was more than happy to follow us to the cockpit for selfie time. Since I had already crossed the Atlantic, I let Crystal take the pilot’s seat for this round. After a few poses, it was time to put our feet back on the ground and head off for more Colorado adventures.

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