Motorless Mornings at Garden of the Gods
gardenofgods.com

Us locals far too often avoid Garden of the Gods, fearing the crowds and the traffic. But solitude is possible on certain mornings — mornings that are best for admiring the remarkable nature that should never be taken for granted. That’s Motorless Morning, when roads are blocked to vehicles and the park becomes a quiet hiking and cycling paradise. Also be on the lookout for the more regularly scheduled Early Bird Hike and Bike dates come summer. ー Seth Boster

Aiken Audubon Society
aikenaudubon.com

Last Halloween, I went on my first outing with Aiken Audubon Society. We walked through Evergreen Cemetery looking for birds, and birds we found. It was supreme fun and quite valuable to go with a group of more experienced birdwatchers. Aiken Audubon presents free bird programs eight times a year at Bear Creek Nature Center; regular free field trips, including bird counts; and a Birding by Book book club where the reading material is all things avian. — Jennifer Mulson

Rainbow Falls Historic Site
parks.elpasoco.com/parks-and-recreation/rainbow-falls-historic-site

One of the best parts about Rainbow Falls is its accessibility. Located on the west end of Manitou Springs, the 50-foot cascade is something of a cheat code. It’s a scenic, relaxing location that requires a very short hike. Patrons can pay Adventures Out West to drive them from the designated parking area to the entrance located just minutes from the falls. On the way up, people can enjoy the interesting limestone and granite rock formations. — Hugh Johnson

Palmer Park
coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/palmer-park

With a variety of trails for all skill levels, Palmer Park offers several scenic hikes with picturesque views of Pikes Peak. This park is in the center of the city and is ideal for hikers, bikers and equestrians. During the summer, I like to pack a light snack for my pup and myself, then hit the Edna Mae Bennett Nature Trail until it turns into Templeton Trail. The widespread vistas are indescribable and provide a peaceful moment away from the hectic city life. – Ajia Cuevas

Ute Valley Park
coloradosprings.gov/parks/page/ute-valley-park

Ute Valley Park tends to get the most attention from those who live nearby, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. Home to terrain that caters to trail running and mountain biking, it’s a great place to get outside and find some rolling vertical gain without having to be in the mountains. Criss-crossing trails make it easy to plan routes, and there’s no shortage of panoramic mountain views from the higher areas. Visit Ute Valley once, and you’ll be coming back for more soon. — Spencer McKee

NAMIWalks Mental Health & Wellness Fest
namicoloradosprings.org

On May 9, NAMI Colorado Springs will host its sixth annual NAMIWalks Mental Health & Wellness Fest at Panorama Park. This community celebration is dedicated to reducing stigma, building connection and promoting “Mental Health for All.” Attendees can walk for awareness; explore local mental health resources; enjoy music, free bagels and coffee; and spend a meaningful morning strengthening support in the Pikes Peak region. — Kelly Spieker