Colorado Springs Sports & Outdoors

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The Air Force Academy's men's teams play at the Division 1A level against such opponents as Notre Dame and Nebraska. Their conference is the Mountain West, and they have a fierce rivalry against the other real academies -- Army and Navy -- against whom they play each year for the Commander-in-Chief's Trophy.

They also have a great Field House for their basketball, hockey, and indoor track programs, as well as an nice outdoor track.

The Colorado Springs Sky Sox are the Colorado Rockies highest level (AAA) minor league farm team, and they play in the Pacific Coast League. Sky Sox Stadium seats 8,500 and was completed in 1988 at a cost of $3.7 million. The stadium is off of Powers and Barnes on the east edge of town, it holds 8,500 people, and tickets cost $5 to $9. The season runs from April to September with games almost every night.

This is a great venue for families as tickets are inexpensive and the team has great family promotions. Being AAA, the quality of ball is very good, and many current, future, and past major leaguers fill the roster. When I was there in the mid-late 1990s, I got to see Roberto Clemente's nephew (Edgard Velazquez Clemente) as well as perennial Major League All Star Todd Helton, and future Major League Hall of Famer Larry Walker.

The Rockies, Avalanche, and Broncos all call Denver home, just over an hour north of Colorado Springs. They all have very nice, relatively new venues and good teams. It's worth the trip to Denver every once in a while.

I saw the Avalanche play the Penguins in 1997 and I have also seen a few Rockies games.

All over the mountain of Pyke's Peak, there are a lto of creeks in which you can do great fly-fishing.
Just remember to take the permission (daily, weekly or more it depends on your needs) in a fishing shop in town if you don't have one.

Rock climbing is allowed in the park, although those wishing to do so are required to stop at the visitor's center and obtain a permit.

Be very careful about climbing in this park though, if you're not an experienced climber. The rocks are comprised of red sandstone and can break or crumble easily.

Colorado Springs is close to the Colorado River, which means --> nice rafting!! The river is huge, and during the snowmelt you better be aware when trying to "ride" it!

Equipment: There are several spots where you can rent the gear and a guide too. The only thing you need to bring are trunks or a swimmsuit (ladies only *lol*).

Explore the outskirts of Colorado Springs. It's an amazing place. There are too many nice hiking tours to mention (Garden of the gods, Pikes Peak,...)

Equipment: All kinds of hiking gear.