Car Snacks Required: 4 Summer Adventures from Colorado Springs

Windows down. Snacks packed. Trailhead loaded.

Summer in Colorado means wildflowers, alpine lakes, and long days that practically beg you to stay out a little longer. And the best part? Some of the best adventures are just a short drive from Colorado Springs.

Here are four worth adding to your summer lineup.

Hike Cheesman Canyon | The sun is up on a bluebird, cloudless day—cue the shedding of layers and the panting of our sweet brindle boy, Archie. Good thing this 5.5-mile out-and-back trail hugs the cool waters of Cheesman Canyon. The hike itself is moderate, with gradual climbs as you make your way out of the canyon and back to the car. Pack a picnic and plan to splash around—this one’s a perfect summer classic.

Hike Lake Isabelle | This is a quintessential Rocky Mountain hike. At 6.5 miles with a relatively gentle 675 feet of elevation gain, it’s fairly accessible—which also means it can get busy. We snagged a late-June Saturday entry time slot and found plenty of parking still available. Once past the Brainard Recreation Area, the trail is easy to follow and gradually climbs into a stunning subalpine landscape. Moose are common here, and we encountered a few females not far off the trail. Luckily, we had the power of a crowd on our side and were able to wait it out while mama moose meandered away. The reward at the end of the roughly three-mile ascent is, of course, Lake Isabelle herself. There are plenty of rocky spots to post up for a snack, splash in the water, and do a little people-watching.

Paddle Manitou Lake | This five-acre reservoir offers prime paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming. With panoramic views of Pikes Peak in the distance, it’s a perfect way to spend an early July day. Its proximity to Woodland Park also means post-paddle beers at Paradox Beer Company or a carb-y refuel at Joanie’s Deli are just minutes away.

Hike Snodgrass Mountain (Crested Butte) | This eight-mile round-trip hike is one of the most popular in Crested Butte—especially during wildflower season (late June through early August). In my opinion, the first half is the real showstopper. The trail rolls through vibrant meadows bursting with lupine, Indian paintbrush, bluebells, and aspen sunflowers. It’s also stunning in the fall. About 1.5 miles in, you’ll pass through an expansive grove of aspens that feels almost endless. The second half is more of a grind, with a steady climb up to the summit—but the views make it well worth the effort.

Long days, high trails, and plenty of reasons to stay outside just a little longer—that’s a Colorado summer.

Birdie Roams Co. is here for all of it. Pick a spot, hit the road, and see where the day takes you.