Seven Falls in Colorado Springs

      Have you ever wondered why it is called Seven Falls? As the falls splash its way down the 181 foot granite cliff it is actually spread along the way into seven tiers. In order starting with Ramona Falls, Feather Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Shorty Falls, Hull Falls, Weimer Falls and Hill Falls.

    Seven Falls is an awe inspiring place to take friends and family when they come to visit. Seven Falls was severely damaged by a flood on September 12th 2013. It was then bought by the Broadmoor and wonderfully restored. After a two year renovation project it was reopened August 13th 2015.  According to a KOAA article it was at a cost of 12 million. Seven Falls had been a family owned business since 1946. It was owned by oil man Al Hill and his family.

     If you are feeling spry and full of energy you can climb 224 steps to two great hiking trails. Along the way up as you stop to catch your breath you can stop to marvel at the magnificent waterfall. The Broadmoor boasts that the "Seven Falls is the only waterfall in Colorado to have earned a spot on National Geographic’s list of International Waterfalls." Does the thought of climbing 224 steps sound far to daunting? No Worries. There is an in mountain elevator you can safely ride up to the Eagles Nest to admire the breathtaking views. Once you make it to the top don't miss out on the trails. One trail leads to Midnight Falls and the other trail leads to Inspiration Point.

     Are you ready for an exhilarating way to enjoy the views at Seven Falls? Don't forget to make your reservation so you can soar through the air on the zip line called The Broadmoor's Soaring Adventure. I know it sounds like the perfect way to take in on of the most amazing attractions in Colorado Springs!

     You can purchase tickets ahead of time at the Broodmoor's website. Are you looking for some amazing pictures of  Seven Falls? Check out http://millefiorifavoriti.blogspot.com/.

If you are interested in buying homes in Colorado Springs or the surrounding area contact me : http://www.nikimcelroy.com

If you are ready to sell your home request your free Comparable Market Analysis and lets talk.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Take a virtual hike through Red Rock Canyon

     Red Rock Canyon open Space was established in 2003 as a huge public park by the city of Colorado Springs. There is so much ground to cover that you can take any variation of the trails without ever being disappointed. The trail options range from easy to moderately difficult. You could easily spend the day walking one trail to the next without seeing all the trails.

   One of my favorite trails to take involves walking up the carved out stairs. On the way to those stairs you will pass a man made lake. The lake has a few resident ducks and on occasion I have seen people or dogs taking a swim. At some point someone decided gold fish should be introduced to the pond. You will see them enjoying a swim as well.

     There are plenty of rock formations that look like they would be fun to climb. Resist the urge to scramble up the rocks as it is not allowed without a permit. If you have never taken the time to scale a rock but would love to try there are businesses that will help you learn.

     Now back to those stairs. Even thought the stairs will be like a rock climbing event no permit is need to climb up them and into the carved out section of the rock. At one point the park was part of a quarry. Much of the rock face was strategically cut out leaving a unique and visually interesting place to sit and enjoy as you recover from making your way up the stairs.

     The park is dog friendly and offers sections that are leash free and leash required. Horses are allowed on the trail so beware of  occasional horse pooh land mines. The trails are mountain bike friendly but not dirt bike friendly. The people on the mountain bikes are courteous and will let you know when they are coming up behind you.

      If you would like to learn more about the history of Red Rock Canyon Open Space before it was acquired by the city visit ColoradoSprings.gov. To see a map of all the trails and different routes you can take Friends of Red Rock Canyon has a very detailed one you can review.

If you are interested in purchasing a home in the area contact me: www.nikimcelroy.com

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The Demonstration Garden

View a slide show of the Demonstration Garden

     In Monument Valley Park you will find the Demonstration Garden located at 222 Mesa Rd. It is an easy walk down the gravel path from the Heritage Garden. The Demonstration Garden is lovingly cared for by the Horticultural Art Society.

     The award winning garden offers visual enjoyment with a variety of flowers and plants. There is a great bench covered by an arbor with beautiful roses. Its a fabulous place to sit and read, text or just rest. There are picnic benches that are perfectly positioned for a peaceful lunch.

     Regardless of where you live in Colorado Springs it is worth the drive to enjoy the serenity of the park. Just across the street from the garden is a park for the kids to play, tennis courts and a public pool. It would be easy to make a full day event out of a trip to the the Demonstration Garden.

     Even though this garden is by the train tracks, trail, and streets it still offers a sense of serenity in a world of chaos. There are many lovely homes for sale near the Demonstration Garden Area. If you are interested in living around this area search for homes in the 80905 zip code.

     If you live in the area and would like to list your home for sale or find out what it is worth request your free Comparable Market Analysis and lets talk.

The Heritage Garden

View a slide show of the garden

     The Heritage Garden is part of Monument Valley Park in Colorado Springs. It is full of well laid out flower gardens. The huge tree in the center of the walk around is perfect for kicking back to read a book. If you are not the reading type you can gaze at the historic Van Briggle pottery building that is currently owned by the Colorado College.

     A little past the tree there is a squared off short brick wall with a sundial that accents the center. Around the sundial is a gravel path and more flowerbeds. The flowerbeds throughout the park are marked with name tags to help identify the types of plants. If your not sure what to grow a nice walk through the garden may help you spawn some ideas.

     It doesn't mater if the flowers are in bloom or the snow is on the ground this is a serene place to enjoy the outdoors. This beautiful garden is one of the gardens created by the Horticultural Art Society.

If you are interested in homes that are for sale in the 80905 area search or contact me here: www.nikimcelroy.com 

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Gold Camp Road

Watch a virtual tour of Gold Camp Rd. views

     Gold Camp Road in Colorado Springs was opened in the 1920's for automobile use. Prior to that it was part of the railway system. It is filled with stunning views that make it well worth the drive. There are pull off spots great for getting out to hike around or take great pictures. One of the best hiking spots along the way can be found by the parking lot right where Gold Camp Road meets Cheyenne Canyon Road. The spot you are looking for is called Seven Bridges Trail. The trail follows along North Cheyenne Creek making it the perfect easy hiking spot on a hot day to stay cool.

     Should you decided to follow Seven Bridges Trail far enough you will reach the fenced tunnel. The tunnel is believed to be haunted for a couple of reasons. The third tunnel is said to have collapsed when a school bus crashed into it. The tunnel was never repaired. The lives of the children and the bus driver were all lost that day. It is believed their ghosts haunt the third tunnel. Lives were also lost during the creation of the tunnels. It is believed their spirits still roam the tunnel. Mostly this is believed to be urban legend, though some swear it to be fact. Good stuff if you are into a good ghost story. Aside from the ghost stories it is a lovely hike.

     Silver Cascade Falls is on the other side of the tunnel. It can be reached by taking the detour that allows you to bypass the tunnel. Once you make it this far you can continue on or just stop and enjoy the fabulous views of the waterfall and the city.

     If you choose to skip the hike because it's just not your thing you will find the drive on Cheyenne Canyon Road to be just as wonderful. As you drive Cheyenne Canyon Road you will reach Helen Hunt Falls. You can enjoy the view from the car. I would recommend getting out and stretching your legs. Go up the steps just passed the gift shop. At the top of the steps, (before the trail begins) is a perfect spot for pictures. There are several spots to picnic as you continue down the road after leaving Helen Hunt Falls.

     This is a great road trip to take by yourself to get in touch with mother nature. Its a bonding moment trip  for the kids or visiting family members when you are in need of a cost free activity. No matter the reason you choose to go the views are amazing and the roads just a bit scary enough to make it fun with a touch of excitement.

If you are interested in purchasing a home in this area contact me: www.nikimcelroy.com

If you are ready to sell your home request your free Comparable Market Analysis and lets talk.

Monument Valley Park in Colorado Springs

Take a short video walk through the park.

     Colorado Springs is filled with parks. Monument Valley Park is one of my favorites for long walks. Its located in the Old North End of Colorado Springs. It is full of paths to give you variety. Stunning trees that flower in June bringing a wonderful aroma to the forest like atmosphere on some of the inner trails.

     The park is filled with friendly people that don't mind saying hi and waving as you walk by. There plenty of joggers as well as people on bikes. As you stroll through the park they will let you know they are coming so you don't get ran over. The park is dog friendly as long as you keep your best friend on a leash.

      If you do decide to walk the outer trail Monument Creek runs below the trail. Monument Creek runs at a decent pace when there has not been very heavy rains. When we have heavy rains or long periods of rain it can get deep and run rapidly. The creek makes the walk quite enjoyable.

     The park has a couple of play areas for the kids. The park offers a place to play Tennis and Pickle ball if you need a place to practice up on your skills. The demonstration gardens located in the park offer a nice sanctuary. The park runs from Monroe to Bijou. The Demonstration Garden are located in about the center of the park on Mesa Rd. Just a small walk away on Glen Ave., you will also find the beautiful Heritage Garden. There is a pond between the gardens that has ducks and geese leisurely swimming around. It will be well worth the steps to stop and enjoy both gardens.

     Monument Valley Park is part of the National Register of Historic Places. We shall have it to enjoy for many generations to come.

If you are interested in purchasing a home in this area start your search and contact me: www.nikimcelroy.com

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For The Love Of Pikes Peak

Beautiful view of Pikes Peak from Colorado Springs

    Pikes Peak is filled with breathtaking views, if you don't mind the drive to the top. Along the way there are great places to stop and admire the scenery for as far as the eye can see. Do you like fishing? The lakes are stocked and the fish are jumping. Don't forget to bring your pole in the event you decide to fish on a whim. Just in case you forget the snacks there is a a quaint rest stop as you ascend. You can find coupons off the cost of admission if you search online. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.

     If you are into racing Pikes Peak hosts  a race every year around the end of June. The Pike Peak International Hill Climb has been around since 1922. Camping is permitted for the event. If you're a die hard fan it's a great way to try and get the best seat. If you are interested in attending you can check out ppihc.com/tickets.

Hiking by the water. Frank Loves it!

      Pikes Peak offers great hiking trails. The motivated hiker can take a serious hike up to the first lake. Plan on spending half a day at least. You will want to bring snacks and water. Of course you can do just a short hike. My favorite short hike is by The Incline. Take the Barr Trail and cut down by the water. It is a difficult hike with small amounts of climbing.

     When it is time to run you can watch or register to join America's ultimate challenge. The Pikes Peak Ascent and  Marathon happens every summer since 1956. The runners race there way to the top on day one and spend day two on there way back down.

Top of Pikes Peak during the marathon

     There is a great option to see a wealth of beauty while you sit on your bum and sip from your water bottle. The Cog Railway will take you to the top on a casual trip. You will get the bonus of a history lesson on the ride up. The views are every bit as awe-inspiring as the drive. During the summer seats can fill up fast so you may want to purchase your tickets in advance. The Cog Railway is located in Manitou Springs just outside of Colorado Springs. A trip to Pikes Peak is a vacation must, and for those that live here a perfect way to fill your time on a lazy Saturday.

View of Pikes Peak as you enter Manitou Springs

If you are interested in buying homes in Colorado Springs or the surrounding area contact me : http://www.nikimcelroy.com

If you are ready to sell your home request your free Comparable Market Analysis and lets talk.
                             

Garden Of The Gods

Garden of the Gods on a snowy day.

     There are so many wonderful places to visit in Colorado Springs. One of my favorites is the Garden of the Gods. It is a great place to take friends and family when they come to town for a visit. It offers many trails for long walks or short walks. You can picnic in the many areas provided throughout the park. It is dog friendly, provided they are kept on a leash.

Kissing Camels

     I have enjoyed the Garden Of The Gods since I was a kid. I spent lots of time with my family climbing the rock and walking the trails long before the park was redesigned with the current cement trails. It is a place of joy and great memories.

My mom at Balancing Rock

     If you live here in Colorado Springs or are just driving through, I would recommend stopping to visit the Garden Of The Gods. There is no entry fee. Even if you only drive through the park it is well worth it. If you want to learn a little more about the history of the Garden Of The Gods click here

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