Colorado Springs, true to its name, lies in Colorado, a state in the Western United States. The Rockies cut right through the center of the state, providing varied geography and stunning natural beauty. The state boasts an impressive number of trails and trailheads, too. Over 17,000 different trails criss-cross the Colorado landscape, ranging from less than a mile long to as many as 500 miles. With 12 total National Parks and Monuments, there is no shortage of natural wonder. Approximately 36% of the state classifies as Federal land, including the National Forests and Parks. The opportunities for a therapeutic adventure are abundant with more than a third of the state available as public land to explore and hike. Living in Colorado is an incredible opportunity and the natural wonders offer a necessary respite for those in treatment.
Location, Location, Location
Colorado borders Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, New Mexico, and Utah. With the Rockies slicing through the landscape, dozens of peaks spot the state. Many of the more significant peaks exceed 14,000, including Pikes Peak, a summit just 12 miles from the heart of Colorado Springs. There are also several rivers and creeks in and around Colorado Springs. An hour’s drive south leads to the Arkansas River, a popular location for whitewater rafting. Colorado’s mountains and rivers also sustain a wealth of wildlife, ranging from American bison to bighorn sheep, elk, bears, mountain lions and many more varieties. Nature is abundant in Colorado, whether it be the soaring peaks that dominate the skyline or the flowing rivers and creeks that bring life to the landscape.
Colorado’s Weather
Colorado experiences a similarly wide variety of temperatures throughout the year. At 6,035 feet, Colorado Springs is over a mile above sea level. Each season is distinct, and the temperature fluctuates moderately throughout the four seasons. December to February the weather dips just below freezing, with March marking the beginning of the Spring. The temperature steadily climbs until it peaks in July, with an average of about 71 degrees. Precipitation sits at around 16 inches per year, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in Summer, between May and August.
PLACES TO GO; THINGS TO SEE IN COLORADO
Colorado boasts a large collection of National Parks and Monuments. The National Parks in Colorado represent a unique part of the landscape, whether through scenery, beauty, or inspiration. These massive wilderness areas host opportunities for dozens of activities. There are four in Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Reserve, and Black Canyon of Gunnison National Park.
The National Monuments, while still stunning, usually have a more scientific, historical, or cultural significance, and generally have a single, specific focus. There are eight total National Monuments in Colorado. These are some of the most popular ones: Browns Canyon National Monument, Colorado National Monument, Canyon of the Ancients National Monument, and Chimney Rock National Monument.
There are also dozens of dedicated natural sites very close or inside Colorado Springs. While these locations don’t classify as National Monuments or Parks, they still offer a fantastic experience in the natural world. Registered as a National Natural Landmark, the Garden of the Gods lies only a few miles outside Colorado Springs. It offers visitors a chance to see fantastic naturally-formed sandstone structures. There are also plenty of trails to further observe the enigmatic stone structures.
LIVING IN COLORADO AND ADVENTURE THERAPY
Adventure Therapy is a type of psychotherapy that relies on the outdoors to help people struggling with addiction. By opening up people to new situations and teaching them about overcoming fears or troubles, adventure therapy can help set a person on the track to overcoming addiction. The process of Adventure Therapy can vary from place to place, but the main themes persist. A strong focus on the outdoors, overcoming obstacles, and introspection are common in many. This is why living in Colorado is so integral to our philosophy and programs at Mountain View Recovery.
