Looking for breathtaking mountain views, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm? I always tell people—head to Woodland Park! After years of chasing scenic getaways across Colorado, this “City Above the Clouds” continues to be one of my favorites. Sitting at 8,465 feet, Woodland Park delivers on all fronts: stunning views of Pikes Peak, a creative arts scene, and easy access to trails, forests, and wildlife. Whether I’m hiking in the morning or dining with a view in the evening, I always leave feeling recharged—and I think you will too.

Best Time to Visit

If you’re like me and love fresh mountain air and golden aspens, then the summer and fall (June–October) are perfect. I’ve visited during summer festivals and crisp autumn days—and both are magical. Winter offers peaceful snowshoeing and skiing nearby, and if you prefer fewer crowds, spring gives you just enough bloom to feel like the season is waking up.

How to Get There

  • By Car: I usually take US-24—Woodland Park is just 25 minutes west of Colorado Springs and about 1.5 hours from Denver. The drive itself is part of the fun, with gorgeous views along the way.
  • By Air: I’ve flown into Colorado Springs Airport (COS), which is about 45 minutes away and super convenient. Denver International (DEN) is another option—about 2 hours by car if you’re coming from farther out.
  • By Bus: There’s no major transit station in town, but I’ve used ride shares and rentals out of Colorado Springs—it’s an easy connection for a quick mountain escape.

Where to Stay

  • Eagle Fire Lodge & Cabins – I’ve stayed in these cozy cabins right near downtown. You’ll get rustic charm with the comfort of modern amenities—perfect after a day on the trails.
  • Country Lodge – If you want easy access to shops and restaurants, this spot checks all the boxes. I appreciated the mountain views right outside the window.
  • B&B at Historic Holden House (Colorado Springs) – For a more romantic vibe, I always recommend this elegant Victorian inn. It’s just a short drive from Woodland Park and ideal if you want a touch of vintage charm with your getaway.

Best Things to Do in Woodland Park

Go on a wolf walk with Colorado Wolf Adventures

Tristan/stock.adobe.com

Go on a wolf walk with Colorado Wolf Adventures -                                    

Visit the fossil museum at the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center

Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center

Visit the fossil museum at the Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center -  

Fish in Manitou Park Lake

Tomasz Zajda/stock.adobe.com

Fish in Manitou Park Lake -                                    

Take a tour with Great Outdoors Adventures

Great Outdoors Adventures

Take a tour with Great Outdoors Adventures -                                    

Play on the Shining Mountain Golf Course

Shining Mountain Golf Course

Play on the Shining Mountain Golf Course -  

Have a picnic at the Red Rocks Group Campground

Laima/stock.adobe.com

Have a picnic at the Red Rocks Group Campground -                                    

Grab a sweet treat at Joanie's Bakery & Delicatessen

Joanie's Bakery & Delicatessen

Grab a sweet treat at Joanie's Bakery & Delicatessen -  

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)