This alpine school redefines the term of "higher" learning, and, unlike this bad pun, receives strong praise. Well-trained guides can teach you the skills and techniques needed to scale cliffs of ice, ski the back country and mountain climb. Rock climbing lessons, its most popular offering, usually take place on the rocks at Garden of the Gods and are open to all skill levels. Private lessons are given and all equipment is provided. Also popular are guided technical and non-technical Pikes Peak climbs.

Regardless if you are a seasoned rider or a beginner whose only horse experience was reading Black Velvet, this riding center accommodates all abilities. Riders can choose from one or two hour rides, or during the winter there is also the option for a three-hour perimeter ride. All horse-strolls are guided and wander through and around he Garden of the Gods. Larger groups can arrange in advance for breakfast or dinner rides. Kids must be over eight to ride.

This museum documents rodeo's 19th-century genesis, when it was a cowboy's way of life, to the business and sport it is today. Multimedia presentations and display cases featuring trophies, gear and photos dominate the museum. The Hall of Champions showcases rodeo greats, announcers and clowns. The outside rodeo arena features live rodeo animals. An on-site gift shop shelves all sorts of books, collectibles and music.

Colorado Springs is veined with numerous bike paths that all seem to lead to one of its many attractions or parks. It is a fact that is not lost on this pedal-power shop, which rents mountains bikes, by the half day, full day and weekend. Note, however, that it does not rent kid's bikes or road bikes. Bike paths leading to the United States Air Force Academy are conveniently located right outside the shop's doors. Bike clothing, maps, and top-name road, mountain and BMX bikes are all for sale.

Whatever extreme adventure you seek, you will likely find it at this full-service outdoor activity center. Everything from llama- and horse-back riding to mountain biking, SUV tours and hot air balloon rides are provided by professionals with more than 30 years of experience. The premier hotel in the city, the Broadmoor, uses this company to provide its guests with recreation events. Packages are available for small or large groups, even on an individual basis. In addition to coordinating the activities, the staff will also make arrangements for food and transportation for your party. Reservations are required.

Bring a light jacket and hike this 54-degree cavern which offers three tours. Learn about geology and history on the Discovery Tour, or go back in time on the Lantern Tour, listening to tales from the past and using only lanterns for light. The physically challenging Explorers Trip is an adventure through undeveloped passageways and chambers. Tours range from 45 minutes to four hours. Check the website for more details.

The only nature reserve in the county of El Paso, the Cheyenne Mountain State Park boasts a series of diverse landscapes. It features vast expanses of rugged mountainous terrain, interspersed with pristine Colorado plains, that entirely span 679.8 hectares (1,680 acres). Brimming with wildlife, this is where one can spot the likes of black bears and prairie dogs, as well as birdlife that includes species like wild turkeys and golden eagles. Opened to the public in 2006, the park also features over 32 kilometers (20 miles) of beautiful hiking and biking trails.