Recreation

The abundance of outdoor recreation in the Cripple Creek region is a result of the city’s pristine location. Surrounded by the Pike National Forest, the area offers stunning hiking, biking, boating, hunting and rock climbing. The wildlife in the region provides the naturalist ample viewing opportunities and abundant birding.

  • Auto Tours

    Getting off the beaten path is easy in Cripple Creek. Driving just about anywhere provides amazing scenery and breathtaking views. Most roads offer pull-outs at some of the more dramatic overlooks, giving visitors ready-made photo opportunities.

  • Biking

    World-class mountain and road biking await visitors to the Cripple Creek region. 

  • Birding

    The Pikes Peak region offers some of the best birding in the Rocky Mountains.  The sights and sounds of the quiet back-country, streamside, or reservoir viewing will surely reward birders with unique sightings. 

  • Camping

    There's a camping experience to fit everyone's taste.  The Pike National Forest allows primitive backcountry camping, and also has campgrounds in the area.  Other campgrounds, such as the ones at Mueller State Park, offer full RV hookups.  Private campgrounds offer other amenities such as laundry facilities, flush toilets, showers and even...

  • Hiking

    Take off on foot to discover our scenic beauty and our gold mining past along many area trails. 

  • Horseback Riding

    Exploring the Rocky Mountains on horseback is like stepping back in time. 

  • Hunting

    Hunting is part of the rich heritage of Colorado.  The forests and mountains that surround Cripple Creek provide great habitat for continuing that tradition.  Colorado hunters support wildlife management and restoration programs with their hunting license fees.  Elk, mule deer, and bighorn sheep are year-round residents.  Seasons are set for...

  • Snow Sports

    Numerous trails wind through the region that are great for snow shoeing and cross country skiing.  Most are along the Highway 67 corridor north of Cripple Creek, either in Mueller State Park or across the highway from the park near the Crags.  Because of our fabulous year-round sunshine, it is better to get out on fresh snow early in the day....

  • Water Sports

    Numerous reservoirs, rivers, and mountain streams are perfect for fishing, boating, and whitewater rafting, and are within a short drive of Cripple Creek.  Anglers can enjoy bait, lure, or fly fishing within minutes of downtown Cripple Creek.  Pristine high mountain reservoirs provide excellent boating, kayaking, and canoeing opportunities. ...

  • Wildlife Watching

    Wildlife flourishes in the undeveloped land around Cripple Creek.  Mountain lions prey on mule deer.  Black bears forage on the lush hillsides, and elk and bighorn sheep often make an appearance along the roads.  Smaller animals like foxes, coyotes, raccoons, and many squirrels thrive in this habitat.  These beautiful creatures may often be...