From historic sites and botanical gardens to local farms and hands-on science centers, we’ve rounded up some of the best field trip ideas across the United States — including one underground adventure that will blow your students’ minds.

State Parks and National Parks

Nature is the ultimate classroom — and most of the time, it’s free. Head to a nearby state park or national park for hiking trails, wildlife observation, and more.

Make the most of the setting by creating a scavenger hunt (spot a pinecone, a bird call, three different leaf types), organizing a nature sketching session, or even having students practice compass and mapping skills — an underrated life skill that pairs perfectly with geography and science curriculum.

Many state parks offer group-friendly ranger-led programs that touch on conservation, geology, and the delicate balance of ecosystems. It’s a great educational field trip for both middle school and high school learners — and a chance to burn off some energy outside the classroom.

Historic Sites and Local Museum Field Trips

History doesn’t have to be something students only read about in textbooks. Bring it to life by visiting historic sites, heritage centers, or a local museum. From pioneer homesteads and blacksmith shops to old schoolhouses and battlefields, these places offer immersive stories and hands-on demonstrations.

Many local institutions have school programs tied to curriculum standards and will happily adapt for homeschool families or large groups. Plus, they’re often packed with historical artifacts that students can see up close.

Want to make it even more engaging? Try dressing the part! Encourage your group to come in period clothing and assign roles like tour guide, journalist, or time-traveling explorer. Trust us — students will remember it.

Field Trip Ideas for Science Centers and STEM Fun

If you’re aiming for a field trip idea that keeps kids engaged, look no further than your local science center. These hands-on, interactive spaces are goldmines for learning disguised as fun.

Think robotics labs, earthquake simulators, planetariums, and build-your-own-invention zones. Many centers also offer special large group workshops, like slime chemistry, fossil digs, or physics-focused roller coaster building. It’s all the thrill of a lab day, minus the cleanup.

And if travel’s not an option? Virtual field trips from organizations like NASA or the Monterey Bay Aquarium are surprisingly interactive, with live Q&As, behind-the-scenes footage, and downloadable worksheets.

Botanical Gardens and Nature Center Field Trips

A trip to the botanical gardens might sound a little quiet at first… until you realize how many subjects you can tie in like Biology, Environmental science, and even Art.

Many botanical gardens host guided educational experiences, from pollinator-focused tours to composting workshops and tree identification walks. They’re a great option for homeschool field trips where kids of varying ages can explore at their own pace, and even just the peaceful environment can spark curiosity and observation.

Make it active by handing out scavenger hunt sheets or plant ID cards, and encourage sketching or photography as part of a creative follow-up assignment.

Local Farm and Agricultural Field Trips

If you want a hands-on experience that connects students to the food system, environment, and sustainability — it’s time to head to a local farm.

Kids can learn how crops grow, how animals are cared for, and where that glass of milk or head of lettuce really comes from. Some farms even offer seasonal harvest opportunities where students can dig, pick, plant, or taste.

These trips aren’t just for science lovers either — they tie into health, nutrition, social studies, and even economics. Plus, interacting with animals or watching a tractor in action has universal appeal.

Local Library and Visitor Center Field Trips

Local libraries are more than just stacks of books. Many offer youth programming, behind-the-scenes tours, storytelling sessions, research skills workshops, and even digital media labs. If you’re teaching research-heavy subjects, a trip to the library is a learning opportunity that connects perfectly with classroom goals.

For a multidisciplinary twist, check out your local visitor center. You’ll often find interactive maps, small natural history exhibits, regional cultural displays, or walking tour brochures that make it easy to plan a self-guided tour. It’s a fun, accessible option for homeschool families or educators working with limited resources.

Budget-Friendly Virtual Field Trips

Sometimes weather, budget, or timing makes travel tough — especially for homeschool groups. That’s where virtual field trips shine.

Explore national parks via drone footage, visit the Louvre without leaving your living room, or join live Zoom calls with zookeepers, authors, and archaeologists. Sites like Google Arts & Culture, Discovery Education, and the Smithsonian Learning Lab have hundreds of options available. Many of them are free admission!

Amusement Parks with Educational Programs

This might sound like a stretch, but some amusement parks offer amazing STEM-based educational programs, especially during the off-season. Roller coasters become real-life physics lessons. Carnival games? Probability in action. Even the food vendors and ticketing systems can tie into business, logistics, and math.

Check if your regional amusement park has student-focused tours, engineering demos, or behind-the-scenes packages. It might just be the perfect opportunity to blend excitement with education.

Why Cave of the Winds Is the Ultimate Educational Field Trip in Colorado

If you’re anywhere near Colorado (or even if you’re not — road trip, anyone?), Cave of the Winds Mountain Park in Colorado Springs is a field trip idea that blends adventure, education, and just enough wow factor to make your students forget they’re technically learning.

Built for Teachers, Homeschoolers, and Everyone in Between

At Cave of the Winds, you can customize your educational field trip to match your students’ grade level and interests. From September through May, the park offers a range of programs for homeschool families, school groups, and co-ops.

Here’s just a peek at what your group could explore:

• Cave formations and underground geology
• Bats and their habitats
• How scientists explore caves and conduct research
• Gemstone Panning and hands-on geology labs

You can even add Above Ground Attractions for some post-learning adrenaline.

Group Details (Because We Know You’re Wondering)

• Available: September – May
• Group size: Minimum 15 people (or pay for 15 to qualify for discounts)
• Peak blackout dates: Spring Break, Memorial Day Weekend, Labor Day Weekend, and mid-June to mid-August
• Great for: Middle school, high school, and homeschool field trips with mixed ages

Whether you want a basic cave tour or a full underground geology lesson, it’s all possible — and all unforgettable.

Field Trip Planning Checklist

Before you set off, here’s a quick planning list to keep the chaos at bay:

• Call ahead and reserve your spot
• Print waivers, maps, and scavenger hunt sheets
• Prep allergy info and emergency contacts
• Assign buddies or small groups
• Bring snacks, clipboards, and backup pens (always backup pens)
• Debrief afterward — let students share, draw, write, or reflect

Ready for a Field Trip Adventure?

Whether you’re a teacher with 30 students or a homeschool group planning your next day trip, Cave of the Winds is ready to help you turn learning into an adventure.

Call today or visit CaveoftheWinds.com to schedule your customized tour.

It’s a unique opportunity to explore new things, learn underground, and give your students a memory they’ll never forget.

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If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids in Colorado Springs, the perfect Summer  plans, or convenient day trips from Denver, Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is a must-visit destination. From thrilling rides to breathtaking scenery, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Already in Colorado? Here’s  Your ‘Must Do’ List!

Summer in Colorado means longer days, fresh mountain air, and endless opportunities for adventure. If you’re wondering how to fill your days, we’ve got you covered with an epic mix of underground exploration, high-flying thrills, and family-friendly fun.

Adventure Awaits at Cave of the Winds

Explore Underground Marvels

If you haven’t booked a cave tour yet, now’s the time! Cave of the Winds offers THREE unique experiences that will add a fascinating twist to your trip:

• Discovery Tour: Perfect for families, this guided tour takes you through awe-inspiring rock formations, stalactites, and historical chambers. It’s a fun and educational way to experience the magic of the underground world.
• Lantern Tour: Looking for something a little spookier? Venture deep into the cave with only a lantern to guide your way. Hear eerie stories, learn about the cave’s history, and enjoy an adventurous, flashlight-free exploration.
• Caving & Spelunking: Explore a cave system deeper, and below Cave of the Winds which is still forming, active and muddy! Dress for adventure with long sleeves, long pants, gloves, a helmet and headlamp to navigate the deep earth crevasses and passages seldom seen by the masses! Moderate physical ability required. Ages 13+.

Thrill-Seeking Above Ground

Already done a cave tour? No problem! There’s plenty more to explore at Cave of the Winds for any skill level:

• TERROR-dactyl: If you’re ready for an adrenaline rush, this one-of-a-kind thrill ride launches you 150 feet into Williams Canyon at nearly 100 mph.
• Bat-A-Pult Zipline: Soar 500 feet across the canyon and take in breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. This is the perfect way to add some excitement to your trip.
• Wind Walker Challenge Course: Love heights? Test your balance and bravery on this three-story obstacle course hanging over an 80-foot drop.
• Cliffhanger Climbing Wall & Geronimo’s Leap: Ready for a vertical challenge? Scale our climbing wall or take a leap from towering heights in these fun, all-ages, family-friendly activities.
• Panning for Gemstones: Let the kids try their hand at gemstone mining and take home their own treasures of either arrowheads, fossils or gemstones! You just don’t know what you’ll discover!

Experience and enjoy the adventure! Grab the Pioneer Package, which includes access to the Wind Walker Challenge Course, Bat-A-Pult Zipline, Cliffhanger Climbing Wall, and Geronimo’s Leap.

Family Fun for All Ages: More Things to do in Colorado Springs with Kids

If you’re looking for more ways to fill your itinerary, check out these family-friendly attractions nearby:

Penny Arcade in Manitou Springs

Just a few minutes away, this nostalgic arcade features vintage pinball machines and classic games—perfect for an afternoon of fun. With hundreds of games ranging from antique coin-operated machines to modern favorites, it’s a great way to introduce kids to arcade history while enjoying a bit of friendly competition. Plus, Manitou Springs itself is a charming town with unique shops, restaurants, and mineral springs to explore.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, voted 2nd Best Zoo in North America (by 2025 USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards), is a must-visit destination for families. It’s the only mountain zoo in the United States, offering breathtaking views and up-close encounters with over 750 animals. One of the biggest highlights is feeding the friendly giraffes, a unique experience that kids absolutely love. The zoo also features hands-on exhibits, an interactive reptile house, and the Mountaineer Sky Ride, which gives you a bird’s-eye view of the entire park and the surrounding landscape. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo’s terrain includes some steep paths.

Garden of the Gods

This iconic natural landmark is perfect for families who love the outdoors. Garden of the Gods features towering red rock formations, winding hiking trails, and plenty of opportunities for unforgettable family photos. Whether you take a guided nature walk, horseback riding through a trail, Segway tour, mountain bike, , or simply soak in the breathtaking scenery, this attraction is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Colorado Springs. The Visitor & Nature Center offers interactive exhibits that help kids learn about the park’s geology and history.

North Pole – Santa’s Workshop

For a magical experience, take the kids to the North Pole – Santa’s Workshop, a Christmas-themed amusement park located at the foot of Pikes Peak. This attraction is open  from May to Christmas Eve. Entrance into the park is free during the Summer and Fall season! Kids can meet Santa himself, explore the charming village, and shop for holiday-themed souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to bring younger children for a day of pure joy and nostalgia.

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Adventure meets stunning scenery at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. This world-famous attraction features one of the highest suspension bridges in the world, spanning 956 feet above the Arkansas River. There’s also a fun aerial tram, zip lines, Sky Coaster, Via Ferrata and a children’s playland, making it a well-rounded destination for all ages. Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Royal Gorge and the surrounding mountains!

Woodland Park Dinosaur Museum

A must-visit for young dinosaur enthusiasts, this museum offers an exciting collection of fossils, dinosaur replicas, and interactive exhibits. Kids can learn about Colorado’s prehistoric past, see life-sized dinosaur skeletons, and even try their hand at fossil digging activities.

Downtown Colorado Springs & Historic District

If you’re looking for a more relaxed outing, head to downtown Colorado Springs or one of its charming historic districts. The area is filled with locally-owned shops, quaint boutiques, and excellent dining options. Kids will love stopping by a classic ice cream parlor, playing vintage arcade games at the Penny Arcade in Manitou Springs, or hunting for unique souvenirs in the local gift shops. Check out local art galleries, or stop by the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum for an inspiring look at athletic greatness.

With so many fun activities to choose from, your  visit to  Colorado Springs is sure to be packed with unforgettable memories! From outdoor adventures to family activities, the Colorado Springs area truly has something for everyone.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Colorado Springs  Visit

• Book Your Activities in Advance: Reserve your cave tours and attractions ahead of time.
• Dress in Layers: Colorado weather can change quickly, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the day. (You can experience ALL 4 seasons at the top of Pikes Peak!
• Stay Hydrated: The higher elevation can take a toll, so drink plenty of water, especially if you are used to lower elevation. Listen to your body. Headaches and lightheadedness can be signs of dehydration or overexertion.  
• Plan for Downtime: Schedule in some relaxing activities, like a scenic drive in the mountains, chilling by the pool, take a ride on a city scooter or  simply enjoy some food and dining with a view!

Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure?

You’ve already made the great choice of spending your vacation in Colorado—now it’s time to make every moment of this wonderful place count. Whether it’s your first time exploring deep underground, flying over canyons, or enjoying hands-on fun with the family, Cave of the Winds is the perfect place to make lasting memories.

Book your tour today and get ready for the bucket list adventure of a lifetime!

Article reviewed: 04/09/2025

Trip Uhalt

Marketing / PR / Multimedia Production / College Instructor / Professional Comedian

About the Reviewer:

Trip Uhalt has been with Cave of the Winds since 2014. Growing up in Colorado Springs and with a previous career in broadcasting in the area, Uhalt knows both Cave of the Winds Mountain Park and the Pikes Peak region well. He has documented, reported on, and produced numerous videos, stories, and presentations on the area since the early 90s.

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And what better place to start your journey than at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, nestled at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains and Colorado Springs? From beginner-friendly walking tours to wild, haunted paranormal and ghost tours, to muddy spelunking crawls, there are thrills for everyone and all ages! All tours have experienced, helpful, and well-trained guides who will walk, or crawl you through everything you need to know about adventures beneath the surface, making your caving experience both wonderful and memorable for any adventure level you choose.

Caving vs. Spelunking: What’s the Difference?

Spelunking, the recreational sport of exploring caves, was once the popular term to describe cave exploration. However, over time, the term “caving” has become the preferred and more widely accepted term. While the two words are often used interchangeably, they carry slightly different connotations.

What Is Spelunking?

Spelunking typically refers to the recreational exploration of caves by hobbyists. It’s a term often associated with casual adventurers who enjoy navigating these underground spaces.

However, the term “spelunking” has largely fallen out of favor. Today, enthusiasts prefer the term “caving,” which reflects a deeper commitment to the extreme sport.

What Is Caving?

Caving is the exploration of natural or artificial caverns and can range from casual strolls through family-friendly caves with paved paths to intense expeditions into remote cave systems. Like rock climbing, caving can be as adventurous as you want it to be. For some, it’s about marveling at the beauty of these rock formations on a guided tour. For other experienced cavers, it’s about navigating narrow tunnels, rappelling into vertical caves, and uncovering uncharted cave passages.

Beyond adventure, some cave explorers pursue scientific study, using caves to learn about geology, hydrology, and unique ecosystems.

What’s the Difference

While the terms are used interchangeably, the main difference between caving and spelunking is in the level of expertise. Caving typically refers to experienced exploration with advanced techniques and safety measures, while spelunking is more casual and ideal for hobbyists and beginners.

Cave of the Winds: Adventures for All Levels

Whether you call it caving or spelunking, Cave of the Winds Mountain Park offers adventures for everyone. With family-friendly walking tours, eerie lantern-lit haunted tours, and adrenaline-pumping caving tours, there’s a perfect experience for every skill level.

Caving Gear Checklist: What to Bring on Your Spelunking Adventure

Proper preparation is the key to making your caving and spelunking adventure safe. Exploring underground caves means stepping into a semi-predictable environment. Having the right gear not only ensures your safety but also allows you to fully enjoy the experience. Whether you’re a first-time spelunker or an experienced caver, here’s what we suggest you bring:

• Headlamp: Essential for visibility in dark cave systems.
• Sturdy, Closed-Toe Shoes: To navigate slippery rocks, muddy paths, and uneven terrain.
• Gloves: To protect your hands while climbing and crawling.
• Handheld Flashlight: A secondary light source in case your headlamp fails.
• Extra Batteries: Or enough to last for 2 hours..
• Durable Clothing: Wear durable, moisture-wicking clothing you don’t mind getting muddy or wet.
• Change of clothes and garbage bag: You’ll want to change your muddy clothes and put them in a bag so you don’t dirty your car.
• We will provide your Helmet: First line of defense against bumps from low ceilings and cave walls.

At Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, we make it easy! We provide essential equipment like helmets on our guided Expedition/spelunking tours. All you need to do is dress appropriately and pack a sense of adventure!

Find Out What to Bring for Each Tour!

Beginner Tips for a Successful Caving and Spelunking Experience

With the right preparation, caving adventures can be a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable experience. Here are some tips to help beginners make the most of their journey into the depths:

#1 Started with a walking tour

For your first experience, a guided tour is the best way to explore a cave. At Cave of the Winds, our expert guides will lead you through the cave, while sharing fascinating insights about its history and geology. Walking tours like the Discovery Tour are perfect for beginners, offering a chance to get comfortable with cave exploration.

#2 Dress for the Environment

Cave of the Winds, the Manitou Grands, and the Lowers where all of our tours take place are 54 degrees all year, no matter the temperature or weather outside. The Lowers, where our Expedition/spelunking tours take you are damp, muddy, and very humid, so wearing the right clothing is essential.

What to Wear on the Discovery and Haunted Lantern Tours: 

• Comfortable, durable clothes and possibly a light jacket, sweatshirt, or hoodie. You’ll experience enough cardio that you’ll be warm and may want to take your jacket off and tie it around your waist. 
• Sturdy, closed-toed shoes with good grip.
• Layers to stay warm, as temperatures in caves can be much cooler than outside.

What to Wear on the Expedition/spelunking Tour:

• Comfortable, long-sleeve shirt and durable pants you don’t mind getting dirty and muddy.
• Sturdy, closed-toed shoes with good, gripping, traction soles because you will be walking on slippery mud.
• Clothing layers that you can take off and put back on as your physical effort changes and you get hot and cool.
• Gloves! Gloves! Gloves! We recommend the >$5 work gloves available at most hardware stores.
• Headlamp or flashlight. We recommend a camping-type headlamp rather than a flashlight because your hands will be busy holding ropes, rocks, stairs ,and other things, making holding a flashlight difficult.

#3 Bring the Essentials

 It’s important to be prepared for the Discovery & Haunted Lantern walking tours:

• Stay hydrated with plastic bottled water. Water is the only liquid allowed in the caves.
• Light jacket, or sweatshirt.
• Comfy, rugged, closed-toed walking shoes. Cross training & tennis shoes are fine.
• A camera for the Discovery scientific tour. 

For the Expedition/spelunking tour pack a fanny pack with:

• A flashlight or headlamp.Extra batteries to avoid being left in the dark.
• Plastic bottled water to stay hydrated, but avoid leaving any trash behind.
• Gloves for protecting your hands while navigating rough surfaces.

#4 Follow Safety Guidelines

Always follow the safety rules and procedures provided by your tour guide. Stay on marked paths, avoid touching any parts of the cave, and listen to instructions carefully. These guidelines ensure your safety and help preserve the cave for future explorers.

#5 Know Your Limits

Caving offers different levels of difficulty, so choose an experience that matches your fitness level and comfort zone. If you’re unsure, start with an easy tour like the Discovery Tour before progressing to more challenging options like the Expedition Tour.

#6 Respect the Cave Environment

Caves are delicate ecosystems that have been forming for millions of years. 

Protect their beauty by minimizing your impact:

• Avoid touching stalactites and stalagmites, as oils from your skin will damage them.
• Stick to designated paths and areas to prevent harm to the cave’s fragile environment.
• Learn about white-nose syndrome and follow steps to protect bats and other cave-dwelling creatures.

At Cave of the Winds, our guides ensure that all tours are conducted responsibly, with an emphasis on conservation and safety.

7. Stay Curious and Have Fun

Caving is an incredible opportunity to explore a hidden world and learn something new. Embrace the adventure, ask questions, and take in the beauty around you. With the right mindset, your first caving experience can be the start of a lifelong passion for exploration.

Different Levels of Caving Adventures

One of the best things about caving is that it’s adaptable to all ages and abilities. At Cave of the Winds, we’ve designed our tours to accommodate explorers of every experience level. 

Here are three distinct adventures to suit every kind of adventurer:

1. Discovery Tour

• Perfect For: Families and first-time explorers.
• What to Expect: A 45–60 minute guided walking tour with well-lit, paved floor, and handrails through stunning cave chambers. Learn about the cave’s history and geology as you view beautiful rock and cave formations.

2. Haunted Lantern Tour

• Perfect For: Thrill-seekers, fans of ghosts, and unexplainable stories of the paranormal. Slightly moderate physical ability, as the first and last 250 feet of the cave is barely more than 4 feet high and requires bending at the waist with a good leg workout! 
• What to Expect: A 90-minute journey through dark tunnels, illuminated only by the lanterns your group carries. Hear eerie tales and legends of the Manitou Grand Caverns as you navigate narrow passageways, dark tunnels, and grand caverns!

3. Expedition Tour

• Perfect For: Medium physical ability and adventurers seeking a challenge.
• What to Expect: A 2.5–3 hour cave tour involving walking, crawling, climbing, and navigating muddy passages. Learn basic caving skills while exploring raw, untouched sections of the cave.
• Note: This tour is not permitted for children under 13 or individuals with certain medical conditions. It’s designed for those ready to push their limits.

Cave of the Winds: Begin Your Underground Adventure Today!

At Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, there’s an adventure for everyone. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun and educational guided tour or a thrill-seeker ready to tackle a wild cave exploration, we offer experiences for every skill level.

For those new to caving, we make it easy to step into this exciting activity with confidence. Our tours are designed to be safe, educational, and unforgettable, ensuring that your first journey underground is as enjoyable as possible.

There’s no shortage of excitement at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park! Book your guided tour today and start your unforgettable adventure!

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Requirements: Zip line riders must be at least 12 years old and ages 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult. The minimum height to ride is 48 inches and the maximum height is 6 feet 6 inches. The minimum weight to ride is 90 pounds and the maximum weight is 250 pounds.

See more and buy tickets at https://caveofthewinds.com/

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You won’t need nerves of steel for the Via Ferrata at Cave of the Winds Mountain Park. What you will need is an adventurous spirit for outdoor climbing fun! Created in the mountains of Europe, the Via Ferrata is a system of cables and ladders that helped World War 1 soldiers navigate the front line between Austria, Hungary and Italy! You will be connected to our Via Ferrata track cable for an exhilarating climbing activity through spectacular mountain terrain on a guided tour under the close supervision of our experienced guides. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you around limestone cliffs and mountain paths high above the canyon floor. The excitement of vertical canyon walls and amazing views will make for a perfect Colorado Adventure!

Our course is geared toward the inexperienced climber. Our safety equipment is designed to keep you on course. Each climber will be provided with a specially designed Via Ferrata harness system, helmet and gloves. You must wear sturdy hiking /climbing footwear.

Requirements: Participants must be 48″ tall and weigh between 90 & 260 pounds and must be ages 12 and up. Guests 12-17 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for a Canyon Tour? You must wear sturdy hiking/climbing footwear.

Tickets available at Caveofthewinds.com

Photo credit OutThere Colorado

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Nick and I grew up in Houston, Texas. We have known each other since we were in 4^th grade. We attended the same elementary school, middle schools, and high school growing up. We even “dated” in middle school when we were in band together. You know how those middle school crushes go. But I like to think that even way back then, we knew that there was something special about each other. I did end up moving away in high school and we lost touch. Not for long though.

We both ended up attending Texas A&M for college. On a campus of over 60,000 students and being in completely different areas of study, we somehow managed to run into each other quite a bit. The first time we ran into each other we had not seen each other for at least three years. I still turn red when I think back on it. I had just finished a biology lab exam and was furiously pedaling on my bike when I saw someone waving at me from the corner of my eye. It took me a bit before I recognized him. It was Nick! He looked quite different since I saw him last and let’s just say, I liked what I saw. I was so taken off guard I nearly ran him over. This allowed us to re-connect. After many study dates (more talking and catching up than studying if we are being honest), evening walks, and movie nights, Nick eventually got the courage to finally admit that he had still had feelings for me over the years and other relationships along the way. No one else had given him the same excited feeling and connection he felt with me. Luckily, the feeling was mutual. In his typical romantic style, Nick asked me out at a nice restaurant where we were greeted with champagne, flowers, VIP seating and a question at the top of my menu: “Angelica, will you be my girlfriend?”. How could I say no, right?!

Fast forward three and half years and we found ourselves as college graduates. I was working full time in Houston at a genetics lab and Nick was all over the country for Army training. We started to feel the stresses of life and were wondering where our relationship would go from there. I joined Nick on a road trip from Arizona to Colorado Springs to his first duty station at Fort Carson. We decided to take it as an opportunity to visit the Grand Canyon and other national parks in Utah. One beautiful day, as we were hiking the Narrows at Zion National Park, he popped the question as we posed for a picture on top of a rock! I was completely surprised (as you can see in the picture)! I was completely blown away. It was perfect timing for us and will always be one of the best moments of my life.

I moved to Colorado Springs in August of 2016 and we got married at the end of September. I absolutely fell in love with Colorado Springs because of all of the amazing outdoors activities and spectacular views it has to offer. I cannot wait to get back there after I graduate! Since I moved to Houston last August for school, we have tried to keep the flame burning strong despite the distance. I would be so appreciative if you could help me make sure these last couple days we have together will be extra memorable for him to think back on when he is missing home!

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When you visit Cave of the Winds Mountain Park, just 10 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, you’ll see some of the most impressive views in the region. The property is home to a host of outdoor activities, including the exhilarating TERROR-dactyl! With three cave tours to choose from, it’s a toasty 54 degrees year-round and the park is open 364 days a year. Cave of the Winds Mountain Park is a must see for travelers and neighbors alike!

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