What to do in El Paso County, CO

Step onto the campus of the US Air Force Academy to discover what goes into the training of the country's elite air force personnel. Every year, the military institution puts hundreds of cadets through a rigorous 4-year academic program.

Pikes Peak is the second most visited mountain, after Mount Fuji in Japan, so you can be sure of an awe-inspiring experience. It stands 4,300 metres above sea level and is the most easterly peak in the Rocky Mountains, hence the old pioneer saying “Pikes Peak or Bust”. A trip to the top of this mountain, named after the explorer Zebulon Pike who first led an expedition here in 1806, will reward you with stunning panoramic views across the Rockies and the four surrounding states.

Discover a rugged landscape defined by grassy plains and red rock cliffs at the Garden of the Gods. In this picturesque reserve, it's hard not to be reminded of the dusty, open scenery of America's Wild West. Hike, drive or mountain bike through these natural vistas, whose flat plains are separated by fascinating geological formations and dense woodlands.

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a large complex on the side of a mountain. Laying claim to being America’s only mountain zoo, it sits at an altitude of 6,800 feet (2,100 meters) above sea level. The 140-acre (57-hectare) site is home to more than 800 animals representing over 200 species.

Venture deep into a vast underground cave network, hold on tight for hair-raising rides and enjoy stunning canyon views at the Caves of the Winds. There are adventures and activities for all the family at a natural wonder that was formed 500 million years ago.

Glen Eyrie Castle is a large 19th-century house built for the founder of Colorado Springs, General William Jackson Palmer. The English Tudor-style castle was constructed in 1871 and sits on 800 acres (324 hectares) of grounds in the Rocky Mountains. Today the castle and its estate is owned by a Christian organization called The Navigators