Colorado Springs and El Paso County Relocation ... - Keep Trees

4 Colorado Springs Relocation GUIDE 2007

© 2007 

Table of 

Corporate Headquarters 

AQP Publishing Inc. 

8537 Corbin Drive 

Anchorage, AK 99507 

Phone: (907) 562-9300 

Fax: (907) 562-9311 

www.aqppublishing.com 

info@aqppublishing.com 

Publisher 

Bob Ulin 

CONTENTS 

Editor 

Susan Harrington 

Welcome to Colorado .......................................6 

Getting Here is Half the Fun ..........................8 

Putting your move together 

Colorado Springs and El Paso County ......... 10 

No. 1 Best Place to Live in America 

Demographics 

El Paso County 

Basic Services 

Employment & Economic Development ........ 16 

Today’s job market 

Business climate 

Housing & Real Estate ................................ 20 

Neighborhoods 

Buying 

Renting 

Education & Academics ............................... 26 

Higher Education 

K-12 Education 

Libraries 

Healthcare ................................................... 30 

Transition suggestions 

Area Map .................................................... 34 

Our Military................................................ 36 

Fort Carson 

U.S. Air Force Academy 

Peterson Air Force Base 

Schriever Air Force Base 

Community & Recreation ............................ 60 

Arts & Culture 

Parks & Trails 

Activities & Attractions 

Places of Worship 

Surrounding Areas ....................................... 66 

Art Director 

Karen Copley 

Advertising Sales 

Steve Pierce 

Editorial content and photography: City of Colorado Springs, El Paso County, State of Colorado, 

Colorado Division of Wildlife, Colorado State Fair, U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Air Force Academy, 

Ed Skingel, Ken Carter and GerMaine Photography. 

On the cover: Lt. Col. Heidi Grimm of the U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program wins the women’s division 

in the 2006 Best of the U.S. Triathlon Championships. Grimm is stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado. Photo: Paul Phillips 

Relocation GUIDE 2007 Colorado Springs 5

Colorado 

Welcome to 

All those mountains and forests are part of why Colorado 

residents enjoy such a high quality of life. The 

clean air and relatively mild and temperate climate 

make spending time outdoors year-round a natural way of 

life when you live in Colorado. The Anasazi fi gured that out 

about 1,500 years ago when they inhabited cliff dwellings in 

Colorado. Long before that, about 7,000 years ago, archaeological 

evidence points to agricultural settlements in eastern 

Colorado. 

Thousands of years passed before Europeans fi rst 

saw Colorado, then it was probably through the eyes 

of gold-seeking Spaniards led by conquistador Francisco 

Vasquez de Coronado. It is widely thought he came through 

southeastern Colorado during his 1540-1541 expedition for 

gold. It is known the Spanish explored Colorado during the 

next two and a half centuries, until 1800, when Spain ceded 

the area to France. The French promptly sold it. As part of 

the Louisiana Purchase, Colorado was put into the hands of 

the United States in 1803, became a U.S. Territory in 1861, 

and a state in 1876. 

In Spanish, Colorado means “colored red,” and it was 

the Spaniards who are to be credited with naming the state. 

Deciding to live in Colorado is deciding 

to join 4.7 million people who already 

call it home. They already know what a 

wonderful place Colorado is, nestled in 

the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Perched 

along and fanning out from the continental 

divide, Colorado has the most land of any 

state higher than 10,000 feet, and the most 

mountains higher than 14,000 feet. 

It’s the top of the world in many ways. 

The reddish-brown clay that geographically makes up so much of the river 

beds, ground and mountains throughout the state distinguished the area 

in the early days. 

Through exploration, gold rushes, westward migration, railroads, 

mining, agriculture, ranching, logging, tourism, commerce, industry and 

the military, Colorado eventually became widely populated and built up. 

Today, Colorado is highly rated the world over as one of the best places to 

live and visit. Ten percent of the population is foreign born. Another large 

percent migrated from other states. Capital city Denver, with the state’s 

largest population, is a short two- to four-hour fl ight to most major cities 


in the country, about six hours to East Coast cities. But you won’t 

want to leave. 

You’ll fi nd the proximity to fresh air, sunshine, mountains, 

forests, rivers, trails, parks, wildlife, great jobs, housing, education, 

healthcare and otherwise attractive amenities is immediate in most 

of Colorado. The state motto, Nothing without Providence, is an 

apt descriptor for the state and those who live here. 

Throughout Colorado, residents enjoy an exceptional, worldclass 

quality of life and an abundance of natural and man-made 

wonders. The state holds title to many noteworthy distinctions. 

In the whole world, Colorado has the largest fl at-top mountain, 

highest toll road, highest auto tunnel, highest suspension bridge, 

steepest railroad incline, fi rst rodeo, largest rodeo, largest natural 

hot springs; is known as the melon capital and pinto bean capital; 

and is the place where the cheeseburger was invented. 

In North America, Colorado is home to the longest continuous 

street and the tallest sand dunes. In the United States, Colorado 

has the highest mean altitude (6,800 feet), most land area higher 

than 10,000 feet, most fourteeners (mountains above 14,000 feet), 

and most microbreweries per capita. Although home to the U.S. 

Olympic Committee and U.S. Olympic Training Center, Colorado 

is the only state to have turned down hosting the Olympics; 

not that the people of the state don’t like sports and recreation. 

Colorado is one of the most awesome recreational paradises in the 

country, if not the world. Skiing; snowboarding; golfi ng; bicycling; 

rafting; hiking; climbing; camping; biking; walking; jogging; 

swimming; exploring; hunting wildlife, fossils and dinosaur bones; 

fi shing; horse-back riding, hang-gliding; hot air ballooning; siteseeing; 

and on and on. If it is fun and done outdoors, Coloradoans 

are doing it. 

You wouldn’t think there would be any time for work with 

the endless roster of leisure-time activities, but there is a thriving, 

diversifi ed economy. The people of Colorado strike a healthy 

balance and fi nd time for work and play, with a heightened sense 

COLORADO TRIVIA 

Bird Lark Bunting 

Animal Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep 

Fish Greenback Cutthroat Trout 

Insect Colorado Hairstreak Butterfl y 

Flower Rocky Mountain Columbine 

Tree Colorado Blue Spruce 

Grass Blue Grama 

Fossil Stegosaurus 

Gemstone Aquamarine 

Mineral Rhodochrosite 

Rock Yule Marble 

Tartan Colorado State Tartan 

Quarter Released in 2006, features 

a mountain 

Songs Where the Columbines Grow 

Rocky Mountain High 

of family and community governing an independent, yet 

cohesive group. 

Colorado has a full roster of pro sports teams; in addition, 

gambling is legal. The Colorado Lottery is very popular. There 

are also bingo halls across the state, and casinos in a few choice 

mountain towns. 

Colorado has about 270 incorporated cities and most of the 

population lives along what is known as the Front Range. The 

Front Range is on the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains, 

running north and south through the top half of the state. The 

western half of the state actually has the mountains and valleys. 

Beyond the front range to the east is the half of the state that is 

fl at, with high plains fl owing into Nebraska and Kansas along the 

eastern border. Wyoming is to the north, Utah is to the west, and 

Arizona and New Mexico are south. 

An area known as Four Corners, where Colorado, New Mexico, 

Arizona and Utah all touch, is the only place in the United States 

where four states meet. You could play Twister and be in four 

states at once. Many people just drop to all fours when visiting the 

monument, which is about half an hour southwest of Cortez, just 

so they can say they were in four states at once. 

Colorado’s climate, while generalized as cool and dry, is also 

sunny and warm throughout most of the year. Elevation and 

proximity to mountains create a varied mix of biogeographically 

diverse microclimates with varying 

degrees of temperature variations 

and precipitation. Thunderstorms, 

blizzards, lightning and tornadoes are 

not unheard of. What is predominant 

though, are warm sunny days. 

Welcome to Colorado. Enjoy this 

relocation guide as you make the 

move to your new home in Colorado. 

Remember, Colorado Springs was 

named the best place to live in 

America by Money magazine in 2006. 

You will be nestled in one of the most 

popular states in the U.S., with all the 

grandeur of the Rocky Mountains in 

your backyard. 


Getting here 

is half the 

Colorado is such an awesome place to move to, you will 

have no trouble fi nding it. Interstate 25 (north/south) and 

Interstate 70 (east/west) are major arteries through Colorado. 

Interstate 25 runs through Colorado Springs, so that is where 

you will want to connect. You will have to come through one 

of the neighboring states of Wyoming, Nebraska, Kansas, 

Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona or Utah to get here; 

unless you fl y and have everything shipped. 

Fun 

Denver International Airport is just a few hours from 

anywhere in the country with hundreds of fl ights a day, 

and there are several direct fl ights in and out of Colorado 

Springs as well. Travel by train is sort of an option, Amtrak only 

offers a bus stop in Colorado Springs, though, so you would 

have to get off the train and onto a bus in Denver or another 

town along the route, depending on your city of departure and 

route. Planes, trains and automobiles are all options, but more 

people choose the family car as the mode of transportation when 

moving to the area. 

If you do drive, it will be a trip to remember. Getting here 

is half the fun. No matter which way you approach Colorado 

Springs you will be on a journey lined with picture postcard 

scenery along the way. If you come in the winter, beware of the 

changing patterns of weather and the force of the snowstorms 

that strand unprepared travelers every year. There is a downside 

to the state having an abundance of recreational snow. Luckily, 

with the Internet, it is easier than ever to plan your trip and be 

aware of road conditions affected by weather and construction 

during your move. An atlas and current state road maps will be 

items you’ll want to have on hand to plan your trip and make 

the journey to your new home in Colorado Springs. 


Putting your move together 

Once you’ve decided to make the move to Colorado Springs, 

and chosen your mode and route, the next thing to do is select 

a moving company for your household goods and other items. 

Choose a company in your area that you are most comfortable 

with, and remember that the lowest price is not always the 

best deal. 

Ideally, you want a company with a national reputation 

and a national network; in other words one company that can 

pack up your house and arrange for the ultimate delivery of your 

goods—intact—to your new home in Colorado. You can go online 

and fi nd some information, but some phone and legwork will be 

necessary to pick the right mover. 

If you are uncertain which company in your area has the best 

reputation and a national network, invite several companies to 

visit your home to evaluate the scope of your move and provide 

you with an estimate. Ask a lot of questions. Find out the services 

included in the estimate, and what is extra, such as packing, 

unpacking, crates, boxes or other supplies, and any storage fees 

for overlap between when they move your things and when they 

can move your things into your new home. Find out if they will 

put you up in a hotel and feed you if your things don’t arrive on 

schedule. Ask for local references. 

Somebody who has had experience with your local companies, 

good or bad, is a great source of information. Word of mouth is 

usually a helpful indicator. Weigh everything you learn about each 

company carefully, and make your selection. 

As part of engaging a carrier for your goods, you have the 

option of having the movers do the packing or doing it yourself. 

Obviously, it costs more to have someone else do it, but the advantage 

is you are hiring professional movers who should be able to do 

a better job and save you 

a lot of time and labor. 

If you decide to do 

your own packing, allow 

twice as much time to get 

it done as you think you 

will need. For most households, 

packing everything 

you own is not something 

you can get done in 

your spare time in a few 

evenings or weekends. 

Packing supplies are 

usually available from 

the moving company you 

select, and many will give 

you those items as part of 

the cost of moving you. If 

not, be sure to get sturdy 

boxes in uniform sizes so 

they will stack well in the 

moving van. 

When the movers 

deliver your things, be sure to check the shipment carefully and 

completely. Look for boxes, items, furniture, and other belongings 

damaged in transit or missing. Write down anything awry, preferably 

in the presence of the moving crew and have them verify your 

fi ndings. If you have to seek compensation for damages from the 

moving company, this written record will be essential. Be sure to 

inventory everything before the move so you will have a list to 

check off when your belongings arrive. 

Relocation Relocation GUIDE 2007 Colorado Colorado Springs Springs 9

Colorado Springs 

You’ve chosen a 

winner. Colorado Springs 

is the No. 1 Best Place 

to Live in America, Best 

Big City, according to 

Money magazine, August 

2006. Financial, housing, 

education, quality of life, 

leisure and culture, weather 

and health data were all 

taken into consideration. 


Some of the factors Money used to determine 

that Colorado Springs is the best 

place to live include: median annual family 

income of more than $60,000, fi ve-year job 

growth of 9 percent, 7.4 percent sales tax, 

4.63 percent fl at state income tax, median 

family home price $192,000, air quality 

index 90 percent good days, personal crime 

risk at the national average, less than 20 

minute median commute time, a host of 

leisure and culture amenities, lower than 

average body mass index, lower than 

average cancer and cardiac mortality rates, 

median age 33, and 65 percent of residents 

have attended college. 

In addition to all that good news, the 

cost of living index for Colorado Springs 

is 5 percent lower than the national 

average. The serious crime rate was more 

than 10 points below the national average 

in 2005 at 55.5/1,000. Property taxes on 

a $200,000 house were only about $1,000. 

There is low unemployment and high 

incentives for enterprise, with a highly 

rated business climate. 

and El Paso County 

10 Colorado Springs Relocation GUIDE 2007 

Photo: El Paso County

There are plenty of reasons to relocate 

to the Colorado Springs area; the biggest 

attractor factor is the quality of life. 

The Colorado Springs Economic Development 

Corporation lists nine items of particular interest: 

Mountain resort quality of life 

Vibrant arts and culture community 

Denver sports, arts and culture nearby 

Two hours to major ski resorts 

Delightful sunny and dry climate 

Diverse sporting activities 

Vibrant downtown 

Easy come, easy go airport 

Major visitor attractions 

If all that isn’t bright enough, you’ll see the sun 

shining an average of 300 days each year, including 

partly cloudy days. 

Demographics 

Colorado Springs is Colorado’s second most 

populated city, 402,417 estimated 2007 population. 

El Paso County, which encompasses and includes 

Colorado Springs, has an estimated 2007 population of 

595,861. There are more than 1 million people within 

a 45-minute radius. Add the Denver metropolitan area, 

an hour north, and you are looking at more than 

3 million people. 

Ethnicity, according to the city of Colorado 

Springs, is predominately white, with about 14 percent 

Hispanic American/Latino, 6 percent Black/African 

American, 2.6 percent Asian, 1 percent American 

Indian/Alaska Native, and 6 percent other; 4 percent 

listed two or more ethnic groups. 

As for land area, the city of Colorado Springs 

covers 194 square miles, with more than 14,000 acres 

of parklands. The community though, is much larger. 


Photo: El Paso county 



El Paso County, with more than 2,158 

square miles, covers most of the Colorado 

Springs metropolitan area. The western 

portion of El Paso County is extremely 

mountainous; the eastern part is prairie land 

where dairy cows and beef cattle are the 

main source of ranchers’ income. The altitude 

ranges from about 5,095 feet on the southern 

border at Black Squirrel Creek to 14,110 

feet on the summit of Pikes Peak, near the 

western boundary. The county seat is located 

in Colorado Springs. 

All can enjoy the natural physical beauty 

of the area, which is situated at the base of 

Pikes Peak and has an uninterrupted view of 

the Front Range. The magnifi cent scenery inspired 

Katherine Lee Bates to write the poem 

America the Beautiful after her visit here. The 

mild climate, on average, supplies 285 days of 

sunshine, 15 inches of rain, 35 inches of snow 

and very low levels of humidity. 

With more than 150,000 acres (230 square 

miles) of open space, El Paso County is also a 

year-round sports paradise offering hunting, 

fi shing, camping, mountain climbing, hiking 

and soaring. In addition, county residents 

and visitors can enjoy equestrian and rodeo 

sports, golf, the U.S. Olympic Training 

Center, the Pikes Peak Center, the World Ice 

Arena and much more. 

Eight communities lie within the boundaries 

of El Paso County: Colorado Springs, 

Monument, Fountain, Palmer Lake, Manitou 

Springs, Calhan, Ramah and Green Mountain 

Falls. Cripple 

Creek, Victor and 

Woodland Park 

are nearby 

in adjacent 

Teller County. 

The entire 

area is known 

as the Pikes 

Peak Region. 


Area residents and businesses enjoy 

some of the most effi cient, reliable and 

affordable basic services in the country. 

Electricity, natural gas, water 

and wastewater are all conveniently 

provided by Colorado Springs Utilities, 

a community owned utility with 

a commitment to the environment 

and low utility bills. Part of that is 

evidenced by the four biodiesel stations 

where most of its fl eet can be refueled; 

last year the utility used half a million 

gallons. In addition, from 1997 to 

2001, the utility lowered total power 

plant emissions of sulfur dioxide by 6.5 

percent and nitrogen oxides by 40.4 

percent, although power generation 

increased 10.2 percent. The utility’s 

two coal burning power plants use the 

latest technology to keep the air clean. 

About half a dozen companies 

handle trash and recycling, plus there 

is a landfi ll six miles east of town on 

Hwy. 94. There is one phone company 

with local service and several mobile 

Basic Services 

and long distance carriers, three 

cable television providers, several 

local television stations, many local 

radio stations, a daily newspaper, 

several weekly newspapers, a monthly 

business magazine, local police, county 

sheriff and an exceptional emergency 

responder system. 

Nearly 10,000 people a day ride the 

Metro, otherwise known as Mountain 

Metropolitan Transit system, which 

is the public transportation operated 

by the city of Colorado Springs. Many 

people walk or ride bicycles to work, 

play, run errands and shop. 

Colorado Springs has come a long 

way since 1871, when it was founded 

by General William Palmer. He visualized 

nearby Pikes Peak and the Garden 

of the Gods forming a natural backdrop 

for a world-class, high quality, resort 

community. It has. 

EMERGENCY 

SERVICES 

DIAL 911 

ALL EMERGENCIES 

ELECTRICITY, NATURAL GAS, 

WATER & WASTEWATER 

Colorado Springs Utilities 

719.448.4800 

www.csu.org 

LOCAL PHONE 

Qwest 

800.491.0118 

www.qwst.com 

COLORADO SPRINGS 

POLICE DEPARTMENT 

719.444.7000 

ww.springsgov.com 

EL PASO COUNTY 

SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT 

719.520.7100 

www.elpasoco.com 


DRIVER’S LICENSE 

Colorado DMV 

4420 Austin Bluffs Pkwy. 

719.594.8701 

www.revenue.state.co.us 

VEHICLE REGISTRATION 

& LICENSE PLATES 

Colorado Driver’s License Renewal 

Downtown - Centennial Hall 

200 S Cascade 

719.520.6245 


South - Powers Branch 

5650 Industrial Place 

719.520.6701 


North - Chapel Hills Branch 

1710 Briargate Blvd., Ste. 350 

719.520.7910 


GOVERNMENT 

State of Colorado 

www.Colorado.gov 

City of Colorado Springs 

107 N. Nevada Ave. 

719.385.2489 

www.springsgov.com 



County Court House 

270 S. Tejon 

Administrative Offi ces 

27 E. Vermijo 

Centennial Hall 

Clerk & Recorder Offi ce 

200 S. Cascade Ave. 

Veteran & Military Affairs Offi ce 

El Paso County Veterans Services 

1st fl oor, Room 105 

105 N. Spruce 

719.444.5625 

POST OFFICES 

U.S. Postal Service 

800.275.8777 

www.usps.com 

DAILY NEWSPAPER 

The Gazette 

719.632.5511 

www.gazette.com 


Employment 

The Colorado Springs economy is 

thriving and has experienced steady, 

moderate growth of about 9 percent 

overall from 2000 through 2006, and 

state economic forecasters expect the 

trend to continue. According to the 

Colorado Springs Economic Development 

Corporation, the key economic sectors 

driving the economy are aerospace/ 

defense, customer service, manufacturing, 

software/systems, sports and visitors. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 

reported a civilian labor force of 311,700 

in February 2007, with total employment 

at 297,800 persons (256,800 total 

nonfarm wage and salary jobs). The 

unemployment rate is low at 4.4 percent. 

Today’s job market 

The Colorado Department of Labor & Employment 

projected 3 percent growth for the Colorado Springs metropolitan 

area from 2005 to 2007, with an absolute gain of 7,435 jobs. 

Job seekers in most industries have good prospects for fi nding 

employment. Colorado Springs employers provide a diversifi ed 

spectrum of employment opportunities with a wide range of 

benefi ts and workplace amenities. There are more than 17,200 

businesses in Colorado Springs and El Paso County. In January 

2007, there were 21 Fortune 500 fi rms located in the area. In 

addition, several national associations and organizations are 

headquartered in Colorado Springs. 

and Economic 

Development 


Where the jobs are 

Colorado Springs has jobs in 85 industry subsectors, with detailed 

numbers and projections found on the state Web site. The U.S. Bureau 

of Labor Statistics has jobs in the Colorado Springs metropolitan area 

grouped together into 10 industry sectors. In February 2007, the rank 

and numbers of the 256,800 jobs in those 10 areas were as follows: 

Government (44,900), Trade, Transportation and Utilities (40,200), 

Professional and Business Services (39,800), Leisure and Hospitality 

(29,600), Educational and Health Services (26,100), Financial Activities 

(18,200), Construction and Mining (17,600), Manufacturing (17,400), 

Other Services (14,800), and Information (8,200). 


Job search 

While online googling is a great way 

to begin your job search, it is a good 

idea to journey to the area and schedule 

face-to-face interviews before accepting 

a position or moving. However, because 

the area is so popular, many people do 

pack up and move before fi nding employment. 

The classifi ed section of the daily 

newspaper contains many job openings. 

Some ads may lead you to Internet sites 

where you can explore individual companies. 

Many employers with Web sites 

have online job postings and applications. 

You may wish to contact the Better 

Business Bureau for information on the 

reputation of a specifi c company. Web 

sites offer broad and varied employment 

information. Don’t be conned by sites 

that make you pay for job listings. 

Self-employment 

There is also the option of owning 

your own business. Being an entrepreneur 

is a distinction thousands of people 

in the Colorado Springs area share. There 

are several organizations in place to help 

ensure successful business start-ups and 

operations. The Colorado Springs Greater 

Chamber of Commerce sponsors an 

online Small Business Resource Guide 

at www.springssmallbiz.com with 

information and links geared toward 

operating a successful business. 

Business climate 

Colorado Springs and El Paso County 

offer an attractive business climate with 

a talented workforce in an area with an 

exceptional quality of life. The Colorado 

Springs Economic Development Corporation 

is the area’s leading organization for 

job attraction, retention and creation; 

with a fi ve-year plan to add more 

than 30,000 jobs to the area. The EDC 

partners with government, education and 

other business development organizations 

in the Pikes Peak Region to grow 

the economy. Visit their Web site at 

www.coloradosprings.org for valuable 

information and resources to transition 

your company into the community. 


WEB SITES 

State of Colorado 

www.colorado.gov 

Colorado Workforce Center 

www.connectingcolorado.com 

Pikes Peak Workforce Center 

www.ppwfc.org/ 

Colorado Department of Labor 

www.coworkforce.com 

FORTUNE 500 FIRMS 

Agilent Technologies Inc. 

Boeing Company 

Computer Sciences Corporation 

Federal Express Corporation 

Ford Credit 

Goodrich Corporation 

Hewlett Packard 

Honeywell 

Intel Corporation 

ITT Industries Inc. 

L-3 Communications West 

Surf the Springs 

www.csurf.com/csurf/jobs.html 

The Gazette 

www.springsjobs.com 

Better Business Bureau of 

Southern Colorado 

www.bbbsc.org 

Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce 

www.coloradospringschamber.org 

Lockheed Martin Corporation 

Northrop Grumman 

Oracle Corporation 

Progressive Insurance 

Qwest Communications International 

Raytheon 

Sanmina-SCI 

Science Applications International 

United Services Automobile Association 

Verizon Business 

Small Business Resource Guide 

www.springssmallbiz.com 

Colorado Springs Economic 

Development Corporation 

www.coloradosprings.org 

Colorado Springs Offi ce of 

International Affairs 

www.coloradospringsinternational.org 

SOURCE: Colorado Springs Economic Development Corporation 

HEADQUARTERS OF NATIONAL 

ASSOCIATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS 

Compassion International 

Focus on the Family 

Junior Achievement 

Navigators 

Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association 

Space Foundation 

U.S. Olympic Committee 


Housing 

and Real Estate 

Once you decide to move to 

Colorado Springs, the next big decision 

is where in the area to live. Housing is 

varied and plentiful. There are homes 

available from around $100,000 to 

$5 million. Most homes range from 

just under $200,000 to just over 

$300,000. There are so many different 

neighborhoods and styles of homes to 

choose from that house hunting can be 

a real adventure. 

Real estate agents have the Pikes Peak Region 

divided into nearly 20 neighborhoods, so it’s easy 

to pick an area, focus on the homes for sale in that 

area, and see if there’s a match. You can fi nd single-family 

homes, townhouses, condos and lofts; new construction, 

resale properties, mountain properties, properties that 

view the mountains, a cabin in the woods, a ranch on the 

prairie, even historical residences in the downtown and 

Old Colorado City areas. 


Real estate agents are happy to work with you to fi nd the home 

you want, in any area you want to live in, with a price range that 

works for your budget. Some people choose a neighborhood close to 

work or schools. Others want to live closer to where they expect to 

spend their leisure time. Wherever you decide to live in the area, there 

is a home for you. 

One way to fi gure out where you might want to live is to pick 

up some real estate magazines showing properties for sale. These are 

usually distributed free; some are divided up by neighborhood, some 

by selling agents. Peruse the listings, check out the homes for sale, 

then drive around and see what the actual areas are like. 

Another way to do the initial background work is to go online 

to www.ppar.com and explore the Pikes Peak Association of Realtors 

Web site. In April 2007 there were more than 9,000 properties 

listed in the Colorado Springs area. Many local real estate agents 

and homebuilders have their own Web sites as well. Googling has 

practically become a national pastime; why not use it to fi nd the 

home of your dreams. 

Buying 

Buying a home in Colorado Springs and El Paso County is an 

investment in your future. There are many new subdivisions to the 

north and east under construction, if you want a new home. The 

housing market is thriving, and there are a full range of options. 

The best idea is to get the biggest home you can afford, with decks, 

plenty of storage and as large a yard as you want to maintain. Make 

sure your real estate agent is working exclusively for you as your 

buyer’s agent. 

CREDIT REPORT 

When you apply for a home loan, the mortgage company will order 

a credit report. To fi nd out in advance what your credit report says 

about your fi nances you can get a free report, thanks to a recent 

amendment to the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act, which requires 

each of the major nationwide consumer reporting companies to 

provide you with a free copy of your credit report, at your request, 

once every 12 months. 

To order your free annual report from one or all of the national 

consumer reporting companies, visit www.annualcreditreport.com, 

call toll free (877) 322-8228, or complete the Annual Credit Report 

Request Form and mail it to: Annual Credit Report Request Service, 

P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281. Download the form at 

www.ftc.gov/credit. 

Do not contact the three nationwide consumer reporting companies 

individually. They provide free annual credit reports only through 

www.annualcreditreport.com; (877) 322-8228; and Annual Credit 

Report Request Service, P.O. Box 105281, Atlanta, GA 30348-5281. 

HOME LOAN APPLICATION CHECKLIST 

Photo ID, such as a drivers license 

Social Security numbers 

Residence addresses for the past two years (Landlord contact information 

if you were renting) 

Names and addresses of your employers over past two years 

Your current gross monthly salary 

Recent statements with names, addresses, account numbers and 

balances on all checking, savings, money market and mutual funds 

accounts 

Recent statements with names, addresses, account numbers, balances 

and monthly payments on all open loans and credit cards 

Addresses and loan information of all other real estate owned 

Estimated value of furniture and personal property 

W2s for the past two years and current paycheck stubs 

Copies of all divorce decrees, child support documents or any other court 

documents that affect your fi nancial status 

Verifi cation of any child support payments 

Evidence of any retirement or pension benefi ts 

VA OR MILITARY PROGRAMS 

DD 214, if a Veteran 

Form 22, if National Guard 

DD 1747 – Off-Base Housing Authorization, if Active Duty 

Certifi cate of Eligibility, if Active Duty 

SELF-EMPLOYED INDIVIDUALS 

Personal tax returns for the past three years 

Current income statement 

Balance sheet 

ALL BORROWERS 

Explanation of any irregularities on your credit report 


Renting 

Renting a home in Colorado Springs 

and El Paso County is a way to learn 

more about the community and settle 

on a neighborhood or area of town to 

live in while choosing a home to buy. 

RENTAL TIPS 

Many people rent before buying a home. There are 

a few things you might want to know before signing 

a lease for your rental; be sure to check the 

following: 

How much advance notice you must give before 

moving. (Thirty days written notice is standard 

when rent is paid monthly.) 

Security-deposit refund restrictions. 

The owner’s obligation to make needed repairs. 

(A requirement for “reasonable promptness” is 

common.) 

Clean-up requirements. (Cleaning costs will usually 

be deducted from your security deposit if you 

fail to follow instructions.) 

Any stipulations regarding subleasing, pets, or 

the number of people allowed in the premises. 

What utilities and services the owner pays and 

what the tenant is responsible for. 

Ask the manager to write any oral agreements, 

changes or additions into the contract that you 

sign and be sure to keep a copy. After you sign a 

lease or rental agreement, you should: 

1. Know who will manage your rental, where the 

rent is to be sent, and who to call for maintenance 

problems. 

2. Keep track of your copy of the rental agreement, 

signed by both you and the manager. 

The lease is the most important set of rules to 

follow if you have a disagreement. 

3. Make a checklist of the condition of the rental 

unit and any furnishings when you move in. 

Sign it, have the apartment manager sign it, 

and keep a dated copy. This will be your best 

defense in any dispute over deductions for 

repairs when you move out. 

4. Keep your rent or lease payments current. 

Late payments will incur a late fee, affect your 

credit history, and could make you subject to 

eviction and even affect your ability to lease 

properties in the future. 


Education 

and Academics 

Colorado Springs is a smart city. It ranks 

fourth in the nation for highest percentage 

of residents having high school diplomas, 93 

percent of adults; 17th for Bachelor’s Degrees, 

34 percent of adults. Money magazine named 

Colorado Springs the 16th Smartest City in 

America in 2006. There are more than 100,000 

students enrolled in the public K-12 school 

system, and close to 30,000 enrolled in the 

largest universities and colleges, including the 

U.S. Air Force Academy. Thousands more attend 

the many post-secondary trade/vocational 

schools and smaller specialized colleges in the 

area. Throughout Colorado Springs and El Paso 

County, residents value education and put a lot 

of energy into learning. 

Higher Education 

Even before Colorado became a state, there was a college 

for the men and women of Colorado Springs. Colorado College 

became an educational institution in 1874, two years before 

Colorado became a state. The school began with a traditional 

New England learning model. All that changed in 1970 when the 

school entered into an innovative approach with eight three-anda-half 

week blocks for the academic year. Students take one class 

at a time, giving them the focused, immersion learning experience 

the school is renowned for all over the world. About 2,000 

students attend. 

Colorado Technical University offers “career-centric degrees 

for today’s focused professionals.” The Colorado Springs campus 

emphasizes real-world education and has undergraduate and 

graduate degree programs in business, management, criminal 

justice, public administration, engineering, computer science, 

information science and technology. About 2,000 students attend. 

Pikes Peak Community College has three campuses and 

several education centers in Colorado Springs and was founded 

in 1967. The two-year public community college has transfer 

agreements with most four-year colleges and universities within 

University of Colorado Colorado Springs, 

Colorado’s fastest growing four-year university. 

the state of Colorado. It offers people a “fresh start” in pursuing 

academic careers, obtaining occupational training and cultivating 

interests through hundreds of courses and dozens of programs 

geared toward self-improvement through learning. About 10,000 


Regis University is committed to the individual through a 

values-centered Jesuit education using innovative classroom and 

online methods. The school was founded in Denver in 1877 and has 

a Colorado Springs campus offering more than 10 undergraduate 

majors and three master’s degrees in business administration, 

computer information systems and management through its 

School for Professional Studies. About 1,500 students attend. 

University of Colorado Colorado Springs is the largest university 

in the area, one of the fastest growing in the nation, and one 

of “America’s Best Colleges.” U.S. News and World Report ranked 

UCCS seventh in 2007, among public universities offering mostly 

master’s and bachelor’s degrees in the Western United States, and 

in the top tier of all public and private master’s universities in the 

West. UCCS offers nearly 50 degree programs; 26 bachelor’s, 

17 master’s and four doctoral. About 7,600 students attend. 


University of Phoenix reinvented higher education 

for working adults by pioneering its own approach 

for academic delivery. Two University of Phoenix 

campuses in Colorado Springs offer bachelor’s and 

master’s degrees in social and behavioral science, 

healthcare, business and technology with a mix of 

programs offered on campus and online. About 1,200 


Webster University offers students small evening 

classes with fi ve nine-week terms at campuses in 

Colorado Springs and on Peterson Air Force Base. 

Degree programs include seven master’s degrees and 

a graduate certifi cate. Webster University also has an 

online program, and participates in two government/ 

military cooperative degree programs. About 300 


UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES 

Colorado College 

14 East Cache La Poudre St. 

Colorado Springs, CO 80903 

719.389.6000 

www.coloradocollege.edu 

Colorado Technical University 

4435 North Chestnut St. 


888.650.6555 

www.ctucoloradosprings.com 

Pikes Peak Community College 

5675 S. Academy Blvd. 


719.502.2000 

www.ppcc.edu/ 

Regis University 

7450 Campus Drive, Suite 100 


719.264.7010 

www.regis.edu 

University of Colorado Colorado Springs 

1420 Austin Bluffs Pkwy. 


719.262.3000 

www.uccs.edu 

University of Phoenix 

2864 South Circle Dr. 

Colorado Springs, CO, 80906 

719.527.9000 

www.universityofphoenixdegree.com/ 

Webster University 

5475 Tech Center Dr., Ste. 110 


719.590.7340 

www.webster.edu/coloradosprings/ 


K-12 Education 

Eight school districts serve more than 100,000 K-12 students 

in the immediate Colorado Springs area. Colorado Springs school 

districts report that only 1 percent of students drop out, and 82 

percent of students pursue continuing education after high school. 

Averaging all districts, the student/teacher ratio is 15:1, one of the 

lowest in the nation. 

The Colorado Department of Education funds the Colorado 

School for the Deaf and Blind, which has been in Colorado Springs 

since 1874. The school provides comprehensive education on 

campus and through extensive outreach services across Colorado, 

to children needing its services from birth to 21 years old. 

In addition, there are more than two dozen private and 

parochial elementary, middle and secondary schools in the area. 


K-12 

Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 

1775 LaClede St. 


719.475.6100 

www.cmsd.k12.co.us 

Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind 

33 N. Institute St. 


719.578.2100 

www.csdb.org/ 

Colorado Springs School District 11 

1115 N. El Paso St. 


719.520.2000 

719.520.2012 (Espanol) 

www.cssd11.k12.co.us/ 

Falcon School District 49 

10850 E. Woodmen Rd. 

Falcon, CO 80831 

719.495.3601 

www.d49.org/ 

Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8 

425 West Alabama Ave. 

Fountain, CO 80817 

719.382.1300 

www.ffc8.org/ 

Harrison School District 2 

1060 Harrison Rd. 


719.579.2000 

www.harrison.k12.co.us/ 

Lewis-Palmer School District 38 

146 Jefferson St. 

Monument, CO 80132 

719.488.4700 

http://lewispalmer.org/ 

Manitou Springs School District 14 

405 El Monte Place 

Manitou Springs, CO 80829 

719.685.2024 

http://mssd14.k12.co.us/ 

Widefi eld School District 3 

1820 Main St. 


719.391.3000 

www.wsdc.org/

Historic William Palmer High School downtown. 

Libraries 

The Pikes Peak Library District has a dozen branch 

libraries and two bookmobiles; all are ongoing sources 

of knowledge, continuing education, and community 

activities for area residents. Colorado Springs has had 

libraries since the 1880s. In 2006, residents borrowed 

6.7 million items, helping place the Pikes Peak Library 

District among the top 10 libraries in the country 

serving populations of more than 500,000 people. Visit 

www.ppld.org or any of the branches or bookmobiles 

to learn more. 

PIKES PEAK LIBRARY DISTRICT 

Briargate Branch Library 

9475 Briar Village Point 


Bus Route: 25 and E3 

719.260.6882 

Cheyenne Mountain 

Branch 

1791-D South 8th St. 


Bus Route: 4 

719.633. 

East Library & Information 

Center 

5550 North Union Blvd. 


Bus Route: 14 

719.531.6333 

Fountain Branch 

501 East Iowa 

Fountain, CO 80817 

Bus Route: 31 

719.382.5347 

Monument Branch 

1706 Lake Woodmoor Dr. 

Monument, CO 80132 

Bus Route: FREX with a 

two block uphill walk 

719.488.2370 

Old Colorado City Branch 

2418 West Pikes Peak Ave. 


Bus Route: 3 

719.634.1698 

Palmer Lake Branch 

66 Lower Glenway 

Palmer Lake, CO 80133 

Bus Route: No Service 

719.481.2587 

Penrose Public Library 

20 North Cascade Ave. 


Bus Route: 3 and 9 

719.531.6333 

Carnegie – Special 

Collections 

Adjacent to the Penrose 

Public Library 

719.531.6333, Ext. 2253 

Rockrimmon Branch 

832 Village Center Dr. 



719.593.8000 

Ruth Holley Branch 

685 North Murray Blvd. 


Bus Route: 21, 22, and 24 

719.597.5377 

Sand Creek Branch 

1821 South Academy Blvd. 


Bus Route: 25, 1, 2, and 22 

719.597.7070 

Ute Pass Branch 

8010 Severy 

Cascade, CO 80809 


719.684.9342 


Healthcare 

TRANSITION SUGGESTIONS 

Bring Your Records 

Your new physician needs to know your medical history. 

Visit all your healthcare providers in the community a few 

weeks before moving. Explain that you are moving to Colorado 

Springs and request copies of your healthcare records for 

every member of your household. If you have already located 

new providers you can sign a release and have the records 

sent directly. If you have children, it is imperative that you 

bring their immunization records with you. Required school 

immunizations include: Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis, Polio, 

Measles/Mumps/Rubella, Hepatitis B and Varicella. Children in 

daycare and preschool must also be immunized for Haemophilus 

infl uenza type B (HIB) and Pneumococcal Conjugate. 

Referrals 

Your healthcare providers may also be able to refer you to 

counterparts in your new community. Like most professionals, 

they have an extensive network of contacts throughout the 

country, which could include colleagues, classmates or conference 

attendees they have worked with or met. Area hospitals 

also offer referral services. 

Medications 

If you are taking prescription drugs for any existing or 

recurring conditions, ask your current physician for extra 

Good health, fi tness and regular 

healthcare make work, travel 

and leisure time more enjoyable. 

Residents of Colorado Springs make 

it a point to stay healthy. 

Men’s Fitness Magazine named 

Colorado Springs the 6th Fittest City 

in the Country in 2006. Colorado 

Springs has a bounty of opportunity 

for fi tness and offers a full range 

of healthcare services. Making 

the transition to these healthcare 

professionals is easy. 

medication before you leave for Colorado Springs. In the 

hustle and bustle of moving, scheduling appointments with 

a new provider in Colorado Springs to obtain prescriptions 

could easily slip your mind, and you could run out. Pharmacies 

are plentiful with many open seven days a week; some 

are open 24 hours a day. 

Health Insurance 

En route to Colorado Springs, make certain that you have 

quick access to insurance cards, phone numbers and claim 

forms needed to obtain health care. If something goes wrong 

on the road, or during your fi rst few days in town, you may 

need to use your health insurance. Many health insurance 

plans require you to use preferred, network or HMO providers. 

Contact the plan administrator before leaving to fi nd out 

provisions for coverage while traveling and after you arrive. 

Most plans cover a smaller portion of the cost for out-of-area 

or non-participating providers. 

Traveling Tips 

A little prior planning for healthcare issues can pay big 

dividends. Don’t forget a good fi rst aid kit, www.redcross. 

org has a complete list of what to include. Once you arrive, 

continue to carry it with you in your vehicle at all times. It 

never hurts to be prepared. 


Residents of the Pikes 

Peak Region are noted for 

living a healthy lifestyle. 

Two major healthcare service 

providers, Memorial Health 

System and Penrose-St. 

Francis Health Services, 

work hard to help keep the 

community healthy and well. 

Penrose-St. Francis Health Services 

Penrose-St. Francis Health Services 

is southern Colorado’s largest and most 

comprehensive healthcare system. It is 

comprised of Penrose Hospital, Penrose 

Community Hospital, St. Francis Health 

Center and Langstaff-Brown Urgent Care 

Center. Major facilities include the Penrose 

Heart Center, the Penrose Cancer Center 

and the Birth Center at Penrose Community 

Hospital. Penrose-St. Francis is a 

member of Centura Health, a statewide 

healthcare system sponsored jointly by 

Catholic Health Initiatives and Porter Care 

Adventist Health System. 

Founded in 1890 as the Glockner 

Tuberculosis Sanatorium, Penrose Hospital 

provides secondary and tertiary medicalsurgical 

services, emphasizing elective and 

outpatient care. Located at 2222 N. Nevada 

Avenue, Penrose Hospital is the anchor 

of Penrose-St. Francis Health Services. 

With 300 beds, Penrose Hospital has 

grown to be a major health treatment and 

referral center, specializing in cancer care, 

cardiac care, emergency trauma care and 

rehabilitation. 

Historically the fi rst hospital in Colorado 

Springs, St. Francis Health Center’s 

primary emphasis is on outpatient surgery 

and behavioral health services, providing 

inpatient and outpatient treatment to 

those suffering from psychiatric and/or 

chemical dependency problems. 

Established in 1975, the 88-bed Penrose 

Community Hospital specializes in maternal 

child-care, short stay and outpatient 

medical-surgical services. This family 

centered hospital features a modern birth 

center and level II neonatal intensive care 

unit, a pediatric unit, a 24-hour emergency 

department, an after hours care service for 

treatment of minor medical illnesses and 

injuries, a new surgery center, rehabilitation 

services and a breast diagnosis center. 

In 2008, St. Francis Medical Center, 

a full-service, 350,000 square-foot facility 

Penrose-St. Frances Health Services 


located on the northeast side of Colorado 

Springs will join the system. It will include 

a new birth center, emergency services 

and a hangar to house their Flight for Life 

Colorado helicopter. 

While Penrose-St. Francis offers a full 

complement of emergency, medical and 

surgical services, several programs and 

clinical specialties truly distinguish the 

system. The Penrose Cancer Center brings 

leading edge, compassionate cancer care to 

the people of southern Colorado. Penrose’s 

acclaimed Heart Center consistently 

achieves outcomes that exceed national 

benchmarks. St. Francis Health Center excels 

in outpatient surgery and behavioral health 

services. Penrose’s EAP Corporate Health 

Services helps businesses retain healthy 

and productive employees. The Penrose-St. 

Francis Center for Bariatric Surgery, located 

at Penrose Hospital was named an American 

Society for Bariatric Surgery (ASBS) Bariatric 

Surgery Center of Excellence in 2005. The 

Penrose-St. Francis Ask-A-Nurse offers free 

health information and physician referrals at 

800.327.6877 or 719.776.5555. 

With 2,900 associates, 670 affi liated 

physicians and 523 licensed beds, Penrose-St. 

Francis stands ready to meet your medical 

and emergency needs. For more information 

about Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, 

visit www.penrosestfrancis.org. 

Memorial Health System 

Memorial delivers more emergency 

room visits and more patient days than any 

hospital in Colorado. The system currently 

operates more than a dozen facilities 

throughout El Paso and Teller Counties. 

These medical, administrative and support 

services facilities represent more than 

1 million square feet and are conveniently 

accessible by residents in Colorado Springs. 

History 

For more than a century, Memorial 

Health System and the health of Colorado 

Springs have been inseparable. In 1904, 

when Colorado Springs had only 21,000 

people, the Methodist Church established 

Colorado Conference Deaconess Hospital, 

the facility that would one day become 

Memorial Hospital Central. Several years 

later the founder of Colorado Springs, William 

J. Palmer, donated land at the present 

site, 1400 E. Boulder. A new facility opened 

in 1911 with a new name, Beth-El General 

Hospital. In 1943, when Colorado Springs 

had grown to 40,000 people, city leaders 

recognized the need for a community 

owned hospital. They purchased Beth-El 

for $75,000 and renamed it Memorial to 

honor those who lost their lives in World 

War II. Today, the hospital is governed by 

a board of trustees made up of community 

citizens and leaders who volunteer their 

time to the board. 

Memorial Hospital Central 

The hospital is licensed for 477 beds 

with several outpatient facilities located 

throughout Colorado Springs and in Teller 

County. Memorial provides comprehensive 

medical, surgical and critical care services 

focused around several areas of excellence: 

emergency and trauma, mother/baby, Memorial 

Hospital for Children, rehabilitation, 

oncology and cardiology. Outpatient services 

provided by Memorial include occupational 

health, radiology, laboratory, surgery, urgent 

and after hours care, and disease and wellness 

programs. The Boulder street location is 

scheduled for a remodeling and expansion. 

Memorial Hospital for Children 

Memorial offers southern Colorado’s 

only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit 

(NICU) and its only Pediatric Intensive Care 

Unit (PICU). The hospital also provides 

children’s surgery; specialty clinics for 

chronic illnesses such as cystic fi brosis and 

diabetes; child life program to address the 

psychological and emotional needs of hospitalized 

children; Memorial Star Transport 

team to transfer high-risk babies, children 

and expectant mothers requiring timely 

care; and a nearby Ronald McDonald House 

provides support and lodging for families 

outside the area and child life programs. One 

of approximately 250 children’s hospitals 

nationwide—representing just fi ve percent 

of the nation’s 5,000 hospitals, Memorial 

Hospital for Children makes a full range of 

health services, physicians and staff available 

for infants through teens. 

Memorial Hospital North 

To meet the healthcare needs of 

residents in northern Colorado Springs 

and throughout El Paso County, Memorial 

Health System purchased 82 acres of land at 

Briargate Crossing early in 2004, and began 

developing a healthcare campus. Plans for 

future growth have not been determined; 

however, the site can accommodate a 

500-bed hospital. Phase One opened in early 

2007; the fi ve-story, 89-bed hospital has a 

full range of both inpatient and outpatient 

diagnostic and treatment services, including: 

surgery; emergency department; labor, 

delivery, recovery and postpartum unit 

(LDRP concept); acute care inpatient units 

for medical and surgical care; radiology 

services, including diagnostic imaging, 

MRI and CT; laboratory; rehabilitation and 

cardiac services. North Hospital features 

a patient-centered environment, which is 

central to the design of this facility, with 


HEALTHCARE REFERENCES 

10th MDG Hospital 


719.333.5111 

www.usafa.af.mil 

Evans Army Community 

Hospital 

Fort Carson 

719.562.7000 

www.evans.amedd.army.mil 

Memorial Health System 

719.444.2273 

www.memorialhealthsystem.com 

a two-story atrium lobby and views of Pikes Peak. Art, music 

and a garden provide an ambience of serenity for patients 

and visitors. Patient care fl oors, designed in oval-shaped room 

clusters, allow rooms to be situated just steps away from 

nursing stations. 

Memorial Health System is a leading employer and provider 

of comprehensive healthcare services in southern Colorado. 

Through a dedicated team of 3,500 employees, 700 physicians 

and nearly 1,000 volunteers, Memorial works to optimize the 

health of the community. As a self-supporting city enterprise, 

Memorial receives no tax subsidy, yet treats everyone regardless 

of ability to pay, providing tens of millions of dollars in 

unreimbursed medical services to the community each year. 

Being locally owned and operated means all hospital revenues 

are reinvested into the hospital and programs to create a 

healthier community. Visit www.memorialhealthsystem.com 

for more information. 

Clinics 

Mission Medical Clinic 

2125 E. LaSalle St., Ste. 202 

719.219.3402 

www.missionmedicalclinic.org 

Namaste Alzheimer Center 

2 Penrose Blvd. 

719.776.8500 

Peak Vista Community 

Health Centers 

340 Printers Parkway 

719.632.5700 

www.peakvista.org 

There are many walk-in, urgent-care clinics sprinkled 

throughout the region. In addition, there are a multitude of 

private practices in a wide range of disciplines and specialties 

including family practice, pediatrics, sports medicine, orthopedic, 

Penrose-St. Francis 

Health Services 

719.776.5555 

www.penrosestfrancis.org 

Southern Colorado 

AIDS Project 

1301 S. 8th St., Ste. 200 

719.578.9092 

800.241.5468 

www.s-cap.org 

geriatrics, psychiatry, psychology, osteopathic, chiropractic, 

midwifery, alternative medicine, ophthalmology, optometry, 

orthodontic and dental. All of the hospitals are part of health 

systems with extended campuses that include outpatient 

services, diagnostics, primary care and specialty clinics. 

Mental Health 

Colorado Springs has several options for behavioral and 

mental health services. There are inpatient facilities for intensive 

and residential treatment, as well as many outpatient clinics and 

other agencies aimed at helping improve the mental health and 

quality of life of the community’s individuals and families. 

Community Health 

Veterans Administration 

Facilities 

www.vba.va.gov/ro/denver/ 


VA Clinic 

25 North Spruce 

719.327.5660 


Vet Center 

416 E. Colorado Ave. 

719.471.9992 

Overall, Colorado Springs healthcare services provide 

a cutting edge medical consortium for southern Colorado. 

The addition of greater technology and more highly trained 

personnel, along with increased facilities, are meeting the needs 

of area residents. The healthcare fi eld in Colorado Springs is in 

a constant state of growth and advancement, with increased 

employment and services to meet the needs of the population. 

The Pikes Peak Region works hard for a healthy community. 

The new Memorial Hospital North 

Photo: Memorial Health System 


Mount Herman Rd 

ascade 

Chipita 

Park 

Colorado Colorado Springs 

Rampart Reservoir 

Teller 

County 

El Paso 


Lindbergh Rd 

Camp Creek 

24 Garden 

of the 

and 


Gold Camp Rd 

South Beaver Creek 

Hay Creek 

West Monument Creek 

Douglas Creek 

North Cheyenne Creek 

Gold Camp Rd 

US Air Force 

Academy 

South Cheyenne Creek 

25 

Eisenhower 

Golf Course 



W Baptist Rd 

Broadmoor 

Golf Course 

Union Pacific Railroad 

University Of Colorado 

Colorado Springs Campus Austin Bluff 

Open Space 

115 


Little Fountain Creek 

Deadmans Creek 

Goat Camp 

Creek 

24 

Manitou 

Springs 

Bear Creek 

Regional Park 

High Dr 

Gods Gateway Rd N 30th St 

Rock Creek 

Woodmen Rd 

Douglas Creek 

Red Rock Canyon 

Open Space 

Ridge Rd 

Gold Camp Rd 

N Cheyenne Canyon Rd 

Old Stage Rd 

Centennial Blvd 

W Garden of the Gods Rd 

Kissing Camels 

Golf Club 

Cheyenne Mtn. Hwy 

S 21st St 

Mesa 

Reservoirs 

W Fillmore St 

King St 

Midland Expy 

Cheyenne Mtn 

Zoo 

Monument 

North Gate Blvd 

Ute Valley Park 

Mesa Rd 

Cheyenne Lake 

25 

Gleneagle Dr 

25 

Hospital 

The Country Club 

of Colorado 

Norad Rd 

25 

Four Diamond 

Sports Complex 

E Baptist Rd 

Rangely Dr 

North Gate Rd 

Interquest Pkwy 

W Uintah StE Uintah St 

Bear Creek 

Bear Creek 

Regional Park 

S 8th St 

Gleneagle 

Stadium Blvd 

Woodmen Rd 

Rockrimmon Blvd 

Cheyenne Blvd 

W Brookside St 

Colorado 

College 

Lake Ave 

N Nevada Ave 

Golf Course 

Voyager Pkwy 

South Gate 

Blvd 

Pulpit Rock 

Open Space 

University 

Park 

Open Space 

E Cheyenne Mnt. Blvd 

Quail Lake 

Chapel Hills 

Evergreen 

Cemetery 

Roller Coaster Rd 

P.P.C.C. 

Rampart 

Range 

Campus 

World Prayer 

Center 

Shoup Rd 

Palmer 

Park 

Airport Rd 

Fort Carson 

Howells Rd 

Hodgen Rd 

Old Ranch Rd Old Ranch Rd 

Cheyenne 

Meadows Rd 

Briargate Pky 

Research Pky 

N Union Blvd 

Fuller Rd 

Paseo Rd 

E Van Buren St 

Patty Jewett 

Golf Course 

S Hancock Ave 

Hospital 

Colorado School 

for the Deaf 

and Blind 

Memorial 

Park 

Prospect 

Lake 

Mirage Dr 

Woodmen Rd 

S Circle Dr 

State Highway 24-Bypass 

The Vineyard 

Golf Club 

S Academy Blvd 

P.P.C.C 

Centennial Campus 

N Union Blvd 

N Circle Dr 

E Pikes Peak Ave 

Hospital 

Stratmoor 

N Union Blvd 

Kettle Creek 

83 

Pampart 

Park 


Country Club 

Lexington Dr 

Pine Creek 

Golf Course 

Austin Bluffs Pky 

Constitution Ave 

N Chelton Rd 

Valley Hi Muni. 

Golf Course 

Vickers Dr 

Flintridge Dr 

N Academy Blvd 

S Academy Blvd 

Hancock Expy 


Black Forest 


Black Squirrel Creek 

Rangewood Dr 

Memorial 

Gardens 

Cemetery 

Jet Wing Dr 

Hospital 

Fountain Creek 

S Chelton Rd 

85 

Cottonwood 

Creek Park 

87 

25 

Milam Rd 

Research Pky 

Carefree Cir S 

Drennan Rd 

Bradley Rd 

Austin Blu fs Pky 

Carefree Cir N 

Constitution Ave 

Palmer Park Blvd 

Airport Rd 

Galley Rd 

E Platte Ave 

E Fountain Blvd 

Southmoor Dr 

Dublin Blvd 

Sand Creek 

Bradley Rd 

Holmes Rd 

Burgess Rd 

N Powers Blvd N Powers Blvd 

Peterson 

Air Force Base 

S Powers Blvd 

Kettle Creek 

Colo 

Mun 

Skyview 

Sports 

Complex 

Grinnell St 

Barnes Rd 

Tutt Blvd 

Spring Ranc 

Golf Club 

Cherokee Ridg 

Golf Course 

Sand Cre 

Golf Cour 

S Po 

Security-W 

Blu 

Fontaine Blv 

Mesa 

Mesa R

Black Forest Rd 

h 

k 

e 

Mt. View 

Sports Complex 

Herring Rd 

Vollmer Rd 

rado Springs 

cipal Airport 

ers Blvd 

idefield 

sterm Prairie Open Space 

Big Johnson 

Reservoir 

Ridge Pky 

d 

East Cherry Creek 

Burgess Creek 

N Marksheffel Rd 

Cimarron 

Hills 

Golf Course 

Shoup Rd 

Mustang Rd 

Tamlin Rd 

Bradley Rd 

Vollmer Rd 

East Fork Sand 

Jimmy Camp Creek 

Fontaine Blvd 

Hodgen Rd 

S Marksheffel Blvd 

24 

Raygor Rd 

Stapleton Rd 

Tercel Dr 

Kyle Railroad 

Jimmy Camp Creek 

Falcon Meadow Blvd 

94 



Camp Creek 

West Kiowa Creek 

Snipe Creek 

Tamlin Rd 

Dodge Rd 

Drennan Rd 

Meridian Rd 

Stapleton Dr 

Meridian Rd 

Jones Rd 

Black Squirrel Creek 



Relocation GUIDE 2007 Colorado Springs 35 

Peaceful Valley Rd 

Meridian Rd 

Falcon Hwy 

Garrett Rd 

S Blaney Rd 

Murphy Rd 

25 Interstate 

Golf Courses 

24 U.S. Highway Colleges 

94 State Highway Shopping Malls 

Hospitals Parks 

Ayer Rd 

Railroads 

Streets 

Burgess Rd 

Rex Highways 

Rd 

Interstate 

Black Forest 

Eastonville Rd 

E Blaney Rd 

S Franceville Coal Mine Rd 

N Blaney Rd 

Drennan Rd 



Judge Orr Rd 

Davis Rd 

Curtis Rd 

N Curtis Rd 

S Curtis Rd 

Elbert Rd 

Chico Creek 

Sweet Rd 

24 



Falcon Hwy 

Amo Rd 

Schriever 

Air Force Base 

Drennan Rd 

Slocum Rd 

Bradshaw Rd 

Hemmingway Rd 

Peyton Hwy 

Peyton Hwy 

Milne Rd 

94 

Peyton Hwy 

S Peyton Hwy 

Book Dr 

Enoch Rd 

Peyton Rd 

Sweet Rd 

Murphy Rd 

24 

Scott Rd 

Spencer Rd 

Judge Orr Rd 

E Garrett Rd 

Jones Rd 

McDaniels Rd 

Drennan Rd

Our 

The greater Colorado Springs area is fi lled with a 

strong military presence in the form of armament, 

technology, airpower, educators and most of all 

the thousands of military and civilian personnel and their 

families who are part of the community. 

When you relocate to Colorado Springs, whether you 

have a direct military affi liation or not, you will recognize 

the military contribution. The military’s relationship with 

the area is intertwined with the economy, geography, 

workforce and many other aspects of living here. 

The military, if not your home, is your neighbor 

in Colorado Springs. Being neighborly is more easily 

accomplished when you take the time to really get to 

know your neighbors. 

It’s been said the strength of any nation is largely determined 

by the military foundation upon which it’s built. America remains 

undeniably strong as a whole and Colorado Springs continues to 

rank among the mightiest military cities in the world. 

There are four major military installations within 

a 25-mile radius of Colorado Springs. 

Fort Carson Army Post 




Each contributes to maintaining our nation’s freedom 

in very different ways. Collectively, these installations 

contribute signifi cantly to the economic stability of 

Colorado Springs. Those assigned to, or employed by, the 

U.S. military on the city’s boundaries to the north, south, 

east and west, constitute a signifi cant percentage of its 

overall population, which along with family members is 

well over 100,000 people and growing. 



Fort Carson 

Fort Carson, The Mountain Post, is at the base 

of the Rocky Mountains on the southern edge of 

Colorado Springs and stretches south nearly to 

Pueblo. It is home to Division West, First Army, 

which is a multi-component, provisional 

division headquarters. The mission 

includes training, readiness oversight 

and mobilization for U.S. Army Reserve 

and National Guard units west of the 

Mississippi River, excluding Minnesota. 

Units 

3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division 

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division 

10th Special Forces Group 

United States Army Garrison 

43rd Area Support Group 

A soldier from 4th Infantry Division, 

Fort Carson, Colorado communicates 

on a radio while on mission in Iraq. 

Photo: Pfc. Laura M. Buchta 


According to Defense Commissary Agency offi cials, consumers can save more than 30 percent 

by shopping at a base commissary instead of going to off-base merchants. 

Relocation GUIDE 2007 Colorado Springs 39 

Photo: Staff Sgt. Tonnette Thompson 

Community 

Fort Carson soldiers and their 

families have a complete community on 

post, with soldier and family support, 

youth services, schools, shopping, 

dining and recreation available. 

The Fort Carson Main Post 

Exchange in Bldg. 6110 on Martinez 

Street includes a PX, barber shop, 

beauty shop, GNC, fl ower shop, vision 

center, portrait center and a food court. 

Other amenities include a bank, 

credit union, thrift shop, mini mall, car 

care center, three shoppettes, a Class Six 

Store, military clothing store, U-Haul, 

snack bar, conference center, sports bar 

and commissary, which is located in 

Bldg. 1525 in Founders Plaza. 

The Soldier and Family Readiness 

Program offers a wide range of support 

services and classes, call 526-4590 for 

more information. 

The ACS Family Connection is 

great for newcomers to learn about 

The Mountain Post and make the 

transition to Fort Carson. It is located 

in Bldg. 1354 at 6070 Barkley Ave. 

There are many other programs 

and services available on post, many 

geared toward children, which include 

a kindergarten program, school age 

services, youth education support, 

outreach, resource and referral, a youth 

services center, and a child and youth 

sports, fi tness and nutrition program. 

Pets are welcome at Fort Carson, the 

Veterinary Treatment Facility is at the 

corner of Nelson and Harr in Bldg. 6001, 

and will see pets by appointment. There 

are just a few rules including registering 

your pet, vaccinations, microchipping, 

and practicing responsible pet care 

and control. Call 526-3803 for more 

information.

History 

Fort Carson was established in 1942, 

following Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor. 

The city of Colorado Springs purchased 

land south of the city and donated it to the 

War Department. Construction began immediately 

and the fi rst building, the camp 

headquarters, was completed Jan. 41, 1942. 

Camp Carson was named in honor of 

the legendary Army scout, Gen. Christopher 

“Kit” Carson, who explored much of 

the west in the 1800s. 

At the construction’s peak, nearly 

11,500 workers were employed on various 

construction projects at the new camp. 

Facilities were provided for 35,173 enlisted 

men, 1,818 offi cers and 592 nurses. Nearly 

all of the buildings were of the mobilization-type 

construction with wood-sided 

exteriors. The hospital was of the semi-permanent-type 

concrete block and had space 

for 1,726 beds with expansion capability of 

2,000 beds. 

The 89th Infantry Division was the 

fi rst major unit to be activated at Camp 

Carson. During World War II, more than 

100,000 soldiers trained here. Along with 

three other infantry divisions – the 71st, 

104th and 10th Mountain – more than 

125 units were activated at Camp Carson 

and more than 100 others were transferred 

to the Mountain Post from other installations. 

Nurses, cooks, mule packers, tank 

battalions, a Greek infantry battalion and 

an Italian ordnance company – literally 

soldiers of every type – trained at Camp 

Carson during the war years. 

Camp Carson was also home to nearly 

9,000 Axis prisoners of war – mostly Ital- 

Soldiers 

Exercises and deployments continually 

hone the skill of Fort Carson soldiers. When not 

deployed, soldiers also train annually at Pinon 

Canyon Maneuver Site and the National Training 

Center at Fort Irwin, Calif. 

Additionally, units participate in joint 

exercises around the world, including Central and 

South Africa, Europe and Southwest Asia. Since 

2003, most Fort Carson Units have deployed in 

support of the Global War on Terrorism. 

ians and Germans. The internment 

camp at Camp Carson opened Jan. 

1, 1943. These POWs alleviated 

the manpower shortage in Colorado 

by doing general farm work, canning 

tomatoes, cutting corn and aiding 

in logging operations on Colorado’s 

Western Slope. 

Between 1942 and 1956, pack mules 

were a common sight at Camp Carson. 

The fi rst shipment arrived by train from 

Nebraska in July, 1942. The mules were 

used by fi eld artillery (pack) battalions to 

carry equipment, weapons and supplies 

over mountainous terrain. 

The most famous of these animals was 

“Hambone,” the pride of the 4th Artillery 

for 13 years, he carried fi rst 

sergeants up Ute Pass to 

Camp Hale. Camp Hale, 

located near Leadville, was 

where the Army conducted 

cold weather and 

mountain warfare training. 

Hambone died in March of 1971, and was 

buried with full military honors. 

Activity at Camp Carson was greatly 

reduced following the end of World War II. 

By April 1946, the military strength at the 

Mountain Post had dropped to around 600. 

It appeared Camp Carson would be closed. 

With the onset of the Korean War, 

however, activity once again increased. 

Many Reserve and National Guard units 

were called to active duty and stationed at 

Camp Carson. 

Camp Carson became Fort Carson in 

1954. In the 1960s, mechanized units were 

Fort Carson soldiers and units have been 

active supporting various community events 

throughout Colorado. Soldiers from the 

Mountain Post have conducted fi refi ghting 

missions in the national forests, search and 

rescue missions throughout the state, and 

various other emergency operations. The 

Mountain Post is host to more than 350 

community events such as parades, concerts 

and fairs every year. 

Statue of the legendary 

Gen. Christopher “Kit” Carson. 

assigned to the Mountain Post. At 

this time, additional training land was 

purchased bringing the post to its current 

size of 140,000 acres. Throughout its 

history, Fort Carson has been home to nine 

divisions. 

An additional training area, comprising 

237,000 acres, was purchased in 1983. 

Named the Pinon Canyon Maneuver Site, 

this training area is located about 100 

miles to the southeast and is used for large 

force-on-force maneuver training. Comprehensive 

maneuver and live-fi re training also 

occurs downrange at Fort Carson. 


Fort Carson 

Frequently used 

telephone numbers 

DSN and commercial calls follow a (691/883 

and 526/524-XXXX) format respectively. 

The local area code is 719. 

American Red Cross ................................. 526-2311 

Anthony’s Pizza ........................................ 576-5661 

Armed Forces National Bank .................... 576-6601 

Army Community Services ....................... 526-4590 

Army Education Center ............................. 526-2124 

Army Emergency Relief ............................ 526-0437 

Arts and Crafts ......................................... 526-0900 

Auto Crafts Center .................................... 526-2147 

Barber Shop ............................................. 524-2814 

Beauty Shop ............................................. 576-6451 

Billeting Offi ce Colorado Inn ..................... 526-4832 

Bowling Center ......................................... 526-5542 

Boy Scout Youth Center ............................ 526-1240 

Burger King .............................................. 576-6757 

Central In/Out Processing Center .............. 526-4454 

Child and Youth Services .......................... 526-2680 

Civilian Personnel ..................................... 526-4524 

Class VI Store ........................................... 576-6531 

Clothing Sales .......................................... 526-8715 

Commissary Information .......................... 526-5505 

Community Counseling Center ................. 526-2862 

Community Craft Center ........................... 526-0900 

Dry Cleaners ............................................ 226-3770 

Evans Army Community Hospital .............. 526-5811 

Family Child Care ..................................... 526-5475 

Fitness Center .......................................... 526-2706 

Floral Shop ............................................... 579-8772 

General Nutrition Center ........................... 538-0073 

Golf Course............................................... 526-4122 

Grant Library ............................................ 526-2350 

Human Resources .................................... 526-0427 

Information ............................................... 526-5811 

Kentucky Fried Chicken ............................ 579-8237 

Legal Assistance ...................................... 526-5761 

McMahon Theather .................................. 526-4629 

Mountaineer (Post Newspaper) .............. 526-4144 

MWR General Manager ............................ 576-6174 

NAF Personnel .......................................... 526-4445 

Optical Shop ............................................. 576-5151 

Outdoor Recreation .................................. 526-1388 

Relgious Activities .................................... 526-5619 

Security Service Federal Credit Union ....... 576-6401 

Self-Help Housing .................................... 579-1606 

Smith Woodcraft Shop .............................. 526-3487 

Swimming Pool ........................................ 526-3193 

Thrift Shop ............................................... 526-5966 

Travel Offi ce ............................................. 576-5188 

Turkey Creek Recreation Area .................. 526-3905 

Vehicle Registration .................................. 526-8503 

Veterinary Services .................................. 526-1222 

Welcome Center ....................................... 526-2424 

Wellness Center ....................................... 526-3887 

Golf Course facilities at Fort Carson. 


Housing 

Fort Carson’s Housing Services Offi ce (HSO) is your fi rst stop if you receive Basic 

Allowance for Housing (BAH); upon arrival report to HSO in Bldg. 7301 on Woodfi ll 

Road. The HSO maintains a non-discriminatory listing of available homes, townhouses, 

duplexes and apartments, and provides computer access to the Automated 

Housing Referral Network (AHRN) where you can go online to look for housing. For 

those eligible for on-post housing, the HSO provides information and can place you on 

a waiting list, with waits ranging from three months to two years. Call 526-2322 or 

526-2323 for more information. 

Fort Carson has a Community Housing Incentive Program, which is a partnership 

with local property owners and provides special rent incentives for Mountain Post 

soldiers. Call 526-5219 for more information or go to the CHIP offi ce at the HSO to 

view the list of rentals and incentives. 

Another housing aid for Fort Carson families is the Volunteer Realtor Program, 

whereby the Pikes Peak Association of Realtors provides qualifi ed Realtor volunteers to 

furnish rental and sales information. Call or visit the HSO for more information. 

Offi ce hours for all housing services are 7:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, 

Wednesday and Friday; and 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., Thursday. 

On Post 

In 1999, Fort Carson privatized all on-post housing by turning over the management, 

maintenance and renovation of 1,823 existing units and construction of 840 

units. It was the fi rst installation to have privatized on-post housing, which has 

become widespread in the military. Today, GMH Military Housing manages, maintains 

and renovates some 2,600 housing units in 13 neighborhoods on post. In March 2007, 

construction began on 404 new housing units, mostly townhouses and duplexes, with 

a dozen single-family homes for generals and senior offi cers. 

Utilities 

A visit to the Fort Carson Welcome and Farewell Center is also benefi cial. There, 

you’ll fi nd information on utility costs in the local area. Refuse collection is provided by 

private contractors and service rates average about $35 a month for weekly pick-up of 

two containers. Local telephone service is provided by Qwest; newcomers can reserve a 

number up to a month in advance of arrival if an address has already been identifi ed. 

Education 

Fort Carson has three elementary schools. 

Patriot Elementary and Mountainside 

Elementary schools serve preschool through fi fth 

grade; General Creighton Abrams Elementary 

serves kindergarten through fi fth grade. Fort 

Carson Middle School provides education 

to sixth through eighth graders; high school 

students are bussed to Fountain-Fort Cason High 

School in nearby Fountain. K-12 and beyond 

school liaison services are available to assist 

families with all educational questions, needs. 

For details, call 526-1071, 524-3969 or 526-2301. 

Medical and Health 

Fort Carson boasts a comprehensive 

range of available medical treatment 

through Evans Army Community Hospital. 

The Mountain Post Wellness Center 

supports a team approach with the hospital 

staff in maintaining the good health of the 

community at large. 

Located in Bldg. 7500 on Titus Blvd., 

Evans Army Community Hospital is a 

fi ve-story facility with 78 beds. Connected 

to the hospital through a common area is a 

two-story clinic with about 400 treatment 

and examination rooms. 

To receive treatment, all patients older 

than 10 must present an identifi cation card; 

those younger than 18 must be accompanied 

by a parent or guardian. Enrollment 

in DEERS is required before any non-emergency 

medial treatment will be provided. 

Important phone numbers relating to 

medical treatment: 

Ambulance Service .................................. 911 

Emergency Room ............................526-7111 

Appointments ..................................264-5000 

Patient Representative Offi ce 526-7225/7256 

Pharmacy Service ...............(refi lls) 524-4081 

Emergency dental patients should 

report to the Evans emergency room. Call 


Wellness Center services include health 

and wellness assessments, exercise prescriptions, 

weight programs, and much more. 

Call 526-3887 for more information. 


Morale, Welfare & Recreation 

The Fort Carson Directorate of 

Morale, Welfare and Recreation provides 

soldiers and their families a broad range 

of programs and services to help manage 

stress and improve the quality of life. 

The Mountain Post has 37 facilities in 

a comprehensive network of support and 

leisure services. 

The best source of information is at 

http://mwr.carson.army.mil/ where 

there are links to everything DMWR has 

to offer and ongoing updates and events. 

You will fi nd information about the 

Army Substance Abuse Program-Fort 

Carson; the BOSS program for single 

soldiers; business, recreation and special 

interest programs; and additional services. 

The business division includes the 

Brass Rail, Cheyenne Shadows Golf 

Club, Colorado Inn, Elkhorn Conference 

& Catering Center, the Penrose House, 

Ten Pin Café, Thunder Alley Bowling 

Center, Turkey Creek Ranch and Xtremes 

Entertainment & Sports Bar. 

The recreation division includes 

Alpine Tower, APE (Adventure Programs 

& Education), Auto Craft Center, 

Checkout Center, Grant Library, ITR 

(Information, Ticketing & Registration), 

McMahon Theatre, Mountain Post 

Outfi tters, ODR (Outdoor Recreation 

Complex), four fi tness centers, indoor and 

outdoor swimming pools and the Smith 

Craft Center. 

There are intramural sports, special 

events, Child and Youth Services and 

FIT (Family Intervention Team) as well a 

performing arts center. 

For a great Colorado experience, 

Turkey Creek Ranch is a bonus for Fort 

Carson families. Enjoy trail rides April 

through October; hay wagon rides to 

the pumpkin patch in October; enjoy 

the picnic and park areas year round; go 

for camping holidays; take a ride on the 

stagecoach. 

The ranch also has boarding stables 

if you want a horse. Historic Turkey 

Creek Ranch was established in 1874 and 

purchased in 1965 by the U.S. Army for 

soldiers and their families to enjoy. 

Source: Content for the Fort Carson section 

of this publication was compiled from public 

information prepared by Public Affairs and posted 

on the Web site; go online to www.carson.army.mil/ 

for more complete information. 



Nestled at the foothills of the Rockies on the northwest corner of Colorado 

Springs, the U.S. Air Force Academy covers 18,500 acres and runs for six miles 

along I-25 on the west side. The elevation of this institution of higher learning is 

higher than nearly any other spot in town, and consequently often feels the fi rst 

signs of winter. The grounds are known for the most visited man-made structure in 

Colorado, the Cadet Chapel, as well as Falcon Stadium and signifi cant wildlife 

activity – primarily deer and elk. 

Approximately 12,000 people live, work and 

play on the Academy, with 4,000-plus students 

whose main goal is to become future leaders 

of the most powerful air and space force in the world. 

Currently, about 1,300 basic cadets arrive each year to 

begin their four-year trek toward commissioning. Over 

the course of the journey, each class typically graduates 

around 1,000. 

The Academy has all the amenities found on most 

U.S. Air Force bases around the world, yet is primarily 

geared to educate and train cadets to become commissioned 

Air Force second lieutenants. 

Many aspects of military academy life set it apart 

from a civilian college; however, there are also many 

similarities. For example, the Air Force Academy 

boasts 27 intercollegiate competitive sporting teams. 

Falcon Football is the most widely recognized drawing 

40,000-plus fans per home game at times. The men’s 

basketball team is coming off the two most successful 

seasons in the school’s history. Every Academy IC sport 

boasts some of the fi nest athletes in America. 

The Eisenhower Golf Courses 

The attractions on Academy grounds are many and varied. 

Among them are two of the most popular golf courses in the area, 

the Eisenhower Golf Courses. Named for President Dwight D. 

Eisenhower, the Academy’s Blue and Silver courses provide for a 

picturesque and challenging round of golf. Eisenhower personally 

dedicated the Blue course by hitting a tee shot off the number one tee 

on July 8, 1963. The driver Ike used is prominently displayed in the 

Academy’s pro shop. 

The facility includes a driving range, three practice putting greens, 

two chipping greens, Tee House snack bar, Falcon Nest lounge, men’s 

and women’s locker rooms and the pro shop. The staff boasts “Service 

beyond Expectation.” 

Landmark 

The Academy is among the most frequently referenced landmarks 

in the city. Millions of people have kept it a popular tourist attraction 

since the late 1950s, drawing more than 1 million visitors annually in 

the years leading up to 9/11. Tightened security measures since have 

substantially cut the number of visitors allowed, yet it remains one of 

the high points for Colorado visitors year-round. 


History 

The Air Force Academy is the youngest of the U.S. 

service academies. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed 

a Congressional Bill establishing the Air Force Academy 

on April 1, 1954. With his signature, he initiated a chain of 

events that, over the years, has produced one of the leading 

military and academic institutions in the country. 

The site selection committee, appointed by Secretary 

of the Air Force Harold E. Talbott, addressed the question 

of a suitable location for the Academy. Members of the 

committee bore in mind the advice of West Point and 

Annapolis representatives who suggested the Academy 

have an area large enough to accommodate cadet training 

and future expansions. Other criteria for the site included 

natural beauty, a variety of local educational, religious, 

cultural and recreational facilities as well as proximity to 

large cities. 

After traveling 21,000 miles and considering 580 

proposed sites in 45 states, the committee recommended 

three locations. They included Colorado Springs, Colo.; 

Lake Geneva, Wis.; and Alton, Ill. The three suggested sites 

were submitted to Secretary Talbott for fi nal selection. 

He chose the present site June 14, 1954. On the 

same day, he named a corner of Lowry AFB, Colo., as the 

temporary site for the Academy while the permanent site 

The most visited man-made structure 

in Colorado, the Cadet Chapel. 


was being constructed. The dedication 

of the temporary site took place July 11, 

1955. At the same time, the Academy’s 

fi rst class of 306 cadets was sworn in. 

Lt. Gen. Hubert R. Harmon, who had 

been involved in much of the prelegislation 

Academy planning, 

was recalled from retirement to 

become the fi rst superintendent. 

It was the intent of the Air Force to 

create a landmark equal to that of West 

Point, Annapolis or any other highly 

visible national asset. To accomplish this 

goal, the best design talent was commissioned 

to plan and design the campus. 

This talent included the architectural 

fi rm of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill; 

photographer Ansel Adams; industrial 

designer Walter Dorwin Teague; landscape 

architect Dan Kiley; and noted graphic 

designer Herbert Bayer. The result is one 

of the largest confi gurations of modern 

architecture. 

The move from the temporary site at 

Lowry to the permanent site took place in 

the fall of 1958, as members of the cadet 

wing marched through the north gate to 

the cadet area. Construction continued 

around the cadets while they pursued 

their academic and military studies. 

The Academy’s academic program 

showed evidence of high quality almost 

immediately. The Commission of Colleges 

and Universities of the North Central 

Association of Colleges and Secondary 

Schools accredited the U.S. Air Force 

Academy’s program in 1959; an uncommon 

occurrence since the fi rst class had 

not yet graduated. 

The graduation of the fi rst 207 cadets 

took place June 3, 1959 in Arnold Hall. 

Five years later, President Lyndon B. 

Johnson signed a bill authorizing a student 

increase in the Cadet Wing from 2,529 to 

4,417. The fi rst class of cadets to include 

women entered in 1976 and graduated 

in 1980. 

The Academy received two special 

honors on April 1, 2004 when the U.S. 

Postal Service celebrated the Academy’s 

50th Anniversary with a commemorative 

37-cent stamp. Additionally, the Academy’s 

cadet area was designated a National 

Historic Landmark by the U.S. Department 

of Interior. 


Artist renditions for future 

USAF Academy housing. 

Housing 

More than 1,200 total family housing units can be found 

in Academy residential settings known as Pine Valley and 

Douglass Valley. Ranging from two- to fi ve-bedrooms, each 

unit is equipped with a range, refrigerator and dishwasher. 

The enlisted ranks through company grade homes are 

primarily duplexes. Field grade and senior offi cer quarters are 

single units. 

Both the Pine Valley and Douglass Valley neighborhoods 

lend themselves to pleasant living environments, in many 

cases within easy walking distance to take the kids to school. 

The housing community’s proximity to the Academy’s south 

and north gates, the wing headquarters area and the cadet 

area make for a short drive to work and easy access to I-25. 

Waiting time for on-base housing varies, and arriving 

members are encouraged to submit an advance application 

through their current housing offi ce to be forwarded to the 

Academy’s housing staff. The effective date on the waiting 

list can be as early as the fi rst day of the month prior to the 

report no later than date. The housing offi ce staff stands 

ready to assist from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekdays. Call 

333-2100 for the most current housing availability status. 

Dormitories 

Single/unaccompanied junior enlisted members will reside 

in one of three dormitories in the Community Center area. 

All enlisted members must check-in with the centralized 

dorm management staff for room assignment, or to request 

authorization to live off-base and receive Basic Allowance 

for Housing. 

Temporary Lodging Facilities 

The Rampart Lodge (TLF) is near the Academy Offi cers 

Club and provides accommodations by reservation only. TLFs 

are for military members and their families. They feature 

one-, two- and three-bedroom units with fully equipped 

kitchens, dining rooms and living rooms. Pets are not 

allowed in either Visiting Offi cer Quarters or in TLFs. A list 

of local commercial kennels is available at the front desk. 

The lodge’s main offi ce can be reached at 333-4910. 

Off-Base Housing 

Renderings: Courtesy of FC-Hunt LLC. 

The housing referral offi ce maintains a list of offbase 

properties as well as related lease information and 

requirements. Most leases are either six months or a year 

and the staff encourages newcomers to be aware of military 

clauses. Renters insurance is also highly suggested. Local real 

estate agents have provided the housing offi ce with maps, 

brochures and many other products to get you familiar with 

your new surroundings as effi ciently as possible. Newly 

arriving members should visit the housing referral offi ce 

before entering into a rental or purchase agreement. 


Medical & Health 

The Academy hospital is a 21-bed facility located near the Cadet 

Area. The staff provides care in most areas of medical specialties and 

offers many of the latest technologies including CAT scan, MRI, ultrasound 

and a same day surgery unit. Active duty, retirees and their 

families must be registered in DEERS to receive non-emergency 

services. TRICARE has a service center adjacent to the hospital for 

enrollment and other matters. PRIME enrollees receive priority care 

and are assigned a primary care manager. 

For emergencies, call 911.Most non-emergency medical care is 

provided by appointment. Call 457-2273 for more information. 

There are two dental facilities on base. While both clinics top 

priorities are cadets and active duty members, they both serve, on 

a very limited basis, retirees and family members of active-duty 

members. Call 333-5190/5191 for more information. 

Education 

Pine and Douglass Valley Elementary Schools (K-fi fth grade) 

and Air Academy High School (nine-12) are all on base and within 

School District 20. Students in grades 6-8 attend school off base at 

Eagleview Middle School. Except for those within walking distance, 

most students ride buses. For more information, call 234-1200. 

For higher education, approximately 20 institutions from 

colleges and universities, to business and trade schools, operate 

numerous post secondary programs very near the Academy in 

Colorado Springs. The education services center is located within 

the Academy Community Center complex, call 333-2269 for 

more information. 

Family Support Center 

The Air Force recognizes the correlation between the strength 

of the family unit and the ability to accomplish the mission. Both 

single and married members are welcomed at the Family Support 

Center and can benefi t from the many programs offered, which 

include relocation assistance, volunteer program, employment assistance, 

fi nancial counseling, emergency fi nancial assistance, family 

life education and referral information. Call 333-3444 to learn more. 

Community Center 

The Community Center is situated between the two residential 

neighborhoods and includes the Military Personnel Flight, NAF Human 

Resources, services and marketing offi ce, outdoor recreation, 

Base Exchange, base chapel, bowling alley, Air Academy National 

Bank, Thrift Shop, Fitness Center, Shoppette and many more points 

of interest. Each provides what would be considered “every day” 

services, but the staffs aim to provide exceptional services every day. 

Visitor Center 

The Barry Goldwater Visitor Center is for visitors and residents, 

and offers information and exhibits highlighting the entire cadet experience 

from in-processing day to graduation. The facility features 

a 14-minute theater overview of the Academy’s mission every half 

hour. The presentation is a great foundation of knowledge for those 

newly assigned, and is visited by thousands of people from all over 

the country every year. 


Recreation 

Family camping, picnic areas, 

athletic fi elds, fi tness centers, tennis 

courts, various skills centers and lots 

more all await the newcomer. With the 

unique mission as a military academy, 

some 27 intercollegiate sports are 

played, providing ongoing spectator 

opportunities. A baseball camp for 8-18 

year-olds is held every summer. The 

Academy staffs at Services & Marketing, 

Outdoor Recreation and others promote 

and provide countless recreational 

choices for all ages and interests. 

Source: Content for the U.S. Air Force 

Academy section of this publication was compiled 

from public information prepared by Public 

Affairs and posted on the Web site; go online to 

www.usafa.af.mil for more complete information. 

AAFES ................................................472-0861 

Academy Concerts .............................333-4497 

Academy housing ...............................333-2100 

Academy Lanes Bowling Center .........333-4709 

Academy Schools ...............................234-1200 

Academy Service Station....................472-0395 

Academy Shoppette/Class VI ..............472-0395 

Academy Spirit Newspaper ................333-7557 

Academy Thrift Shop ......................... 333-4459 

Air Academy Federal Credit Union ..... 472-1850 

Air Academy National Bank ............... 472-1090 

Alterations ..........................................472-9695 

American Red Cross ...........................556-7590 

(Peterson AFB and all USAFA emergencies) 

Arnold Hall Food Court ........................472-9664 

Arts and Crafts Hobby Shop................333-4538 

Association of Graduates ....................472-0300 

Auto Skills Center ...............................333-4752 

Bakery ................................................333-2536 

Barber Shop .......................................472-1369 

Barry Goldwater Visitor Center............333-2025 

Base Exchange ...................................472-0861 

Base operator .....................................333-1818 

Base Theater ......................................333-7206 

Beauty Shop .......................................472-1495 

Burger King ........................................472-1211 

Cadet Chapel Program .......................333-2636 

Cadet Field House ..............................333-4522 

Child Development Programs .............333-6779 

Civilian in-processing ........................ 333-2753 

Civilian Personnel (job line) .................333-2222 


Frequently used telephone numbers 

DSN and commercial calls follow a (333-XXXX) format. The local area code is 719. 

Clothing Sales ................................... 472-6024 

Colorado R and R Travel .....................333-7367 

Commander’s Action Line ...................333-3900 

Commissary .......................................333-2428 

Community Center Chapel Programs .333-3300 

Community Center Post Offi ce ............472-0510 

Dental care ................................333-5190/5191 

Educational Opportunities..........333-3298/2215 

Eisenhower Golf Course .....................333-2606 

Equestrian Center ...............................333-4607 

Fairchild Snack Bar ............................472-1321 

FAM Camp .... (May –September) ........333-4980 

or (October-April ...........333-4753 

Family Support Center ........................333-3444 

Farish Recreation Area .......................687-9098 

Financial service ................................333-4298 

Fitness Center ....................................333-3531 

Flower Shop .......................................472-0901 

GNC Health Store ...............................472-0492 

Godfather’s Pizza ................................472-0664 

Hospital Information ...........................333-5111 

Household goods ................................554-9298 

Household Goods ..........Inbound ........554-9298 

Outbound .....333-3007 

Intercollegiate Athletics ......................333-1895 

KAFA (Cadet Radio Station) 97.7FM ....333-5233 

Laundry/Dry Cleaners .........................472-6216 

Legal Assistance ................................333-3940 

Library Reference Desk ......................333-4406 

Military Personnel Flight .....................333-2277 

OB GYN Clinic .....................................333-5287 

Off-base referral .................................333-2100 

Offi cer’s Club and Tavern on the Ridge 

Restaurant ...................................333-4253 

Optical Shop .......................................472-0524 

Outdoor Recreation Centers, ITT and 

Ski Shops ....................................333-4356 

Pass and Registration .........................333-0440 

Pediatrics ...........................................333-5200 

Picnic Areas........................................333-4356 

Postal services ...................................472-0537 

Public Affairs ......................................333-7731 

Rampart Lodging ................................333-4910 

Retiree Activities Center .....................333-1055 

Rocky Mountain Blue .........................333-3348 

Sam A. Milazzo (Enlisted) Club ............333-4677 

Security Forces...................................333-2000 

Self-Help Store ...................................333-3776 

Sexual Assault Hotline ........................333-7272 

Skills Development Center .................333-6136 

Souvenir and Gift Shop .......................472-0102 

Temporary lodging .............................333-4910 

TRICARE Appointments ......................264-5000 

USAF Aero Club ..................................333-4423 

USAFA Community Activities 

Center .................................333-2928/2802 

Veterinary service ...............................333-4055 

Weather..............................................333-2058 

Winggate Travel .........................333-2438/2445 

Youth Center .......................................333-4169 



Located off Highway 

24 on the eastern city limits 

of Colorado Springs, but 

yet still falling in the long 

shadow cast by Pikes Peak, 

Peterson Air Force Base is a 

major hub for military space 

operations for the Air Force 

and other Department of 

Defense organizations. 

Pterson occupies about 1,295 acres in El Paso County. 

Within this acreage is the main base including family 

housing, community shopping and commerce, 

Air Force operational buildings, athletic and recreation 

facilities, utility infrastructure systems and an airfi eld and 

runway system shared with the Colorado Springs Airport. 

The base employs more than 5,500 people, both military 

and civilian. Not all employed at Peterson actually live 

on the base, but there are more than 550 family housing 

units on base currently being maintained by the 21st Civil 

Engineer Squadron. A new housing privatization program 

will bring 708 new homes, a new community center and a 

new maintenance facility to Peterson. 

Today, Peterson Air Force Base is home to 

the 21st Space Wing, Air Force Space Command, 

NORAD/NORTHCOM, U.S. Army Space and 

Missile Defense Command, National Security 

Space Institute, 302nd Airlift Wing and 

367th Recruiting Squadron. While physically 

headquartered in downtown Colorado Springs, 

and with recruiting offi ces located in fi ve states, 

the 367th Recruiting Squadron’s home-awayfrom-home 

is Peterson. The headquarters 

unit provides support for fi nance, personnel 

management, logistics, information management 

and systems administration. 


MISSION STATEMENTS 

21st Space Wing 

To conduct world-class space superiority operations and 

provide unsurpassed installation support and protection while 

deploying Warrior Airmen. 

Air Force Space Command 

To defend the United States through the control and 

exploitation of space. To provide a full-spectrum space combat 

command preeminent in the application of space power for 

national security and joint warfare. 

U.S. Northern Command 

To conduct operations to deter, prevent and defeat threats 

and aggression aimed at the United States, its territories and 

interests within the assigned area of responsibility. To provide 

defense support of civil authorities, including consequence 

management operations, as directed by the President and 

Secretary of Defense. 

Proud to serve, glad to be home. Maj. Stephen Stelly, 

731st Airlift Squadron fl ight commander, proudly displays 

the American fl ag as a C-130 taxis past Pikes Peak during 

the recent 302nd Airlift Wing homecoming. 

Photo: MSgt. Mark Clark 

U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command 

To conduct space operations and provide planning, integration, control 

and coordination of Army forces and capabilities for the Army in support of 

U.S. Strategic Command missions. 

National Security Space Institute 

The National Security Space Institute researches, develops and 

provides world-class instruction of space system technologies, capabilities, 

operational concepts, acquisitions and tactics in support of joint-service 

strategies to develop certifi ed space professionals across the Department 

of Defense. 

302nd Airlift Wing 

To train, equip and employ airlift forces in worldwide support of our 

nation’s vital interests. 

367th Recruiting Squadron 

To recruit prospective applicants out of Colorado, Wyoming, 

New Mexico, Texas and western Kansas. 


Photos: U.S. Air Force archives. 

History 

Peterson Air Force Base traces its roots 

to the Colorado Springs Army Air Base, 

established May 6, 1942, at the Colorado 

Springs Municipal Airport, which has been 

in operation since 1926. 

The base carried out photo reconnaissance 

training under the auspices of the 

Photo Reconnaissance Operational Training 

Unit. The base was renamed Peterson Army 

Air Base June 22, 1942, in honor of 2nd Lt. 

Edward J. Peterson who was killed during 

the takeoff of his F-4 here. 

The base assumed a new mission in the 

spring of 1943 consisting of heavy bomber 

combat crew training. The 214th Combat 

Crew Training School conducted the training, 

using the B-24 Liberator. “Pete Field,” 

as the base was commonly called, was 

assigned to the 3rd Air Force headquartered 

Greenville Army Air Base, S.C., from 

March 5 – Oct. 1, 1943. 

Control reverted to the 2nd Air Force. 

The mission once again changed in June 

1944, this time to fi ghter pilot training. The 

72nd Fighter Wing assigned employed P-40 

Warhawks to carry out this mission. 

Peterson Field was assigned to Continental 

Air Forces in April 1945. The location 

of the Army Air Forces Instructors School 

signaled yet another mission change. A 

short time later, on Dec. 31, 1945, the Army 

inactivated the base, turning the property 

over to the City of Colorado Springs. 

The legacy of Peterson Field and the 

military presence in Colorado Springs took a 

signifi cant turn in September 1947, following 

the establishment of the U. S. Air Force. 

Soon after its inception, the fl edgling 

service twice reactivated the base: Sept. 29, 

1947 to Jan. 15, 1948, and again from Sept. 

28, 1948, into 1949. During the latter period, 

the base served as an airfi eld for Headquarters, 

15th Air Force, which had been 

temporarily located in Colorado Springs. 

Peterson Field was inactivated again when 

15th Air Force moved to March AFB in 1949. 

Building 365 under 

construction in early 

1943. This building 

still stands today, as 

do the hangars in the 

background. 

Edward J. Peterson was born in 1917 

in Englewood, Colo., and attended public 

schools there. He graduated from Denver 

University with a Master of Arts degree. 

Upon completion of pilot training in 

October 1941, he was commissioned as a 

second lieutenant in the Army Air Force. He 

was promoted to fi rst lieutenant in February 

1942 and was assigned as the operations 

offi cer for the 14th Photo Reconnaissance 

Squadron, Colorado Springs Army Air Base, 

Colo., that July. 

While taking off to Lowry Field in 

Denver Aug. 8, 1942, the left engine on his 

Lockheed F-4 failed and he crashed. 

Upon impact, the plane burst into 

fl ames. A base fi re truck and crew were 

nearby, and Peterson was dragged out of the 

wreckage and taken to Glockner Hospital, 

now known as Memorial Hospital. 

With extensive burns on his head, chest 

and lower body, Peterson died a few hours 

later, becoming the fi rst from Colorado to 

lose his life in the line of duty at the base. 

The Air Force activated Peterson Field 

once more, following the January 1951 

establishment of Air Defense Command at 

Ent AFB, located in downtown Colorado 

Springs at the current site of the U.S. 

Olympic Training Center. The 4600th Air 

Base Group activated simultaneously on 

Jan. 1, 1951, and provided support for the 

newly established command. In 1958, the 

4600th ABG was designated the 4600th 

Air Base Wing. 

The Air Force redesignated the wing the 

46th Aerospace Defense Wing April 1, 1975. 

The following March, Peterson Field 

was renamed Peterson AFB. Strategic Air 

Command assumed control of the base Oct. 

1, 1979. U.S. Air Force offi cials activated Air 

Force Space Command at Peterson Sept. 1, 

1982, followed by the activation of the 1st 

Space Wing, New Years Day, 1983. 

Photo: U.S. Air Force archives. 

Peterson AFB became the hub of the 

Air Force’s space activity when the 1st 

Space Wing assumed host unit responsibility 

following the inactivation of the 46th 

Aerospace Defense Wing April 1, 1983. 

The wing then transferred host unit 

responsibility to the 3rd Space Support 

Wing, activated Oct. 15, 1986. 

Finally, on May 15, 1992, the two 

wings inactivated and their personnel and 

equipment transferred to the 21st Space 

Wing the same day. 

On July 28, 2006, the Cheyenne 

Mountain Operations Center, the former 

Cheyenne Mountain Air Station, ceased 

to be an operational base. Cheyenne 

Mountain’s functions were transferred 

to Peterson AFB and the facility is on 

“warm standby” and could be reactivated 

if needed. 

Aircraft crowd the Peterson Field fl ight line in 

1943. During World War II, Peterson served as a 

reconnaissance, bomber, and fi ghter training base. 

The airport passenger 

terminal, built in 

1941. It is now part of 

the Peterson Air and 

Space Museum. 


Silver Spruce golf course. Photo: Germaine Photography 

Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Godley rolls a frame at the Peterson 

bowling alley. Photo: Steve Brady 

Recreation 

If the phrase “work hard and play hard” is your mantra, then 

Peterson has a lot to offer. It boasts an array of facilities for use by 

DoD cardholders. 

The on-base recreational opportunities for service-members and 

their families at Peterson are many. Among the facilities and activities 

available are an 18-hole golf course, a 20-lane bowling center, an 

aquatic center, fi tness and sports center, six softball fi elds, a shooting 

range, offi cer and enlisted clubs, ski shop and recreation supply 

checkout, auto skills center, aero club and outdoor adventure program, 

Silver Spruce is a well-maintained 18-hole, regulation golf course 

located on Peterson. Originally established in 1973 as a 9-hole course, 

it became an 18-hole course three years later. It offers challenges for 

golfers of all skill levels including back tees (blue), regular tees (white), 

ladies tees (red), and senior tees (yellow). 

The Peterson Bowling Center was originally a 16-lane center built 

in 1970 with a four-lane extension added in 1973. It features state-ofthe-art 

computerized scoring on 20 AMF HPL synthetic lanes. Peterson 

Lanes hosts a wide variety of bowling leagues; to include youth, 

parent/child, men’s, ladies, mixed, organizational, senior, and travel 

leagues. Additionally, open bowling is available during the day and 

most evenings. 

The Aquatic Center is currently closed while renovations are 

underway. No need for avid swimmers to feel like fi sh out of water 

as Fort Carson and the Air Force Academy have pools available for 

military members, their families and retirees; as does the city of 

Colorado Springs. 

The Outdoor Recreation Center has a number of trips planned 

with the novice adventurer in mind and offers plenty of challenges 

for the advanced or experienced. Programs include downhill skiing, 

fi shing, hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, white water 

rafting, scuba diving and much more. The center also offers skiing 

and snowboarding equipment, outdoor grills, camping equipment and 

canoes for rent. 

The 60,000-plus square foot Fitness Center features two 

regulation-sized basketball/volleyball courts, two Cybex equipment 

rooms, a free-weight and dumbbell room, fi ve racquetball courts, 

aerobics room, spinning room, 1/12 mile indoor track, more than 70 

pieces of cardiovascular equipment and two cardio theatres, a climbing 

wall, six locker rooms including a DV locker room for men and 

women, and a smoothie bar for post-workout refreshments. 

The off-base opportunities, common to all U.S. military 

installations in the area, make the outdoor enthusiast feel like royalty 

surrounded by the beauty of all Colorado has to offer. 

Mountain biking, hiking, climbing, rafting, skiing, hunting, 

fi shing, attending AAA and professional sporting events, theater, 

concerts and other arts and recreational opportunities are all within 

easy reach for those with adventurous spirits. 


Other Amenities 

Specifi cally targeted towards the 

younger family members at Peterson are the 

Child Development Center and the R.P. Lee 

Youth Center. 

There is also a commissary, base 

exchange, shoppette, post offi ce, chapels 

for various religious services and a variety 

of food kiosks and shops. Shopping options 

on Peterson are expanding with the opening 

of the new base exchange and commissary. 

The estimated $40 million project is slated 

to open June 5 near the East Gate. 

The annual Peterson Air Show is much 

anticipated and enjoyed throughout the 

area. The event features something for all 

ages. Vintage aircraft displays and demonstrations, 

static displays of current military 

aircraft from around the world, and 

sky-diving exhibitions from the Air Force 

Academy’s Wings of Blue are among the 

highlights of the event. The U.S. Navy Blue 

Angels, U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and 

the Canadian Air Force Snow Birds have all 

performed at the annual air show. 

On-Base Housing 

The Peterson Housing Offi ce is located in 

Bldg. 850, Loring Ave., and is open 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

weekdays. Newcomers can expect a three to 18 

month wait for base housing, depending on the 

type of home eligibility. Relevant considerations 

include one’s grade and family size. Advance 

applications may be submitted from your current 

location to the Peterson housing management 

staff. Upon arrival, and before entering into any 

rental/lease or purchase agreement, all are required 

to stop by the base housing referral offi ce. Call 


Off-Base Housing 

Throughout Colorado Springs, the cost of 

dwelling rentals can vary greatly. Low cost housing 

and furnished apartments are limited. Utility costs 

vary depending on house size and energy usage. 

Natural gas remains the most commonly used 

heating fuel. The monthly rent for an apartment 

typically starts around $600 for one bedroom and 

increases for multiple bedrooms. House rentals 

start at $1,000 a month for three bedrooms and 

increase with size and location. Utility costs are 

not normally included in rentals, except with some 

furnished apartments. 


Alterations ............................................574-1867 

American Red Cross .............................556-7590 

Anthony’s Pizza ....................................637-1983 

Appointments, Dental ...........................556-1333 

Appointments, Medical Routine 

(TRICARE) .......................................264-5000 

Appointments, Medical 

Same Day/Acute ............................556-2273 

Auto Hobby Shop ..................................556-4481 

Banking, 5-Star Bank ...........................574-2777 

Barber Shop Main Exchange ................597-8307 

Base Exchange .................................... 596-7270 

Beauty Shop .........................................596-0579 

Billeting Reservations ................. 556-6293/7851 

Bowling Lanes ......................................556-4607 

Call-in Refi lls ........................................556-1100 

Chapel ..................................................556-4442 

Child Development Center ....................554-4765 

Civilian Personnel .................................556-4775 

Clothing Sales ......................................556-4259 

Commander’s Action Line .................... 556-7777 

Healthcare 


Frequently used telephone numbers 

DSN and commercial calls follow a (554/556-XXXX) format. The local area code is 719. 

The 21st Medical Group boasts a co-located modern, 

well-equipped medical and dental facility. The Peterson Clinic’s 

services include family practice, aerospace medicine, pediatrics, 

women’s health, optometry, orthopedics and physical medicine. 

The clinic does not have an emergency room. Anyone with a 

medical emergency should call 911, or be taken directly to a local 

community hospital. 

Active duty members receive top priority treatment for 

same-day appointments and should call (719) 556-CARE, weekdays 

after 6:30 a.m. Those on TRICARE Prime can call the same 

number starting at 7 a.m. Inpatient care is provided by nearby 

Evans Army Community Hospital (Forth Carson), the Air Force 

Academy Hospital, as well as civilian facilities including Memorial 

and Penrose hospitals in Colorado Springs. Family members should 

be enrolled in the DEERS program by their sponsor. Call the 

military personnel fl ight at 556-7377 for more information. A full 

range of dental services is provided for active-duty members. Call 

556-1333/1335 for more information. Call the same number for a 

same-day appointment for dental emergencies. 

Education 

School District 11 services Peterson families. The 21st Space 

Wing engages through supporting classes with volunteers for school 

events such as science fairs, career days, tours, guest lectures and 

a mentorship program. The wing also sponsors the Mitchell High 

School junior ROTC program. 

Visit the fi rst fl oor of Bldg. 1141 to further explore the world of 

higher learning programs to earn associate through master’s degrees. 

Numerous local universities and colleges offer undergraduate, 

graduate and post-graduate opportunities. Testing for college credit 

is available at the center through The Defense Activity for Non- 

Commissary .........................................556-7770 

Community Activities Center .................556-1760 

Directory Assistance .............................556-7321 

Dry Cleaners/Laundry ...........................597-3050 

Education Services ...............................556-4064 

Enlisted Club ........................................597-7876 

Ent Federal Credit Union .......................574-1100 

Family Services ....................................596-7614 

Fitness Center ......................................596-4462 

Flower Shop .........................................380-8255 

General Nutrition Center .......................638-0989 

Golf Course Pro Shop ...........................596-7414 

Housing Offi ce ......................................596-7946 

ITT (Information, Tickets, Tours) ............556-1760 

Legal Offi ce ..........................................556-4871 

Library ..................................................556-7462 

McDonald’s ..........................................597-4858 

Military Personnel Flight .......................556-1716 

NCO Club ..............................................556-4194 

NCO PME Center ..................................556-7592 

Off Base Housing ..................................556-4777 

Offi cers Open Mess ..............................574-4100 

Optical Shop .........................................574-5252 

Pass and ID ..........................................556-1716 

Peterson Museum ................................556-4915 

Peterson Tours ......................................556-1733 

Pharmacy .............................................556-1109 

Post Offi ce ............................................556-4596 

Public Affairs (21st Space Wing) ...........556-4696 

Public Affairs (NORAD/USNORTHCOM..554-6889 

Public Affairs (Space Command) ..........554-3731 

Security Forces Desk Sergeant .............556-4805 

Service Station .....................................597-0350 

Shoppette/Class VI .............................. 597-5041 

Space Observe (Base Newspaper) ...... 556-7846 

Thrift Shop ...........................................596-4463 

TLF Reservations Switchboard .............597-2010 

Tours and Tickets Offi ce, MWR .............556-1760 

VAQ Reservations .................................556-7851 

Visitor Center ........................................556-6406 

Youth Center .........................................556-7220 

Traditional Education Support, College Level Examination Program 

or the Air Force Institute for Advanced Distributed Leaning. Air 

Command and Staff College and Air War College are among the 

professional military seminars also offered. Call 719-556-4064 to 

fi nd out more. 

Family 

Peterson has an active and varied Family Support Center with 

52 services offered through nine core program areas. Visit the staff 

in Bldg. 350, Rm. 1015; or call 556-6141 (DSN 834-6141) for more 

information. 

The Peterson Spouses Club provides support and membership to 

all spouses, regardless of rank. The club is an opportunity to meet 

new spouses, increase availability to one another and support charities. 

Visit www.petersonspouseclub.com for more information. 

Source: Content for the Peterson Air Force Base section of this publication was 

compiled from public information prepared by Public Affairs and posted on the base 

Web site; go online to www.peterson.af.mil for more complete information. 



The daily mission at the 50th Space Wing goes to all parts 

of the world and deep into space. The wing operates satellite 

operations centers at Schriever AFB and Onizuka Air Force 

Station (AFS), Calif., as well as remote tracking stations 

around the world. Schriever Air Force Base is one of the newest 

bases in the Air Force. Schriever organizations include the 50th Space Wing, which is 

the host unit; the 50th Operations Group, the 50th Network Operations Group, the 

50th Mission Support Group, the Space Innovation and Development Center, the 

Missile Defense Agency’s Joint National Integration Center, the 310th Space Group 

and numerous tenant organizations. 

The 50th Space Wing’s mission 

provides combat effects to the 

warfi ghter, to include precision 

navigation and timing and secure 

satellite communication, through 

command and control of DOD satellite 

systems. The other units at Schriever 

also perform space missions. Schriever 

Air Force Base is unique in that there is 

no fl ightline and no aircraft mission. 

Some of the services normally 

provided at most Air Force bases are not 

available on Schriever; however, nearby 

Peterson Air Force Base is a full service 

base, offering base housing and other 

support functions. 

More than 6,200 personnel work 

on Schriever Air Force Base, located 

approximately 10 miles east of Colorado 

Springs. You are joining a highly 

dedicated and professional group 

of military, civilian, and contractor 

personnel. Schriever is very proud of 

the mission success rate and the fact 

that each individual does their part to 

create a quality Air Force environment. 

Schriever AFB challenges those assigned 

to the base to become part of their 

tradition of excellence. 

Senior Airman Nayibe Ramos, a satellite system operator for the 2nd Space Operations Squadron, runs 

through a checklist during Global Positioning System satellite operations. The operations center controls a 

constellation of 29 orbiting satellites that provide navigation data to military and civilian users worldwide. 

Photo: Airman 1st Class Mike Meares 


History 

The 50th Space Wing is proudly called the “Master of 

Space.” This motto comes from the “Master of the Sky” heritage 

of the 50th Tactical Fighter Wing at Hahn Air Base, Germany 

(inactivated in 1991). The 50th SW traces its offi cial heritage to the 

50th Fighter Wing activated in1949. The roots of the wing go back 

to the 50th Fighter Group, who during World War II conducted 

combat operations in Europe. Fifty years after the war, the wing 

would be assigned at Schriever AFB. 

The 50th SW, however, wasn’t the fi rst wing at Schriever AFB. 

After searching for the best location, defense offi cials approved plans 

in September 1979 for the development of a military installation 

to house a new Combined Space Operations Center. Construction 

began May 17, 1983, on what was originally known as Falcon Air 

Force Station. The base’s fi rst host 

unit, the 2nd SW, activated July 8, 

1985. With construction continuing on 

Falcon AFS, the fi rst 2nd SW members 

moved onto the new base after a dedication 

ceremony in September 1985. 

Due to an increased mission and 

new Air Force policy, Falcon AFS 

became Falcon Air Force Base, June 

13, 1988. The year 1992 brought more 

change at Falcon AFB. Military force 

reductions in Europe and around the 

world led to the inactivation of the 50th Tactical Fighter Wing at 

Hahn Air Base, Germany, Sept. 30, 1991. 

In an effort to preserve the heritage of the Air Force’s most 

distinguished units, Headquarters, United States Air Force redesignated 

the 50th Tactical Fighter Wing to the 50th Space Wing 

and assigned it to Air Force Space Command for activation. AFSPC 

activated the 50th SW at Falcon AFB Jan. 30, 1992. 

Concurrent with the activation of the 50th SW, the command 

inactivated the 2nd SW. The 50th SW absorbed the personnel, 

equipment, facilities and functions of the inactivated 2nd SW 

Billeting 

No accommodations are available on Schriever AFB for 

visiting or permanently assigned personnel. Peterson AFB, located 

approximately 10 miles west of Schriever AFB, provides support 

to Schriever AFB for billeting. To make reservations, call 

(719) 556-6293 (DSN 834-6293). 

Housing 

The housing referral offi ce is located in Bldg. 850 at 710 Loring 

Avenue at Peterson AFB. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. 

to 4 p.m. The wait for quarters typically varies up to six months 

depending on the grade of the applicant and number of family 

members. Applications can be submitted in advance for on-base 

quarters at either Peterson AFB or the Air Force Academy through 

the Peterson AFB Family Housing Management Offi ce. For more 

information, call (719) 556-4364/7946 (DSN 834-4777/7946). 

and continued to 

provide operational 

control and support 

for several satellite 

systems. In 1998, 

the Air Force 

renamed Falcon AFB 

in honor of General 

Bernard A. Schriever, the 

man known as the “Father 

of the Air Force Space and 

Missile Program.” On June 5, 1998, 

the wing held a renaming ceremony to honor General 

Schriever, making Schriever AFB the only Air Force 

base named after a living person at that time. The 

wing operates remote tracking stations, satellite 

operations centers and other command and control 

facilities around the world. 

These facilities monitor satellites during 

launch, put the satellites in their proper orbits 

following launch, monitor and control the satellites 

while they are in orbit, fi x satellite anomalies when 

they occur, and dispose of satellites when they 

Photo: U.S Air Force archive reach the end of their useful life. The wing operates 

several satellite systems including the Defense Support 

Program, the Global Positioning System, the Defense Satellite 

Communications System and Milstar. 

The wing is composed of three groups: 50th Operations Group, 

50th Network Operations Group and 50th Mission Support Group. 

The wing, including its worldwide locations, has approximately 

3,600 active duty military, civilian and contractor personnel. 

The history of Schriever Air Force Base really begins with the 

history of its namesake: Bernard Adolph Schriever, who was the 

fi rst to be known as the Master of Space. A detailed biography of 

this American hero can be found on the Schriever Web site. 

HOUSING, HEALTH and other SUPPORT SERVICES 

Image: Courtesy of Bill Leonard 

The absence of housing on Shriever AFB will soon change. In 

March 2007, Actus Lend Lease was selected as the highest ranked 

offeror for the Tri-Group military family housing privatization 

project, which will build 269 homes at Schriever. 


Schriever AFB Clinic 

The 21st Medical Group provides medical and dental support 

to active duty and other eligible military benefi ciaries at Schriever 

AFB and contracts a 24-hour ambulance service for emergencies. 

The Schriever Medical and Dental Clinic is located in Bldg. 220 

and handles most medical services for service members assigned to 

Schriever AFB, dependents and retirees. Services include primary 

care, aeromedical, dental, immunizations, pharmacy, laboratory, 

radiology, public health and optometry. The Schriever Clinic does 

NOT offer emergency medical treatment. In the event of a medical 

emergency, call 911 for immediate assistance. 

To schedule an appointment, call 719-556-CARE between 6:30 

a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Medical Clinic hours are 6:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 

weekdays; except for the last Thursday of each month (1 p.m. to 

4:30 p.m.). Pharmacy hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., weekdays. 

Referrals 

Patients may seek care through inpatient and specialty clinics at 

Fort Carson and the U.S. Air Force Academy by referral. A referral 

must also be placed in the system for emergency room or urgent care 

visits if a patient is advised to seek these services for situations that 

are not considered threatening to life, limb or eyesight. 

Dental Services 

All annual dental exams will comprise an exam and cleaning. 

These appointments are mandatory. Patients must give at least 24 

hours’ notice for cancellations. To schedule an appointment, call 

(719) 567-5065. Dental Clinic hours are 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekdays. 

Airman and Family Readiness Center 

The Schriever AFB Airman and Family Readiness Center’s 

primary focus is to support readiness by helping families and single 

military members adapt to the demands of Air Force life and to assist 

commanders in responding to identifi ed concerns and issues. 

The AFRC, formerly the Family Support Center, designs, 

develops and conducts quality of life programs according to base 

and community needs and capabilities. The AFRC functions to 

ensure resources required to support the entire base are available and 

accessible. To accomplish its mission, the AFRC serves as the focal 

point for family matters and is professionally staffed to provide four 

core functions: 

• Provide a central point of information, referral and 

follow-up 

• Coordinate and consult with other base and civilian 

service provider agencies to strengthen policy and 

programs that benefi t the military community 

• Help base leaders effectively meet family needs at 

the unit level 

• Conduct family life education and skills 

Child Development Center 

The Child Development Center, Bldg. 60, provides care for 

children 6 weeks to 5 years of age. They are committed to providing 

the best developmental experiences for all children. The curriculum 

is designed to meet the cognitive, social, emotional and physical 

needs of children through developmentally appropriate activities. 

The CDC is DOD certifi ed and adheres to Air Force and the National 

Association for the Education of Young Children guidelines. All 

parents of children enrolled in the child development program are 

eligible to participate in the Parent Advisory Board. 

Geneva Morse reads to a pre-toddler class in the Child Development Center. 

Photo: Staff Sgt. Don Branum 

The PAB has an important role in shaping parent-involvement 

activities at the CDC. Parent participation helps to meet each 

child’s developmental needs. Meetings are held quarterly. For more 

information, see the parent board in the lobby or speak to a CDC 

representative. Authorized use of the child development program is 

outlined in AFI 34-248, “Child Development Centers,” par.7.8. Eligible 

patrons include parents who are active duty military assigned 

to all area military bases, DOD civilian personnel and DOD contractors 

working full time on the installation. Hours of operation are 6 

a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. For enrollment information, 

please call (719) 567-4742 (DSN 560-4742). 

Health and Wellness Center 

The Health and Wellness Center is located on the north side of 

Bldg. 500. The HAWC’s mission is to provide Schriever AFB with 

the very best in comprehensive, customer-driven wellness through 

awareness, education, prevention and intervention. For more information 

on programs, call (719) 567-4292(HAWC), e-mail HAWC@ 

schriever.af.mil, or go to https://schriever/hawc for online resources. 

Fitness Centers 

The Schriever Fitness Center is comprised of two facilities: 

the Main Center Bldg. 120 and the Fitness Center Annex located 

in Bldg. 502. The Fitness Center Annex is open Monday through 

The 2nd and 4th Space Operations Squadrons attempt to claim bragging rights at 

the annual 4-Fit Challenge at the Main Fitness Center. Photo: Staff Sgt. Don Branum 


Friday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed weekends and holidays. The Main 

Fitness Center is open Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; 

Saturday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call (719) 567-6628 

(DSN 560-6628). The Joint National Integration Center’s Fitness 

Center operates 24/7, has 5,600 square feet of fl oor space and 

approximately 55 pieces of equipment in excellent condition. The 

JNIC has extended the privilege of using this facility to 50th Space 

Wing personnel. To use this facility, units simply need to submit a 

roster of personnel. 

The Snow Bull from Schriever AFB plows down the slope at Keystone. The sled, 

built by Airmen and civilians from the 50th Civil Engineer Squadron at Schriever, 

won the Most Creative Design award. Photo: Steve Brady 

Outdoor Recreation and Information, Tickets and Tours Offi ce 

The Outdoor Recreation and Information, Tickets and Tours 

offi ces are located in Bldg. 300, Rm. 133. They offer a variety of 

information and services for Schriever AFB. Tickets are available 

throughout the year to ski resorts, sporting events, concerts and 

other tourist attractions in the Colorado Springs area. Many 

popular tickets to out-of-state destinations are also available. 

Affordable outdoor programs are offered at great military or group 

discount prices. A variety of camping gear and infl atable bounce 

and slide equipment is available for rent. In addition, many novelty 

items, including coins, Schriever AFB clothing, mugs and more are 

sold at the offi ce. For more information, call (719) 567-6050 

(DSN 560-6050). 

Winggate Travel, Inc. 

Winggate Travel is located in the DeKok Building, Bldg. 210, 

Rm. 303. It is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed 

12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. The offi ce serves all offi cial military and civilian 

travel needs, including airline tickets, rental cars and lodging. To 

contact a travel representative, call (719) 567-5099 (DSN 560-5099), 

or fax (719) 683-3668. 

Shoppette 

The Schriever AFB Shoppette, just off Falcon Parkway, carries 

emergency uniform items such as blousing straps and socks. It 

also offers food, health and beauty aids, magazines and more. The 

package store offers non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages and 

limited party supplies. A 24-hour gas pump is available Sundays 

through Saturdays. The system is closed down from 6 p.m. to 7 

p.m. Monday through Friday for programming. 

Banking 

Ent Federal Credit Union’s Schriever AFB Service Center is 

located in Bldg. T65 next to the shoppette. Members enjoy a 

comprehensive line of fi nancial services including online banking, 

telephone banking, 20 service centers in the Pikes Peak Region and 

thousands of surcharge-free ATMs worldwide. Ent Federal is a 

community-chartered credit union offering membership to all who 

live, work, worship or attend school in El Paso, Teller or Pueblo 

counties, or are located in areas of Denver, Arapahoe and Adams 

County. For more information, call (719) 574-1100 or (800) 525- 

9623. ATMs on Schriever AFB can be found at the Service Center 

and the West and North Portals. 

AAFES Barbershop 

The barbershop is located in the DeKok Building, Bldg. 210, 

Rm. 203, and is open 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, 

closed for lunch1 p.m. to1:30 p.m. Appointments can be made by 

telephone or through intranet computer access for slots between 

8 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.; walk-ins are accepted from 1:30 p.m. to 3 

p.m. For more information or to make an appointment, call (719) 

567-2108 (DSN 560-2108). 

Convenience Store 

The Falcon’s Nest is a convenience store in the restricted 

area operated by the Blind Association of Colorado and provides 

an assortment of sundry items, check cashing, lottery and other 

services. It is located in Bldg. 730. Hours are Monday through 

Thursday, 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; Friday, 5:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Dining 

The Satellite Dish Dining Facility is located in Bldg. 300 and 

is open to all military, DOD civilian and contractor personnel 

(dinner, midnight meals and weekends 

only) at Schriever AFB. It operates 

on an a la carte system serving 

breakfast, lunch, dinner and a 

midnight meal. 

The Joint National 

Integration Center High 

Plains Café is located inside 

the restricted area and is open 

to all personnel with access 

to the RA. The cafeteria offers 

breakfast, lunch and a carry out 

service until 2 p.m. weekdays only. 

Trina’s Brewed Awakenings serves coffee and dessert treats. It 

is located in Bldg. 720, Rm. 119. 

Coyote Café serves breakfast items, specialty coffees, teas and 

juices as well as daily lunch specials. It is located in the DeKok 

Building, Bldg. 210, Rm. 156. 

An AAFES Blimpie trailer is outside Bldg. 101 and offers call-in 

services. Hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Call 567-7654 to order. 

In addition, the Shoppette has snacks, frozen food, pre-made 

sandwiches and hot-off-the-grill hotdogs and breakfast items. 

Outdoor Recreation and the Falcon’s Nest both have a variety of 

snacks and beverages. 

Source: Content for the Schriever Air Force Base section of this publication 

was compiled from public information prepared by Public Affairs and posted on the 

base Web site; go online to www.schriever.af.mil for more complete information. 


Community 

and RECREATION 

Opportunities for community involvement 

and recreation abound in Colorado Springs, 

El Paso County and the Pikes Peak region. In 

addition to the nearly 600,000 people who live in 

the metropolitan area, more than 6 million people 

visit each year, contributing more than $1 billion 

to the local economy and ensuring a nonstop roll 

of fun tickets. Parks, trails, cultural activities, 

attractions and facilities are plentiful enough to 

keep close to 7 million people happy throughout 

the year, many taking advantage of the natural 

wonders of the area. When you live here, you’re 

never without something to do in your spare time. 

With more than 300 days of sunshine you’ll want 

to get out and explore your new surroundings as 

often as you can. 

ARTS & CULTURE 

Many artists, 

patrons, arts groups, 

galleries, music and 

dance venues, museums, 

opera, performing arts, 

theaters and auditoriums 

contribute to the culture of 

the Colorado Springs area. 

Participating and partaking 

of the arts is a passion 

many residents share. The 

Pikes Peak Arts Council is 

a great resource for gaining 

a sense of the cultural 

community. Visit www. 

pikespeakartscouncil.org 

for ideas and information 

for both patrons and 

creators of the arts. 

PARKS & TRAILS 


Since 1871, when Colorado Springs fi led the original 

town plat, it has included park provisions. The fi rst park, 

one square block, is the site of the present-day Acacia Park. 

Colorado Springs’ city founder General William Jackson 

Palmer generously donated 1,270 acres of parkland, bridle 

and foot paths, scenic drives and roadways planted with 

trees, to establish a signifi cant foundation of the Colorado 

Springs park system. These gifts included Acacia (North) 

Park, Monument Valley Park, Antlers Park, Pioneer Square 

(South) Park, Palmer Park, North Cheyenne Cañon, Prospect 

Lake and Bear Creek Cañon. 

In 1909, the Perkins heirs gave Garden of the Gods Park 

to the City, adding to the beautiful parkland already established. 

Today, Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services manages 

7 regional parks, 9 community parks, 123 neighborhood 

parks, 5 sports complexes and 45 open space areas. Colorado 

Springs has more than 12,000 acres of parks, trails and 

open space, and continues to acquire and maintain more to 

further enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors. 

Activities range from picnicking, swimming and soccer to 

hiking, biking and nature enjoyment. There are also several 

dog parks. A large variety of regional and open space areas are 



intentionally left as undeveloped parkland with natural environments 

for citizens to enjoy. 

Go to www.springsgov.com and click on the Parks, Recreation 

& Cultural Services link for specifi c information including hours and 

locations. 


El Paso County Parks hosts eight regional parks, two neighborhood 

parks, 85 miles of trails, a wedding gazebo, 22 picnic pavilions, 

an eight-lane archery range and eight tennis courts. There are 

abundant recreational opportunities in all areas of the county. El Paso 

County is home to two world-class nature centers. The Bear Creek 

Nature Center was the fi rst nature center built in Colorado. Programs 

are offered year-round at both the Bear Creek Nature Center in 

Colorado Springs and the Fountain Creek Nature Center in Fountain. 

Whether you’re looking for a place to picnic, hike, play, learn, or 

host a wedding or other special event, El Paso County Parks has you 

covered. The Parks Department was established in 1971 and has been 

growing ever since, offering more opportunities for the citizens in the 

Pikes Peak region to enjoy the nature and the outdoors. To learn more 

go to www.elpasoco.com and select Parks and Leisure Services in 

the Departments link at the bottom of the home page. 

State Parks 

The state of Colorado operates thousands of acres of parklands 

and hundreds of miles of trails in the area. To fi nd out more go 

online to http://parks.state.co.us/ and click the trees in the map 

for specifi c details. The Colorado Division of Wildlife Web site has 

information on hunting, fi shing, viewing, wildlife species and rules 

and regulations. For specifi c information about wildlife, such as living 

with mountain lions and bears in the local area. 

Go to http://wildlife/state/co/us and click on the Wildlife. 

Species link. 

Photos: Colorado Division of Wildlife 

National Forests 

Colorado has 13 national forests, the closest being Pike & 

San Isabel National Forests and Cimarron & Comanche National 

Grasslands. Three million acres of what the U.S. Forest Service calls 

the most diverse unit throughout the fi ve-state Rocky Mountain 

Region. They say it is a busy urban national forest noted for the 

majority of fourteen thousand foot peaks in Colorado. It stretches 

from Colorado’s Front Range to the wide-open grasslands of western 

Kansas. Residents can celebrate a wealth of signifi cant experiences 

from historic cabin rentals to the birthplace of developed recreation 

on the San Carlos Ranger District. The Comanche Ranger District 

lays claim to the internationally known dinosaur trackway at Picketwire 

Canyon and continues to excite researchers and visitors alike 

with new discoveries. With nine Wilderness areas, numerous Scenic 

Byways and a full spectrum of outdoor opportunities including 

camping and picnic areas, the Pike & San Isabel National Forests and 

Cimarron & Comanche National Grasslands rank third highest in the 

nation for recreational visits. www.fs.fed.us/r2/psicc/ 

ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS 

Academy Riding Stables 

Enjoy Colorado horseback riding through the Garden of the Gods 

with Academy Riding Stables in Colorado Springs. 

www.academyridingstables.com/ 

Air Force Academy 

The United States Air Force Academy Visitor Center provides 

information on the Academy, including maps for self-guided tours, 

and an information fi lm about the Academy and cadet life. 

www.usafa.af.mil 

Arkansas River 

White water rafting, fl oat trips and kayaking are all available on 

the Arkansas River, just an hour south of town. An online search 

will yield many companies offering river adventures on the Arkansas 

River, South Platte River and other waters in the area. 

Photo: Courtesy of El Paso County 

Balloon Rides 

Hot air balloons offer an exhilarating fl ight with the bonus of an 

incredible aerial tour of the area. www.coloradoballoonrides.com 

Challenge Unlimited 

Learn the trails and join others in great hiking and biking adventures 

in the Pikes Peak region. www.bikithikit.com 

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo 

Experience an unforgettable adventure combining breathtaking 

mountain scenery with more than 750 animals from around the 

world, including more than 30 endangered species. The Cheyenne 

Mountain Zoo is a tax-exempt, non-profi t public trust providing recreation, 

education, conservation, preservation and scientifi c facilities in 

the fi eld of zoology and related subjects. www.cmzoo.org/ 

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo has a 

herd of 19 reticulated giraffes. The 

zoo’s giraffe breeding program is the 

most prolifi c in the world with 185 

births since 1954. See the live giraffe 

Web cam on their Web site. 


Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center 

Founded in 1936, this private, nonprofi t art museum, performing 

arts theatre and arts education center is on the National Register of 

Historic Places. The center is undergoing a major expansion. 

www.csfi neartscenter.org 

Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum 

The Museum is operated by the city of Colorado Springs and is 

located downtown in the beautifully restored 1903 El Paso County 

Courthouse. The history and culture of the Pikes Peak region are 

portrayed and celebrated through exhibits, programs and special 

events. Admission is free; hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 

a.m. to 5 p.m. www.cspm.org 

Dinosaurs & Fossils 

Rocky Mountain Dinosaur Resource Center, Woodland Park. 

ww.rmdrc.com 

Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Florissant. 

www.nps.gov/fl fo/ 

Flea Market 

Open every weekend, free parking, kids get in free, rides for kids, 

live bands, acres of vendors. www.csfl eamarket.com 

Flying W Ranch 

Old west dinner theatre with chuck wagon suppers and western 

stage show hallmark this old western town with 14 museum buildings 

and gift shops. www.fl yingw.com 

Garden of the Gods 

Explore red-sandstone rock formations by foot or horse in this 

1,300 acre park that is registered as a National Natural Landmark. 

Surely one of the natural wonders of the world, the city owned park 

is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout most of the year. 

www.gardenofgods.com 

Ghost Town 

Ghost Town Wild West Museum is a true preservation of 

Colorado’s western past. Take a fun and historic look back at 

the kind of old west town that used to dot the area during the 

late1800s and early 1900s, you can even pan for gold in the summer. 

www.ghosttownmuseum.com 

Golf Courses 

Golfi ng is very popular in the area with all the sunshine and 

blue skies. There are two dozen golf courses in the immediate area. 

www.golfcolorado.com 

Lakes & Reservoirs 

About 30 lakes and reservoirs are within about 10 miles of Colorado 

Springs for boating, fi shing, birding, water fun and agricultural 

irrigation. Explore the city and county Web sites to fi nd locations. 

www.springsgov.com and www.elpasoco.com 

Lottery 

The Colorado Lottery raises millions of dollars every year. Since 

1983, the Lottery has returned more that $1 billion to the people of 

Colorado. Those funds have gone to build parks and recreation facilities, 

help preserve wildlife and open spaces, and build state facilities. 

www.coloradolottery.com 

Mountaineering 

With all the mountains around, many try mountaineering. Learn 

the rules and techniques to keep you safe and out of trouble. Pikes 

Peak Alpine School – Summit Expeditions www.sei-ppas.com 

Old Colorado City 

Old Colorado City is a national historic district dating back to 

1861 when it became the fi rst territorial capital of Colorado. Colorado 

Springs annexed Old Colorado City in 1917 and restored it as the 

only historic district in 1977. Today you’ll go back in time as you 

walk the brick sidewalks through this section of town. Enjoy all 

the cafes, restaurants, galleries, boutiques and specialty shops the 

merchants have in restored buildings that once housed saloons, parlor 

houses and general stores. www.shopoldcoloradocity.com/ 


Pikes Peak 

Don’t just look up, go 10 miles west of 

I-25 on US 24 and experience Pikes Peak, the 

namesake of the entire region. 

www.pikespeakcolorado.com 

Pikes Peak Cog Railway 

The Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog 

Railway, the highest cog railway in the world, 

climbs nine miles from Manitou Springs to 

the 14,110 summit of Pikes Peak. 

www.cograilway.com/ 

Pikes Peak Highway 

The Pikes Peak Highway is open year 

round except for winter-weather closures, and 

climbs 19 miles from Cascade to the summit 

of Pikes Peak. Pikes Peak Highway hosts the 

Pikes Peak International Hill Climb each 4th 

of July when more than 50 drivers “race to 

the clouds.” www.ppihc.com 

Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo 

Enjoy Pikes Peak or Bust parade, live 

entertainment, refreshments and competitive 

rodeo at the Norris-Penrose Events Center 

Arena for one of the nation’s premier rodeos 

sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys 

Association. Watch world champions 

compete. www.coloradospringsrodeo.com 

ProRodeo Hall of Fame and 

Museum of the American Cowboy 

Visit the only museum in the world 

devoted exclusively to the sport of rodeo and 

its star, the rodeo cowboy. Trace the history 

of rodeo and relive the glory of its greatest 

champions. Facilities include the museum 

and hall of fame (with annual inductions for 

new cowboys and livestock), an art gallery 

with exhibits celebrating rodeo, gardens and 

barbeque/event areas with bronze statues 

throughout. Become an associate member 

and enjoy free admission. 

www.prorodeohalloffame.com 

Seven Falls 

Become inspired with the awesome 

panoramic views and see seven waterfalls 

plummet nearly 200 feet over a granite cliff. 

www.sevenfalls.com 

Pike’s Peak 

Sky Sox 

The Colorado Springs Sky Sox are the 

AAA minor league baseball affi liate of the 

Colorado Rockies. Come watch them play 

home games in the Sky Sox Stadium from 

April to Labor Day. www.skysox.com 

Slopes 

If you ski or snowboard, or want to, 

there’s no fi ner place to be than Colorado. 

Nearly 30 of America’s fi nest slopes and 

resorts are within fewer than 300 miles for 

families to explore, most are just a couple 

of hours away. 

Go to www.coloradoski.com/ 

or www.coskiing.com/ for more 

information, daily snow reports and 

detailed maps. 


Sports 

Drive an hour north to Denver and you 

can have your pick of any professional sport, 

depending on the season: Colorado Avalanche 

(hockey), Colorado Rapids (soccer), Colorado 

Rockies (baseball), Denver Broncos (football) 

and Denver Nuggets (basketball). Find 

schedules, directions and team info online 

with a simple search. 

U.S. Olympic Complex 

The U.S. Olympic Complex is located 

in the heart of Colorado Springs and is the 

headquarters for the U.S. Olympic Committee 

administration and the Olympic Training 

Center programs. A dozen USOC member 

organizations have their national headquarters 

on the complex; another dozen member 

organizations and two international sports 

federations are located nearby in Colorado 

Springs. In addition to all the training, housing, 

dining, recreational facilities and other 

services for up to 557 coaches and athletes at 

one time are provided on the complex. 

The Olympic Visitor Center is the primary 

support facility serving the general public and 

providing information about the U.S. Olympic 

Committee, U.S. Olympic Training Centers 

and the Olympic Movement. The building 

includes the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame, an 

indoor reception area, an Olympic retail store 

and a 225-seat auditorium. Free public tours 

are conducted daily. The U.S. Olympic Spirit 

Store offers Olympic sports merchandise and 

gift items unavailable elsewhere. The tour 

includes a walk a long the Irwin Belk Olympic 

Path and visits to the U.S. Olympic Hall of 

Fame rotunda and roof-top terrace, which has 

an Olympic fl ame display and offers panoramic 

views of the entire complex and beautiful 

Colorado Springs. www.usoc.org 

PLACES OF WORSHIP 

Perhaps the natural beauty of 

the area inspires a high level of 

spirituality, drawing a multitude 

of religious organizations and 

followers to the area. The Pikes 

Peak region is host to more than 

two dozen Christian organizations, 

many with their national and 

international headquarters here. 

More than 300 places to worship 

are sprinkled throughout the area. 

www.usachurch.com/colorado/ 

colorado_springs/ 


Surrounding 

AREAS 

Black Forest 

The Black Forest area borders the north end of 

Colorado Springs. Fewer than 12,000 people make 

these 200,000 acres of heavily wooded mountains 

home, most of which are in a rural atmosphere on 

fi ve or more acres at altitudes between 6,500-7,800 

feet. It’s no secret why a German immigrant gave the 

area its name; the ponderosa pines reminded him of 

home – the Black Forest in Germany. There is a city 

center with all the amenities of small town America 

at its best. www.blackforest-co.com/ 

Canon City 

Just past the southwest border of Fort Carson, 

45 minutes southwest of Colorado Springs, you’ll 

fi nd Canon City. Royal Gorge Bridge, the highest 

suspension bridge in the world is there, along with 

railroad and helicopter tours. Many enjoy the 

fabulous rafting and kayaking in Echo Canyon on 

the Arkansas River. The downtown district is on the 

National Historic Register; other attractions include 

The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey, Dinosaur Depot, 

Museum of Colorado and Buckskin Joe Frontier 

Town & Railway. www.canoncitycolorado.com 

The Royal Gorge Bridge near Cañon City, Colo., is the highest suspension bridge in the world, 

standing 1,053 feet above the Arkansas River at the bottom of the canyon. Photo: Staff Sgt. Don Branum. 


Cripple Creek 

Drive about an hour west of Colorado Springs and 

you’ll be among old mines and ghost towns, and in one of 

three cities in Colorado where limited-stakes gambling is 

legal. About 20 establishments and casinos offer video and 

live poker, slot machines and blackjack tables. The Pike’s 

Peak Heritage Center is north of town, with free admission 

and fun for the whole family. There’s also a narrow gauge 

railroad and the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, where you can 

go 10,000 feet underground to tour an 1890s gold mine. 

www.cripple-creek.co.us 

Fountain 

Ten miles south of Colorado Springs in the Fountain 

Valley, you’ll fi nd El Paso County’s oldest town. Founded in 

1859, Fountain served as the area’s agricultural hub, with 

crops and cattle shipped in and out on the railroad. The 

New York Times named Fountain America’s Millennium 

City in 1999, and the National Civic League named it an 

All-America City in 2002. For golfers, the Appletree Golf 

Course, designed by Lee Trevino, is one of El Paso County’s 

best kept secrets. The Fountain Fall Festival is held every Labor 

Day and is a fun-fi lled family day. Fountain offers small 

town living with urban amenities nearby. About 50,000 live 

in the Fountain Valley, which includes Security-Widefi eld 

along with Fountain. www.fountaincolorado.org/ 


Manitou Springs 

Four miles west of Colorado Springs is Manitou Springs, a 

community rich in history and culture with a high concentration 

of mineral springs. Colorado’s Indians considered the area sacred. 

Founded on those waters as a resort community in the 1800s, it’s 

become a haven for artists, environmentalists, entrepreneurs and 

tourists. Shopping here is an eclectic experience, whether you are 

buying artwork, souvenirs, food or even a home. The Mumbo 

Jumbo Cook-Off and Carnivale, one of more than a dozen annual 

events, features a Mardi Gras parade and brings in large crowds who 

want to experience the Big Easy without going to New Orleans. 

The annual August Mountain Music Festival is also very popular, 

along with the historic mansions, cliff dwellings and underground 

caves. www.manitousprings.org/ 

Pueblo 

Monument 

In the far northeast corner 

of El Paso County, about 20 

miles north of Colorado Springs 

is the lovely family community 

of Monument. Parks, trails and 

open spaces abound in this 

community that’s growing. 

Many homes are set on half-acre 

lots and there are plenty of 

2.5-acre to5-acre lots for people 

who want to keep horses and 

other animals, or just have 

plenty of room. Monument 

Lake, Woodmoor Pines Golf & 

Country Club, Kings Deer Golf 

Club and Fox Run Regional Park 

are just some of the places to 

enjoy your day in Monument. 

www.townofmonument.net/ 

Pueblo is about 40 miles south of Colorado Springs on Interstate 

25, and since 1872, has hosted the annual Colorado State Fair & 

Rodeo. Each May, there is a Cinco de Mayo Fairgrounds Fiesta. The 

Pueblo Zoo exhibits more than 400 animals of 130 species from 

around the world. Pueblo Reservoir and Lake Pueblo State Park are 

just west of town. Pueblo makes for a great day trip for there is 

much to do and see year-round. www.pueblo.us/ 

Woodland Park 

Eighteen miles west of Colorado Springs you’ll fi nd Woodland 

Park in the clouds at an elevation of 8,465 feet. Situated on the 

north slope of Pikes Peak, it’s surrounded by the 1.1 million acre 

Pike National Forest with views of the Rampart Range. Throughout 

the year, the Ute Pass Cultural Center hosts a multitude of art and 

music events. The annual Rocky Mountain Oktoberfest is must-go 

with music, food, drink, dancing and entertainment. Woodland Park 

has a lot to offer visitors and residents. 

www.city-woodlandpark.org/

Colorado Springs and El Paso County Relocation ... - Keep Trees

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?