Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, at least 60 million people went hiking in 2022. Colorado Springs is known for its serene outdoor views and superb hiking trails. In this blog we’ll talk about some of the best hiking spots locally in the Springs, as well as which of our CBD products could benefit someone who is looking to hike these trails!
Cheyenne Mountain State Park
Cheyenne Mountain State Park is one of the most popular state parks in the area of Colorado Springs. With 2701 acres to explore and multiple trails to take, it’s no wonder why so many people come here to hike. Renowned for its expansive network of hiking trails, this park is a paradise for hikers of all skill levels, promising breathtaking vistas and encounters with diverse wildlife amidst the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains. From leisurely strolls through meadows to challenging ascents up rocky peaks.
Cheyenne Mountain State Park also boasts a plethora of outdoor activities to engage with year round. Mountain biking enthusiasts can traverse trails that wind through the park's terrain. For those seeking a more tranquil approach, the park offers opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking, and wildlife photography, allowing visitors to connect with nature on a more personal level. With its diversity of recreational opportunities set against a backdrop of beautiful landscapes, Cheyenne Mountain State Park is perfect to immerse yourself in the wonders of the great outdoors of Colorado.
A Brief History of Cheyenne Mountain State Park
The area around Cheyenne Mountain has been inhabited by various Native American tribes for millennia, including the Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho peoples. Evidence of their presence, such as petroglyphs and artifacts, can still be found in the park. The region was explored by Spanish and French explorers in the 18th century, but it wasn't until the 19th century that significant settlement occurred. The Gold Rush of 1859 brought prospectors and settlers to Colorado, and the area around Cheyenne Mountain saw its share of homesteaders and ranchers.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, there was growing interest in preserving the natural beauty of the Cheyenne Mountain area. In 2000, Colorado voters approved funding for the creation of Cheyenne Mountain State Park, which officially opened to the public in 2006. Today, Cheyenne Mountain State Park offers visitors a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park's diverse ecosystems support a variety of flora and fauna, including deer, elk, black bears, and numerous bird species.
Seven Bridges
Seven Bridges is a 3.5 mile hike that follows a creek in the North Cheyenne Canyon. Along the hike you will encounter seven bridges spread out in the park. This trail is one of the more popular ones in Colorado Springs and can be very busy during the summer. Taking this trail comes with the benefit of serene views and a picturesque part of Colorado Springs. The best times to take this trail are between March through November.
The Story Of Seven Bridges
The trail's history is closely tied to the development of the park itself, which was established in 1885, thanks to the efforts of General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs. Jackson Palmer envisioned the park as a natural haven for residents and visitors. Over time, North Cheyenne Canon became renowned for its scenic beauty, and the creation of trails like Seven Bridges allowed for greater accessibility and enjoyment of its natural wonders.
The Seven Bridges trail gained prominence as a recreational route in the 20th century. The bridges, which are the trail's signature feature, were constructed to provide safe and convenient crossings over North Cheyenne Creek. Each bridge offers unique views of the surrounding forested canyon and the creek below. Today, Seven Bridges stands as a testament to the foresight of early conservationists and continues to be a cherished part of the outdoor experience in Colorado Springs, attracting countless visitors each year who come to appreciate its natural significance.
Garden Of The Gods
Garden of the Gods Is a stunning public park known for its red rock formations and scenic beauty. The park's history dates back over 300 million years to when the geological formations first began to take shape. The red rock formations were created by a geological upheaval along a natural fault line, producing the towering sandstone spires, fins, and balanced rocks that characterize the area. Indigenous peoples, including the Ute, Comanche, and Apache tribes, revered the site for its striking natural beauty and used it for various ceremonial purposes long before European settlers arrived.
In the 19th century, the area gained attention from American settlers and explorers. In 1859, surveyor Rufus Cable famously named it "Garden of the Gods," proclaiming that it was a place fit for the gods to assemble. Charles Elliott Perkins, a railroad magnate, purchased much of the land in 1879 with the intention of preserving its natural beauty. Upon his death, Perkins' children honored his wishes by donating the land to the City of Colorado Springs in 1909 under the condition that it remain free and open to the public.
Today, Garden of the Gods holds immense relevance both as a cultural and recreational treasure. The park is a National Natural Landmark, recognized for its unique geological formations and its diverse ecosystem, which supports a variety of wildlife and plant species. Additionally, Garden of the Gods serves as an educational resource, offering numerous programs and exhibits that highlight the area's natural history and cultural significance. It remains a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, symbolizing the enduring commitment to preserving natural beauty for future generations.
CBD Products That Could Be Beneficial For Hiking
Full Spectrum CBD Lotion
Full Spectrum CBD lotion is an easy way to see what topical application of CBD can do for you. If you are someone who is looking to hike one of these trails that we’ve talked about in this blog, our Full Spectrum CBD lotion is a great place to start. This lotion utilizes a non greasy formula so applying it doesn’t leave a slippery residue on the skin. This lotion is made with simple ingredients too so you don’t have to worry about if it will irritate your skin. They even are made with Aloe Vera which works great for healing skin from sunburns! We packed 2000mg of full spectrum CBD with all the essential cannabinoids and THC content of 0.3% or less. Grab a bottle today before your hike and see what you can do for you!
Full Spectrum CBD Salve
The 3,000mg Full Spectrum CBD salve that we carry is another excellent option for anyone looking to loosen up their muscles before a hike or get some relief post hike. This salve is one of our most popular topicals due to its high concentration and all organic ingredients. By using this full spectrum CBD product, you are getting the full benefits of utilizing all the compounds and cannabinoids from the hemp plant in order to get that synergistic relationship known as the entourage effect. The salve even comes in a rosemary and arnica scent and contains zero artificial dyes and coloring. Even people with super sensitive skin can use it and see what a full spectrum topical can do for them!
CBD Roll On
If you are someone who is looking for a CBD product to keep in your pocket or hiking bag, our 500mg CBD roll on might be just what you are looking for. Our CBD roll on utilizes a roller ball for easy use and mess free application as well as peppermint oil for the cooling relief it gives. It’s also made with only three ingredients so anyone who has sensitive skin or a long list of allergies can be assured that this product most likely will not cause a negative reaction. Many customers share that the roll has been helpful with reducing skin irritation and inflammation from bug bites. Our customers have even been using these for headaches and migraines by simply applying it to the temples or tension spots. As with the rest of our CBD products, they are even third party lab tested to ensure total transparency with what you are buying.
CBD Patches
Active CBD pain patches are a great option for those looking for extended temporary relief for minor aches and pains, to joint pain, to even chronic pain. You can wear these patches for up to 48 hours and they are hypoallergenic! With 60mg of CBD in each patch and 4% lidocaine, it's no wonder why many of our customers go with these patches when experiencing uncomfortable pain in a specific area. Since these patches are transdermal the CBD has a much higher rate of bioavailability so you can be assured that your getting the maximum amount of absorption possible.
Broad Spectrum CBD Tincture
Broad spectrum CBD tincture is a THC-free option of oil that is made with our water soluble formula to ensure maximum absorption. Broad spectrum CBD is almost identical to full spectrum but the THC content has been removed. This is the perfect option for anyone looking to get the entourage effect from the different cannabinoids and compounds from the hemp plant. It's also a good option for anyone looking for a quick way to get a dose of CBD into the body. Typically taking this product sublingually it only takes 15-20 minutes for absorption, and you can expect effects to last 4-6 hours.
