Pikes Peak Outdoors started in 2016, by David and Becky Leinweber, as Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) for the collaboration of outdoor businesses, nonprofits, government entities, and individuals who recognize the value of our region’s natural and recreation assets to our community both as an economic driver and for our health and well-being and the strength found in working together. PPO’s mission is still to strengthen the outdoor recreation industry for the Pikes Peak region through leadership and collaboration.
Led by a Board and Advisory Council consisting of outdoor industry and community leaders, including founding partners: Colorado Springs Chamber and EDC and Visit Colorado Springs, the organization works to make the Pikes Peak region known as THE place for outdoor recreation.
In the outdoors, we come together with friends and family, make lasting memories and find solitude and contemplation. A growing body of research shows that being outdoors delivers health benefits that are, in many cases, on par with pharmaceutical treatments. When leaders invest in outdoor recreation, research shows that it can reduce crime rates, improve educational outcomes, and lower health care costs—all of which leads to a better community.
Throughout the site, we aim to educate you in best practices for recreating responsibly and stewarding our natural resources.Â
This website is made possible through our funding partners including the City of Colorado Springs Lodging and Automobile Rental Tax (LART) and Visit Colorado Springs.Â
Mission
To strengthen the outdoor recreation industry for the Pikes Peak region through leadership and collaboration.
Vision
PPORA will help establish the Pikes Peak Region as one of the premier destinations to pursue Outdoor Recreation, while helping to attract and recruit appropriate businesses, and establish policies and best practices for our industry.
Values
Grow
Responsibly grow outdoor recreation in the Pikes Peak region.
ADVOCATE
Advocate on behalf of the outdoor recreation industry at the local, state, and national levels.
STRENGTHEN
Strengthen the Pikes Peak region’s outdoor recreation industry.
BOARD
The Pikes Peak Outdoors Board meets every other month providing guidance on a range of opportunities and issues the organization works to solve. Our Board Members are passionate about the outdoors but are professionals representing a range of local industries. Together, we aim to execute on our Vision / Mission / Values.
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Advisory Council is made up of industry representatives from across El Paso, Teller, and Fremont Counties. This Council meets monthly to build relationships, improve communication, coordinate planning, and get informed about issues and topics that are driving the industry.
REGIONAL PLAN TASK FORCE
This Regional Plan Task Force meets quarterly and is comprised of local stakeholders across the recreation and conservation industry to provide perspective, expertise, and leadership in the planning and execution process of the Regional Plan. Additional expertise and perspectives will be sought during the process to ensure voices across the region are heard and included in this planning initiative.