Thank You, CommonSpirit Penrose and St. Francis Hospitals: Advancing Health Through the Power of the Outdoors
At Pikes Peak Outdoors (PPO), we are proud to recognize CommonSpirit Penrose and St. Francis Hospitals as valued partners in the health and vitality of the Pikes Peak region. For generations, these hospitals have served as trusted cornerstones of care across Colorado Springs, and their commitment to whole-person wellness aligns powerfully with our mission to expand outdoor recreation access, promote conservation, and strengthen the well-being of our community.
Nestled at the base of Pikes Peak, our region offers unparalleled opportunities to experience the healing benefits of the outdoors. CommonSpirit understands what many of us experience every time we step onto a trail: nature is one of the most effective prescriptions for better health. Regular time outdoors—whether hiking, mountain biking, trail running, or simply walking through parks and open spaces—delivers proven physical and mental health benefits. These activities support cardiovascular health, strengthen muscles and bones, reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and foster a deeper sense of connection and resilience.
CommonSpirit’s mission of delivering compassionate, high-quality care extends beyond the walls of its hospitals and into the broader health of our mountain community. By supporting the systems, infrastructure, and culture that make outdoor recreation accessible and safe, CommonSpirit helps create the conditions for healthier lives. When more people can enjoy well-maintained trails, protected open spaces, and inclusive outdoor experiences, the entire region benefits through improved public health, stronger communities, and a higher quality of life.
At Pikes Peak Outdoors, we see this connection every day. Our work advancing projects such as Ring the Peak, improving multi-use trail networks, expanding equitable access to outdoor recreation, and advocating for sustainable stewardship directly supports the preventive health outcomes that CommonSpirit strives to achieve. Time spent outdoors is more than recreation—it is a powerful form of preventive medicine.
We are grateful for the leadership and commitment of CommonSpirit Penrose and St. Francis Hospitals in caring for our community and for the shared recognition that a healthier region depends on both exceptional clinical care and abundant opportunities to move, explore, and reconnect with nature.
Thank you, CommonSpirit Penrose and St. Francis Hospitals, for your continued partnership in building a healthier, more active, and more resilient Pikes Peak region.
