Picnicking

In the Pikes Peak Region

Picnicking in the Pikes Peak region is a captivating experience that combines the beauty of nature with the joy of outdoor dining. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, from the majestic Pikes Peak to lush forests and sparkling lakes, you can find numerous designated picnic spots throughout the region. Whether you enjoy a meal in a public park or venture into the wilderness, you’ll be immersed in the breathtaking scenery and have the opportunity to engage in various outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, or simply basking in the tranquility of nature. With its family-friendly atmosphere and abundance of recreational opportunities, picnicking is an ideal way to create lasting memories and savor the wonders of this picturesque destination.

From large to small group picnics, make sure to have everything you need for a more relaxing stay. Several retailers in the region offer picnic equipment like chairs and blankets. You can also find many small activity gear like badminton sets at these retail locations. Also, don’t forget plenty of water and sunscreen!

Plan accordingly with the number of people going and the amenities required for your stay. Visit each parks information web page for amenities (e.g. bathrooms, gazebos/pavilions, water access, grills, playgrounds, and open space/fields). Gazebos and pavilions may need to be reserved during your stay. Don’t forget to clean up your space afterwards for other families – bringing a trash bag may be appropriate.

Getting Started

Are you ready to embark on a delightful picnicking adventure in the Pikes Peak region? The only two things needed for your adventure are a meal or snack, and a willingness to have fun and connect with nature while dining. With the variety of picturesque spots to enjoy a relaxing meal, you are sure to have a good time.

Pro Tip

Remember to leave no trace and practice responsible picnicking. Clean up after yourself, dispose of waste properly, and respect the natural environment.

Be Prepared

To best be prepared, be sure to plan ahead for your journey and research your picnic spot in advance to make sure all your needs are met. Consider factors such as accessibility, facilities, parking availability, if a permit is required, and what the fire restrictions are in that area.

Be sure to pack

Food
Water
Insect Repellent
Sunscreen
First Aid Kit
Entertainment and Activities

Outdoor Ethics for Picnicking

The Leave No Trace Seven Principles are reprinted with the permission of the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics. For more information, visit www.LNT.org.

- Be prepared! Remember food and water, and clothes to protect you from cold, heat and rain.
- Use maps to plan where you’re going. Check them along the way so you’ll stay on course and won’t get lost.
- Remember to bring a leash for your pet and plastic bags to pick up your pet’s waste.
- Learn about the areas you plan to visit. Read books, check online and talk to people before you go. The more you know, the more fun you’ll have.
- Walk and ride on designated trails to protect trailside plants.
- Do not step on flowers or small trees. Once damaged, they may not grow back.
- Respect private property by staying on designated trails.
- Camp only on existing or designated campsites to avoid damaging vegetation.
- Good campsites are found, not made. Don’t dig trenches or build structures in your campsite.
- Pack it in, Pack it out. Put litter–even crumbs, peels and cores–in garbage bags and carry it home.
- Use bathrooms or outhouses when available. If not available, bury human waste in a small hole 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet or 70 big steps from water.
- Use a plastic bag to pack out your pet’s poop to a garbage can.
- Keep water clean. Do not put soap, food, or human or pet waste in lakes or streams.
- Leave plants, rocks and historical items as you find them so others can enjoy them.
- Treat living plants with respect. Carving, hacking or peeling plants may kill them.
- Use a camp stove for cooking. Stoves are easier to cook on and create less impact than a fire.
- If you want to have a campfire, be sure it’s permitted and safe to build a fire in the area you’re visiting. Use only existing fire rings to protect the ground from heat. Keep your fire small.
- Remember, a campfire isn’t a garbage can. Pack out all trash and food.
- Before gathering any firewood, check local regulations.
- Burn all wood to ash and be sure the fire is completely out and cold before you leave.
- Observe wildlife from a distance and never approach, feed or follow them.
- Human food is unhealthy for all wildlife and feeding them starts bad habits.
- Protect wildlife and your food by securely storing your meals and trash.
- Be considerate when passing others on the trail.
- Keep your pet under control to protect it, other visitors and wildlife.
- Listen to nature. Avoid making loud noises or yelling. You will see more wildlife if you are quiet.
- Be sure the fun you have outdoors does not bother anyone else. Remember, other visitors are there to enjoy the outdoors too.

Gear & Services

Pikes Peak Outfitter

293 S. 21st Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

Hiking, Ice Fishing, Picnicking, Snow, Snowshoeing, Stillwater Canoeing, Stillwater Kayaking, Stillwater SUPing, Water

Rentals

Pikes Peak Outfitter

293 S. 21st Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

Hiking, Ice Fishing, Picnicking, Snow, Snowshoeing, Stillwater Canoeing, Stillwater Kayaking, Stillwater SUPing, Water

Guided Adventures

Pikes Peak Outfitter

293 S. 21st Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

Hiking, Ice Fishing, Picnicking, Snow, Snowshoeing, Stillwater Canoeing, Stillwater Kayaking, Stillwater SUPing, Water

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