Things To Do
in Fort Carson
Fort Carson is a large U.S. Army installation located on the western edge of Colorado Springs, at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It hosts training ranges, housing, and community services with a strong emphasis on readiness and resilience. Public access to most base facilities is limited to authorized personnel, but the surrounding area offers ample outdoor recreation and Western Colorado culture.
Nearby attractions such as Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, and Old Colorado City make the area a rich base-to-outdoors travel destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your immersive journey by arriving at Colorado Springs Airport and heading to Fort Carson’s Visitor Center for a warm welcome briefing. Meet with a base guide to obtain your access credentials, maps, and safety orientation. Familiarize yourself with the installation layout, emergency procedures, and key amenities such as the PX and fitness center.
Enjoy a campus-style lunch at Iron Horse Sports & Fitness Center’s cafe and settle into your on-post lodging. Take a guided driving tour of the main garrisons, training areas, and recreational facilities to get an insider’s view of life on Fort Carson. Stop by the post exchange to pick up souvenirs and essential supplies.
Dine at the Freedom’s Edge dining facility alongside service members and families to experience genuine base camaraderie. Attend an optional evening briefing on local wildlife safety and base regulations. Unwind with a stroll through Founders Field and admire the sunset over Cheyenne Mountain.
Drive west to Garden of the Gods for a sunrise hike among its towering red sandstone formations. Join a ranger-led walk to learn about the park’s geological history and native wildlife. Capture panoramic views of Pikes Peak framed by the dramatic rock spires.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the North Gateway picnic area before tackling the Perkins Central Garden Trail. Try a beginner-friendly rock scramble under the guidance of a certified climbing instructor. Visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center to explore interactive exhibits and purchase local artisan crafts.
Return to Fort Carson for a relaxed barbecue at Iron Horse Sports & Fitness Center’s outdoor grills. Attend a stargazing program on Founders Field, where telescopes offer views of the Milky Way above the Rocky Mountains. Share stories around a campfire with fellow travelers and service members.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🧃Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-200 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
| 💡Internet and utilities (monthly) | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Iconic mountain scenery and easy access to Rocky Mountain trails
- Strong military history and well-maintained outdoor spaces
- Family-friendly with museums and parks nearby
- Good base-to-outdoors gateway with Colorado Springs amenities
- Base access may require proper authorization and scheduling
- Altitude effects for visitors not acclimated
- Winter weather can cause travel delays
- Some high-demand areas get crowded during peak seasons
Places to Visit in Fort Carson
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic red rock formations framed by granite spires, offering dramatic sunrise and golden-hour shots with the Rockies as a backdrop.
Rolling meadows and forested slopes with panoramic views of the Front Range and Colorado Springs skyline during golden hours.
Colorful historic storefronts and rustic architecture provide vibrant street photography opportunities, especially at dusk.
Food in Fort Carson
Fort Carson Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting Colorado staple featuring pork or chicken with roasted green chiles, potatoes, and spices; widely available in local eateries and diners.
Must-Try!
Lean game meat served as burgers or steaks; found at many local pubs and grill houses, often accompanied by Colorado-grown toppings.
Freshwater trout prepared grilled or pan-seared with citrus or herb butter; common near mountain towns and restaurants with seasonal menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering locally grown produce, artisanal foods, street-style snacks, and live music in the heart of the city.
A charming market featuring local crafts, street food stalls, and fresh produce, set near the scenic Manitou area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect base rules, follow posted signage, and avoid taking photos of sensitive areas. Request permission for photography on base and address military personnel by rank when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Fort Carson
Ensure a smooth experience
In the US, standard tips are 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink or service at bars; hotel staff typically $1-5 per service; tax is added to most bills.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming wildflowers; sudden afternoon showers are common. Layered clothing helps; trails can be muddy early in the season.
Warm days with possible afternoon thunderstorms; high-altitude sun requires sunscreen and hydration; early mornings are ideal for hiking.
Clear skies and colorful foliage; traffic can increase around peak foliage times; temperatures begin to cool, so bring a jacket.
Cold, dry conditions with potential snowfall; some trails may be icy; pack warm layers, waterproof footwear, and plan for shorter daylight hours.
Fort Carson at Night
Hiking in Fort Carson
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, scenic hikes among towering red rock formations with views of Pikes Peak.
Extensive network of well-marked trails with varying difficulty and panoramic lookout points.
Steep, challenging ascent offering dramatic views after ascent; check local access rules and weather.
Airports
How to reach Fort Carson by plane.
Nearest major airport with domestic flights; short drive to Fort Carson and Colorado Springs.
Major hub about 70 miles north; long-haul flights and domestic connections.
Smaller regional airport providing limited services; convenient for ground transfers from southern Colorado.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the area's demographic due to Fort Carson; diverse and active community.
Residents drawn to Colorado’s tech, healthcare, and outdoor recreation sectors.
A growing demographic with a vibrant cultural presence in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Front Range resorts like Breckenridge/Keystone offer day trips from Colorado Springs during winter.
Popular year-round activities across Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain, and foothill trails.
Accessible in Red Rocks Open Space and local crags; guided climbs available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fort Carson.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Colorado Springs restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for veggie burritos, salads, veggie burgers, and meat-free entrees; ask for customization and avoid meat-based broths when needed.