I am thankful for the history of Colorado Springs, for the vision of our forefathers who realized the beauty that surrounds us and for their efforts to create a world-class parks system that is connected in many ways to our community, readily accessible by our residents and visitors alike. I’m filled with gratitude for the work that we are able to do at TOSC in collaboration with our many partners to help foster this vision in our current times, and for the focus on stewardship that we are able to inspire all throughout our region, especially among our younger generation. Our parks, open spaces, urban trails and outdoor areas should be seen by all in Colorado Springs as a valuable asset to be protected, enjoyed and shared with others in our community, it’s the connections to these special places that create the magic that is COS.
-Allen Beauchamp. Community Engagement
Great Gift Ideas for Pikes Peak Outdoor Enthusiasts
This holiday season, give gifts that benefit the places outdoor lovers like to play!
o TOSC Chocolate Bar from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
o Cañon Blend Coffee at Sacred Grounds Coffee Shop
o Shop Mountain Equipment Recyclers for new & used outdoor gear
Open Space Update
Remember as a kid how hard it was to wait for Christmas Day before opening presents?
That’s how some of us feel about the opening of the new EPC Pineries Open Space in Black Forest. We can’t wait!
Unfortunately, the winter weather has slowed the process. The ground is frozen and all the necessary signs and trail markers can’t be installed until the ground thaws. The recent heavy snow made it impossible to tell where the new trails are! El Paso County Parks staff promise they will open once it warms up and holes can be bored – as soon as possible. They are eager too!!
Come check out the best light displays in the Boulder Park neighborhood! Join the Trails and Open Space Coalition and the Friends of Boulder Park for a holiday lights walk. Everyone is welcome to attend this free, family friendly event; including canine companions! Bring your flashlights, battery operated lanterns or wrap your family and pets in lights.
Join award-winning photographer Mike Pach for a guided photo shoot to capture the full moon (weather permitting!) rising over the Paint Mines. Bring your camera, tripod, telephoto and wide-angle lenses. Prepaid registration required.
Call 719-520-6387 for more info.
Brewshed Alliance”Liquid Lecture” – Colorado Water Trust
Thur. Dec 12, 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Goat Patch: 2727 N Cascade Ave
Join the Brewshed Alliance this Thursday for a liquid lecture. Water supply and water quality are increasingly important issues – come enjoy a beer and learn about innovative solutions that balance the needs of people and the needs of our environment. Hear about local initiatives to protect and enhance our waterways and how you can get involved!
Join the Friends of Fox Run Park at the Warming Hut for an afternoon of fun holiday crafts! Enjoy cookies and hot chocolate while creating festive tree ornaments.
Nature Hike with Santa
Sat. Dec 14 & 21, 10:00 – 11:30 am
Fountain Creek Nature Center
320 Peppergrass Ln, Fountain
Participate in the interactive reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” poem and make snowflake crafts while waiting for Santa to arrive at Fountain Creek Nature Center. Then hike the nature trail with Santa to see what gifts nature gives us! Space is limited; prepaid registration required.
Don’t miss this spectacular meteor shower! Join Park Rangers in Blodgett Peak Open Space to observe the meteor shower as it originates from the constellation Gemini. Be ready for a short ~1/4 mile hike to the viewing overlook. Bring your own seating and dress for a cool December night. This program may be cancelled in case of inclement weather.
View Facebook Event.
Mueller State Park Hike
Sat. Dec 21, meet at 9:15 am
Homestead Trailhead
Winter begins! What do the wildlife do in winter? Watch for winter birds and signs of wildlife. Dress for the weather, and bring water and a snack. 4-mile hike led by Naturalist Nancy. We will start out on Homestead trail then Black Bear, Geer Pond, Lost Pond trails.
Visit cpw.state.co.us or call 719-687-2366 for trail conditions.
Volunteer Projects
Our outdoor work season has come to an end, but keep an eye on our Volunteer Calendar for park and trail projects in 2020.
Bob Telmosse Annual Christmas Giveaway
December 19 – 21, 9:00 – 3:00 pm
Norris Penrose Event Center
The Bob Telmosse Christmas Giveaway needs volunteers for setup and the day of the give away. Please click here to volunteer!
The Foundation is still collecting toys and monetary donations for the 2019 Giveaway. Most requested items: bikes and presents/gift cards for teenagers and parents. Drop off your donations at Honest Accurate Auto Service,
