The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs is already a Forbes Five Star, AAA Five Diamond resort that boasts nearly 100 years of exquisite hospitality. Refusing to rest on its laurels, The Broadmoor is diversifying these days, infusing adventure experiences that take full advantage of its glorious mountainous surroundings.
The newest project is Soaring Adventure, which is expected to open Aug. 13 at Seven Falls, one of the key attractions in the Pikes Peak Region and just minutes from The Broadmoor’s main historic property. There will be two ziplines that will showcase the spectacular 1,250-foot high canyon and its 181-foot waterfall that has seven drops.
With a goal to rank among the Top 10 ziplines in the world, Soaring Adventures has a huge advantage over rivals due to its natural environs. Those brave enough to zipline through woods and towering rocks can expect speeds of up to 50 mph. The more advanced of the two courses, which opens in mid-September, will conclude with a rappel to the canyon floor.
The falls area was devastated by flooding in 2013, so the project also serves to bring back to life this popular feature, regarded as Colorado’s top waterfall by National Geographic.
“The goal of our work at Seven Falls has been to restore the natural beauty of this historical attraction,” says Broadmoor President and CEO Jack Damioli. “This summer, guests can experience an all-new adventure and have more reason to visit than ever before.”
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The former snack and souvenir shop at the falls is being transformed into Restaurant 1858, which will feature Colorado cuisine including venison sausage, a variety of trout dishes and bison. This space will be available for buyouts, and the areas just below the falls will no doubt awe groups besides opening their eyes to the amazing scenery in The Broadmoor’s backyard.
It will be possible to walk to the falls from The Broadmoor, with new paths being created; shuttle service from the resort will be available along with trolley service from the park entrance.
Diverse Wilderness Experiences
The Broadmoor’s adventure and wilderness experiences are so diverse that there’s even a shop at the resort that not only arranges offsites, but has a very good selection of outdoor apparel. Located inside the golf, tennis and spa building of the resort campus, Base Camp is the place to go to arrange mountain bike tours, guided hikes, rock climbing, fishing and bike rentals.
There are now three lodges between 30 to 40 minutes from The Broadmoor that deliver an incredible array of wilderness experiences. On a trip this week, I got to indulge in adventure at two of the three lodges.
The Ranch at Emerald Valley has the most variety of outdoor opportunities, with hiking, horseback riding, pond fishing, kayaking and archery. The cabins exude a western vibe, while gourmet meals reflect The Broadmoor’s luxurious flavor. There’s room for 32 guests to spend the night and buyouts are available at this seasonal retreat tucked away in a green valley dotted with wildflowers.
Cloud Camp, which overlooks The Broadmoor and Colorado Springs at 9,200 feet, has room for 60 overnight guests and also can be bought out. One thing that stands out about the lodge and cabins is the Western artwork adorning the walls. Originals and replicas by such artists as Frederic Remington are hanging next to Native American artifacts, helping create a get-a-way-from-it-all experience.
Fishing Camp, which has overnight accommodations for 21, offers river fishing and experts to make sure you catch on quickly. This lodge also can be bought out and makes for awesome day trips for those meeting at The Broadmoor’s expansive meeting space.
With 779 guest rooms, 62 meeting rooms and 185,000 sq. ft. of event space, The Broadmoor’s main campus has long been known as a distinctive gathering destination for groups. Guests particularly appreciate the resort’s three golf courses, six tennis courts and spa. Now, along with amazing wilderness adventures, The Broadmoor continues to re-imagine luxury and guest services.
A word of caution to meeting planners: There are so many fun offsite adventures coordinated by The Broadmoor that it may be tough to get groups to attend all of your meetings. We think that’s a good problem to have.
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