
What we’re about
New to Colorado Springs? Just visiting? Been here awhile but want to learn about new adventures or places to go? UpaDowna is the place for you! We are a 501(c)(3) aventure and accessibility nonprofit providing free, donation-based, and significanlty reduced programming to residents of El Paso County! Our mission is to provide access to outdoor adventures for all through events and programs that empower individuals, create healthier communities, and foster a respect for the environment.
Find out more at upadowna.org or follow-up us on social media today:
Facebook: /UpaDowna
Instagram: @UpaDowna
Upcoming events (4)
See all- Little Hikers: Spring Awakening (REGISTER ON EVENTBRITE)Quail Lake Park , Colorado Springs, CO
Event Registration on Eventbrite
Event Details: Join UpaDowna on a short hike around Quail Lake. Following our hike, Little Hikers will play a fun game of Simon Says and explore the area for budding flowers.
The trail is primarily grass and cement. It is stroller-friendly.
Meeting Point: Quail Lake at the South Lake Playground
Look for the Yeti Crew. When you arrive, please sign the waiver for you and your Little Hiker.
What to Bring: Please wear layers, supportive shoes (preferably closed-toe shoes), bring sun protection, water, and a snack.
Cost: This is a FREE event. You must RSVP on Eventbrite. Your donations are important for UpaDowna to continue to offer free and accessible adventures for our community. If you would like to make a one-time or recurring donation, please visit Donate - UpaDowna.
About Little Hikers: This is a SPUR event - Similar Paths United by Recreation. It is geared towards Little Hikers, which means it is for families with toddlers and children under 8 years of age. To UpaDowna, the definition of SPUR is Similar Paths United (by) Recreation. Many of us walk the same path and don’t even know it. Finding camaraderie with others who share similar interests helps us feel more comfortable with new experiences. Many times, it can also help to share your challenges with folks who are “climbing” the same mountain as you. Little Hikers SPUR Events are for families with young children. All participants must have an adult chaperone for the entire event.
Become a Little Yeti: Join us for 5 or more Little Hiker events this season to receive a Freddie the Yeti stuffie. Please note, only the little hikers are eligible, not the adults.
Questions: Please email Zoe at zoe@upadowna.org - Adventure on Tap: The History of the Saturday Knights Hiking ClubRicco's, Colorado Springs, CO
Please RSVP on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adventure-on-tap-the-history-of-the-saturday-knights-hiking-club-tickets-1326146452739?aff=oddtdtcreator
Event Details: Adventure on Tap is a part of UpaDowna's Community Campfire Program. Join us for a casual gathering as our speakers share their stories, passions, and experiences outdoors to inspire you to pursue adventure and new activities!
'Gather Around the Campfire' and join UpaDowna with special guest Horst Richardson and a panel of the Saturday Knights. This long-standing hiking group, founded in 1903 by two local real estate men, began with a trek to Lake Moraine and grew into a weekly Saturday tradition carried on by Colorado College professors for over a century. Discover the story behind one of the region’s oldest and most dedicated hiking groups, and get the inside scoop on a few of their favorite (and lesser-known) trails around Pikes Peak.
About the Presenter: Horst Richardson dedicated 50 years to Colorado College as a German professor and legendary soccer coach. A passionate world traveler and avid hiker, Horst has trekked with the Saturday Knights across Colorado’s 14ers and to far-flung peaks like Machu Picchu, Kilimanjaro, and the Caucasus. Beyond the trails, he served as president of the D-11 School Board and contributed to the Colorado Springs Transportation Advisory Board. A member of the Colorado College Athletic Hall of Fame, Horst is also a published author. He and his wife Helen have been married for 57 years and are proud parents of two - Erik, who lives in Singapore, and Stacia, who resides in Colorado Springs.
$6 Specials at Rico's Cafe
- Cheesy bread appetizer with a side of marinara (vegan available), a 6 oz glass of house wine (red, white, or rose), or a draft beer OR Slice of ONE TOPPING pizza and non-alcoholic fountain beverage.
- Add $3.00 for an upgrade for a slice of ONE TOPPING pizza.
Please RSVP on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adventure-on-tap-the-history-of-the-saturday-knights-hiking-club-tickets-1326146452739?aff=oddtdtcreator
- Intro to Indoor Rock Climbing (REGISTER ON EVENTBRITE)CityRock, Colorado Springs, CO$20.00
Please register on Eventbrite
Event Details: UpaDowna's Intro to Indoor Climbing classes are 2-hour beginner classes for new climbers and climbers looking to refresh their skills, learn the ropes, and achieve new heights! Our Yeti Crew will instruct participants on climbing techniques, and essential safety skills, and will equip you be the skills to continue to pursue the fun and fulfilling sport of Climbing.
Intro to Indoor Climbing class includes rental gear (harness and climbing shoes), instruction from UpaDowna staff, and discount coupons to The UTE ! The total value is approximately $120! Interested in starting a membership after the event? UpaDowna participants can have their CityROCK membership initiation fee at CityROCK waived if you sign-up within one month of taking our class!
This event is open to all ages and abilities. All participants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.
Cost: $20 per participant
Getting Here: CityROCK, 21 N Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903. Most parking surrounding the gym including street parking is metered in Downtown Colorado Springs. Parking fees are not included. Please make sure you pay for parking and abide by all marked signs. Upon entering the gym, take a right at the front desk and meet the Yeti Crew at the glass doors of the private room.
Preparing for Intro to Indoor Climbing:
Participants must complete a CityROCK climbing waiver for every person in your group before arriving. Waivers can be signed in advance here: https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/59372f972e195/web/.
Intro to Climbing starts promptly at 6 pm. It is HIGHLY recommended that you arrive 15 minutes early to check-in. If you arrive later than 6 pm, you may not be able to join the class.
Goals:- To educate participants about how to use the equipment and safe climbing techniques.
- To overcome common barriers to the sport of climbing such as cost, equipment, and experience.
- To empower participants to feel confident in their foundational climbing skills so that they may continue to pursue the sport of climbing independently.
FAQs:
Can I attend class multiple times?
Yes, participants may attend this class more than once. Please remember, this is a Beginner class. Advanced classes are available and offered through CityROCK.
Am I allowed to bring a friend?
Yes, but they need to sign up for an online ticket as well.
Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Please contact info@upadowna.org
Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?
No
Can I bring my family to the event?
Yes, but keep in mind adult supervision of your minor is required at all times. A waiver needs to be filled out for each participant even if you are not climbing.
Have 5 or more people?
Contact us for a private event! - Little Hikers: Flower Power (REGISTER ON EVENTBRITE)Red Rock canyon open space, Colorado springs, CO
Event Registration on Eventbrite
Event Details: Join UpaDowna on a short hike around Red Rocks Canyon Open Space at the Pavilions. Following our hike, Little Hikers will make crepe paper flowers.
The trail is primarily gravel and cement. It is stroller-friendly.
Meeting Point: Red Rock Canyon Open Space Pavilions. We will meet at the parking lot at the base of the trails to the Pavilions.
Look for the Yeti Crew. When you arrive, please sign the waiver for you and your Little Hiker.
What to Bring: Please wear layers, supportive shoes (preferably closed-toe shoes), bring sun protection, water, and a snack.
Cost: This is a FREE event. You must RSVP on Eventbrite. Your donations are important for UpaDowna to continue to offer free and accessible adventures for our community. If you would like to make a one-time or recurring donation, please visit Donate - UpaDowna.
About Little Hikers: This is a SPUR event - Similar Paths United by Recreation. It is geared towards Little Hikers, which means it is for families with toddlers and children under 8 years of age. To UpaDowna, the definition of SPUR is Similar Paths United (by) Recreation. Many of us walk the same path and don’t even know it. Finding camaraderie with others who share similar interests helps us feel more comfortable with new experiences. Many times, it can also help to share your challenges with folks who are “climbing” the same mountain as you. Little Hikers SPUR Events are for families with young children. All participants must have an adult chaperone for the entire event.
Become a Little Yeti: Join us for 5 or more Little Hiker events this season to receive a Freddie the Yeti stuffie. Please note, only the little hikers are eligible, not the adults.
Questions: Please email Zoe at zoe@upadowna.org