The idyllic and historical Outlook Lodge in Green Mountain Falls is just 15 miles from Colorado Springs and even closer to Manitou Springs. With the backdrop of the Pike-San Isabel National Forest and the allure of hiking trails, local shops and the wonders of the Pikes Peak region, this is a perfect getaway.
Waltz up the stairs leading to this brown lodge and you’ll be transported to a woodland fantasy. Here, you’ll find tall windows, a wraparound porch and an inviting fireplace, plus an outdoor fire pit and a bubbling hot tub. The rooms themselves — in both the lodge and the attached Carriage House — are outfitted with classic, yet modern, features, like reading nooks, framed art and colorful furniture.
While it’s close to the exciting natural landmarks of Colorado Springs, The Outlook Lodge is situated in a quaint neighborhood with parks and local shops. Take a stroll along the creeks, snap pics by the endearing Green Mountain Falls gazebo and find your new favorite boutique on Ute Pass Avenue.
It’s definitely that classy mix of Victorian architecture with contemporary flair, as the building was transformed from a rectory in 1889. While the carved pillars, stained glass and rich wooden floors are centuries old, the lodge has upped the ante on modern decor with its stylish lighting, chic tiles and an eclectic mix of furniture.
It’s the community of Green Mountain Falls itself. While the town is situated 1.5 miles above sea level, it exudes high-elevation, mountain-town energy. You’ll still feel immersed in a quintessential Colorado dream in this walkable neighborhood surrounded by trailheads and local Pikes Peak spectacles.
From discounts to Champagne for two in the steaming hot tub, the lodge has a multitude of options for a divine vacation. Past vouchers have included Romance in The Mountains (think a bottle of bubbly and the fixins for perfect melty s’mores). Check out their website for current promotions.
Looking for a cozy room with a vast bay window overlooking groves of aspen trees? The Deluxe Room – Upstairs Carriage House is just your cup of cocoa. Wake up to the morning sun’s rays pouring into the room or go to sleep bathed in moonlight.
“This is a fabulous getaway just outside Colorado Springs. It’s in a lovely, wooded area with great hiking. They have a community area including a kitchen, outdoor fireplace and hot tub all year-round. It’s great any season. I highly recommend it if you want a weekend getaway!” —travels234, Tripadvisor
Feeling active? The Outlook Lodge is close to trailheads like the moderate Thomas Trail and more challenging Catamount, as well as the paddleboard-able waters of Crystal Creek Reservoir. Nearby, Manitou Springs is a charming town with a lot to explore, including the rigorous (yet rewarding) Manitou Incline.
Traveling from the lodge down to Colorado Springs yields much more than just a picturesque route. Stop by kid-friendly marvels like North Pole – Santa’s Workshop, learn about Ancestral Puebloan culture at the Manitou Cliff Dwellings or hand-feed giraffes at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. Check out Cave of the Winds Mountain Park for adrenaline-pumping ropes courses, or catch scenic views of limestone formations at the Garden of the Gods. The U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum is a can’t-miss stop; as is Pikes Peak, where you can hike, bike or drive to the summit and devour their famous high-altitude doughnuts.
Photos courtesy of The Outlook Lodge & David Lauer.