“What is Green Mountain Falls?” you may have found yourself asking. Green Mountain Falls is a quiet and peaceful mountain community just north of Pikes Peak and 11 miles west of Colorado Springs just off U.S. Highway 24. The town has a year-round population of approximately 900. The number of people in town increases significantly in the summer as people from other states arrive to use their family cabins. So, what is there to do in such a tiny town? Well, let us give you an idea about what a day in charming, picturesque Green Mountain Falls could look like for you!
GAZEBO LAKE
The Gazebo, built in 1890, is located in the center of town on what is known as Gazebo Lake. While it may not be considered a normal visitor’s attraction, it is one of the area’s most popular locations. And it is the perfect place to picnic, photograph, relax, or a place to spend quality time with family and loved ones. The Gazebo is also a popular location for reading, fishing, and feeding the town geese. On a snowy day, you may even spot the locals enjoying a nice game of ice hockey on the lake!
SHOPPING
Green Mountain Falls has several unique, local shops specializing in local artisanry, specialty treats, souvenirs, and more. For a fun afternoon, browse around town, as shopping here is much more reasonably priced than other shopping districts in the area. For something unexpected, check out the following locales:
– Stones and Bones:
A lovely, original shop located next door to The Pantry restaurant. They have a nice selection of handmade jewelry, wood-turned bowls, artwork, pottery, textiles, and more all created by local artists. The owners, Ken and Melissa Nord, have extracted many stones and gems from the area and offer Colorado Minerals such as Smokey Quartz, Amazonite, and Cripple Creek Turquoise.
– The Painted Bear:
The newest trendy spot in town offers a treasure of goods including hiking treats, abstract and visual art, souvenirs, specially-crafted wood carvings, striking mountain landscape paintings, various knickknacks, kid gimmicks, an antique pre-1950s phone, and much more!
– Tye Dye Java:
So much more than your local little coffee spot! This shop next to The Mucky Duck carries homemade vegan baked goods, including muffins, breads, specialties, and fresh ground coffees, cappuccinos, teas, and much more! They also serve Anne and Mann’s homemade ice creams.
– The Black Bear Distillery:
A historic site in town that has been transformed into a craft micro-distillery and produces award-winning moonshine, vodka, rum, and bourbon. What a treat! ***Must make an appointment ahead of time: (719) 684-9648.
ART WALK
Thanks to the annual Green Box Arts Festival held in Green Mountain Falls each summer there are several permanent art installations on display throughout town. Start your Art Walk at: 22.6’ ARC x 4, by Bernar Venet at the Green Box Arts Farm Stand. Then venture over to the rotating billboard installation at the end of Lake Street. Just a short walk away on the other side of Gazebo Lake you will find Four Orbits, by Charles O. Perry Mountain Road Corner.
Each installation has signage and information about the artist, but you can also visit the Green Box Public Art page for more information on these installations!
HIKING
The Green Mountain Falls Trails System consists of 16 magnificent trails totaling more than 20 miles that provide a variety of experiences. All are non-motorized hiking trails. The American Discovery Trail (ADT), a 6,800-mile long coast-to-coast trail route across America and the Ute Pass Regional Trail, includes a 40-mile route from Colorado Springs to Cripple Creek, that passes through the Town of Green Mountain Falls on a bicycle/pedestrian lane along Ute Pass Avenue. Two of the Green Mountain Falls trails connect directly to the Ring the Peak Trail, a 57-mile-long loop that circumnavigates Pikes Peak. Most of the system consists of back country single track hiking trails carved out of the forest on the steep ramparts that overlook the Town and feature spectacular views.
The best thing about the hiking trails in Green Mountain Falls is that they are literally just outside the door. In just a matter of minutes you can wander up a trail and be in the thick of nature, or climbing the famous waterfalls that were the inspiration for the town’s name. Some trails, especially the Kirkpatrick Trailhead, are less strenuous and good to do with kids. Some are more difficult if you are looking for a good workout. And, if you are looking for time just to stroll and clear your head, there are trails that amble along the side of the mountain. You can find trail maps at the Welcome sign near the Gazebo at Gazebo Lake in the middle of town.
You can also find maps and the latest hiking information on the Friends of Green Mountain Falls Trails website here.
DINING
– The Pantry Restaurant:
Here’s where you can get your neighborly breakfast or lunch. The Pantry has great food, nice people, affordable prices, and a great patio during summer weekends with a buffet and live music! Don’t miss their world-famous “Mother Load” pancake, Pantry Omelet, and Cinnamon Roll French Toast. Check out their collection of toys, doodads, and lunchboxes all over the walls, and mis-matching coffee mugs.
– Mucky Duck:
This rustic restaurant serves delicious food in the $18 – $21 entrée price range. The building in which this is housed was built in the 1800s and added onto in 1924. It has the original infrastructure, and the same kind of vibe from back in the day. Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner is served, and they have a great rooftop patio featuring spectacular views of those famous green mountains!
– The Blue Moose:
Your classic mountain dive-bar, The Blue Moose specializes in micro-brew beer, gourmet pizza, sandwiches, and the best fries around. They are proud of their large stage and dance floor, and have live bands playing every weekend. Throughout the week they have drink specials and other special events. It’s a great place to catch a game on T.V. as well—and you won’t want to miss Friday night karaoke!
BACK AT THE RANCH
With a rustic feel, thoughtfully composed contemporary style, and custom furnishings, The Outlook Lodge and Little Beaver Inn offer both adventure and indulgence. Surrounded by the Colorado wilderness, guests are provided a unique silent-service (local host) concierge style that cultivates the experience of being alone in the great outdoors.
When night falls, there are many opportunities to enhance your stay with the S’mores, Romance, Sledding, or Hot Cocoa complements. Coupled with a soak in the outdoor hot tub, or star-gazing by the fire circle, these unique experiences are the perfect way to relax in the natural surroundings of Green Mountain Falls! Or, grab a bottle of wine and head to the front porch to take in the scenery and just do nothing.
Whether you’re up for adventure, or a relaxing escape from the day-to-day grind, the Outlook Lodge and Little Beaver Inn are the perfect getaway for you and your loved ones! We hope you come visit soon!
