Outdoor activities in winter (Colorado Springs: vs, shops, clubs)

[knrstz]

I've become pretty familiar with how most people describe the winter weather in the springs, some bad storms but the sun comes out and usually melts off the snow in a few days. I like to jog and ride my bike but it's harder to do it in extreme cold. My question is are people still active outdoors in the city in the winter? I'm talking about walking and biking on a typical winter day that's not a blizzard. Here in Wichita, it's very hit and miss. I'm pretty much a normal person, meaning that if others are outside excercising, I'll be out there too. I do understand it gets cold in CS, I'm just trying to get a feel for how the dryer air and sunshine help to offset a little bit. Thanks.

[otowi]

Yes, particularly walking, I'd say; - biking can be harder at times if some of the snow remains in drifts, etc., but people do that, too.

[Marcy1210]

Generally, the sun will heat up the concrete and/or asphalt and the streets and sidewalks can be clear in just a few hours after a snow, especially if they're shovelled or plowed. So, if it snows overnight, the morning dawns clear, the chances are really good that the streets and sidewalks will be clear and dry by mid-morning or by early afternoon at the latest. If it's a heavy snow, or if the sun doesn't come out, it will take longer for the sidewalks and streets to clear. Sometimes, the "feels like" temperature can be 10 or 15 degrees higher than the actual temperature as we're closer to the sun, the air is thinner and the sun more intense.

[lalahartma]

I used to ride the bike in all weather. Then only when it was over 0F. Then over 20F. Now, I'd like it to be over 32F.

[knrstz]

Quick question, is there an even mix of road bikes as well as mountain bikes? Are there lots of paths available for road bikes?

[lalahartma]

There is a good mix of road vs mtn. Serious roadies ride on the road.

http://www.trailsandopenspaces.org/u...rail-maps.html
Trail Map Page
Route Sheets & Maps (http://www.bikesprings.org/route_sheets__maps.php - broken link)
MapMyRide.com | Find Rides and Cycling Routes in Colorado Springs, CO

[EandT]

We're retiring to CS as soon as we sell our Fort Worth house. Are there any bike clubs that accommodate seniors? I have a "fat tire" bike, but I'm not into climbing any mountains.

[Mike from back east]

Originally Posted by EandT

We're retiring to CS as soon as we sell our Fort Worth house. Are there any bike clubs that accommodate seniors? I have a "fat tire" bike, but I'm not into climbing any mountains.

There is a ton of bicycle culture here. You get your choice, most of the area is flat in nature, but those who want mountain terrain have it nearby. Google the topic and/or the meetup sites for your interest. I'd bet there's a group here. If no one else replies, just call one of the many bike shops here, someone there should be aware of what the scene is for seniors.