Annex 1: Abbreviations and Acronyms

  • ATTA: Adventure Travel Trade Association
  • BLM: Bureau of Land Management
  • CADMO: Colorado Association of Destination Marketing Organizations
  • CCI: Colorado Creative Industries
  • CDOT: Colorado Department of Transportation
  • CPW: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
  • CTO: Colorado Tourism Office
  • DEIA: Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility
  • DMO: Destination Management/Marketing Organization
  • DOLA: Department of Local Affairs
  • DNR: Department of Natural Resources
  • DSC: Destination Stewardship Council
  • EMS Emergency Medical Services
  • EV Electric Vehicle
  • NPS National Park Service
  • OEDIT Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade
  • OREC Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office
  • PPORA Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance
  • USFS United States Forest Service
  • WTTC World Travel and Tourism Council

Annex 2: Destination Stewardship Partners

Government Agencies

Colorado is fortunate to have millions of acres of public lands, an abundance of which can be found in the Pikes Peak Wonders region. The following state and federal land management agencies are leading efforts to protect natural and cultural resources and encourage responsible recreation on public lands.

  • Bureau of Land Management
  • Colorado Parks and Wildlife
  • National Park Service (Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument)
  • U.S. Forest Service (Pike National Forest, San Isabel National Forest)
  • State Park Services (Cheyenne Mountain State Park, Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Mueller State Park, Lake Pueblo State Park)

Regional Municipalities and Counties

The Pikes Peak Wonders travel region is comprised of the following cities and counties:

  • Cities: Buena Vista, Black Forest, Cañon City, Cascade, Chipita Park, Colorado City, Colorado Springs, Cotopaxi, Cripple Creek, Deckers, Divide, Falcon, Florence, Fort Carson, Fountain, Green Mountain Falls, Howard, Lake George, Larkspur, Manitou Springs, Monarch, Monument, Nathrop, Palmer Lake, Penrose, Peyton, Pitkin, Poncha Springs, Pueblo, Pueblo West, Rye, Salida, Silver Cliff, Twin Lakes, Victor, Westcliffe, Woodland Park, and US Air Force Academy
  • Counties: Chaffee, Custer, Douglas, El Paso, Fremont, Gunnison, Lake, Park, Pueblo, Teller

Colorado Outdoor Regional Partnerships Initiative

The Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) is the sole CPW Working Group in the Pikes Peak Wonders region and works in El Paso, Teller, and Fremont Counties. PPORA works closely with other local and county level organizations with similar missions and priorities to support collaboration between tourism, outdoor recreation, conservation, business and community stakeholders to support local communities and preserve nature ecosystems through tourism and destination stewardship.

Other Regional Associations, Alliances and Coalitions

In addition to numerous organizations working on tourism management and destination stewardship in the region, several regional alliances and coalitions are dedicated to addressing challenges and developing shared solutions.

  • Colorado Springs Downtown Partnership enhances the vibrancy of downtown Colorado Springs through events, economic development, and advocacy for businesses and residents.
  • Envision Chaffee County collaborates on community planning and sustainability initiatives, promoting responsible growth and natural resource stewardship in Chaffee County and in partnership with neighboring counties of Gunnison and Lake Counties.
  • Pikes Peak Regional Attractions collaborates to promote and enhance visitor experiences at attractions in the Pikes Peak region.
  • Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments supports regional planning and community development initiatives, fostering collaboration among local governments.
  • Royal Gorge Chamber Alliance supports businesses and tourism in the Royal Gorge region through advocacy, networking, and economic development initiatives.
  • Southern Colorado Equality Alliance advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and equality in Southern Colorado, promoting inclusivity and community support.
  • Trails and Open Space Coalition advocates for trails and open space preservation, promoting outdoor recreation and conservation.
  • Trails Preservation Alliance works to preserve access to motorized and non-motorized trails, supporting outdoor recreation and land stewardship.

DMOs and Local Tourism-Related Organizations

The Pikes Peak Wonders region boasts a diverse array of organizations and initiatives focused on advancing destination stewardship. Many of these organizations work locally and often partner with municipal governments. This list is not exhaustive, as numerous emerging efforts involve collaboration among multiple DMOs, local and county governments, state and federal land managers, and other non-profit organizations.

The following DMOs, Chambers of Commerce and Byways work to promote destinations within the Pikes Peak Wonders region. These organizations are at varying stages of incorporating sustainability and responsible visitor management in their communications, outreach efforts, and business practices.

Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area manages public lands along the Arkansas River, offering recreational opportunities such as fishing, rafting, and camping, balancing recreation with resource protection, ensuring sustainable tourism and conservation of natural habitats.

Browns Canyon National Monument protects scenic landscapes and offers outdoor activities such as hiking and whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River through the conservation of the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity while promoting sustainable outdoor recreation.

Buena Vista Area Chamber of Commerce promotes local businesses and tourism through advocacy, partnerships, and community events. Their mission includes fostering economic growth and sustainable tourism practices that benefit the local community and environment.

Chaffee County Visitors Bureau works to sustainably manage tourism growth and create economic opportunities for tourism-related businesses.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park provides hiking, wildlife viewing, and educational programs in a natural setting overlooking Colorado Springs.

City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services manages parks and cultural sites, promoting outdoor recreation, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism.

City of Cripple Creek Heritage Tourism Department educates the public on the history of the Cripple Creek area, directs visitors to local attractions, businesses, and casinos, and monitors center productivity.

City of Woodland Park collects and administers the city’s lodging tax revenue, provides visitor information and education resources.

Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway/Chaffee County Heritage Area Advisory Board fosters tourism and preservation efforts through sustainable practices and educational outreach along the scenic beauty and cultural heritage along the Collegiate Peaks Scenic Byway.

Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area preserves rugged mountain landscapes and provides opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife observation and promotes responsible outdoor recreation.

Colorado Springs Airport provides convenient and efficient air travel services, enhancing connectivity and supporting economic growth in Colorado Springs.

Creative Alliance Manitou Springs/Manitou Springs Creative District fosters creativity and economic vitality through arts initiatives and cultural events in Manitou Springs.

Custer County Tourism Board oversees tourism lodging taxes and is responsible for developing and implementing a plan to market and promote tourism for Custer County.

Dark Skies of the Wet Mountain Valley promotes awareness and protection of dark skies through education and advocacy, enhancing stargazing opportunities and sustainable tourism practices.

Divide Chamber of Commerce fosters business development and community relations in Divide through leadership and economic initiatives, including supporting local tourism and sustainable economic growth.

Downtown Colorado Springs Creative District supports artistic and cultural initiatives to enrich the downtown area, attracting visitors and supporting local businesses.

Fountain Valley Chamber of Commerce supports economic growth and community development in Fountain Valley through business advocacy and partnerships.

Fremont County Tourism Council allocates lodging tax dollars collected in Fremont County to increase visitors to the area, promoting sustainable tourism and contributing to local economic development.

Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway Association preserves and promotes historic sites and scenic drives along the Gold Belt Tour.

Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce supports business growth and economic vitality in Pueblo through advocacy, networking, and community engagement.

Greater Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce promotes business growth and tourism in Woodland Park through advocacy, events, and community engagement. Their work includes providing visitors with trip planning information and promoting responsible visitor experiences.

Historic Arkansas Riverwalk of Pueblo Authority manages and promotes the Riverwalk as a cultural and recreational hub in downtown Pueblo, supporting tourism and community events, enhancing local cultural engagement.

Lake Pueblo State Park offers water-based recreation and camping opportunities in Pueblo County. Their mission supports tourism and outdoor enjoyment while promoting environmental conservation.

Larkspur Area Chamber of Commerce promotes local businesses and tourism in Larkspur through community events and economic development initiatives.

Latino Chamber of Commerce Pueblo supports Latino-owned businesses and economic development in Pueblo through advocacy and networking opportunities, promoting inclusive economic growth and sustainable community development.

Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau & Office of Economic Development provides visitor information to guide activities and promotes experiences, attractions and responsible visitation and recreation principles to visitors.

Monarch Mountain provides skiing and outdoor recreation in the San Isabel National Forest, contributing to tourism and winter sports in Chaffee County through sustainable practices.

Mueller State Park offers camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing in Teller County. Their mission preserves natural habitats and promotes outdoor recreation, enhancing sustainable tourism.

Pikes Peak- America’s Mountain manages access to Pikes Peak, promoting tourism and outdoor recreation while preserving natural and cultural resources. Their mission supports sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.

Royal Gorge Bridge and Park offers breathtaking scenic views and adventure activities, supporting tourism through unique visitor experiences.

Salida Chamber of Commerce promotes local businesses and tourism in Salida through events, advocacy, and economic strategies, fostering community development.

Tri-Lakes Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development and Visitor Center supports business growth and community enhancement in the Tri-Lakes area through leadership and economic initiatives.

Visit Colorado Springs inspires travel through marketing and educating visitors about sustainable and accessible experiences, promoting responsible tourism.

Visit Leadville-Twin Lakes leads tourism marketing and management for Leadville and Twin Lakes, enhancing visitor experiences and supporting local businesses.

Visit Pueblo Convention & Visitors Bureau promotes visitor experiences and services for the City of Pueblo and surrounding areas, supporting tourism and economic development.

Woodland Park Tourism Alliance collaborates to promote tourism and outdoor recreation in Woodland Park, enhancing visitor experiences and economic vitality.

NGOs, Academia and Community Entities

Below is a list of other groups, organizations and entities in the Pikes Peak Wonders travel region currently engaged in resource stewardship at a community or county level. It is important to note there are many other public and private sector individuals and organizations supporting the work of the listed entities as well as championing other initiatives.

  • Beckwith Ranch
  • Colorado College
  • Colorado State University Extension in Chaffee County
  • Colorado State University Pueblo
  • Douglas Land Conservancy
  • El Paso County Conservation District
  • Friends of Lake County
  • Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center
  • Great Outdoors Colorado
  • La Veta Trails
  • Mile High Youth Corp
  • Palmer Land Conservancy
  • Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center
  • Pikes Peak State College
  • Pikes Peak Workforce Development Board
  • Prairie Rose Development
  • Pueblo Arts Alliance/Creative Corridor
  • Pueblo Community College
  • Teller County Farmers Market Association
  • United States Air Force Academy Visitor Center
  • Victor Main Street Program