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Live Near Nature: Explore Colorado Springs Communities

There’s something special about waking up with the mountains on the horizon and trails just outside your door. And at Challenger Homes, we believe that where you live should make it easy to enjoy the great outdoors every day. Now let’s explore how living near nature can transform your lifestyle (and which of our communities put you closest to the places you’ll want to explore).

The Health Benefits of Living Close to Nature

Science backs it up: time in nature is good for your body and mind.

  • Lower stress levels. Being in green spaces helps reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and improves your mood.

  • Better heart health. Studies have shown that nature exposure can lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.

  • More movement, naturally. Trails, parks, and paths make it easier to get out for a walk, hike, or bike ride.

  • Improved sleep. Natural light and fresh air help regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

  • Stronger immunity. Time outside may even give your immune system a boost.

In addition, being around nature can ease anxiety, lift depression, improve focus and creativity, and even make us feel more connected to others. It’s not just about where you live, it’s about how you feel living there.

Beautiful landscape of the famous Garden of the Gods at Manitou Springs, Colorado

Garden of the Gods: An Iconic Backyard

If you’ve ever visited Garden of the Gods, you know it’s not just a park: it’s an experience. Towering sandstone formations, winding trails, and sweeping views make this a favorite spot for hiking, photography, and just soaking in the beauty. Two of our new home communities, Ascent at Woodmen Heights and The Townes at Cumbre Vista, are a comfortable drive from this legendary landmark, which could make sunrise hikes and after-dinner strolls a regular part of your routine.

Closeup image of a woman hiking with trekking boots on the top of mountain

Black Forest Regional Park: Trails, Pines, and Outdoor Escape

Next, Black Forest Regional Park offers miles of forested trails, open meadows, and peaceful scenery, plus routes for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. While several Challenger communities — Westcreek at Wolf Ranch, Ascent at Woodmen Heights, The Townes at Cumbre Vista, Home Place Ranch, and Copper Chase at Sterling Ranch — are all 20 minutes or less away. In other words, it’s the perfect balance for those who want to live near nature without giving up suburban convenience.

Cropped view of young woman playing ball with jack russell terrier dog

Falcon Regional Park & Bluestem Prairie Open Space: Local Green Hubs

Just five miles from Falcon Meadows at Bent Grass, is Falcon Regional Park. This local favorite spans 215 acres with ball fields, a playground, dog park, walking paths, and picnic shelters. All in all, it’s the perfect daily escape – no long drives required.

You will also find the peace and tranquility of 650 acres of open grassland at Bluestem Prairie Open Space, just a quick jaunt from Bradley Heights. Home to over 200 bird species and several mammal species, Bluestem Prairie Open Space has become a refuge for a variety of native wildlife and vegetation and is a must visit for bird watchers, hikers and trail bikers.

Happy woman watching and feeding giraffe in zoo. She having fun with animals safari park on warm summer day.

Big Outdoor Adventures in Colorado Springs

Even if you don’t live right next to them, these iconic outdoor destinations are part of the Colorado Springs lifestyle. And they’re well worth the trip for a weekend adventure.

  • The Manitou Incline
    Firstly is the Manitou Incline. Located on the western edge of town near Manitou Springs, this legendary climb gains nearly 2,000 feet in under a mile (that’s 2,768 steps straight up). It’s a rite of passage for locals and visitors alike.
  • Cheyenne Mountain State Park & Pike National Forest
    Down in the southwestern part of the city, these vast natural areas offer miles of trails, wildlife sightings, and rugged mountain terrain perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring.
  • Seven Falls & North Cheyenne Cañon Park
    Also located in southwest Colorado Springs, these two spots are known for waterfall views, canyon hikes, and stunning mountain backdrops.
  • Cheyenne Mountain Zoo & St. Peter’s Dome
    Finally, tucked into the foothills on the city’s southwest side, the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is the highest elevation zoo in the country. Just beyond it, St. Peter’s Dome offers a more adventurous trail experience with panoramic views.

challenger homes model home exterior

Ready to Live Near Nature? Explore our Colorado Springs communities

In conclusion, living near nature isn’t just about what’s around you: it’s about what it brings out in you. More movement. Better moods. Not to mention stronger community. Luckily, with Challenger Homes it’s all built in. Our communities let you live near nature every day, with trailheads, open spaces, and panoramic views that support healthier lifestyles. Next, explore our Colorado Springs communities and see how Challenger Homes brings you closer to nature, and closer to home.

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How we estimate your payment

Principal & interest + estimated property taxes + homeowners insurance + applicable HOA/metro charges.

Our advertised estimated lowest payments use a 30-year VA loan example for an eligible buyer with full entitlement and 0% down. The featured payment option is 3-2-1 Buydown. Advertised amounts are year-one estimates; payments increase in years 2, 3 and 4. The note rate is fixed at 6.5%. Home price, estimated taxes, and HOA/metro charges vary by property and community. Open the asterisk beside a payment for that home’s figures and assumptions.

More about the calculation

Principal and interest are calculated from the modeled loan amount, selected payment rate, and loan term. The model uses 8.661% combined 3-2-1 buydown cost and an assumed 2.15% VA funding fee financed into the loan. It includes a $8,000.00 closing-cost allowance, modeled through a higher contract price and seller credit. Points and any temporary buydown funding are modeled through a higher contract price and seller credits, subject to lender approval and appraisal support.

Property taxes use the community mill levy and an approximate assessed-value calculation; they are estimates, not an actual tax bill. Homeowners insurance is estimated at $180.00 per month. Applicable community HOA/metro charges are included. Upfront tax and insurance escrow deposits are excluded. A zero down payment does not guarantee zero cash due at closing.

3-2-1 Buydown payment assumption notes

The advertised amount is the Year 1 estimated payment. A builder-funded 3-2-1 buydown reduces the buyer's principal and interest payments during the first three years; the underlying note rate remains fixed. Payments are based on a rate 3 percentage points below the note rate in Year 1, 2 points below in Year 2, and 1 point below in Year 3. Full note-rate payments begin in Year 4. Taxes, insurance and HOA/metro charges are estimates and may change. Interest rate is not APR. Financing costs are modeled through a higher contract price and seller credits, subject to lender approval and appraisal support. Contact the lender for a complete Loan Estimate.

*Advertised payments are estimates based on promotional financing for qualified buyers on select homes. Not all buyers will qualify. Actual payments vary based on the home, loan program, down payment, credit qualifications, taxes, insurance, and applicable HOA or metro district charges. Financing incentives require use of the designated lender. Buyers may choose any lender. Offers are subject to availability, lender approval, and change. This is not a commitment to lend.

Promotion terms & lender information