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Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Trails
Vision
"We will follow and enhance the National Recreation and Parks Association's (NRPA) three pillars: conservation, health & wellness, and social equity. We will make significant contributions to decreasing common problems such as obesity, healthcare costs, and environmental deterioration. The Parks and Recreation department will add to the NRPA's pillars by including economic prosperity, as our department will strive to increase property values, provide jobs, promotes tourism, and draw business to the community."
Overview
The Manitou Springs Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Trails Department’s staff works tirelessly to achieve its mission to build community. The department serves an active community of just over 5,000 residents who can select from a variety of recreational activities throughout our community.
The Parks, Open Space & Trails Division is responsible for the operation and maintenance of 18 different sites, including 13 parks and City land surrounding five mineral springs, as well as our urban forest, and the Crystal Valley Cemetery. The parks system includes 30 acres, ranging from pocket parks to the larger parks adjacent to Fountain Creek. In addition, this Division maintains an inventory of over 300 acres of open space as well as over six miles of trails. Just a few of the amenities in our parks system include a basketball court, outdoor tennis/pickleball courts, a skate park, two pavilions, a labyrinth and a variety of playgrounds as well as multi-use turf fields.
The Recreation Division facilitates a variety of activities and special events designed to promote a healthy lifestyle for all ages and abilities. These include youth sports, instructional programs, drop-in activities, community events in our parks, as well as a number of long-standing special events such as the Pikes Peak Marathon, Commonwheel Art Festival, Wine Festival, and Coffin Races.
The Pool & Fitness Center is located within Schryver Park. The facility began operations in 1970 and is well loved by the community. The entire facility occupies approximately 10,619 sq ft indoors. It includes a 5-lane 25 meter lap pool, indoor hot tub, indoor multi-purpose room, outdoor adult spa, outdoor kiddie pool area and an indoor weight room. The Pool & Fitness Center is also home to the Colorado Torpedoes Swim Team.