When you think of the Pikes Peak region, your mind probably jumps to the stunning red rocks of Garden of the Gods, open-air Jeep tours, or the crisp mountain air waiting at the top of America’s most famous mountain. But if you dig just beneath the surface of Colorado Springs, you will find a town with a pulse that beats to the rhythm of a thundering rodeo arena.
Here at Adventures Out West (AOW), our authentic Western-clad Jeep guides live to show off the rugged beauty of our mountain backyard. 
To truly understand the spirit of the Pikes Peak region, you have to look at our deep connection to rodeo. It is not just entertainment; it is our history, a lifeline for our military neighbors, and the undisputed heart of modern cowboy culture.
Honoring True Western Heritage
The Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo in Colorado Springs began as informal ranch competitions in the early 1910s. It was a way for early pioneers and ranchers to test their everyday working skills—like roping, riding, and steer wrestling—against one another.
In 1937, local philanthropist Spencer Penrose formalized this passion. He constructed a massive, 10,000-seat stadium on the grounds of The Broadmoor to give these athletes a proper stage. Today, organizations like the Pikes Peak Range Riders keep that historic spark alive. Every year, they embark on a five-day horseback trek around Pikes Peak to signal the start of the rodeo season, ensuring our cowboy lineage is never forgotten.
A Mission of Military Support
What truly separates the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo tradition from any other in the nation is its purpose. Colorado Springs is a proud military town, home to Fort Carson, Peterson Space Force Base, and the U.S. Air Force Academy.
Since 1946, the legendary Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo has dedicated its proceeds entirely to helping local military members and their families. Every ticket purchased for the action at the Norris Penrose Event Center helps fund vital quality-of-life programs across El Paso County. When you watch the riders, you are actively supporting the heroes who serve our country.
*AOW offers 20% off all our adventure activities to all active military to support our troops!
The Center of the ProRodeo World
Over the decades, this local passion has transformed Colorado Springs into the official capital of professional rodeo. The city serves as the international headquarters of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), the sport’s ultimate sanctioning body.
It is also home to the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and Museum of the American Cowboy, making the city a global destination for rodeo history and fans. Every July, the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo plays host to the prestigious NFR Open, drawing more than 200 of the world’s elite international athletes to compete for over $1 million in prize money.
Experience the Spirit of the West
“Rodeo” represents the very same spirit we channel every single day on our open-air mountain tours: resilience, adventure, and a profound respect for the wild country around us.
If you are planning to join us for a Colorado getaway this summer, check the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo Schedule to experience a night of ground-shaking bucking broncs, fast-paced barrel racing, and a spectacular drone show. Book your trip, grab your boots, and embrace the Western spirit!
REMINDER: Tell us if you are active-duty military to receive the 20% off discount. We appreciate your service!
Return to Adventures Outwest for tour and booking info.
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