Nestled away near the base of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs is one of the state’s best-kept secrets. At just over one mile above sea level, this city offers plenty of outdoor adventures — from whitewater rafting to rock climbing to dude ranches. People may come for the breathtaking scenery but they stay for the casual lifestyle and sense of serenity. Ready to settle down? Check out these popular, and growing, master planned communities around Colorado Springs and find the spot you want to call home.
Banning Lewis Ranch
Less than 20 miles northeast of Colorado Springs is Banning Lewis Ranch, a beautiful master planned community featuring three builders and homes starting in the mid-$200,000s. There is also a 55+ active adult community, The Retreat. Adventure seekers can experience great views from the zip line, but those who prefer to remain earthbound can enjoy the community’s pickleball courts, dog park or the Vista Water Park. And since Banning Lewis Ranch has its own farmer’s market, you may never need to leave.
Learn more about Banning Lewis Ranch.
The Farm
About 15 miles north of Colorado Springs sits The Farm. Just like its name suggests, it encompasses wide open spaces but feature those stunning Colorado mountain views for a backdrop. This community features a variety of home styles designed by four builders. Move-in ready homes and lots are available, with prices starting in the low $500,000s. Interconnecting trails allow for miles of morning jogs or afternoon bike rides. Nearby is the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum dedicated to America’s greatest athletes.
Come see if The Farm is calling you home.
Wolf Ranch
Located about 15 miles northeast of the metro area is Wolf Ranch, which offers a high quality of life across multiple neighborhoods. Nine builders have come together to present homes starting in the $300,000s, with a wide array of floorplans and customizations to perfectly capture your dream home. Wolf Ranch has nearly 400 acres of planned parks and open spaces, and residents can take advantage of the seven-plus miles of finished trails, as well as the pool and splashpad. For an adrenaline rush, Pikes Peak is less than 30 minutes away.
Lorson Ranch
Just southeast of Colorado Springs is the rural, 1,400-acre master planned community, Lorson Ranch. When this community is complete, it will consist of more than 4,000 homes. Four distinguished builders are offering homes with prices starting in the mid-$300,000s. Residents can enjoy the award-winning Cheyenne Mountain Zoo just 20 miles away, or venture downtown for some shopping and fine dining. Other popular activities include four-wheeling, fishing, hunting and motorcycling. Lorson Ranch is served by the acclaimed Widefield School District and is conveniently located near three military installations.
See what you’ve been missing in Lorson Ranch.
Flying Horse
Less than 10 miles north of Colorado Springs is the resort-style Flying Horse master planned community. Four builders are offering high-quality home designs starting in the high $400,000s. On-site amenities include an athletic club, a European-style spa and a private 18-hole championship golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf. Residents can also unwind at one of the pools or kick back at the country club. Flying Horse offers an array of dining options, including the upscale Steakhouse, and event spaces. Away from Flying Horse, explore the nearby natural landmark Garden of the Gods, featuring 300-foot-high sandstone formations.
Saddle up and explore Flying Horse.
North Fork at Briargate
North Fork at Briargate, a spacious master planned community only 10 miles northeast of Colorado Springs, offers budget-conscious floorplans — homes start in the high $200,000s — from three prestigious builders. Students are served by Academy School District 20, and families can spend their days at the Briargate Family YMCA and Pine Creek Golf Course. Another nearby activity is a sunrise balloon ride, which offers mesmerizing views of the mountains.
No matter what you’re looking for, North Fork at Briargate is a gem.
Sterling Ranch
One of Colorado’s newest master planned communities is stunning Sterling Ranch, located in Littleton, about an hour’s drive north of Colorado Springs. Six builders are building in the community with more expected to join in the near future. The Rocky Mountains make a magnificent backdrop for this highly sought-after community, with home prices starting in the mid-$400,000s. Spectacular views of the rolling terrain make the 30-plus miles of interconnecting trails a Saturday morning hobby. The Overlook Clubhouse is the social hub of the community where residents mingle at the pool and fitness center. Nearby Denver offers extravagant dining and exciting nightlife options.
Take a look at Sterling Ranch.
Meridian Ranch
Conveniently located about 20 miles northeast of Colorado Springs is the spacious Meridian Ranch master planned communities offering homes in six distinct communities. Eight renowned builders are offering a wide selection of home floorplans with prices beginning in the $300,000s. Meridian Ranch contains miles of hiking trails, indoor and outdoor pools, parks and acres of wide-open spaces. Residents can enjoy an expansive 42,000-square-foot recreation center at their fingertips, and students attend the well-respected Falcon School District 49. Those who enjoy heart-pounding adventures might want to sign up for the Fins Course scenic zip line tours in Colorado Springs.
Learn more about Meridian Ranch.
Other Colorado Resources
Heather Allen is a freelance writer who began her career 20 years ago at a small Texas NBC affiliate, while attending SFASU. She’s written blogs on a diverse range of topics.