Fort Carson's Directorate of Community Activities (DCA) offers many programs, services, and activities. There is always something to do, and special events are scheduled throughout the year.
GRANT LIBRARY
Grant Library is a full-service library providing everything from the latest best-sellers to books on auto repair: from CLEP and ASVAB exam books to Dr. Seuss. Our book collection covers all subjects and is searchable on the Library's online catalog in the library or from your home or office computer. You can also check out new DVDs, CDs, cassettes, books on tape, and educational or children's videos. You can call the library at 719-526-2350 to ask questions or to renew materials. You can also email us at library@carson.army.mil. A separate Children's Room has books for younger readers from picture books to fiction and non-fiction books for elementary school grades. A Storytime Program is offered for preschoolers on Wednesdays at 1030 during the school year, September through May. On Wednesday mornings in June and July, a Summer Library Program will take place for school age children from 1000 to 1100. Both programs provide fun, games, and crafts, as well as stories and reading. Adult programs are also scheduled periodically. Watch for flyers and publicity. The Library is also your gateway to the online world, offering free Internet access computers and free access to a variety of online databases. In addition to the 18 Internet computers, the Library has four computers with Microsoft Office software for in-library use, and four computers loaded with games and stories for the youngest library patrons. Grant Library -- your hometown library and gateway to the world! Hours of Operation: Mon-Thu 1100-2000; Fri 1100-1700; Sat/Sun 1000-1800; Closed Holidays.
THE OUTDOOR RECREATION COMPLEX
The Outdoor Recreation Complex is located in Building 2429 on Specker Avenue near the southeast corner of the Fort Carson Cantonment Area. The center is spread across ten acres of land and includes an outdoor archery range, alpine tower, and a large recreational vehicle storage lot. Visit our information desk, where you will find information on the latest in outdoor adventure trips and Classrooms, and register for rafting, climbing, biking and kayaking instruction. You may also purchase State and on-post hunting and fishing licenses at the information desk. Two classrooms are available and can be reserved by calling the information desk. Other Outdoor Recreation facilities available by reservation are Camp Falcon (a secluded natural camping area about 15 minutes from the Fort Carson main gate) and Ironhorse Park. Camp Falcon is a primitive-style camp; it has two pavilions with grills, dumpsters and porta-lets. There are nature trails and designated campfire sites.
INFORMATION, TICKETS & RECREATION OFFICE (ITR)
Our Fort Carson ITR Office offers a variety of discount tickets on everything from upcoming concerts to attractions -- Disney World, Elitch Gardens, Waterworld. Also offered are tickets for professional sporting events such as the Denver Broncos, Nuggets and Avalanche, as well as Sky Sox Stadium and Air Force Academy events. Military discount tickets to out-of-state attractions such as Universal Studios and Six Flags are available, as well as discounts for lodging in locations throughout the United States. ITR offers a complete ski program during the Winter months to include single-day ski trips to many of the State's best ski areas and a "Learn to Ski" program for beginning through advanced skiers. Fort Carson's Ski Day and Military Ski Day are also offered through our ITR Office. These special programs include a full-day of skiing, fun and prizes at substantially discounted rates. Stop by for the latest at your local ITR Office! Hours of Operation: Tue-Sat 1000-1730, Closed Sun & Mon.
CHEYENNE SHADOWS GOLF COURSE
Set in the shadow of Cheyenne Mountain, Fort Carson's Golf Course is a breathtaking 18-hole championship course. The clubhouse and pro shop are located on Titus Boulevard near Evans Army Community Hospital. Year round golf is available at one of the lowest rates in the area. Tournaments are held frequently and a handicapping service is available at the pro shop. Private and group lessons are available at the driving range and the pro shop provides expert sales assistance offering a full line of clubs and accessories for those wishing to buy or rent. Fort Carson's Golf Course is also home to the ParView GPS, a state-of-the-art onboard global positioning satellite system that gives you course specific golf tips, distance to the hole, pin placement and much more. Fort Carson's Golf Course is open to the public and accepts tee times all weekend long. Use Gate #5. The Pro Shop and Divot's Grill are open 7 days a week from 0700-1900. Call today for your chance to play the best course in Colordo Springs!
THUNDER ALLEY BOWLING CENTER
The Thunder Alley Bowling Center at Fort Carson is the premier bowling venue in Colorado Springs. We far outpace our competitors with innovative programming, event solutions and customer service. The Thunder Alley staff serves their customers with attention to detail and a personal touch. The Thunder Alley Bowling Center at Fort Carson encompasses 36 synthetic lanes and scoring systems. The interior decor includes tables, chairs and dining seating that demonstrates Fort Carson's commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. Nowhere in the Colorado Springs area will you find a more comprehensive and professional bowling experience. To add even more fun to a night of bowling, come out for the Thunder Alley light show. The Thunder Alley Bowling Center is equipped with the area's largest bowling supply "Pro Shop" -- sporting every type of bowling product, service and supply necessary for the avid bowler -- from novice to professional, we have it all! The snack bar is great too! Hours of operation: Sun-Thu 1100-2300; Fri-Sat 1100-midnight.
SMITH WOODCRAFT SHOP
The Smith Woodcraft Shop at Fort Carson is one of the finest woodworking facilities in the military. A woodshop safety orientation class is held weekly. Monthly classes are scheduled for a variety of woodcraft projects designed to teach various woodworking techniques. Shop instruction specialties are Southwestern furniture and functional/art woodturning. The wood lathe in most military woodshops stands covered with dust -- our shop is the exception. Cutting boards, chess/checker boards, entertainment centers, bookcases and speaker boxes are just a few of the items that our customers enjoy "doing themselves." Come by and visit us, put your skills and creativity to work! Hours of Operation: Wednesday 1300-2030; Thu & Fri 1300-2030; Sat & Sun 0900-1630; Closed Mon, Tue & Holidays.
AUTOCRAFT CENTER
33 Work Bays -- Our Autocraft Center offers 33 work bays, with affordable fees. Whether you need to rebuild an engine, change tires, do an oil change, work on your motorcycle, or touch up your car with a little body work and paint, you can do it here and have a certified instructor for any questions or assistance.
Full Line of Automotive Necessities -- A full line of automotive necessities (oil, oil filters, spark plugs, antifreeze, brake fluid and more) are at your fingertips when working on your vehicle. Stop by and let our skilled technicians show you the customer service you deserve!
Used Car Sales Facility -- Our Used Car Sales Facility (located in the AAFES mini-mall parking lot) may have just the car you're looking for! If you're interested in selling your vehicle and looking for a great place to show it, this is it! Permits to place your auto in this parking area can be obtained through the Abandoned Vehicle Lot Office, Building 3660, Phone 719-526-1146.
Auto Painting Facility -- We are proud to promote our Full Service Auto Painting facility. Automotive finishes available in every color, alternate color matches for your precise finish, complete color formula programmed equipment and a computer database for every domestic and imported auto await you!
Hours of Operation: Wed-Fri 1300-2030; Sat-Sun 0900-1630; Closed Mon, Tue, and Holidays.
Emissions Testing -- Sat-Sun 0900-1630; Mon-Tue 0830-1630; Wed-Fri 0830-2030
Abandoned Vehicle Lot -- Wed-Fri 1000-1800; Sat-Sun 0900-1630
COMMUNITY CRAFT CENTER
The Community Craft Center offers a variety of creative opportunities for all to enjoy with instructors available to assist you with your project. Feel free to come in and try your hand at new and exciting craft activities. We offer craft activities such as: matting, framing, ceramics, stained glass and laser engraving of plaques and plates. We also offer custom made trophies and awards for the community. Special holiday classes are also offered. We look forward to seeing you soon at the Craft Center! Hours of Operation: Wed-Fri 1100-1830; Sat-Sun 0900-1630; Closed Mon, Tue, and Holidays.
SWIMMING POOLS
The Outdoor pool is open from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Come and enjoy the fun in the sun from 1000-1745. Active military and children under two are free. Dependents, retired military, DA civilians, and reservists receive a day's admission for only $2, and non-cardholders/guests may enter for only $3. Drown-proofing during the summer hours is done at the outdoor pool from 0730-0930. Ever wanted to have a party for just you and your friends? Now it is possible. Private parties are available at the outdoor pool. To make reservations, please contact the outdoor pool at 719-526-4456. Holidays you ask? Yes, the indoor and outdoor pools are open on holidays and training holidays from 1100-1745. Are you interested in learning about a fun and exciting class? Well, then the kayaking program is just for you. The classes are held at the indoor pool, and for more information, please contact Outdoor Recreation at 719-526-8353.
WATER AEROBICS -- We have low impact water aerobics class available for those who are interested more in stretching and toning rather than a cardiovascular workout. For those who are interested in a high impact class that is designed for a more cardiovascular workout, you can come and join us on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 1700-1800. We also are part of the physical therapy program through Evan's Army Community Hospital. For more information, please contact the physical therapy department at the Evan's Army Community Hospital. We also offer a pregnancy water aerobics program for dependents.
COMPETITION -- Come and be a part of the competitive Fort Carson Tridents swim team. Practices are held Monday through Friday from 1800-2000. Ages for the fun and excitement are from 5 to 18 years.
CHILDREN -- At the indoor pool, we offer swim lessons throughout the year for all ages. Our classes are designed for ages 6 months through adult. The winter swim lesson schedule is posted at the indoor pool. Contact 719-536-3122 for more information.
POOL PARTY -- Ever wanted to have a pool party, but its wintertime? Well, we have solution. Have your pool party at the indoor pool for only $2 per person with prior approval. Contact 719-526-3122 for more information.
INSTRUCTIONAL COURSES -- Some of the instructional courses offered include lifeguarding, Water Safety Instructor, CPR, first aid, and Water/Boating Safety. Contact 719-526-3122 for class times and more information.
FAMILY NIGHT -- Every Thursday night from 1800-2000. The cost is $4 per family.
SENIOR CITIZENS -- Senior Citizens' Swim Time will take place Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1030-1130 winter hours only. You must be 55 years old or older and the cost is $2 per person.
SCUBA CLASSES -- Scuba Classes are now offered at $285.00 per class. This is a savings of $100 compared to downtown prices. Books and equipment are supplied. For more information on this exciting class, contact 719-526-3193.
TURKEY CREEK RANCH
Come and ride on historic Turkey Creek Ranch. Explore the beautiful meadows with majestic mountain views and bountiful wildlife. Take the family on an evening hayride and roast hotdogs and marshmallows over a crackling fire. Our picnic sites can accommodate groups of up to 600 people. Bring the little ones for a pony ride or travel back in time on a stagecoach ride. Take a high adventure 3-day pack trip to the high country or relax during an overnighter in the foothills. Stable your private horse in the historic North Barn with two arenas, one round pen and 1200 breathtaking acres to ride on. Please come by and visit or call 719-526-3905. We're located about 12 miles south of Fort Carson's main gate off Hwy 115.
OVERNIGHT PACK TRIP -- Join us in the hills of the Beaver Creek Wilderness area. All you need to bring is your personal gear and a sleeping bag. We pack in with horses and spend the night by the creek. Must be booked two weeks in advance and paid one week in advance. Must be at least 10 years of age. Maximum of 10 people unless special arrangements are made.
THREE-DAY HIGH ADVENTURE PACK TRIP -- Ride into the Sangre De Cristo Mountains, alongside rushing streams, through bogs, over rocks, up and down switchbacks and above the tree-line. Must be booked two weeks in advance and paid one week in advance. Maximum of 7 people. Must all be at least 16 years of age.
EVENING HAY RIDE -- Bring the whole family for a wholesome evening of entertainment. Roast hotdogs and marshmallows on an open fire and wash them down with good, old-fashioned cowboy lemonade. Must be booked two weeks in advance and paid one week in advance. Minimum of 10 people and a maximum of 15, unless other arrangements have been made ahead of time.
SWEETHEART RIDES -- Ride in the romantic glow of the full moon with your sweetheart! Roast hotdogs and marshmallows by our cozy campfire with the one closest to your heart. Rides must be booked two weeks in advance and paid one week in advance.
MOONLIGHT RIDES -- Listen to the serenade of the coyote. Watch mule deer and elk graze and take a step back in time. Take a trail ride through some of our favorite areas. Roast hotdogs and marshmallows on an open fire to go with your favorite beans and lemonade. Moonlight rides must be booked two weeks in advance and paid one week in advance.
FORT CARSON FITNESS CENTERS
From racquetball and basketball courts, to Cooper Certified Fitness Instructors and FitLinxx, our four fitness centers on post have something for everyone when it comes to fitness. All centers offer racquetball courts, saunas and weight rooms that include free weights, cardiovascular equipment and strength machines. In addition, Forrest, Garcia and McKibben have cardio-theaters and Cooper Institute Certified Fitness instructors. Forrest and Garcia also have FitLinxx, a workout program which provides electronic training assistance by coaching and motivating through each machine, supplying tools to easily create programs and track performance with immediate feedback. You can also check out Forrest and Garcia Physical Fitness Centers at their Web sites.
FORREST PHYSICAL FITNESS CENTER --Building 1843; Ph: 719-526-2706; Forrest Physical Fitness Center was completely renovated in 1998. In 1999, Forrest was awarded the "Best Physical Fitness Center in FORSCOM." Forrest has the largest Free Weight selection on Fort Carson and a variety of Strength Training Machines (21 linked to FitLinxx), 19 cardiovascular machines, 3 racquetball courts, indoor and outdoor running tracks, aerobics/spinning classes, and 3 personal trainers). Please stop by and speak with one of our friendly fitness center staff to start your training program today! Classes in Aerobics, Cycling, and Kickboxing. Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 0500-2200; Sat 0800-1700; Sun 1000-1700.
GARCIA PHYSICAL FITNESS CENTER -- Building 1856; Ph: 719-526-3944; Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 0530-2200; Sat, Sun & Holidays 1000-1700
MCKIBBEN PHYSICAL FITNESS CENTER -- Building 1160; Ph: 719-526-2597; Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 0600-1300; Sat, Sun & Holidays 1000-1700
WALLER PHYSICAL FITNESS CENTER -- Building 2357; Ph: 719-526-2742; Hours of Operation: Mon-Fri 0630-2200; Sat, Sun & Holidays 1500-2200
SPECIAL EVENTS CENTER -- Building 1829; Ph: 719-526-1023; The Post Field House (Special Events Center) is available to all Military units and Government Organizations by reservation. With nearly 8000 square feet of space, scoreboards and a state-of-the-art PA system, this is a great place to host your special event, from unit parties to indoor sporting events. Basketball hoops, volleyball nets, boxing bags, treadmills and free weights are available with music, TV, showers, saunas and towels for your convenience. Hours of Operation: Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 0600-0900; Thur 0830-1000; All other times by appointment.
OUTDOOR SPORTS COMPLEX -- The sports complex has eight softball fields and three soccer/football fields, all of which are lit for night-time use and are available to all military units and government organizations from April through October. This is a five-year-old complex with beautifully manicured fields, which include parking for 500, two score towers, a PA system, concession stands, a playground, and four tennis courts. Other sports fields on Fort Carson are within a 2 mile radius from the Post Sports Complex.