Families around Colorado Springs started their Thanksgiving early by burning calories on the trails. In Manitou Springs, parking lots were full of hikers eager to tackle the 2,744-step Incline, motivated by a special treat.
Brothers Ryan and Jared Klimek, along with their friend Tom Lowry, hosted the fourth annual “Caffeinated Climb,” offering free doughnuts and coffee at the summit. The event began in 2021 after the trio found inspiration while enjoying the view from the Spanish Peaks on Veterans Day. “We thought, ‘What would be great right now is a cup of hot coffee,’” Lowry recalled. They quickly bought supplies from Costco, carried them up the Incline, and a new tradition was born.
The Klimeks and Lowry aimed to spread kindness on Thanksgiving. “At the top of the Incline, no one expects coffee, and it’s fun to see the surprise on their faces,” Lowry said. Since its inception, the event has expanded significantly. This year, about 20 volunteers helped transport around 260 pounds of gear, including French presses and gallons of water. Local businesses like Loyal Coffee and Dad’s Donuts contributed supplies.
Ryan Klimek expressed his desire to foster a community where spontaneous acts of kindness are celebrated. For some participants, like local couple Lindsey Dove and Robert Downs, the promise of coffee and doughnuts was enough to motivate them to attempt the Incline for the first time. “We saw an Instagram post about it while having espresso martinis last night,” Dove shared. “Maybe we’ll make this our new tradition.”
For others like Martin Martinez, climbing the Incline is part of his routine. His Thanksgiving ascent marked his 268th climb this year as he aims for a total of 300 by year-end. He described the coffee and doughnuts as “wonderful,” but after descending, he was ready for turkey.
Meanwhile, in Briargate, about 4,000 runners participated in the YMCA’s 27th annual Turkey Trot 5K on a chilly morning that left many participants’ faces red from the cold. “It’s a community tradition,” said Kate Noonan, vice president of events for the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region. “People come out to exercise so they can relax later.”
The event attracted solo runners, families with strollers, and even pets. Some participants donned turkey costumes while others enjoyed a leisurely stroll with friends.
First-place runner Ben Schneiderman emphasized that the Turkey Trot is a family affair; his brother Noah finished just seconds behind him in second place. “It’s fun being out here on Thanksgiving,” Ben said. Afterward, he planned to enjoy a quiet family meal.
In keeping with holiday spirit, registration fees from the Turkey Trot support YMCA programs that provide access to childcare, swim lessons, and youth sports in the Pikes Peak Region. “Our goal is access for all; we never want to turn anyone away due to finances,” Noonan explained.
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