Colorado Springs Hands-On Falconry Class and Demonstration

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado Springs and want to try something truly unique, a Hands-On Falconry Class and Demonstration might just be the experience you’re craving. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems to offer a genuinely engaging peek into an ancient sport. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, curious traveler, or someone looking for a memorable outdoor activity, this might be worth considering.

What really catches our eye is how accessible and beginner-friendly this experience is—offering a chance to see and hold birds of prey like falcons, hawks, and even owls, all under the supervision of a licensed falconer. Plus, with stellar reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and passion, it sounds like a warm, educational outing with plenty of hands-on moments. One potential downside? The experience is weather-dependent, so if rain or wind spoil the day, it might be canceled or rescheduled. But overall, this seems like a fantastic fit for anyone interested in wildlife or outdoor adventure, especially those who appreciate a mixture of education and interaction.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly introduction to falconry suitable for all levels
• Engaging outdoor activity with opportunities to hold and learn about birds of prey
• Expert guides who are knowledgeable and passionate about the birds
• Flexible scheduling with morning or afternoon classes
• Weather-dependent — check the forecast if you’re planning ahead
• Small group size ensures a more personal and hands-on experience

What Is the Colorado Springs Hands-On Falconry Class?

This experience is a roughly 90-minute outdoor class designed to give you a genuine taste of falconry, an ancient hunting art involving trained birds of prey. The tour is run by Broadmoor Outfitters and Soaring Adventure, with a licensed falconer overseeing every session. It’s an opportunity to learn about the different types of birds—like eagles, owls, hawks, and falcons—and see them in action.

We love the fact that this isn’t just a lecture. Instead, it’s highly interactive, with the chance to put on a leather glove and hold a trained saker falcon. The demonstration involves the birds flying freely in the surrounding countryside, showcasing their impressive flight skills. The overall vibe is casual, friendly, and geared toward beginners, making it accessible even if you’ve never been close to a bird of prey before.

How the Tour Is Structured

The class begins with a discussion led by your guide, who explains the different birds’ abilities and their roles in falconry. As you listen and observe, the guide will showcase the birds, explaining their unique traits. The highlight for many is watching the birds fly and hunt in a controlled environment, which adds a real sense of awe—and trust—in these incredible creatures.

After the demonstration, the real fun begins. You’ll have the chance to wear a leather glove and hold a trained saker falcon. From reviews, it seems that the guides are skilled at making everyone feel comfortable, whether you’re nervous or confident around birds. The birds are engaged by their own will, which offers a fascinating look at their intelligence and training.

What Makes This Experience stand Out?

What we find particularly appealing is that the tour is suitable for most travelers, with most reviews highlighting how knowledgeable and kind the guides are. Many people mention Deanna or Nicole by name, praising their passion and expertise. The fact that it’s a small group experience—capped at 20 travelers—means you won’t be just a face in the crowd, allowing for more interaction and questions.

Another big plus is the stunning outdoor setting. Being able to observe these majestic birds flying freely in Colorado Springs’ countryside offers a memorable connection to nature. Reviewers rave about how cool and educational it is to see the birds in action, often describing their experience as “fascinating” and “unforgettable.”

Is the Price Justified?

At $207.60 per person, this isn’t a budget activity, but it seems to deliver value in many ways. First, you’re getting a highly personalized, expert-led experience. The reviews repeatedly mention how much they learned from guides who are clearly passionate and knowledgeable. Second, the opportunity to interact with real birds of prey—rather than just watching from a distance—is a rare experience that’s hard to put a price on.

If you’re someone who loves wildlife, history, or outdoor adventures, this tour offers more than just a few photos; it provides a meaningful, educational experience. Plus, the class’s flexible schedule makes it easy to fit into a day of exploring Colorado Springs.

What About Accessibility and Practical Details?

Meeting at Broadmoor Outfitters in Colorado Springs, the activity is conveniently located near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re staying downtown or nearby. The tour lasts around 90 minutes, making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule. It’s suitable for most travelers, but if you have a fear of birds, it might not be the best fit, as the experience involves close contact with flying birds.

The weather plays a key role—it’s weather-dependent, so if rain or high winds are forecasted, the class could be canceled. Fortunately, cancellation is free if you notify at least 24 hours in advance, and they’ll reschedule or refund if needed. The maximum group size of 20 keeps things intimate and personal, which adds to the overall enjoyment and learning.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews are almost universally glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating from 234 reviewers. People consistently describe the guides as “knowledgeable,” “passionate,” and “fun.” Many say it’s “one of the most interesting things they’ve ever done,” and several mention how the experience exceeded expectations and left them with a newfound appreciation for birds of prey.

One reviewer summed it up as a “bucket list item,” noting that the entire experience was “more than we hoped for.” Families with children also find it enjoyable—as long as the kids aren’t afraid of birds—since it’s highly interactive and engaging.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, curious travelers, or anyone eager to learn about falconry. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy outdoor activities and want a hands-on, educational experience. It’s suitable for most ages, provided there’s no fear of birds, and would make a memorable addition to any Colorado Springs itinerary. If you’re someone who appreciates guides who are enthusiastic and well-informed, you’ll likely leave feeling inspired and more connected to nature.

Concluding Thoughts

The Colorado Springs Hands-On Falconry Class and Demonstration offers a rare chance to connect with nature in a meaningful way. It blends education, interaction, and stunning outdoor scenery, making it a worthwhile experience for those interested in wildlife or seeking a memorable adventure. The high ratings and positive reviews suggest that most visitors find it well worth the price, especially given the expert guidance and the opportunity to hold a real falcon.

While it isn’t the cheapest activity, the value lies in its uniqueness. This isn’t just a quick photo op—it’s an educational journey that leaves you with a greater respect for these incredible birds. It’s best suited for curious minds, animal lovers, or anyone looking for a one-of-a-kind experience in Colorado Springs.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Most travelers can participate, but if you’re concerned about younger children or specific needs, it’s best to ask directly. Generally, the experience is suitable for most ages, provided they’re comfortable around birds.

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including the demonstration and hands-on holding.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Broadmoor Outfitters, located at 6 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the price worth it?
Most reviewers feel it is, especially considering the personalized guides, educational content, and unique opportunity to interact with trained birds of prey.

What’s included in the experience?
You’ll gain hands-on experience, learn about the birds, watch a flying demonstration, and have the chance to hold a trained falcon.

Is this activity suitable for people with a fear of birds?
It’s not recommended for travelers with a fear of birds, as it involves close interaction with flying birds of prey.

If you’re looking to add a distinctive, educational outdoor activity to your Colorado Springs trip, this falconry class might just be the highlight you remember. It combines learning, nature, and hands-on fun, making it a well-rounded experience for any curious traveler.