Written by Cobun Keegan
Colorado is perhaps the sunniest of the 50 states. Throughout the year, even in the dead of winter, the days are kept warm by a bright sun in a cloudless sky. The fall months of the first semester are as good as summertime, as far as the students are concerned. The quad is constantly full of solar-powered Frisbee players, slackliners, and studiers. From August through October, the temperatures are warm enough for hiking and mountain biking, as well as any number of other diversions from studying. And, of course, the highlight of the weather for many students is Colorado's famous winter—mild temperatures on the plains and long, powder-choked months in the mountains. Colorado winters make for some of the best skiing in North America. Campus is noticeably quieter during winter weekends, as students make their way to Vail, Breckenridge, Steamboat, and other world-renowned resorts within hours of Colorado Springs. Those that remain on campus usually enjoy mild days or a pristine winter wonderland perfect for snowball fights and sledding.
Come March, students leap right back into their old habits, opting for outdoor study sessions after being cooped up in dorm rooms and lounges for the winter. Perhaps it's all this sunny weather combined with an active lifestyle that inspires the noticeably healthy glows radiating from CC students. Of course, Colorado weather is also extremely unpredictable and, as any local will tell you, sunny days can always become blustery and dark in a matter of minutes. The Springs is no exception, and the one thing you can count on is a new surprise almost every day.