Name: 2025 State of the Outdoors
Start: 2025-08-19T16:00:00-06:00
Location: Weidner Field

Join us for the 2025 State of the Outdoors, hosted by the Pikes Peak Outdoor Recreation Alliance (PPORA) in collaboration with the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC. This year’s theme: Voices for the Outdoors: Policy, Partnerships, and Possibility, brings together outdoor industry leaders, policymakers, and community members for an inspiring evening focused on the future of Colorado’s outdoor recreation economy.
Early Bird pricing ends August 3, grab your tickets before they're gone!
Held in the McDivitt Club at Weidner Field, this event features a dynamic panel discussion, the release of the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative (OPPI) Vision Plan, a silent auction with outdoor gear and experiences, an outdoor expo, and opportunities to connect with outdoor professionals and elected officials over hors d'oeuvres and drinks.
This Year's Theme:
Voices for the Outdoors: Policy, Partnerships, and Possibility
Our 2025 gathering will highlight the collaboration and vision needed to protect and grow Colorado’s outdoor economy, from local communities to the national stage.
Panel Discussion
This year, we are convening a panel focused on both challenges and opportunities for our outdoor economy and the public lands and people who support it. The panel represents a balanced group of speakers representing federal, state, and local perspectives who will speak to the current and future state of outdoor recreation and conservation. They will speak to recent actions and impacts we are seeing as well as highlight opportunities for bipartisan collaboration and advocacy to both protect and enhance the outdoor recreation economy.
Moderated by Alasyn Zimmerman (KOAA), this year’s panel will feature influential voices from all levels of government and industry:
Congressman Jeff Crank, U.S. Representative, Colorado's 5th Congressional District
Samantha Albert, Deputy Director, Colorado Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC/OEDIT)
David Leinweber, Colorado Springs City Councilmember
(Additional Panelist TBD)
With remarks from Mayor Yemi Mobolade
Silent Auction
Bid on exclusive outdoor gear, guided experiences, and adventures through our online auction platform. All proceeds support PPORA’s mission to strengthen the outdoor recreation industry for the Pikes Peak region through leadership and collaboration.
Outdoor Expo Booths
Connect with outdoor nonprofits, land management agencies, and stewardship organizations at our outdoor expo, highlighting local efforts to protect public lands, provide education, and expand recreation access.
Networking & Hospitality
Mingle with outdoor professionals, nonprofit leaders, business owners, and elected officials while enjoying heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cashless bar in the beautiful McDivitt Club at Weidner Field, Colorado Springs.
Why Attend?
The State of the Outdoors is more than a networking event, it’s a rallying point for those passionate about Colorado’s public lands, outdoor access, and thriving recreation economy. Come add your voice to the conversation.