Welcome to the "Mountain Post"! Nestled at the foot of the Rocky Mountains in beautiful Colorado Springs, Fort Carson is one of the Army's premier installations. A PCS here is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, with unparalleled, year-round access to hiking, skiing, and breathtaking scenery.

Area Overview:

• Location & Climate: Fort Carson is just south of Colorado Springs. The climate is semi-arid with four distinct seasons, low humidity, and over 300 days of sunshine a year. The altitude (over 6,000 ft) is a major factor; it takes time to acclimate. Winters can be snowy, but the sun often melts it quickly.
• Local Vibe: Colorado Springs is a large, vibrant city that loves its military. The culture is a blend of military tradition and a healthy, active, outdoor-focused lifestyle.

On-Base Housing & Amenities:

• Housing: On-post housing is managed by Balfour Beatty Communities.
• Amenities: The base has a modern commissary and exchange, Evans Army Community Hospital, and an MWR program heavily focused on outdoor recreation. You can rent ski equipment, mountain bikes, and camping gear at a low cost.

Local Housing Market & Popular Neighborhoods:

• Fountain: The closest and most affordable town, located immediately south of the base. It's very popular with military families.
• Colorado Springs: Offers a huge variety of neighborhoods. The Powers corridor on the east side is a sprawling suburban area with lots of shopping. The areas southwest of the city, near the Broadmoor, are more established and upscale.
• Monument: A town located north of the Air Force Academy (about a 45-minute commute). It's known for excellent schools and a more affluent, mountain-town feel.

Schools & Childcare:

• On-Post Schools: There are no DoDEA schools. Children attend local school districts based on their address.
• Off-Post Schools: Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8 serves the immediate area. Further north, Academy District 20 and Cheyenne Mountain School District 12 are highly sought after and are considered among the best in the state.
• Childcare: Multiple CDCs are available on the installation.

Things to Do & Pro-Tips:

• Local Must-Dos: Hike the stunning red rock formations at Garden of the Gods (it's free!). Drive or take the Cog Railway up Pikes Peak. Tackle the famous Manitou Incline if you're feeling adventurous.
• Insider Info: Acclimatize! Take it easy for the first week you're here. Drink tons of water to combat the effects of the high, dry altitude. Also, the sun is much more intense at this elevation, so use sunscreen year-round.
• Weekend Trips: World-class ski resorts like Breckenridge and Vail are 2-3 hours away. The vibrant city of Denver is just over an hour north. Great Sand Dunes National Park is a unique destination about 2.5 hours south.