I just got back from a three week vacation that started in Colorado springs. Stayed at the Hampton Inn there and got prepared for a few weeks in the mountains. Started by going into the mountains near the zoo which I was stunned to turn a corner and find giraffes. Didn't interact too much nor did I talk polotics with the locals.
Alpine loop and Haydens pass. fish the Animas river and wolf creek to mention a few things.
I'm assuming you went to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. That is a great zoo. I like it better than the one in Denver, except that the aviary in Denver is pretty awesome.