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Colorado is simply bursting with soaring mountains and stunning landscapes. Every area of the state has something awe-inspiring — from the alpine tundras of Rocky Mountain National Park to the heart-pumping drive along Million Dollar Highway. Smack dab in the middle of it all stands the Garden of the Gods. This stunning park near Colorado Springs is littered with breathtaking rock formations, and only an hour or so from Denver. The stunning orange-and-red rocks pepper a landscape that seems to have arrived from another planet.
A journey through this park includes both walking and driving. In total, the trip should take about three hours total:
First, an easy, mile-long trail winds through the Central Gardens, the heart of this unique park. Here, towering monoliths of stone loom over the path, like the imposing Gateway Rocks and the mysterious Three Graces. Each of these strange formations exists thanks to a fascinating process of earth-moving collisions and earth-shaping erosion – you’ll hear all about it as you stroll along the path.
Then, beyond the paved walking trail, the driving portion of the park continues to other unbelievable sights, like the Balanced Rock and Tower of Babel. Save a bit of extra time for the Siamese Twin hike for some picture-perfect views.
Denver International Airport (DEN) is where most travelers to the area arrive, as it offers far more flight options. Rent a car at the airport and drive about 1.5 hours to Garden of the Gods.
Colorado Springs Airport (COS) offers connecting flights to a handful of cities around the U.S. From COS, rent a car and drive 25 minutes to Garden of the Gods.
Driving into the area — either from the airports or from farther away — is usually the easiest option for most travelers. From Denver, drive 1.5 hours via I-25 South. From Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a 15-minute drive west out of downtown, via Uintah Street and N. 30th Street.
Garden of the Gods is open to the public free of charge.
The Visitor & Nature Center is also free to enter. The optional intro movie in the center costs a small fee to view.
HOTELS
There are numerous chain and boutique hotel options in Colorado Springs, Old Colorado City, and Manitou Springs. These towns each have their own unique atmosphere and are just minutes away from Garden of the Gods and Pike’s Peak.
SHORT-TERM RENTALS
Along with hotels, there are many Airbnbs. Vrbo, and similar offerings in the area. Northwest Colorado Springs is a good base for families who want easy access to trails and nature sites.
RESORTS
The Garden of the Gods Resort is a historic luxury getaway with ideal views of the red rock formations that is perfect for special trips and luxury travelers.
Summer is the busiest and warmest, plus the Visitor and Nature Center packs in more programs and activities. To enjoy the park during this season, tour earlier or later in the day for cooler temperatures and calmer viewpoints.
The park is still easily accessible in the winter, and spring and fall bring a good blend of fair weather and fewer crowds.
In every season, weekdays are less busy than weekends.
Most visitors explore Garden of the Gods in half a day, which allows plenty of time to enjoy the shopping and dining in nearby Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs. We recommend getting an early start at Garden of the Gods and strolling through the Central Garden Trail before it gets too hot at midday, enjoying the expert narration along the way. During the driving portion of the tour, there should be plenty of time to take the optional Siamese Twins Trail, which is an easy 20-minute hike that rewards visitors with a view of Pike’s Peak framed between orange rock formations.
Visitors with flexibility can spend more time exploring the Colorado Springs area, including Pike’s Peak, or even come back to Garden of the Gods for another lovely walk – the light changes at different times of day, so we may want to take a morning walk one day and an evening stroll the next.
Garden of the Gods can be explored in half a day or comfortably stretched out over an entire day, as energy and interest allow. A one-day itinerary for someone staying in Colorado Springs might look something like this:
Begin at the Visitor & Nature Center, taking in the optional intro film if desired. Walk the pleasant Central Garden Trail, which features favorite sights such as the Gateway Arch, the Three Sisters, and the Cathedral Spires. Our expert narration will guide you through each of these must-see spots.
Then, the driving portion of the tour leads us past the Tower of Babel, the Giant Footprints, and of course, the iconic Balanced Rock. There’s plenty of time to take the optional Siamese Twins Trail, which is an easy 20-minute hike up to a great view of Pike’s Peak.
Finish the day up with a meal in nearby Colorado Springs or Manitou Springs, which have a fun, artsy atmosphere, or return for some great photos of the orange sandstone formations during Golden Hour.
Balanced Rock is an icon you must see at the Garden of the Gods. This massive red sandstone boulder is estimated at 700 tons and sits improbably on a narrow pedestal. It creates an illusion that defies gravity and remains one of the most photographed spots in the park. A nearby pullout makes it easy to stop, snap pictures, and take in the views. The formation beautifully highlights differential erosion and the shaping power of wind and water.
Kissing Camels is among the most famous rock formations in the Garden of the Gods. Perched atop the North Gateway Rock, this natural archway resembles two camels touching noses across a gap. The whimsical shape was created through centuries of erosion and remains a feature that visitors photograph frequently. It is clearly visible from several viewpoints across the park. Whether driving or exploring on foot, spotting these camels is a memorable highlight for guests of all ages.
High Point Overlook offers some of the best panoramic views in the Garden of the Gods. From this elevated perch, visitors can look out over the park’s jagged red rock formations with Pikes Peak rising in the distance. It’s a favourite stop for photographers, especially during golden hour when the rocks glow in the fading sunlight. Whether seeking a peaceful picnic spot or a scenic viewpoint, High Point delivers an unforgettable perspective of the park.
The Gateway Rocks serve as a dramatic introduction to the Garden of the Gods. These towering sandstone formations flank the road as you enter the park, instantly immersing you in a surreal landscape of red rock. Formed over millions of years, the massive structures stand as a geologic gateway to the wonders beyond. Their rich color and sheer size make them a favorite first stop.
The Three Graces are a trio of elegant sandstone spires that rise closely together from the valley floor and offer a stunning example of erosion. Slender and smooth, these formations appear almost sculpted with flowing lines and a soft red hue. They remain a favorite among photographers, especially in the beautiful morning or evening light. Visitors can view them up close from the nearby trail or parking area.
The Central Gardens Trail is an easy, paved, two-mile trail through the heart of the Garden of the Gods. It’s an excellent introduction to this fantastic place. This tour’s audio narration covers the Central Gardens Trail for the walking portion of the tour, leading you through the most famous formations in the park.
The Siamese Twins Trail is an optional trail along the route that takes about 30 minutes. It’s an easy 1-mile round-trip hike over gravel paths with some trail stairs. The reward is a great view of Pike’s Peak rising up between the nature window formed by matched rock formations known as the Siamese Twins.
Headphones: Use earbuds or headphones for the walking portion of the tour for the best experience. These will also be useful if you take the shuttle.
Charger/Battery Pack: There will be plenty of photo opportunities along the route, so bring a charger and extra battery to keep phones fully charged.
Water Bottles: Bring plenty of water to drink throughout the day. The arid climate and high elevation in Colorado can lead to rapid dehydration, even on easy walking paths, so constant hydration is needed.
Layers: Temperatures can be cooler than expected at higher elevations, and the lack of shade in the park can make it quite warm. Pack lightweight layers that are easy to remove to stay comfortable in variable weather.
Hiking Shoes/Boots: The majority of the path is paved, but there are some gravel and dirt paths deeper in the park. Pack closed-toed shoes that are comfortable for a full day of walking.
Sun Protection: Pack a sun hat, sunglasses, and sunblock to protect from the strong Colorado Sun. Visitors prone to sunburn may want to consider UV-protective clothing as well.