How Long To Spend At Garden Of The Gods
Visiting Garden of the Gods in Colorado
Garden of the Gods Park
If you hang out long enough in Colorado, you'll learn Coloradans love their hikes and their beer. Colorado Springs most famous tourist destination, Garden of the Gods, is a supernatural collection of red rock formations slicing into the clear blue Colorado sky.
Erupting from the ground beneath Pikes Peak, it is hard to believe so much natural beauty is contained in just one space. It's been that way since 1859 when the original surveyors journeyed south from Denver to the townsite location of what was then called "Colorado City."
Standing amidst this otherworldly landscape, one of them exclaimed:
"Beer Garden! Why it is a fit place for the Gods to assemble. We will call it the Garden of the Gods."
Yes, it is a fitting location for a beer garden for the gods. And since the founding of Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods has been a free park for its citizens and visitors to enjoy.
Located in the heart of Colorado Springs and only an hour drive from Denver, you'll want to have at least 2 hours to drive the perimeter of the park or hike some of her famous trails.
With its jagged rock groupings, diverse landscape and stunning views of Pikes Peak Mountain, Garden of the Gods is the perfect place to hike, take pictures, and enjoy Colorado's fresh air.
You can even plan a free outdoor wedding in the garden.
Massive rock formations sit in this 1,367 acre park and with over 21 miles of trails to hike and walk, Garden of the Gods offers outdoor delight for every person.
Considered a local's playground, here are our favorite hikes in and around Garden of the Gods.
This park is open to visitors year around. Only have a few hours to visit? Check out some of our favorite short loops.
Want to explore the entire park; we have the Grand Tour hike for you! When your camera roll is full, head to one or more of our favorite hops near the park.
Tips and Tricks: Navigating the Garden of the Gods
We love getting the local perspective on busy tourist attractions. While Garden of the Gods is visited often, we have a few tips and tricks to make your experience feel like you've lived in Colorado Springs your entire life.
Be prepared.
Garden of the Gods sits at 6,400 feet above sea level. Those 1,951 meters can do a doozy on the sea level visitor. Altitude sickness can make the best visit a bummed out experience.
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Drink water and lots of it.
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Add an electrolyte supplement for added energy as well as headache remover. We love NUUN tablets as well as Gatorade.
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Bring layers. Colorado Springs is notorious for having all four seasons in an hour. We love having a lightweight collapsible backpack in our car. Whip out that baby, throw in some water, warm layers, a snack and head on out.
The Colorado native will tell you, "Don't like the weather? Wait 5 minutes and it will change."
CoHH tip! Not sure what type of backpack you need, check out our review of hardworking daypacks.
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Wear sunscreen. You are much closer to the sun. While you might not feel hot, you'll be surprised with just how that sun can turn your beautiful skin into lobster red!
Keep off the rocks.
This diverse landscape is a nationally registered landmark. Staying off the rocks keeps them beautiful for many more generations while also saving you some money.
Yep! If you want to climb in the Garden, you need a permit. Caught climbing without one and you are out $500.
Please don't take a piece of the park with you. The Garden of the Gods Visitor Center has all kinds of fun park centric momentos to buy. Or better yet, take some photos with your phone.
Local Tip! We often tell our kids to take a photo with their mind and to touch with their eyes (not their hands!).
Stop for 30 seconds, look at the beauty and think about all the colors your mind is soaking in. These mind photographs are some of the best free memories you could have!
Stay on the trails.
If all of Colorado Springs visitors thought they could off trail, Garden of the Gods would no longer resemble the beautiful attraction it is.
Heading off trail damages plant life as well as encouraging others to do the same. As moms, we love showing our kids how to care for the geological treasures in our state.
As with any hike, maintaining trail etiquette is not only important for the environment but also allows everyone to have those amazing photo memories for years to come.
Dispose of all Trash.
Garbage can become a big problem. There are animals in this park. Throwing away your apple core in the bushes can create a whole host of issues.
RJ the racoon might not live in the Garden of the Gods but as you know from Dreamwork's Over the Hedge, human trash can create animal dependence on humans for food.
There are trash cans all over the park. If you're on a trail that does not have one, pack it out. (We bring ziplock bags to pack out our trash. They seal up as well as hold a lot!)
parking
Ah, this can be tricky especially in the height of summer tourist hours. Recently the Garden of the Gods added a shuttle for their busy summer hours. Times vary so check their site before heading out.
Local tip! Typically the best places to park are at Rock Ledge Ranch, right before entering the park. You'll have to walk a bit but many of the trails connect to this spacious lot.
The Main Parking lot is just off Juniper Way Loop. From 30th street, turn west (toward Pike's Peak) onto Gateway Way. At the junction turn right onto Juniper Way Loop. The lot will be on your left.
The Garden of the Gods Visitor Center also has many parking spots. Bonus? You can add a bit of mileage to your hike from their lot.
The park has 336 parking spots. Visit early to ensure you get one of them!
Time of Day to Visit
If you are visiting from out of town, you probably won't see too many locals during prime touring hours.
Sure, the fearless will be out climbing up those great slabs of red rock but the garden regular knows the best time to head out is NOT midday.
Note! Rock climbing is allowed only by permit, and the Visitor Center has options for every skill level. But climbing without a permit in Garden of the Gods is a $500 fine.
Check the Visitor Center well in advance of your trip if you want to book one of their climbing or rappelling experiences.
Local tip! Head to the park early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds and get parking.
The Garden of the Gods has some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets in our state. In the morning, grab your Yeti of coffee and get out before 5:30 am for an amazing summer sunrise.
Want to stir up some romance? Get to the park around 4:30 pm (winter) or around 7:30 pm (summer) with your can of wine and partner to watch a breathtaking Colorado sunset.
Tackling the hiking trails? Be parked and backpack on by 7:30 am for the least amount of trekkers on the trail as well as ample parking. Plus you'll probably run into a few friendly locals out walking their dogs.
Bathroom Facilities
Face it. Everyone at some point has to use the facilities. Remember, this is a public park.
Not only could you be served with a fine for indecent exposure, human waste is becoming a major issue on trails.
You can access bathrooms with toilets and running water at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center, the Trading Post, as well as Rock Ledge Ranch and the main parking lot off Juniper Way Loop.
Pets on the Trails
Can I take Fido with me? Yes, dogs are allowed as long as they are on their leashes. Coloradans are notorious for keeping their dogs off leash.
I'm sure you've run into those "he's friendly" situations only to have your new hiking pants covered in dirty paw prints.
The park takes this rule seriously and you will be fined if caught.
There is one designated area where dogs can run unleashed; south of Gateway Road, West of 30th Street, and east of Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site.
Please pick up your dog's poop and dispose of it in the appropriate place. No one wants to hike a trail and come upon a nice neatly tied bag of dog poop on the trail. Carry it out and throw it away!
Local Tip! Keep in mind that horses are allowed on many of the trails in the park. If your pet is skittish with large animals, or you prefer a 50 foot leash, this is not the park for your furry friend.
The 2 Hour Tour of Garden of the Gods Park
If you only have a few hours to explore Garden of the Gods, choose one of these trails and be rewarded with stunning pictures and breathtaking views.
For you curious sort, we recommend you reserve a spot for a guided nature walk with a professional park interpreter. ($5 each with reservation required)
Parking can be challenging, especially in summer months.
The Central Garden Trails
1 mile round trip Elevation Gain. approx 30 feet
This trail is great for all fitness levels and mobility. Handicap and stroller friendly with paved pathways, this loop takes you around Garden of the God's most famous red rock formations.
As you start, look up to see Kissing Camels, one of the Garden's most iconic natural sculpture rock formations.
Keep walking the loop to see the Tower of Babel, a rock that is the height of a football field end to end. You'll see Cathedral Spires aka "Temple of Montezuma" and North Gateway Rock.
There are several stories behind the names of the rocks as well as the Garden as a whole. The Ute Native American Indians called this area the doorway to the red earth mountains.
In late fall each year, their families came down out of the mountains, gathered at the Garden of the Gods and camped there during the winter.
As you walk the loop, look up. The brilliant Colorado blue sky is a stark backdrop for these red rock formations. Think about the hundreds of years of joy and delight spent in this red stone paradise.
Scotsman Trail
1 mile round trip Elevation gain 118 feet
A bit less traveled than the Central Gardens Trail, this hike gives you stunning views of Pikes Peak Mountain. It is not paved and is often used for the Garden of the Gods horseback riders.
NOTE! There can be a fair amount of horse manure on the trail depending on the time of day you hike.
We hiked this trail around 11:00 am in January and only had to dodge one pile. Scotsman Trail is a great spur trail to the Central Gardens Trail for the views of Pikes Peak.
Hop over to the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center after walking the park. Recently renovated, this visitor center has very clean bathrooms.
Take an hour to explore the free museum exhibits featuring geological history of this park as well as learning about the people and history of this area.
Garden of the Gods Visitor Center 1805 N 30th Street Colorado Springs CO 80904
Open 9-3 (Mon - Thurs) 9-5 (Fri - Sun)
snack Break!
Stop in Manitou Springs and check out these Colorado Hikes and Hops favorites.
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Red Dog Coffee 739 Manitou Ave. Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 313 9080
Opening at 7:00 am, Red Dog offers great brews as well as brunch options. Perfect stop for that early morning hike you just completed!
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Border Burger Bar 934 Manitou Ave Ste 102 Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 685 3287
Burgers are on point but so are the cheese fries. Dogs are allowed on the patio as well.
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Margo's Vienna Station 3442 W Colorado Ave Colorado Springs, CO 80904 719 630 7453
Call in your order ahead of time if you are in a rush. Large sized hot dogs with buns are a bang for your buck!
Half Day Tour of Garden of the Gods
Do you have a bit more time and want to take in the full glory of Garden of the Gods? In addition to walking the Central Loop Trail, add this spur trail.
As you'll be out on the trail a bit longer, add an extra bottle of water to your daypack.
Colorado Springs elevation gain can create a few hurdles if you're not prepared.
Local Tip! Go slow. Even the most in shape sea level athlete finds the climbs in Colorado Springs having them breath hard. Give yourself grace and enjoy your surroundings.
Garden of the Gods Loop
4 mile round trip Elevation Gain 400 feet. Point-to-Point
REI HIking Project Garden of the Gods Loop
Start at the main parking lot, crossing the road to begin hiking either way on Palmer Trail. There are many spurs and trails you can explore on this route.
For an interactive map, check out the REI Hiking Project.
Keep to the right as you go. Have your phone out; you'll have spectacular views of the diverse Colorado rock formations like Gray Rock, Sleeping Giant and the Cathedral Spires.
About halfway along the loop, you'll hike by Hamp Hut, owned by the Girl Scouts of Colorado.
In the summer you might spot them working on some new outdoor skills. This is a great spot to stop for a quick snack and hydration break.
Note that portions of this trail are mountain bike friendly. Hiking rule of the trail is hikers always have the right away.
That said, be aware of the fast rider!
Local Tip! This would be the perfect field trip day for home educators and families. Before you enter the park, pick up a $2 Junior Ranger booklet at the front desk of the visitor center.
When your hike is over, stop at the Trading Post for an ice cream cone and have your kids share their findings. Hand them a badge and certificate (free with your booklet).
Good work kids!
Hungry and Need a Quick Bite?
Garden of the Gods Trading Post's Balanced Rock Restaurant 324 Beckers Ln Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 685 9045
This place has great wraps and buffalo burgers. Grab a seat outdoors in the summer months, order a beer and scroll through your pictures from the day. In a rush, grab that order to go.
Colorado Custard Company 906 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs. CO 80829
As you leave the park, head into Manitou Springs. Custard typically has fewer calories than ice cream so order two scoops and enjoy.
Armadillo Ranch 962 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 374 5580
Known for their amazing pork and beef sandwiches, they also have vegan and vegetarian options. Live music on Saturdays with beer on tap during opening hours.
Manitou Brewery Company 725 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 282 7709
Founded in 2014, this Colorado brewery creates all their beers from water found near the top of Pikes Peak. They take pride in using organic, Colorado grown and malted barley in their beers.
Trust us, you can taste the difference. Not in the mood for a beer? Cocktails and wine are offered alongside bowls of homemade pork green chile and well-made pub food.
The Full Day Hiking Adventure at Garden of the Gods
The Grand Tour
11.1 miles 1,192 feet elevation gain Point to Point
Head down 30th, parking on the east side of the road (that's left if you are going south or away from Pike's Peak) near the Navigators headquarters located at 3820 N 30th Street.
Trail Tips:
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Keep Right. The Trail will take you under a small bridge and out onto a paved walkway.
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Meander down this trail for around a mile before heading up a slight hill into the park.
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Left or Right? As you approach the Y shaped road, take a left or right. This trail is a loop so either way takes you back to your car.
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Start on the Palmer Trail.
Your hike will take in all the sights: Siamese Twins rock, Balanced Rock, stunning views of the Central Garden as well as a slight detour to Balanced Rock.
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Take your time, stopping often for pictures. There are a lot of spurs on this trail. Be curious and take a few.
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Dead Ends can be the best photo ops. Oftentimes you'll come upon Pikes Peak Mountain looming large just ahead or to the side.
Local tip! If you are nervous about getting lost, download the trail on All Trails or REI Hiking project.
We love these apps as they provide well marked trails you can follow on your phone. The apps are free with the bonus feature of recording your route.
How fun to not only have pictures of your hike but also the exact route and mileage to share with others. That's a win in our book.
The Grand Tour takes you around the entirety of the park as well as inside all the most famous garden formations. You'll find much less foot traffic on this loop allowing for some solo deep thinking or animated hiking partner conversation.
When you're done, high-five yourself. Good work.
Check out a few nearby local restaurants that are sure to be the perfect ending to that elevation hike.
Trinity Brewing Company 1466 Garden of the Gods Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719 634 0029
Based in a warehouse, this brewery has great burgers along with gluten free and vegan fare for all to enjoy. They have an outdoor patio for your furry friends to tag along.
Red Leg Brewing Company 4630 Forge Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719 598 3776
This local brewery has several gold winning ales including the Howitzer or the Ninja School Karate Lager. Plans to expand to a food truck paradise will take this brewery to a new level.
Adam's Mountain Cafe 26 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 685 4370
Opened in 1985, this Manitou Springs cafe offers homemade food, most sauces and condiments made inhouse. With antique tables and decor, stop here for hearty portions of healthy and delicious food. We love their whole grain pancakes and Green Mountain Falls polenta.
3.14 Sweet & Savory Pi Bar 5152 Centennial Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80919 719 314 6172
This one of a kind pie shop has it all. Salads, cocktails and beers, pizzas and sandwiches. The standout winners are the pies: savory and sweet. We highly recommend the Wicked Dutchman with its bourbon cooked apples.
Nearby Hiking Trails
Got the hiking bug after spending some time in the Garden? Colorado Springs has hundreds of trails for all levels and abilities. Check out our favorite five hikes within minutes of central Colorado Springs are five fantastic day hikes.
If you have more time, we highly recommend exploring North Cheyenne Cañon.
This free regional park has delightful hikes for the adventure hiker, the young family, the solo explorer and the distance trekker. Within the park are many options. These two are perfect for the family, solo hiker, adventurer and nature lover.
Louds Cabin While a bit of a trek at 6.2 miles, this trail ends at an old miner's cabin in the heart of the Colorado mountains.
The trail begins at Seven Bridges Trailhead, taking you along a meandering river and over seven bridges. You get water, bridges, views, and history in one hike.
Mount Muscoco The perfect hike to do with your tweens or teens, this moderate hike takes you two miles to the summit with breathtaking 360 degree views of Colorado Springs and her mountains.
Where to stay Near Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods Resort and Club 3320 Mesa Road, Colorado Springs 80904 719 632 5541
This exclusive resort is just minutes from Garden of the Gods. Accommodations include cabins, hotel rooms and suites providing options for families and individuals as well as a romantic getaway.
Kinship Landing 415 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 719 203 9309
One of Colorado's newest hotels in the heart of Colorado Springs, this hotel has bunk rooms for the solo traveler, suites for families and couples.
Located in the Trolley District of Colorado Springs, Kinship Landing is within walking distance of some great new eateries as well as the US Olympic and Paralympic Museum and America the Beautiful Park.
Cheyenne Mountain Resort 3225 Broadmoor Valley Road,
Colorado Springs, CO 80906 800 588 0250
A full scale resort with five pools (including a kid's pool!) plus an 18 hole golf course, Cheyenne Mountain Resort is the perfect home away from home.
Nestled amidst the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, enjoy the fresh mountain air as well as many of their in house eateries.
Local Tip! Colorado Springs has grown exponentially over the past decade. Local hotel chains such as Marriott and Best Western are budget friendly options. Stay in the 80919 and 80904 zip codes for closest proximity to Garden of the Gods.
We'd love to hear about your experience exploring Garden of the Gods. What was your favorite trail?
How Long To Spend At Garden Of The Gods
Source: https://www.coloradohikesandhops.com/blog/visiting-garden-of-the-gods
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