Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

Colorado Springs, Colorado

4.7/5

based on 21 reviews

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Description

Added by Eric Schuette

Visit one of the most interesting and recognizable landscapes in Colorado for free! You can drive one of several loop roads, walk one of or more of the many trails through the area, or rock climb some of the interesting rock formations. Wildlife, wildflowers, amazing scenery, and interesting geology means Garden of the Gods has something for everyone.

If you are new to the area a stop by the visitor center can helpful to get a map of the trails and roads in the area as well as obtaining a climbing permit (one is needed to climb and is free).

Once you have entered the area there are multiple trails and pull outs that you can explore. Many of the trails are paved and most of the year easy to follow. During the summer expect crowds during the day but those thin very early or late. In the winter snow can provide a wonderful addition to the landscape. The area is not very large and can easily be explored in a day.

For those who are interested in climbing make sure to obtain a permit from the visitor center. Also, the staff can brief you on current area closures (usually raptor nesting) as they are not marked on the park. There are multitudes of routes that provide all levels of a challenge but all have really cool views of the area.

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Features

Rock Climbing

Cycling

Photography

Running

Yoga

Hiking

Bathrooms

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

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Groups

Picnic Area

Scenic

Wildlife

ADA Accessible

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods Reviews

Bridget Taylor

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

03/21/16

It constantly amazes me how beautiful nature is!! I went on a Sunday afternoon and it was busy!! Get there early in the day to get a good parking space, or just be prepared to hunt for a space for a while. I was there at sunset and got some amazing photos and the views are beautiful!

5.0

Explorer

Katie Lyons

Explorer

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

01/12/16

Running at Garden of the Gods is a very cool experience. There are trails just beyond the confines of the actual park that go for miles around the Colorado Springs area and offer amazing views of the mountains to the West.

4.0

Explorer

Johnathan .

Explorer

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

01/07/16

If you're in Colorado then checking off Garden of the Gods is definitely a must do. The park has miles of trails for you to choose from and every one is a gem. Stick around for sunset, the rocks really explode with color plus the views of Pikes Peak can't be beat. Trinity Brewing is just down the street if you're looking for a post hike brew.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Scotsman Trail Loop

Siamese Twins Loop

Siamese twins is about a half mile hike with little elevation gain that is a quick hike while driving the park. The hardest thing about this is getting a parking spot to tell you the truth. On a weekend or pretty much any summer day the five or so spots available at the trailhead are constantly full. For this reason, it might be easier to park at the store down the road or if you are spendin...

Hike the Upper Loop Trail

This short spur trail is right off Perkins Central Garden Trail. Most people walk by it because the walkway changes from paved to dirt, but it is definitely a must-see if you're exploring the park. It climbs just a short amount before reaching the rocks you can climb on. Make sure you take a moment here and look west to admire Pikes Peak off in the distance. The rocks on this loop are available...

Perkins Central Garden Trail

Garden of the Gods has dozens of hiking trails that cover miles through the park itself. The Perkins Central Garden Trail takes you through the heart of the rock formations and really gives you perspective on the size of these red rocks. This trail also takes you past several areas where rock climbing is allowed (with the required permits), which gives you either something fun to watch or a wa...

Bike the Garden of the Gods Loop

The Basics: Garden of the Gods is a free, public park on the Western edge of Colorado Springs. Open year round, the excellent paved roads with wide bike lanes provide road bikers with multiple loop options from 3 to 10+ miles. From casual bike riders to seasoned pros, you choose your distance and difficulty!The Ride: Starting from the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center entrance (East side of par...

Hike, Climb, or Bike Red Rock Open Space

Red Rock Canyon Open Space was made public in the early 00's after years of use as a quarry and landfill. Some of the stone quarried from the area have even been used in some of the downtown buildings. Getting there is straightforward, heading West on 24 there is an obvious turn off left between 31st street and Manitou Springs. From the entrance of the park, you can turn right to a small parkin...

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

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Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods Reviews

Leave No Trace

Nearby

Scotsman Trail Loop

Siamese Twins Loop

Hike the Upper Loop Trail

Perkins Central Garden Trail

Bike the Garden of the Gods Loop

Hike, Climb, or Bike Red Rock Open Space

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