Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods
Colorado Springs, Colorado
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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Reviews
Easily one of my favorites! Such pretty rocks. Loved the accessibility and trails throughout the park.
5.0
Hope to walk it again, really neat area
5.0
This park is easily accessible both from the standpoint of just walking on any of the paved paths to climbing. The best time to go is on the off season since the loop road can turn into a parking lot on summer days, but if you are able to get there on a spring evening you won't forget it. For somewhere so close to a city, you can see lots of wildlife including mule deer, bobcat, black bear etc. As for the climbing Montezuma's Tower and New Era are both worth it for the summits!
5.0
Awesome park!! Beautiful landscapes. The red rocks make for some insane sunrise / sunsets!! Make a stop here for sure!!
5.0
I loved this park when I went to Colorado the first time! The rock formations are so amazing and unique, and it's fun to see the ones with recognizable shapes, like the Kissing Camels.
5.0
Pikes Peak may be the nearby headline, but this public park is amazing and will remind you more of Arizona rather than Colorado.
5.0
Garden of the Gods has been named the best City Park in all of the US, and after one visit here it's easy to see why. This is a gorgeous park with everything from rock climbing to wheelchair accessible walkways. Definitely worth the stop if you're anywhere near the Springs.
5.0
My mission trip group visited here on our way to volunteering. Seeing the "gods" stick out of the nearly flat land was amazing, especially for someone like me who had never seen the mountains before. Great hiking trails, though I suggest trailing of the well-known paths and searching for the dirt walkways that lead you up the hill. The higher you go, the better the valley looks. I was a little scared of all the signs that say to look out for rattlesnakes, but what kind of hike is it without some sort of danger? Highly suggest visiting here if you are passing through Colorado Springs and need a place to stretch your legs.
5.0
Bring your camera! Fun for the whole family.
4.0
Garden of the God's is one of my favorite places in CO. It's family and dog friendly and there are countless areas to explore. It gets very crowded during the warm months so be prepared to be surrounded by other people. Also, afternoon thunderstorms are quite common so plan accordingly.
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
Perkins Central Garden Trail
Hike the Upper Loop Trail
Bike the Garden of the Gods Loop
Hike, Climb, or Bike Red Rock Open Space
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