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

Food Nearby

Groups

Picnic Area

Scenic

Wildlife

ADA Accessible

Reviews

Explorer

Haley Baker

Explorer

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

08/01/17

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

Ally Schlander

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

07/07/17

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

Michaela Velarde

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

04/12/17

Bring your camera! Fun for the whole family.

4.0

Leave No Trace

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

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Scotsman Trail Loop

Siamese Twins Loop

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Hike the Upper Loop Trail

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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

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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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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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