Perkins Central Garden Trail

Colorado Springs, Colorado

5.0/5

based on 2 reviews

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Details

Distance

1.13 miles

Elevation Gain

138 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Haley Baker

Perkins Central Garden Trail is a gentle, wheelchair and stroller accessible trail that takes you right to the bottom of the tallest rock formations in Garden of the Gods.

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 way to add more adventure into your visit. Permits can be obtained at the Visitor's Center before the park's entrance.

One of my favorite parts about this trail is that it offers lots of areas for exploration and it connects with quite a few other trails so you can easily add mileage to suit your needs. The beginning area can get pretty crowded, especially in the afternoon. Go early to avoid both the crowds and the heat.

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Features

Rock Climbing

Photography

Running

Hiking

Bathrooms

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Food Nearby

Groups

Scenic

ADA Accessible

Reviews

Shaneil Weaver

Perkins Central Garden Trail

02/03/23

This is a great introductory trail to Garden of the Gods. It is paved all the way around and begins at the largest parking area. I saw a surprising amount of wildlife on this trail including a rattlesnake, multiple mule deer, and multiple different bird species. I would recommend taking the Upper Trail detour, it is NOT paved, but it provides even better views of the central garden and downtown Manitou.

5.0

Kyle C

Perkins Central Garden Trail

10/16/20

Easy walk surrounded by red rock. I’ve seen all kinds of animals from the easy access of the trail. During the summer it can get very crowded so if possible go on the off season. The parking at the north end of the park also fills up very fast.

5.0

Leave No Trace

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

Nearby

Hike the Upper Loop Trail

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Bike the Garden of the Gods Loop

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Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

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 da...

Scotsman Trail Loop

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Perkins Central Garden Trail

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Leave No Trace

Nearby

Hike the Upper Loop Trail

Bike the Garden of the Gods Loop

Climb and Hike in the Garden of the Gods

Scotsman Trail Loop

Siamese Twins Loop

Hike, Climb, or Bike Red Rock Open Space

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