Garden of the Gods
1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO, 80904
Garden of the Gods Menu
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Address :
1805 N 30th St
Colorado Springs, CO, 80904 - Phone (719) 634-6666
- Website https://www.gardenofgods.com
- Click To Get Directions
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Leah B.
Great place to go hiking, horseback riding, or just drive through before or after dinner. The blue skies in contrast with the bright red and orange sandstone is really something to see. It's fun to climb around the balancing rock, and take pictures of the kissing camels. They really do look like kissing camels. We had our Christmas picture taken at the visitor center with that behind us and they turned out great. I will say that the Trader Store is definitely worth the visit. Yes, it screams "Tourist" but that's kind of what makes it great: there's nice artwork, all kinds of jewelry, and of course the standard tourist classics. We got a pocket-sized game of Farkle. Yeah, I bet you don't even know what Farkle is. The Visitor Center is also a nice stop. The stuffed mountain lion is something to see, there's a cafe at top where you can get hot cocoa when it's cold, and walk out on the balcony for a great view.
(5)Tim B.
The Garden of the Gods is one of my favorite places anywhere. We have been here several times and wouldn't think of going through Colorado Springs without going to the Garden of the Gods. It is conveniently located in the city and its free! You can do a simple drive-through which is enjoyable and offers some beautiful views, but if you have the time -- you can take a hike on one of the many trails and climb on some of the rock formations, which allow for some tremendous views. In addition, even with thousands of visitors in the park, you can enjoy the quietness and beauty of nature on a hike. This last visit, my wife wanted to do some photography in a couple places, and I hiked for a few miles in God's beauty, enjoying the fresh air, the views of the park and the mountains (including pikes peak) beyond, climbing some rock formations, and coming across some dear. Even though we have been here several times, we never grow tired of the Garden of the Gods, and each visit offers something a little different.
(5)Jenny C.
Garden of the Gods is beautiful! It's worth it to go, even on rainy days. I know that for a fact. My opinion is swayed because my husband proposed here on a rainy day. He didn't get on one knee because of the rain and mud, but it didn't matter! If you are visiting and don't have too much time to stop and get out, the drive around the park is still pretty awesome. I can't wait until we come back to have a picnic and let the kids run around, exploring the sights, sounds, and magnificence of the Garden of the Gods.
(5)Isibella A.
It was once said by the Europeans that this place would make a perfect beer garden...A beer garden of the gods! Thus garden of the gods was born. And the hungry kitten agrees. Though there is no beer garden yet (they should work on that) When the hungry kitten is not talking about food, you will find her hiking here amongst the glorious red rocks and basking in the glow of the late afternoon sun. It is also home to Colorado's oldest and largest trading post, which is a highly enjoyable experience within itself.
(5)Aleksandr K.
One word, AMAZING! Me and my girlfriend were visiting her friend who stays in Colorado Springs and he suggested us to check this place out. I want to truly thank him because this place is just beautiful! I wish I could have stayed a bit longer to experience having a morning walk or run through this place but still glad I was able to walk through and experience this place.
(5)Becky S.
Here's an idea for next year's impossible-to-shop-for-people on your Christmas list. Step 1: Drive to Garden of the Gods. Wear something comfortable that you look nice in. I.E. your best hiking gear... it'll make you look all outdoorsy. Bring a friend or two, and a camera. Step 2: Wander around, it's not really taxing or strenuous, just has some awesome views and some cool cliffs to pretend you're going to jump off. Step 3: Take a million pictures. Pose in crazy ways, be creative so it looks like you're doing something more exotic than you are. Step 4: Go home, load the pictures on your computer, pick four or five you love. Edit them in Photoshop so they're perfect. Then upload them to Walgreens 1-hour photo printing. 8x10. Step 5: Head down to Ross. Go downstairs, pick out some cool frames. Go back to Walgreens. Step 6: Frame pictures, wrap in bubble wrap, and ship off to those relatives you never can pick a gift for. It works like a charm. But seriously, Garden of the Gods is a great escape for the day. It makes you realize how great and beautiful nature can be. And it provides for some great pictures. It's beginner-level so anyone can go, they even have handicapped-accessible trails. And they're dog friendly, so your curious Fido can tag along.
(5)M P.
If you are visiting the "Springs"-- it's a must see!
(5)Jainnie J.
I'm giving this 5-stars! Why wouldn't this place get anything but 5-stars? It's beautiful and it's FREE! A very easy drive, fantastic scenery, and unusual rock formations. Make sure you bring your camera. There are many different hiking trails, and I always come across people walking along the roads that go through Garden of the Gods. Go to the Visitor Center where you will have an outstanding vantage point of Pike's Peak. Great photo ops! There is a small eating area where you can purchase things like a buffalo burger or chili/soup, etc. Then get a free ticket to watch a short film on how the red rock formations came to be. There are guest shops too, with everything from typical touristy t-shirts to more artsy items. There is also the Garden of the Gods Trading Post (in another area of the park) which is much larger and more impressive. The front of the Trading Post has more of your touristy items, but the back area has much more art and jewelery type things. It's great to go and just take a look around. They also have a small eating area (buffalo burgers, etc.). It's worth it to see the park when there is no snow, but also AFTER it snows. I really got some great photos the day after it snowed in Colorado Springs. But make sure you go on the earlier side before it all melts off from our wonderful sun. And if you are like a lot of people, you will want to go and take a pic of the Balancing Rock...with you standing under it looking like you're holding it up. I didn't do that, but it was fun to see other people doing so. Too funny. What a superb park to have in my "backyard." Highly recommended to everyone!
(5)Stephen W.
A must-see when you are near Colorado Springs. We loved it! So beautiful and undoubtedly awesome (in the correct use of the word, not today's overused hyperpole). Great visitor center and we saw the short film on the history of the Garden. Some might balk at the $5 charge but it was worth it. The park has free entrance and some trails you can walk. Don't miss it.
(5)Adriana C.
A breath taking view! A place for family, kids, everyone. The red rocks are so pretty. The air is so crisp and clean. You can mountain climb..take the trails..hike.. have a picnic. and i know they have Private tours. I loved it. It's crazy to see how many different rocks there are. as well as different color and shapes. My friend even took her wedding pictures there :)
(5)Warren P.
I always say that Colorado Springs is a great town to live in, as long as you don't actually spend too much time in town. Between Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak, Cheyenne Canyon, and all the other mountain roads, there are many pretty places to park. From one hillside in Garden of the Gods, you can see the park reach out toward the Red Rock open space, and beyond as it blends in to Section 16. You can hike that line, from the north end of Garden of the Gods to the top of Mt. Garfield, seven miles of trail winding through woods and red rock formations, right there in town between the Westside and Manitou Springs. Open spaces like these are what makes Colorado Springs great. Or, if you're not the hiking type, Garden of the Gods has a scenic road for you. Several of the park's best photo spots are right along the road, providing dramatic vistas to photograph. There are paved walkways weaving around some of the park's central cluster of red rock formations, should you decide to get out of your car or minivan and stretch your fat or atrophied limbs a little. And many will decide to do just that, so many in fact that on a sunny day, whole sections of the park will feel more like a tourist trap than a park. The people of Colorado Springs believe that having low taxes is the most important thing in life. Even when we citizenry vote in favor of using tax dollars to buy and preserve more open space like Garden of the Gods, local politicians have a track record of ignoring our votes and spending the money elsewhere. Instead of our open space money benefiting everybody, it's been spent expanding our prison system, benefiting a handful of private business owners. Garden of the Gods offers everybody both sides of Colorado Springs: the suspicious and conservative people, and some of the most beautiful natural scenery this side of the continental divide. Sometimes I'll go there looking for solitude and happiness and end up finding only unhappiness. But other times I'll go, and on some of those times I'll find what I'm looking for.
(5)Dave T.
200+ reviews, not much else to say. This place is incredible AND free? It's well worth the trip. Very accessible, paved walks and the elevation change isn't huge so many folks can enjoy
(5)Kelly G.
I was in Denver on business and decided to make the hour drive down to Garden of the Gods before my afternoon flight. It was worth it. Pictures cannot truly capture the grandeur and size of this place. I was only able to stay for an hour but I still think that is enough time to hit the highlights, although I could have definitely stayed the entire day. I definitely recommend going and bringing a camera!
(5)Troy W.
A must. It's free. It's beautiful. It's amazing. Do you like parks? Do you like amazing natural formations? Do you like to drive around and see cool stuff? Do you like to walk or hike and see cool stuff? If you answer "yes" to any of this, then GOTG is a must!!! It's free. It doesn't take but just a few minutes to invest on a drive through the place and see some amazing stuff. Want to stay longer? Just park and walk around as much as you want. It would be crazy to visit the Manitou Springs area and not visit this place.
(5)Christine P.
Great park and the best part, it is FREE! Very beautiful walk, they actually have paved trails that anyone could do. if you park at the main lot and do those rocks, save some energy for the rocks further down the road where the balancing rocks are. Another great area to hike. Beautiful place to take pictures. People were there with a photographer doing family photos, great place for it. Lots of people also had their pets with them. Nice place for a hike.
(5)Melodi R.
There's absolutely NO reason anyone could give this park less than 5 Stars. It's one of the most beautiful places in the world. The view from the visitor center is gorgeous, but drive into the park and walk amongst this ginormous monoliths!!!!
(5)Emily G.
I was in absolute awe. The GOTG is so beautiful. Then again, I'm from Florida where EVERYTHING is flat. So seeing something like this with the mountains in the background was just amazing to me. Plus you can't complain about the fact that it's free. Only thing I have to complain about is that the little maps that you can obtain aren't labeled correctly at all and tourists are EVERYWHERE. -.- I guess I shouldn't be complaining since I was a tourist myself. I would definitely recommend going here though. It is so beautiful. Great place for a photo shoot if you can figure out when the tourist times die down.
(4)Anna S.
This place "ROCKS"! Yes, the pun is intended! hehe Really cool place to drive through and walk around. Kid friendly, so the nieces and nephew were able to wander around and enjoy the rocks close to the parking areas. It can get a bit confusing when trying to drive around to the different formations but there are plenty of areas to loop around if you take the wrong side when it splits. Next time I am in Denver, I would like to hit up this area again.
(5)Deb G.
I'm not sure there are words to describe this small, but spectacular park that in itself defines the word "Zen." The red rock formations seem to have broken through the Earth with great force and reached for the heavens above. I have seen breath-taking beauty in this world, but nowhere have I felt the peace and tranquility that Garden of the Gods fills your soul. I am in awe every time I have the great fortune to visit this wonder of the world..............
(5)Chris S.
Very beautiful place. Good walking paths for people of all abilities. A great place to experience Colorado geology if you do not have time to venture into the mountains.
(5)Rachel U.
Next stop: Garden of the Gods. Let me just say: photographer's paradise. And, we really lucked out, in a weird kind of way. It had been threatening to storm all day, and seemed to have waited until we got here. We had literally just stepped foot on the first path when it started to rain, and we had hardly made it around the next bend before it started to pour. In that day time thundershower kind of way. Undeterred we took shelter under some trees, I patted myself on the back for remembering my umbrella, and in a few minutes it had let up enough for us to continue. The result was a dramatically dark sky behind the blood-orange rocks being lit by the afternoon sun (so poetic, I know ;) Made for some really great pictures. The formations were so interesting, and we had a lot of fun walking around, and eventually climbing around once we got to the "Balanced Rock". Definitely stop by the visitor's center for a map before you set out.
(5)phoenix t.
If you are looking to poop yourself rock climbing 2 number-grades lower than what you usually onsight, then GOTGs is for you. The gorgeous scenery and easy access belies challenging, slabby, brittle sandstone that will the test the grapes of any experienced climber, but the classic routes and occassional spectators (and the superhero feelings they invoke), will keep you coming back for another helping of whupass. Highly suggest Montazuma's Tower, Credibility Gap, Diesel and Dust, Alligator Soup and the Finger Ramp. Do not recommend Finger Traverse or Chatters, unless you like getting embarrassed on a 5.7 and 5.9, respectively. Actually now that I think of it, Finger Traverse is called "the scariest 5.7 you've ever climbed", so I do recommend it, mainly as a lesson, that all of us must learn, for ourselves, at some time.
(5)Elizabeth N.
When I lived in Manitou Springs, I would walk here everyday. This is a great park for people who are into monoliths and history and who can appreciate a good view. Garden of the Gods, located on the west side of Colorado Springs, is a great park to run, do easy hikes, bike and take photographs. The central trail is paved, but venture out onto the outer-lying dirt trails and visit the Siamese Twins and other rock formations. Toward Manitou side of the park on El Paso are the Academy Stables that rent out horses for those who want a saddleback tour. Colorado Springs is very dog-friendly, so you'll spot many. Those who want to avoid large crowds and traffic, the earlier or later you go the better. And avoid going on the weekends. They don't close the park so you can drive through it at night as well. That's when all the tourists go.
(4)Helen B.
What a beautiful place! Glorious. So happy I made time for this. Relatively easy hiking/biking trails. CO Springs' elevation is ~6000ft, so if you're prone to getting alt sickness, you will feel it as you walk around. Just take your time and take it all in.
(5)Alex L.
I thought of it as a place where I can relieve my stress if I have any, get my daily hour of exercise, and breath in some fresh air. This place is a beautiful land scape that most people will enjoy. I know my sister and her friend did. I mean they were so into it that they took A LOT of pictures, and most of them were on frightening places that give wonderful views. I mean, I barely had the courage to stand near the high rock, but it was a different kind of fun for me since I really don't go with nature. Plus, there were nice people there. I know because a lady told me that I had toilet paper stuck on my shoe..... embarrassing.... Well anyways, it was really fun. -Alex Jun Lee
(4)Chris C.
Awesomeness!!! I visited in mid-July and it was kinda hot but nothing like the south where I came from. This place was like a non-stop Kodak moment. If you're into outdoors type of stuff this is a must see place.
(5)Johnny C.
Boooorrrriiiinnngggg. Drive thru, don't even stop, check it off your list. There are rocks like this all over Colorado....what am I missing?!
(2)Ed P.
We have been here several times now, and it never gets old. Last time through, we got to see the herd of Big Horn Sheep in the area. No such luck this time, but it was still fun. We always seem to be amazed by the views. What a sense of foresight of the original owner of the land to have his estate donate it to Colorado Springs and keep it open to the public and free. It's really a national treasure and a thing of beauty. Anytime I hear that someone is going to be in the area, I tell them they have to go here!
(5)A Z.
Yes! Great park! We drove from Denver to check this place out because a lot of people recommended it. We weren't disappointed. There are tons of opportunities for photos, driving, hiking, climbing rocks and even sifting for gems (behind the trading post, get your bucket inside).
(5)Michelle G.
Small park compared to other parks, but makes up for it in beauty. Nothing compares to getting a picture of the red rocks with the mountains in the background - just spectacular. I highly recommend seeing this on horseback - check out Academy Riding Stables, as they do rides through the park.
(5)Melissa C.
The park is FREE! Which is a bonus. Next time I come I plan on bringing the mountain bikes as there was tons of trails & I was little jealous of the those riding along. We parked our car & then walked around the man-made side walks around the formations. Then we veered off and went on the trails. While on the trails we got spectacular views & the hike was a nice mini-workout while on vacation....you can't beat that! We also saw some people riding horses and others climbing the rock formations.
(4)Sidney S.
Not much to add to what others have said. An outstanding, beautiful, FREE park. Loved the hiking/tramping around we did here. Should have gone here more than once than visit Seven Falls. Given how C. Springs in in such financial disarray, it won't be long until they screw up this park. Offsets all the boring strip malls that populate this area.
(5)Aleigha Y.
I have visited this park all my life and I am still in aw every time I go. It is truly one of natures beauties. It is a wonderful place to make many memories. A lot of good trails. Some easy some hard. Only draw back it can be extremely busy on weekends.
(5)Debbie M.
We drove through the park since we were signed up to do and hour of horse back tiding through it. There were a lot a of hiking trails, plenty of places for the kids to run and climb. The sights were wonderful by car, but more impressive by horseback. We would have gone back to hike and climb, but a huge storm arrived as we finished our horseback tour of the park.
(4)Jim M.
Great park, beautiful red rocks. Free to public.
(5)Kevin A.
My first trip to Colorado Springs was in November of 2007. Prior to that I had never heard of the Garden of the Gods. The folks who were giving us the grand tour of CoS kept talking about it but it's a difficult place to describe verbally. I travel quite a bit and have seen a lot of geological formations. In fact, photographing such formations is a hobby of mine. While I can not say the Garden of the Gods is the grandest or most spectacular place I have ever seen, it is still a place well worth a visit or three, or four, or five. . . In fact, I have returned to it during each of my visits to CoS since my first. The formations here are indeed beautiful as are the array of colors. As others have noted, it is easily accessible with a drive through the park allowing frequent stops where one can admire the surroundings or from which one can begin an easy walk around and through many of the formations. I must say that I have been here 4 times over the last two years and have never encountered the crowds that others have complained of. Perhaps this has been because, to date, all of my visits have been during the off season (Oct., Nov. and Jan.) or because 3 of the 4 have been on weekdays, but I have not found crowds to be an issue. If, like me, you enjoy this type of photography, then this place is a must see. For everyone else, there is no downside. It's only about 10 minutes form Downtown Colorado Springs and it free!
(4)Desiree R.
Talk about beautiful Colorado. The geological magnificence of the ancient sedimentary beds of red, blue, purple and white sandstones/conglomerate/limestones are breath-taking. Hiking/walking/ biking/driving/climbing- you can do it all here. A definite must-see for out-of-towners. If you are fortunate enough to be in town for some of their annual events- even better! Earth day in April is good and during the summer the Starlight Spectacular is fun as well!
(5)Ken G.
This place is very impressive. On a nice, warm, sunny day you can enjoy the nature-created pieces that are pretty amazing. Some of the rock pieces defy gravity. I was here last summer and even though there are tourists who visit this park, there weren't too many that it became annoying. There's a really cool visitor's center that includes a museum that's perfect for the kids. Driving to and from isn't bad either - the roads are simple and it's really easy to navigate around the park.
(4)Chelsea H.
Beautiful! This place is a must if you are in the CO Springs area. It doesn't take that long to walk through and you can get some really pretty pictures.
(5)Ellen F.
Big rocks, scenic area, nice roads for driving, visitor center is clean, gift shop has great variety of items and the snack bar offered a variety of foods. Even if you are just driving through, this is a must see.
(5)Zeek W.
I love it this place. It is exceedingly beautiful and easy to access. It has very scenic walking paths and for the disabled and elderly it is easily viewed by car.
(5)Jordan W.
Beautiful. Been several times. Highly recommend.
(5)Amanda T.
So beautiful. Great trails, nice picnic areas and a lovely drive.
(5)Jay B.
A terrific, free, city park. Big red rock formations. Great for kids (or adults) to run around. I knocked off one star because there are A LOT of people there on weekends, especially summers.
(4)Jenny B.
When I hear the word "garden" I think of Alice in Wonderland, tea parties in a secret garden, tons of flowers and bumble bees...but that's for wimps! This GARDEN OF THE GODS!!! So expect to see powerful rock formations, clean hiking trails, trees, shrubbery and all kinds of stuff that is every geologist's fantasy! I enjoyed walking around the trails, climbing into rock crevices, snapping photos with my future in laws and viewing REAL rock climbers! I'm not talking about sissy "Planet Granite" indoor rock climbing - GARDEN OF THE GODS is the real deal, real people climbing really big red-ish/orange rocks. For the romantics out there, you will adore the real "Rock of Love" where two rock formations are seemingly kissing each other. Awe how cute! I recommend bring a back pack with hiking goodies and comfy shoes. Although the trails here are pretty flat and some are paved, if you want to trek the off beaten path, leave your pink moccasin shoes you bought from Target at home...just saying.
(5)John B.
No trip to the Colorado Springs area is complete without a stop at the Garden of the Gods. It's not Monument Valley, nor the Grand Canyon, but pretty spectacular in it's own small way. Plus, it's one of the only places in the area without an admission fee. Make sure you stop at the visitor center on the east side of the park. There's also a trading post on the west side, that's basically a commercial tourist trap. But they have a nice shady patio so it's an OK place to stop for a little rest and a soft drink. If you're a photographer try to go in the early morning or early evening to get that spectacular sunrise/sunset light. Get out of your car and hit one of the trails. You won't know where to point your camera! The place isn't over run by tourists and their spawn at those hours.
(5)Brian R.
This place is awsome. Much better than many other areas that cost so much to see. This place is FREE, and yet we had more fun here than any other place we went. Don't miss this, and save your money for a great meal in Old Colorado City!
(5)Michele D.
This place is absolutely beautiful! The rocks here are fabulous. And, there is no charge to visit the park. I wish we would have had more time to spend here. We drove around (actually more than once because we got lost, if you can believe that. Most people won't get lost. It isn't that big). I wish we could have spent more time here. Next time, we are planning to hike it. It seems like the perfect place to do some hiking.
(5)Alden C.
Great place to drive through or walk around(is hiking allowed there?) Very pretty red rock formations, similar to ones you may find in Utah at their national parks.
(4)Leenee B.
Strikingly beautiful. Of course, many people know this, so there will be a lot of people, if you like a quiet experience, going on a weekday may be a good bet. Many photographers were having a great time while I was there. I walked around and appreciated how small I felt. The large rocks give some sense of scale, that we're all just small beings on this large wonderful earth. Leave yourself more than an hour to see everything...
(5)Linda M.
We were here in June...and yes, it was crowded. But it was still worth the visit. A great place to get the family out in nature whether you stick to the sidewalks...or take one of the hiking trails. We got out on a beautiful one-mile loop trail and had an amazing spot to ourselves for quite some time. When we were leaving the main parking area we did see a busload of teens bearing a large cross and preparing to do some sort of reenactment. So, um, we took that as our sign to go....directly to downtown CO Springs, where they were hosting a huge biker fest.
(5)Risha S.
I wasn't really that impressed...seems like it's popular because there really is not that much to do here that is "touristy". It might be cool if you get a rock climbing permit...other than that drive through to say you did and get out.
(2)amy b.
A gorgeous place to visit! I recommend going early in the day because it gets very crowded and there are few places to pull off the road. A must see if you are in Colorado Springs.
(5)Jolyn B.
What a beautiful place!! This is a must see for everyone within 100 miles! It's worth the drive! My family visited in late Nov, hiked, climbed, took pictures, enjoyed the scenery and gaped at the magnificent views. The trails were perfect for entire family (kids to 50ish grandparents). Lots of places to rest and wait for the more adventurous 20something to hike up some big rock for a better view or cooler picture. We even saw an elk walk by all casually and nonchalant. Maybe he didn't know we were tourists and mesmerized by his mere presence!!
(5)Jessica D.
As this is the closest I've been able to come to natural wonders in the US as I've still lots of traveling to do in the Southwest and the mountain ranges, it was a real treat! What gorgeous colors! What gorgeous stone formations! Even the pathways and natural shrubbery seemed planted as in a garden. It was also a treat to see climbers exercising to tempt fate and gravity... all around a place I would definitely remember fondly and hope to visit again. Please take time (unlike me, we were in a hurry) to visit the visitor's center and get even better acquainted with the area. Please make this a stop on your Colorado Springs visit.
(5)Alicia R.
I guess I'll be one of the two three-star ratings on here. Garden of the Gods is a pretty and unique place, and it is very surprising to find such a place in the middle of Colorado Springs, but it's not spectacular. Maybe I simply don't get the appeal or am not buying into the tourism board hype, but it's not some extremely magical place. Maybe I've been spoiled (like others) on seeing some truly breathtaking places (like Loch Lomond in Scotland, and the Amalfi coast in Italy) but this isn't a place I go to all the time or think it's even necessary to go see all the time. I mean, especially considering the huge mountain range right beside it, it's not amazing. Pretty? Yes. Worth at least two visits? Yes. The end all, be all? No.
(3)Ilona F.
Gorgeous, absolutely worth the drive from Denver, although I'd prefer it be called "Garden of the Goddesses". I deduct one star for a lousy map of the place: it listed certain trails (without accurately labeling them) and failed to mark other trails around the perimeter of the park that I came across (they had names and trail markers...just not on the map). Also, the parking areas around the place are numbered, but these numbers are not on the map. Finally, there are many identical maps of the gardens posted along the trails, but none say, "You are here", which makes them somewhat useless. I met other confused visitors during my wanderings. If you stick to the paved paths, it's not a problem but, exploring the grounds in the snow, I would have appreciated better guidance.
(4)Brenda W.
Beautiful! You have to go here if you are in the Colorado Springs area or visiting Colorado at all. I could have spent hours here exploring. Awesome rock formations and views of Pike's Peak in the distance. Plus it is absolutely free! Plenty of hiking trails to keep you busy. Get a map from the visitor's center and you will entertained for a few hours, I promise.
(5)Emily D.
So beautiful and So unique. Worth a stop for sure! I have been to Sedona where all the rocks are red but never have I seen a red rock formation in the midst of so many contrasting colors. We drove through the park, walked through the park, and even got rained on while in the park. We loved every minute of it, especially the beautiful rainbow that greeted us upon leaving. Before seeing a sign for the Garden of the Gods, I never knew it even existed. If you are in Colorado Springs, you really should check this place out and snap a few pics! I'd love to see it in the winter too!
(5)Lisa O.
Beautiful, natural red rock formations. Roads were paved and well-maintained. There are hiking and biking trails. We were lucky enough to go on a beautiful, cool, April day with bright blue skies contrasting the red rocks. The park is free, but a voluntary donation is welcomed in the visitor's center/gift sho
(5)Morgan W.
I've been here a few times now and while it's fun to take people who have never been there before, I've found my limit is about twice per year. I have taken motorcycle trips to Moab and the sights there have this place beat by a long shot. Having said that, it is an interesting place to spend the day if you haven't been to southern Utah and the free factor is a powerful sway. If you have kids the interior of the park is nice because it's easily accessible; however, if you're like me and spend a lot of time on STFU, Parents because you don't care for kids, there are a lot of trails leading around the park itself that take you away from just about everyone. Some friends and I went last fall and managed to somehow create a 2 mile loop that went way off to the north and then rope back around the back side. We saw some people riding horses and that was about all. It was nice to feel a little more isolated and we saw some interesting smaller rock formations that you wouldn't see if you didn't venture outside of the immediate reaches of the park.
(4)Tara B.
Garden of the Gods is a great place to take your family or outdoorsy friends when they come to Colorado to visit. For those that are mobility impaired, there is a huge road around the park that can offer access to anyone young or old. The Visitors Center is fun and informational. The movie about how the rocks were formed won't be winning any Oscars, but it made the surrounding all the more majestic and miraculous. There are lots of photo opportunities, so bringing the camera is a must.
(5)Trevor F.
I love this nat'l park a lot of cool views around! You can drive through, hike on trails or whatever is fit for you! They have a theather in the park witch is in the rocks/mountains. There is a lot of trails to hike so stop and get a map so you don't get lost, and make sure if you do hike to bring water and snacks. Don't litter!
(4)Jenna G.
My husband loves geology, so I figured this would be a good side trip to take. I had been a few times when I was younger, but even still, I am in awe of these "structures"! As everyone else stated, there are a decent amount of tourists, but we just did a drive through the park at our own pace and didn't have too much of an issue. The views are beautiful, just a nice peaceful day trip. If you are in Colorado Springs, it is worth checking out!
(4)Neko C.
Drove through here on the way out of Colorado Springs while on a road trip with my husband. This place is beautiful!!!! The rock formations really are awe-inspiring- great reminder of the power of nature to make such beauty out something as boring as rocks haha :P The contrast of the reddish-brown rocks, the deep green vegetation, and the blue sky makes for awesome pictures. The best part- visiting here is free! Free parking and free admission- sweeeeet :)
(4)Kayla D.
Hands down one of my favorite places in the Springs. It's inside the city, very easy to get to and absolutely beautiful. There are a lot of different options, whether you want an 'off road' hiking experience, simple trails or just a pretty drive. I moved here two years ago and I frequently went to GoG to drive and relax and think. A lot of the trails are easy enough for a child to walk. I take my daughter there a few times a month in the summer so that we can walk around. It's never too crowded and always clean and well taken care of.
(5)Tom D.
Yes! Love this place. So, why only 4 star? Well, the place IS great and beautiful. It's nice to be able to bring the dogs too but the place is crowded. The middle of February, it's still cold and there's STILL tons of people?!? Are you shittin' me! We had to either wait for everyone to get outa the way to take a picture, or take pictures at unusual angles. If this place was less crowded... then yeah, 5 star in my book. I'll go back there i'm sure. Hopefully the crowds will die down some. Pros: Outdoor Beauty Seems much closer and personal than Grand Canyon Great Area to take walks and picnic Cons: Crowded. Not as bad as a NY Subway, but crowded.
(4)Safa S.
This place is beautiful! You can get the best highlights of the area without ever leaving your car. The place is free and is a really quick drive. This should be a detour on your trip through the area.
(5)Linda S.
I'm a Colorado Springs resident and lucky enough to be just a few minutes away from the Garden of the Gods. This is a "must visit" for anybody. The views in the park are unmatched, for rock climbers it's a great time but be sure to get your climbing permit, required by law. The park also has equestrian trails for horseback rides offered by a local stable. Picnic areas are plentiful so come and spend a day here and bring your camera too.
(5)Tina B.
Gorgeous red rocks in oddly amazing formations, seemly jutting up from nowhere. An gorgeously unexpected mix of green shrubbery and almost desert. A beautiful view of the city of Colorado Springs - a juxtaposition of the balance of nature and man. AND you can DRIVE through it! And all around it! Like in a car! You can get all of the deep, breathy inhales you need with the window in the down position. I mean yeah, you can get out and walk, too, sure. I did that, too, I walked.... Park management at it's finest. Totally rustic and scenic, but user friendly. Look out for those ki-yotes though.
(5)Ashley B.
If you like going out to nature and rock climbing, this is the place for you! They also have horse back riding around the area, but I didn't see the horses out there when I went for a walk. It's gorgeous out there, amazing, really, my friend suggested I go while I was out there and I was just so amazed by the beauty of this place! The large rock faces and the rock climbers, and everyone gathering to watch them in action, and plus, a lot of them were shirtless, so I think that stopped some of the ladies as well. I didn't go with the proper shoe attire, but I wasn't going hiking, so it was a nice stroll through the marked paths. They have maps and things to see. It is the perfect place for a run, a walk, climbing, or just to enjoy the day.
(5)Bill P.
A wonderful place to walk, photograph, even drive through. A "must see" for first time visitors. Find below my history article on the occasion of the celebration of its 100th anniversary. billpetro.com/2009/10/20…
(4)Lauren J.
This is one of the most amazing places I've ever been and I can't get enough of it. When my husband told me about it, I was thinking "hmm, rocks, yeah, so?" But, well, there is no way I can do it justice. The first day I went, we explored the areas around the paved path, which I think is the typical touristy area. This area is pretty beautiful and amazing on its own. I think I took a hundred pictures. The balancing rocks are fun and you can do the whole "hold up a rock" picture, which is fun. But, if you get the chance, take a trail. This is what we came back to do the next day and I am so glad I did. If you go up high enough, you can climb some smaller rocks (the no-rope sort!), and see some amazing views. We saw deer both days - the first, there was a group of them up on a hill, but the second, we saw one along a trail and it came within 10 feet of us. Honestly, I think it's more enjoyable than going up Pike's Peak. And it's free!
(5)Katey G.
I like weird rock formations. I like when they are huge, or tiny, and when I can view them for free! Yes, that's right, this natural wonder is available to be eyeballed for no money down! Ahem. There are many trails (bike, horse and feet) winding around the formations. Pets can come (I would keep them on a leash least they make a snack for some cougars) and you can stop and rest or eat at the picnic spots. You can also drive through the park, you lazy bastard. There are a couple of overpriced trading posts, but they give away maps for free. I recommend a map. It was crowded when I was here. So crowded. I guess because it's free and famous, but it felt a little touristy in the Disney way, and not in the enjoying nature way. And people, please don't pick the flora and fauna. I saw you taking away flowers. Not good!
(4)Neon W.
Really beautiful place, the cafe has panoramic views of the garden. It's a nice stop if you're visiting.
(4)Lauren H.
Aptly named. If you doubt the existence of a higher power, this could convince you there is one. I drove out from Denver on a Sunday afternoon after seeing Red Rocks, even though people told me not to bother seeing both. Good thing I tend not to listen to what I am told. Because this was one of the most spectacular places I have ever seen. On the drive down you see Pikes Peak in the distance, which in April was still snow-peaked and magnificent. When I got to the gardens, I felt such a sense of peace and awe and wonder at creation. I drove the route twice, stopping a few times to just climb rocks, walk a trail, take camera phone pics, or just reflect on how beautiful life is. The one downfall was that one spot I wanted to stop was too crowded (all spots full both times go 'round). I intend to go back and hike more parts of it and spend more time reveling in its wonder. Even writing this, I have chills, and I cannot begin to put into words how this place made me feel. When I die, I would love to be buried here. A little piece of heaven on this beautiful earth.
(5)Phoebe R.
Walkable, drivable, horse-able (not a word?). Perfection. I love how each season and weather condition looks beautiful from GoG. Take all your guests - they will thank you, hopefully with a croissant from La Baguette. Best of all, it's FREE.
(5)Marianne D.
Great views and multiple car pull-off areas as well as meandering easy-to-walk paths. Just be on the look-out for rattlesnakes, spontaneous windy thunderstorms and high-traffic times. (AKA: All of Colorado) Good for dog-watching too.
(3)matt b.
Amazing place to spend the day with the family. You wont be disappointed!
(4)Brandon K.
This is one of my favorite attractions in the area. The rock formations are breathtaking, and the park around it is very well maintained.
(5)Courtney M.
We only drove by it on our way to the cave of the winds but it was gorgeous. It was a very unexpected surprise. Next time I'd love to stop and explore myself but even just from the car it blew me away!
(5)K B.
Excellent views!
(5)Suzie-Annie C.
You have to enjoy ROCKS to enjoy this as that is basically what you will be walking around, large, uprooted rocks that are spectacular. It was quite warm the day we went so it was not as enjoyable in the afternoon as it would have been in the morning. Truly incredible and worth the time to view these masterpieces. Simply not like anything else I have seen.
(4)Cobra K.
A trip to the Springs isn't complete unless you come here!
(4)Victor B.
The atmosphere and scenery you get when driving into G.O.T.G is just gorgeous and very tranquil. The family and I have been going here every weekend since moving from Myrtle Beach and we always find some new trail to venture down. Just this past week my boys and I were headed up a trail and about 10 yards away from where we were at a deer walked right out in front of us and just stood there as to say hello. It was an amazing experience to be a part of with my boys. Also I've lost almost 10 pounds since making this a family get away place and it's free. You can't beat it!
(5)Tim K.
What a great place to visit ! I had heard about Garden of the Gods but really had no idea on what to expect. I have been to numerous Federal and State Parks, they are all impressive in their own ways to be sure. Garden of the Gods is unique because of the rock formations and the actual use of these formations by those skilled enough to have fun with them. I took many pictures and I will try to put some up on my page, seeing them will give you an idea of the magnitude of the formations. The rocks are different in size, shape and color. By color I mean that on one side of the park they are red, on the other they are a much lighter, almost white color. I am sure there is an explanation for this but I did not see a sign with an indication as to why. As we (my son and I) walked through the main area of the formations we noticed a group of three persons on the top of one of them. About 150 feet up sitting there enjoying the view. The formation looked to be, as noted 150 high at the peak and 50-60 wide. However when we got to the side, it looked like it was 10 feet from front to back. A sliver of rock, and this is how much of the park is. The neat thing about it is that if you are a trained climber, you can make arrangement to climb in certain areas. What a joy for those who climb for sport and fun. There is also a balancing rock which is quite huge and a delight for all those who stop to see it, and it seems like almost everyone does. The views are great, the rocks are both beautiful and inspiring and there is a good feeling within the park that kind of makes you smile. There is no charge to roam about and you can drive through and park at various spots. The visitor information center is helpful and has maps and knowledgeable staff to answer any questions. I can imagine that at sunrise and sunset the rock formations and the entire setting look like a magical, mystical place. I am sure early inhabitants also thought this and a few hundred years later, I have to admit that they were correct. I place worth visiting several times.
(5)timm s.
WOW!! We live in such an amazing state. This is a MUST-DO for everyone. It might seem boring, driving around.... looking at rocks, but it is truly AWESOME!! You can't help notice how small you really are when you walk up to some of the rocks. The park is free, so it does get crowded, but well worth it. Don't forget your camera.
(5)Maria V.
Small but very easy to access park and it's FREE! Very beautiful view, easy to walk around with kids, even with the stroller. Great part of Colorado Springs.
(5)Tamara M.
Garden of the Gods is a pretty spot if you don't have other opportunities to see red rock. Personally, I guess I've been completely spoiled by Moab and other parts of southern Utah and Colorado. Garden of the Gods is just too crowded. It's a shame, but I'd recommend a quick look if you're in the area and then hightail it on out of there.
(3)Julie S.
Amazing scenery, great for walking around and taking photos, and of course it's free, which is fantastic. Only negative is that you used to be able to climb up and around the rocks more. Now there are signs everywhere warning you that you are not allowed. Even some of the hiking trails are blocked off. This took away the adventure of it all for me. Still worth a visit though!
(4)Ruth B.
Beautiful place, with lots of rocks and trees for the kids to climb and jump from. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and make sure the kids are wearing good climbing and walking shoes. We always park at the main parking area and walk a loop around, stopping at good climbing spots. The crowds have really never bothered me, but we don't try to drive around the loop and stop places like many do. We just park and walk, then drive around the rest and look around from the car on our way out. Also, I don't think I've ever been on a weekend, I can imagine it is much worse then. It's a beautiful place to bring the kids when we are visiting family in the area.
(4)Kina D.
Great place to walk.
(5)Mike H.
When I used to live in Colorado Springs I spent a lot of time walking in this park. It is utterly beautiful and one can easily get lost for a few hours just exploring. There are also lots of places to do some free climbing and scrambling. If you are in the area I highly recommend checking it out. Even if you don't go walking the drive is very beautiful. Also check out Seven Falls which is nearby.
(5)S S.
One of the many reasons we moved to Colorado. A one of a kind experience...and depending on the weather (snow/fog/sunny) its changes every time. It's a great place to walk/hike, they also have horseback riding and many mountian bike trails. The park is usually busy on the weekends...but its so big you can still enjoy it. The trading post is a fabulous gift shop...dont forget to stop in. They have one of a kind gifts..from local salsa's to art work to jewelry..it's just fun to look. And dont forget your sunglasses!
(5)Kaitlin L.
Seriously one of the most beautiful parks I've ever been to. We walked around on some of the trails for a while taking in its splendor. Try to get off those paved paths and onto some of the hiking trails. The colors are fantastic: redish colored rocks in all sizes and shapes against a bright blue sky. It makes you forget you are anywhere near an urban area. I didn't get to experience it myself, but sunset here must be fantastic.
(4)C C.
Another awesome place in Colorado. The map is a little confusing to find the trails, we ended up on the Palmer Trail instead of Siamese. When we reached a parking lot, we were nowhere near our car, plus we were in the middle of a freak hail storm. We were offered a ride from some Minneapolis visitors just before the hail went from marble-sized slushy to hard!! Trails are clean, views are phenomenal. Bring sunblock!!! Visitor center if friendly and educational. Hard to believe this is a city-owned park.
(5)Tracy A.
After visiting Utah a couple years ago, this place just didn't do it for me. It was probably a reaction to the billions of people crawling over every inch of this place. If you haven't experienced any red rock before, you will go ape shit over this place, if you have, you may want to skip it unless it is deserted. If it wasn't 90+ degrees and swimming with people, I might have wanted to walk the loop instead of drive it but as it was, I couldn't wait to leave.
(4)Joyce Y.
Absolutely beautiful! I'm so glad we came here. And it was sorta by accident. We didn't have any itinerary planned for Colorado Springs. The tour guide at Pike's Peak suggested this place to hike since we originally wanted to go to Seven Falls but Seven Falls was closed until May 27. The Red Rocks are beautiful. It just reminds you of the One who created it! :) You can also try to look at the rock formations and use your imagination to describe what the rock looks like to you. The path is paved so it's a very easy walk to see the rocks. We didn't get a chance to actually go hiking on the trails so I'm not sure if it's paved or not. Also, it's fun to take pictures at the balancing rock! It's too bad we had to leave to catch the 2:10 COGS Railway to Pike's Peak because we could have spent a lot more time hiking and seeing the rest of the park. For you photographers out there, it's an awesome place to take some High Dynamic Range photos. I don't know anything about it but the bf took some HDR photos. :) Hopefully it turned out awesome! If you're ever in Colorado, definitely go to Garden of the Gods. Best of all, it's free! It's also about 2 hour drive from Denver.
(5)Martha B.
Very beautiful, right here in Colorado Springs, and completely free. Can't complain about that. We went to the visitors' center first to grab a map and check things out. It was incredibly crowded, so we didn't hang around long. We drove around for a bit and parked, which was difficult because again, it was crowded. We had some sandwiches packed for a little mini-picnic which we ate in the car while checking out the map. The rock formations are very beautiful - there are endless opportunities for taking pictures. The trail we walked was simple and well-kept; it made for a great walk. After we got out on the trail a bit, it was much less crowded and a lot easier to enjoy looking at the formations and taking some more pictures. Aside from the crowds, this is a great place to spend an afternoon, get outside, and see something really beautiful. And again, it's completely free. We'll definitely be back.
(5)Allen H.
Must see.
(5)Michael J.
Great natural outdoors place to visit, all kinds of neat rock formations and trails. Great trading post store as well!
(4)Ethan C.
what a cool place! Walk, run , hike, bike, stroll, chill, loiter...whatever the case this is the place to be!
(5)Kenny A.
We had to take the accelerated tour because of some heavy snowfall (maybe it was just heavy for us OC folk but whatever!). Still, we had the chance to take in some gorgeous landscapes. Not only would it be hard to find rocks like this in California, but snow-capped scenery like this was a once in a lifetime for us. Despite the weather we were still able to climb up on some of the smaller boulders and take great pics.
(4)Phil M.
It's ok. There are just too many people milling around to really take in the beauty.
(3)Dustin G.
Garden of the Gods is one of the redeeming features of Colorado Springs. This place is awesome...the visitor center is helpful, and the area itself beautiful, with excellent trails and even rock climbing. You shouldn't miss out on the chance to check out these natural rock formations, especially since they are highly accessible. They even have nice little plagues telling you how they were made oh so many years ago when Colorado was underwater.
(5)Mike W.
Great place to see and hike, and always free.
(4)Trevor T.
How can people rate this less than 5 stars? Garden of the Gods is a public park open year-round and FREE. There are miles of trails to walk, pets are welcomed (watch out for wild animals) and plenty of picnic areas. The road that winds through the park can get crowded but that gives you more time to look at the unique rock formations.
(5)Shannon M.
Colorado Springs is about as appealing to me as sharing a room without an exit with born-again types for all eternity. However, with that said, The Garden of the Gods is a truly spectacular and beautiful sight. Its a great place for some impromptu photos or to simply marvel at what one imagine a Martian landscape to be like. Not as breath taking as some things I have seen in Moab and even in Arizona, but these rocks are interesting, appealing, and worth a gander.
(4)Sarah H.
Some of the main areas of the park, like balance rock, get a bit too crowded during the summer and nice weekends, but growing up in the springs, this is still one of my favorite places, and I brag about it all the time. Absolutely worth a drive or a hike through, best to find smaller parking lots because they lead to less crowded trails.
(5)Jim P.
Oh, my Gods! THE UP-SIDE: The name of this place says it all. What a spectacular natural display; like some beautiful and mythological setting full of grandeur and color! If you like nature - and even if you don't - this place will knock your socks off with red monolithic rocks that shoot up toward the sky and winding paths amongst their underbrush. And, at only 1.5 hours from Denver, there's no reason not to drive down to this natural wonder. THE DOWN-SIDE: It's wide-open nature. As such, there's bugs and stuff about. In addition, the paths might present a challenge to those with limited capacity for hiking. The paths were pretty simple and straight-forward for me, but I'm thinking that older folks might wanna limit their journey around the Gods a bit. THE SUM-IT-UP: For the good of your own soul, PLEASE visit this spectacular park. You will not be disappointed. Promise. NOTE: If you plan your visit to the Garden of the Gods early enough in the day, you will still have time to drive to the top of neighboring Pike's Peak; about a 4 hour round trip affair from and back to the Garden of the Gods.
(5)Mike P.
I did not go to Colorado Springs with the mindset that I would visit Garden of the Gods. This town was a quick one day stop on the way to Vail and Aspen. The Garden of the Gods blew me away. First of all it is FREE. The place is excellent for hiking or for driving through. Watching the rock climbers was very interesting. We visited at sunset and took some outstanding pictures. Fun for the whole family! Highly reccommended.
(5)Jav V.
Garden of the Gods is a pretty place to walk around... and free. You can also bring your dog on a leash which is nice.
(4)Madhur A.
Simply amazing...and free! This is a park that has something for every experience level. The main trail is well paved and is frequented by everyone from joggers to baby-walkers. However, the simplicity doesn't take away from the meditative aura of being immersed in the surrounding beauty. There are many unpaved trails of different difficulty levels. Unfortunately, many little openings and trails are currently off limits due to efforts to regenerate vegetation. Make sure your camera batteries are full and try to bring a protective cover for it: some of the more difficult trails may have you throwing up your arms to catch your balance. The nature center has two gift shops which are not too impressive. If you are interested in more authentic tchotchkes, there are much better shops in Manitou and Old Colorado. I stopped by the cafe just so I don't regret my trying to get lost on the trails. The 4 cheese pizza was pretty damn good and there is also coffee with free refills.
(5)dae m.
When my cuzzo told me about this place, i just thought it was gonna be some stupid rock. but apparently it's a bunch of trails with beautiful red rock formations. Great place to go hiking, take your dog, or even great for a date. Joint truly lets you appreciate the wonders of nature out here...all you u need to do now is find a secluded area around there and easy on the eyes partner and you're business!
(5)Joe R.
Every city needs a park like the Garden of the Gods. Too bad there is only one. This place is like Ayer's Rock on steroids and you can drive right to the middle of it ten minutes from town. There are a year's worth of weekend hikes in this five mile stretch of awesome wilderness. Bring the kids, dogs and camelback for great adventure hike and exploration.
(5)Suzanne B.
My hometown...god, sometimes I miss you. Now don't get me wrong HT, I don't miss the people you've allowed to move into the neighborhood - 43 fundamentalist organizations withn city limits pretty much guarantees I ain't coming back anytime soon. And that urban sprawl - could you clean that up a little bit? But I miss the scenery HT. I'm out here in one of the most beautiful cities on earth (swear to you, on EARTH) and I still long for the mountains in my backyard. And Garden of the Gods - dammit why can't we have that out here? Great trails, unbelievable red rocks thrusting into the sky, Pikes Peak as a backdrop.... Sometimes I really miss you. *sniff*
(5)Sandy M.
Beautiful city park, makes a great day trip down from Denver. Hike, stroll, rock climb, or just drive and take pictures, it's all good.
(5)Vincent G.
This review is part of my Rave Runs list on Yelp that covers the USA, Canada and a few other parts of the world. There are a number of trails that wind their way through the park and the scenery is spectacular enough that you may find it difficult to either stay on the trail or to not run into someone on the trail. Being a climber also, the rock is 'sticky' (sandstone I believe) which can make climbing easier for the first time climber than say limestone. So you can run and climb in one trip if you like. Good Local Eats: Manitou Springs Coffee Shop is recommended but I believe the name/ownership may have changed since I was there last.
(5)j m.
It's honestly awe inspiring. So unexpected and one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I've been several times and each time it is different and enjoyable. Very family and dog friendly, nice walking paths and great location to take some beautiful pics of the kiddos or family.
(5)Cass D.
For the proximity to the city, this place is a real gem. The small touristy town just outside is pretty cute too. Nice day trip, people really seem to enjoy biking and hiking here. Even when the weather's bad, this place is still good, if only a drive through. If you enjoy it, you may want to consider a hike in Roxborough State Park, another red rock beauty.
(4)Josh K.
A truly wonderful place! If you have the time, come during different times of the day to observe the effect of the sunlight on the rocks. The park also offers offer a junior ranger program which takes about 2-3 hours to finish. Upon certification, the ranger announces on the PA system the name of the junior rangers and invite everybody to applause. A definite video moment and really great for the kids!!
(5)Winter Lee S.
This place is awesome!! Pretty cool to see all the contorted, twisting, brightly colored rock formations. You could probably spend the whole day just looking around. Great place to practice photography.
(4)Allison P.
Amazing views, breathtaking scenery, peaceful, quiet and relaxing. A great way to spend a weekend outdoors. Garden of the Gods is a must-see spot in Colorado and it was especially beautiful to see it in the fall with the leaves changing and snow in the mountains. It is budget friendly with free admission (although donations are excepted in the Visitors Center). Parking on the weekend was no hassle and despite there being quite a few people hiking around the formations it was relatively quiet and peaceful. I think the park has now closed for the Fall/Winter season but start planning a trip to visit when it re-opens. It is well worth the drive from Denver (or where ever) to see the gorgeous views from Garden of the Gods.
(5)Melissa H.
Garden of the Gods is fantastic... free, beautiful, completely unique to the area, and great almost any day of the year (I've heard we get 300+ days of sunshine a year here in Colorado Springs!) :) My kids never get tired of this place. It's fun to just drive through the park if you don't have much time, or if the weather is nice and you've got the time it would be possible to spend the entire day here and have a really nice time.
(5)Patrick B.
What a great place to visit! As one of Colorado Springs main attractions I was impressed to see how incredible the nature reserve really is. I'm a big runner so seeing how many trails they have for running as well as biking throughout the park was rather impressive! As long as I'm stationed here I'll be visiting the park at least every other week or so.
(4)Beth M.
Awesome place to take a nice stroll. The mom and I headed out on a weekday, so the crowds were minimal. After driving past the entrance to Red Rocks (though not going in), I got the impression that Garden of the Gods is much less touristy. Both walking and driving around lead to some breathtaking views. I agree with Lauren H. - hard to believe there isn't a higher power when you are surrounded by this beauty.
(4)Toonces The Driving Cat K.
Visually stimulating and great place to take the out of towners. Great for walking and driving!
(5)shannon m.
breath-taking,breath-taking,breath-taking, beautiful and breath-taking. choice hiking, rock climbing, horse-back riding, biking... please do not climb high rocks without gear. it seems that once a year SOMEONE has to get rescued because they were stupid and climbed up without ropes and got too scared to get back down. usually tourists. there are somewhat large rocks that you can climb without safety gear and they are great to hike up to, climb and sit and rest on top of and view the whole area with a near bird's-eye. truly one of my favorite places EVAR!
(5)Amber B.
Well, seeing all of the rave ratings here, I guess it's clear I've been spoiled by having had the opportunity to see amazing landscapes in the past. Garden of the Gods is a great place to go walking, perhaps a great place to rock climb (wouldn't know, as I'm not a climber)... but to me, it was just a great place to spend the afternoon, not "spectacular", hence the four stars. My rating system (for the curious): Five Stars - Fantastic. I'd go often if I could. Four Stars - Really good. It's likely I'll return. Three Stars - Good, but I won't seek it out for a return visit. Two Stars - I won't go again. This could be due to food, price, atmosphere, whatever. One Star - I won't go again and I suggest everyone follow suit.
(4)Melinda B.
This place is really a "holy sanction"! It's captivating beauty is just astonishing. If you have kids, this would be a nice way to educate them in the outdoors (plus it's like one big rock playground!). You can walk through, climb, or explore these awesome rock formations... and bets of all: it's free! From this high up in elevation you can see for miles, catch a glimpse of the Colorado Rockies, or watch a tempermental lightening storm (which is really cool!!). The rocks are nearly neon in color, and tied in with the lush grasses, tall trees, and blue skies, it doesn't get much better than this!!!
(5)Kima W.
Growing up in Colorado Springs you can't help but visit Garden Of the Gods atleast a few times a year. Garden of the Gods has it all from beatiful, majestic scenery to fantastic views of Colorado Springs. Garden of the Gods is an outdoor lovers dream! You can do everything outdoors here, from: taking a nice stroll and having a nice picnic to rocking climbing, horseback riding, hiking, watching the picturesque sunrises and sunsets (If you haven't caught a sunrise or sunset here you are truely missing out!!!!) to spending the night under the stars. So if you're ever in the Colorado Springs area be sure to take a break and marvel at the beatiful rock formations that are Garden of the Gods!!!!
(5)Stephanie P.
Forget the fact that there aren't too many truly beautiful places in Colorado Springs to take out-of-town guests, this place would be beautiful wherever it was. My family and I take all out of town visitors there. I remember the old days when you could drive through the whole park and see everything without getting out of the car, and personally, I'm glad they closed the road and make people park and get out of their cars, we need more of those places in the world. Our recent trip was a cold sunny day and we got some really beautiful pictures. Definitely worth a visit!
(5)David F.
I went in the dead of winter with snow covering everything and was amazed!
(4)Jessica D.
So beautiful and refreshing . . You can't visit Colorado Springs without a stop here.
(5)Gourmet G.
The Visitor Center, which offers exhibits on the history, geology, plants, and wildlife of the area, and a decent cafeteria, stands at the gateway to what are some of the most spectacular scenic vistas I've ever seen anywhere. One of the West's unique geological sites, this is a 1300-acre rock garden composed of spectacular red sandstone formations, sculpted by rain and wind over millions of years, whose appearance changes with and is enhanced by the sun's movement throughout the day. The awe-inspiring park harbors a variety of plant and animal species. There are a number of hiking trails, ranging mostly from easy to moderate, that offer great scenery, innumerable amazing photo ops, and a serene escape from life's worries. Leashed dogs are permitted on trails, many of which are open to horseback riding and mountain biking. Well-paved roads meander throughout, so you can drive, park, and roam at your leisure. Anyone remotely near Colorado Springs should plan on spending at least a couple of hours here.
(5)tiffany w.
when i lived in col. sp. i used to drive through at least once a week. g.o.g. is peaceful and beautiful. i can't wait to go back for a visit!
(5)joseph k.
truly a beautiful park. the rock formations are spectacular. it was a bit windy and cold, but i found some shelter in one of the rocks. red rocks is nicer, but garden of the gods is pretty cool too.
(4)Troy G.
There's honestly not too much I can say about Garden of the Gods, so I will be very blunt. If you are short on time and can only stop at one place in Colorado Springs, PLEASE make this your choice. If you were planning on just stopping at a restaurant to get food, suspend that decision and be hungry for a couple of hours- Garden of the Gods is simply that cool. It pretty much seems like the road was laid out in a large circle, with parking lots every so often, or places to pull over and snap a quick photo of a scenic view. There are no bad views here, just awesomeness and beauty in every direction. Many trails crisscross the landscape here, which we partook in. I saw plenty of joggers and bikers as well- it must be thrilling to be able to live close to something so beautiful, and be able to go see it anytime you want. You can great a great view of Colorado Springs from some of the trails. We had a few other things to do, so we didn't stop by the visitors center on the way out, but I would have liked to.
(5)B. Ann M.
As fresh Denver transplants, my fiance & I are more than eager to explore beautiful Colorado! So, this past weekend we headed to Manitou Springs and enjoyed a beautiful Sunday Funday at Garden of the Gods! And wow - we loved it! I premise with the foremost important factor to our journey - DOGS ARE ALLOWED! They, of course, have leash restrictions and you must clean up after your pup - but the park does a great job allowing furry babies to have fun near the rocks too! Secondly, the parking! For as many people that were there - I am impressed at the number of parking spaces available... that tells me they logistically plotted parking which means Colorado's national park system has a conscious! Amen! The rocks are beautiful and easy to spot Rock Climbers which is super neat! They are as copper in person as they are on the net! As always, I posted pics - check them out!
(5)Tonya A.
This place is beautiful. Great visitor center as well. If you're ever in Colorado Springs this is a place you must check out.
(5)Valentina D.
This is a good place to visit if you're already in the area or if you're on your way to Pike's Peak, but I wouldn't drive all the way here from Denver (~1 hour) just for Garden of the Gods. It also seems a lot better than the gimmicky tourist activities like Cave of the Winds. It's a nice place to go for a bike ride, take a walk, or just drive through, and there are some pretty unique rock formations. Like the gigantic rock balanced on its corner (Balanced Rock), or the 2 rocks that look just like each other (Siamese twins). I also love that this place is open late (I think 8PM in the winter and even later in the summer), so it'd be a great date night activity. And it's free to enter, thanks to a generous gift from the former owner.
(4)Gabe Q.
This one confuses me. With all the mountains (Pikes, Mt. Evans, Rocky Mountain, etc.) I don't really understand why you would come here. My wife and I were disappointed and didn't stay very long. Although there is a lot of hype with this place I would suggest to spend your time at the three places I listed above instead.
(3)Tom J.
Five stars of course. In all of America, I don't see how you are going to find a better, more accessible park loaded with interesting rock formations and easy trails (or drive through - bring Grandma, it's okay). It's hard for me to imagine anyone coming to Colorado Springs and not stopping in here. Just a very very cool place. They have a nice interpretive center with helpful and friendly volunteers (I'm assuimg) that are very excited to tell you all about what a great spot this is. My understanding is the park is owned by the city and not a national monument or park. No need to change a thing here - they have created lots of nice well-marked trails that offer spectacular views every 20 or 30 feet. You'll want to have a camera for sure, and I do suggest getting a trail map in order to avoid taking a wrong turn and ending up a mile the wrong way, like we did. The place is pretty crowded, so if you don't like that, arrive early or stay late. We saw a few folks climbing the rocks in the central formations. That's really something to see for someone like me from the flatlands (at least comparatively). On day two of our stay, I just had to go back while the family took the cog railway up Pike's Peak (done it twice - no thanks to 12 degrees and windy). I suggest spending at least 6 hours here, and stay for the sunset if you can. In November, it sets right over the top of Pikes Peak and for us it was an incredible sight.
(5)Riza H. C.
Loved it. Hubs and I came to visit Garden of the Gods, Visitor and Nature Center with my little cousin. We were here on, Tuesday July 28th 2009. This place is indeed jam packed with tourists everywhere all across the country and the globe. Outside the Visitor and Nature Center has ample parking space. The staffs are always friendly and knowledgeable about the Information on Garden Of The Gods. Do pick up the Free Map of the Garden Of The Gods, if you need to hike or walk up the designated trails. After visiting the Visitor and Nature Center, we proceed to drive across the Garden Of The Gods itself. My oh my, I am still awed by the majestic hills surrounding this area itself. Since most of the parking space is full, we decide to park at the South Parking Lot and from there we hike and walk thru the trails. The walking trails are easy and moderate to walk. I love Garden Of The Gods, to walk thru the trails and admiring the majestic hills on what it has to offer. Its definitely breathtaking.
(5)Sam G.
Not to be missed rock formations right in Colorado Springs. It's worth spending a couple hours at.
(5)Kelsie H.
Been here several times, and several times to come. Its beautiful, and so much to see.
(5)Bethany W.
L-O-V-E I-T! But I'm a little biased. This is my second trip to Colorado and I really love anything Colorado. Yet, in specifically speaking of the Garden of the Gods it was really lovely. Beautiful red rock with a spectacular view of mountains in the distance. Besides the view you can take a walk on the paved trail or watch the mountain climbers make their way up. You can even do some minor hiking/climbing up to get some good shots. I suggest you bring water, sunblock, and tennis shoes/walking shoes. No heels! Like those young 14 yr old girls I passed up as I walked out. SMH [shaking my head]
(5)Tres B.
This small but spectacular park is gorgeous and is different whenever you visit due to the seasonal lighting, clouds and shadows. Jagged monoliths cut the sky like a ruby red knife edge. (See my pic) Beautiful! And easy access from Colorado Springs.
(5)Mike R.
Been here two or three times. Great for kids, who can climb some of the smaller formations (the big kids and adults can climb to the tops of the larger ones, with the right equipment). Lots of walking but on paved paths so the less-athletic can certainly enjoy it. Terrific photo opportunities, especially when the sun is low in the sky. Make time to see the video at the visitor center and catch a ranger talk or two before heading out, if you're so inclined. If you're at all nerdy, check out why these formations are here - a unique mix of conditions and timing. Plenty of bird activity, too. We saw no ground-bases critters, but I imagine they're out there. Waiting. Hungry... On-site café is convenient and pretty good. When you keep in mind there's no charge to park or visit, the overall cost/value of a day here is very good to excellent. I'm cheap by nature and I didn't mind spending my money there. If you have a full day to spend, consider coupling a visit to GotGs with nearby Seven Falls ( sevenfalls.com ). Focus on the Family is in Colorado Springs, if that's your cup of tea. Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfy shoes, and water (if you don't buy it on-site).
(5)Katie R.
Because ladies weekend is an annual tradition in my family and none of us had ever been, we decided Garden of the Gods was the perfect place to have a picnic lunch before shopping the day away in Manitou Springs. 1. We all fell in love with the orange/red rocks scattered throughout the park. They were absolutely beautiful and gave us the perfect scenery as we munched on lunch. 2. The trails are awesome. Some long and some short, the trails looked pretty cool and not too strenuous. 3. Perfect place for groups! with numerous places for pictures, walking and eating, we found ourselves to be quite happy. only problem? The bugs were terrible. I realize we are in the dead of summer [well it's coming to an end] but the mosquitoes, spiders, bee's, and grasshoppers were insane! oye! overall, i LOVE this place and would love to explore more :)
(5)La H.
This place made me repeat to myself that it was not photoshopped, that it was, in fact real. Unbelievable rock formations - beautiful and scenic area. I loved every moment there. I think when I go back next time, I'm going to walk all of their amazing trails. This place had me awe-inspired!
(5)Jake N.
This place is simply stunning. There is so much natural beauty both in the park and surrounding it. Oh yeah, as long as you bring your own car to get there or bike it's free. How can you go wrong?
(5)Carol C.
Gods Majestic Beauty abounds in this Gorgeous Park. It's like a mini Sedona Red Rock country in Arizona. The history is so cool how it formed from prehistoric times and how the red rocks were so beautifully carved. There are many magnificent landscapes formed into these red rocks/mountains and 19 official names given to certain ones like the Kissing Camels, The Siamese Twins, Balancing Rock etc..... The locals have created many more names over the years which pertain too animals and Indians which look like their nicknames. The Park is free also - I suggest seeing their $5.00, 14 minute video on the history and formation's (very informative and cool). This is a Photographers dream! Stuff to do: Horse Back Riding Hiking/trails Rock Climbing Bicycling Picnicking Garden of the Gods Trading Post (super great souvenir shop/art gallery and cafe - didn't eat at cafe closes at 5:00 p.m. Garden of the Gods Visitor Center much more...... Visitor Center and The Trading Post close at 5:00 p.m. in the winter The park is open a little later. If you like outdoor adventures you'll love this place. If you want to do a few of the activities above plan on a half day their.
(5)Justin A.
I visited Garden of the Gods after checking out St. Marys Falls. Garden of the Gods is neat, but not worth a specific trip from Denver (if that is where you are coming from). The place is cool because the formations have been here for hundreds of years. However, when I went (late afternoon), this place was overrun with kids and wheel chair strolling grandma's. It was hard to get a good picture because kids kept pushing or jumping in front of you. Get here early to truly experience this without kids. Also, getting here early ensure's that you avoid the heat because there is little, to any, tree coverage in the area. They do have a few good hikes but nothing too spectacular.
(3)Mike S.
I guess if you have any complaints about this place you can take them up with...the earth? "Yeah, sorry I wasn't impressed with the Kissing Camels; any chance you can make them more camel-like..." Joking aside the viewpoints of this widespread red rock formation are stunning amidst the blue Colorado sky and the lush green foliage. There are a lot of easily navigable roads to take you throughout the park, and well-placed rest stops that give you a good vantage point not just of the Garden, but also Manitou/Colorado Springs. Walking trails are also easily accessible and take you around the notable landmarks. The visitor center has a lot of educational info, a cafe, and gift shops. The educational, "high-def" movie is hardly worth the cost of admission for just 14 or so minutes of info you could probably easily read about. Recommended for a quick hour or two (or a half day if you want to hike and really take in the sites), Garden of the Gods is a beautiful site to behold in a quaint area of Colorado.
(5)Mach S.
This is another MUST see when you visit Colorado Springs and it is FREE!! The rock formations are spectacular. You basically drive around in a big loop as many times as you like to see everything. There are hiking trails too. The first time I saw this place was in 1969. It was magical. The second time was just as wonderful, but I couldn't help noticing how many developments have crept into view. One cannot help but notice the multi-million dollar developments and homes that now surround these wonderful rock formations. Colorado Springs city council has obviously sold out to the Real Estate developers over the years and for that they ought to be ashamed. If you visit the Garden of the Gods website, you'll read how the land was donated to the city for free, under the condition they never charge admission. It was was amazing charitable contribution to the city, that they have obviously squandered by allowing homes to encroach around the perimeter of the park. To the city's credit, they built a lavish Visitor's Center, but is basically a huge gift shop. We visited on a Saturday and the traffic was pretty bad. The parking lots and pull-overs were jammed with cars, which forced you to orbit the loop for a parking space to open up. I never saw any Park Rangers to police the area, which would come in handy since people were crawling all over Balancing Rock. Yet, hidden in the corner off to one side there was a sign that said, "No climbing". My advice is to see the Garden of the Gods soon, before the rocks are trampled to the ground and/or the Developers build an exclusive spa in the center of the whole thing and charge $50 a ticket to see it.
(4)Jessica C.
Absolutely beautiful!!!!! This place is truly amazing, and even more so it is free to visit. The people in the visitors center were really helpful and nice. Walking around was breathtaking, there is no other way to say it. Take what trails you can - there is one that goes up onto a formation that is a lot of fun. On the day I was there a group of us found a hidden bagpiper in the one of the formations playing which was really cool, and made this beautiful place even more amazing. We also took the trail by the Siamese Twins formation - I highly recommend doing this. You can't see the formation from the road but it is a lot of fun to find and really beautiful to see.
(5)Edwin C.
I only drove through the place, but I would recommend against that. I only drove through because I didn't have time. They have plenty of walking/hiking paths. They lead you to the various rock formations that make this place so famous. Best of all, there's no entrance/park fee. I was amazed to notice, as I drove out, that there are residential neighborhoods LITERALLY on the roads in & out of the place. When you're in Colorado Spings/Manitou Springs area, or even just driving past, this is a MUST stop
(4)Mary E.
Beautiful! These rock formations are stunning. As a Chicagoan, this kind of scenery just can't be appreciated unless it's experienced--pictures don't do it justice. What's really cool about Colorado Springs is the 19th Century feel to everything. Yes, I know the rocks themselves are billions of years old. But some of these late 19th/early 20th Century guys really did the country a great service by appreciating, and then financially backing, parks that allow everyone to experience America's natural beauty. Garden of the Gods is open to everyone, no charge for admission. The visitor's center is clean, spacious and has a lot of educational displays as well as the usual gift shops. We took a friend's recommendation and signed up for a Jeep tour. Hiking was a little beyond my parents' ability (they're in their 80's) and I also knew the guide would be able to point out details a casual observer would miss. I was especially interested in seeing wildlife, and although at midday in the crowded park there weren't many animals roaming about, there were definitely a lot of birds. The guide was really informative and friendly, and he made my parents comfortable, while giving my son--who never goes anywhere without his camera--lots of photo ops. It must be really inspiring to live in Colorado Springs. The residents all seem very happy and engaged in their surroundings. No wonder! It's gorgeous. And accessible to everyone.
(5)Ginger A.
Gorgeous park with surreal landscape. Free! What could possibly go wrong? Nothing, on our visit. We eloped here in a self-solemnized ceremony and it proved to be the perfect location. Convenient well marked roads and trails make this place a treasure for visitors, whether simply sight-seeing or doing some hiking. Be sure to check out Balanced Rock within the park.
(5)Sarah D.
One of the most gorgeous places on Earth and it's even free! We actually went twice when we were in Co Springs since it's so close. Early in the morning we spotted lots of deer and chipmunks and the light was gorgeous. It was also great to go at a less crowded time of day. My recommendation is to grab your coffee and head out early and enjoy the peace, quiet and scenery.
(5)Demitri R.
This was fun. Lots of scenery and areas to park and take pictures. Bring suitable shoes so you can do some Level 1 climbing on the rocks. Just Remember Bring out What you take in. Nice spots for a picnic as well. Bring Water for yourself and Fido i didnt see any Water Fountains around. Im surprised that it was free to enter as well.
(5)Mark L.
This is the place that reminds you why Texans vacation in Colorado. A free city park with phenomenal views. A must stop on any trip to Colorado Springs.
(5)Jordan K.
Absolutely beautiful! This is a must visit in COS. I wish i had more time to hike around the trails and actually enjoy the rest of the scenery. My next trip out here I will make it one of my top priorities. It is truly a wonderful looking park!
(5)Brian P.
Somewhat boring, cool to look at for 5 mins. There are better things to see. I wouldn't go back or put it in any bucket list.
(2)Sally C.
I love that it is free, however it was very crowded when we went and people were even rock climbing so no decent pictures were taken. If I go back, I will go back on a weekday. Parking was a nightmare in the main lot and we had to park on some side lot and got lost coming back because of all the different trails and loops. There are picnic tables so it is a good spot to bring a lunch. I would suggest going during the week to avoid the crazy crowds. My reason for going was to spend time in nature and I didn't really feel like I did. I know its a free park but there was just way too many people to really enjoy it.
(4)Brian M.
This place is magical. It's best to go first thing in the morning (right after sunrise) to get the best view of the rocks. It's free, dog-friendly, clean and there are great hiking trails all around. It's fun to watch the rock climbers which are there mostly in the afternoon or on weekends. If you go on a weekend, you'll want to arrive by 9 am to get parking inside the park. Also, any later and the place is flooded with people and it impacts the viewing experience. A wonderful park for all ages.
(5)Nancy F.
I can see why the call it Garden of the Gods. It is magnificent and sits in an area where you wouldn't expect giant red rock sculptures in a tree lined area. It is free to go up to as the gentlemen who purchased it back in the 1930's gave it to the City of Colorado Springs and said it must always remain free for people to see as a prerequisite for donating it to the city. What a wonderful man! Take a bottle of water with you for the walk on a hot day. What a fun day trip!
(5)I N.
This is one of the most beautiful places I have ever hiked around in. . Turn on, to nature. Tune in, to what is around you. Drop out, of the rat race for a few. .
(5)Holly G.
It's just almost too pretty to get over. The hiking trails all throughout the park seem really spectacular if that is your forte. Plus, I am a huge fan that you can do the "driving tour" of the park and see the whole thing without even leaving your car, if that is more your forte. I love how going to the Garden is like taking a little step out of Colorado Springs to find yourself transported to a completely different landscape and setting completely. It's kind of like leaping into the great desert Southwest, such as New Mexico. Yes, there are tourists and yes, there are quite a few people wandering around but you hardly notice them within all the beauty surrounding you.
(4)Erika M.
FREE! Nothing is better than enjoying the majesty of a beautiful park, than not having to pay to go. The rock formations here are gorgeous. You can rock climb here too (make sure to sign your waiver). There are plenty of easy trails for the avid hiker and non hiker alike. I took my 14 month old twins here and had a great time. They were in their little back packs for the most part, but they actually did their first "real hike" on a trail. There are great little shops for all sorts of touristy stuff along with cafe's and picnic areas. I highly suggest making your way here if you live in the US. If you live in colorado, you must go here at least once. It's free for crying out loud.
(4)Emily O.
This was my second trip to Garden of the Gods. This place is great for hiking, climbing, & photography. The park is free to enter & climbing passes are complimentary as well. As you climb the dirt roads, the views of Pikes Peak are breathtakingly beautiful & get better with altitude. When the sun hits the rocks in the Garden of the Gods, the rocks take on an orangey-red color that is so spectacular against the green foothills & snow topped peak. On this particular visit, we watched the sunrise from the balanced rock which was gorgeous, we bouldered a little, & drove until we couldn't drive any further. A great experience. Next time? A little more hiking & a lot more climbing! :)
(5)Tony S.
We've previously visited Garden of the Gods and have always been impressed with spectacular scenery (5-stars), but never visited on weekend in August before. The place was totally packed... like Disneyland on Labor Day weekend. There was not a single parking spot to be found in the whole park. As the driver, I couldn't enjoy it much as I was dodging tourists (other cars, bikers & pedestrians) on every turn. The Visitor's Center was even worse... packed should-to-shoulder with families. That said; The docents who work/volunteer at the Visitor's Center were super nice. In particular, Bob Simmons, went out of his way to show us where we might find a much coveted parking spot and a nice walk around the monuments - 5 stars. In the Summer, plan to get there early (or late) in the day to avoid the throngs.
(3)Steve M.
Sure, its packed with tourists, but how can you not drop the 5-star on this mind-bendingly beautiful park? The natural rock formations are truly amazing, and look as if many gods had a play-doh competition to see who could come up with the craziest shapes. Blue skies, bright sun, and clay/red colored rock formations, jutting out of green and gray vegetation all around made for a really special afternoon. Totally amazing. Go there if you have the chance.
(5)Michael E.
This place is absolutely beautiful! It has some great formations that really just make you stop and look in awe. I am not an avid hiker, so this place is perfect. They have trails all over and you can drive all around the park for free! So next time you have a chance put this on your list for sure. Well worth the drive! P.S. A musical soundtrack suggestion while walking around, try Fleet Foxes album Helplessness Blues. I had it on my iPod during my time there. A winning combination for sure!
(5)Jo L.
Even though it's so close to town, and gets so much traffic during the daytime when it's nice, (Try going in the evening during a full moon) I never get tired of the Garden, so many things to do. Hiking, horseback rides, running, observing nature, (sketchy as hell) climbing, biking. Each moment of the day the rock seems to change in color and texture. The sight of those orange/red rocks against a vivid blue sky, just can't beat it with a stick. If you want to enjoy your visit do not go during the summer and DEFINITELY do not go on the weekend during the summer. Go after "tourist" season is over, after mid-September. Mid September through October is a perfect time. Or during the summer go early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is setting. Fall is great because the big horn sheep seem to appear more during this time of the year. Learn about the geology and history of the rocks, it's interesting. There is a small booklet you can purchase in the visitor center for (I think) $5.00. Or if you're not a reader, there is a movie shown in the visitor center. If you are able, get out of your vehicle and walk the trails. . . .WARNING frequent horseback rides=horse poo. There is a ton of horse waste on the trails. It's actually easily avoidable. If you hike while it is hot, bring plenty of water especially if you are not used to hot AND dry. The climate is very dry here and combined with the very intense and hot sun, if you're not staying hydrated, you could end up having a bad day. It also is a good idea to wear a hat.
(5)JoBeth U.
Such a beautiful feature of Colorado Springs! And yes, I would agree that it's like a 'mini' Arches National Park (Moab, UT). Best of all, it's FREE.
(5)Nicholas L.
The entire park was very beautiful. The rock formations offered many opportunities for great photos. Rock climbers also use the rock walls and provide some entertainment as they work their way up. Offers a great walk with some great views.
(5)Jennifer S.
I love this park! If I lived in Colorado Springs, I would be here every weekend. The setting is absolutely gorgeous, the park is free and there is plenty of hiking. The movie at the Visitor's Center wasn't really worth it though...head straight to the park and enjoy the marked trails.
(5)Mike L.
A fantastic area. I've never felt so small in my life as I did when looking up at the huge boulders. I kept on the shorter trails since I did the hike on my first day in town after getting off the plane. I drove through after spending a couple hours and the views are spectacular. This is a great spot for families.
(5)Vanessa J.
This is a beautiful place to walk around and take pictures. There are a few signs throughout the park that explain some of the history, in addition to what you can read in the visitor's center. the only down side I could see was that while they do have trail maps, a "You are here" marker would have been really handy. Sometimes it is a bit challenging figuring out where exactly on the trail you are.
(4)Heather G.
I am a native to Colorado Springs, so I have the pleasure of getting to see Garden of the Gods everyday! It is always fun going down here on an afternoon and just wandering along the different trails. GOG does get very busy and getting through the park can be tough with everyone wanting to take pictures from their cars. Please pull over to a designated area if you want to take pictures...it's common courtesy! If you have the time and money, take a horseback ride through the park. Gives you the sense of being back in 1909 when GOG was established. Keep any eye out, you might see some wild life too. I recommend this to anyone visiting Colorado Springs. It is free to get into the park, there are plenty of places to run around, have a picnic, take some awesome pictures, and you just get this feeling that you are in a magical place!
(5)Jon T.
This would be really cool if I had more time to explore, but just driving through briefly on way through Colorado, I didn't see anything that made me want to stop. If I were you, I would stop, unless you have been to a place like Bryce Canyon. After Bryce, this did not seem like a wise use of time, since what I saw was not as compelling as what I had seen. These type of formations though are completely different than something like the Grand Canyon.
(3)Emily J.
Being a Colorado native, I am disappointed in myself that it took me 20 years to get to this gorgeous park. My friend and I spent the entire day here climbing around, getting lost, and just enjoying the beautiful surroundings. I would suggest starting early in the day to avoid some of the major crowds and the heat in the summer. There is a museum and café selling the usual overpriced museum knickknacks and overpriced bad food-skip it and keep going right through the park. Make sure and bring your camera, everything is so pretty and very unique. I would definitely recommend this park for anyone visiting Colorado or for those of us already living in this wonderful state!
(4)Martin F.
Love the outdoors . Walking around all the rocks and trails was fun on a nice day.
(5)Mike G.
Love this place! Rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding and even just driving around. If you love the outdoors, put this in your "top" things to do. Hint: Stop by the information center for free maps and great advise!
(5)Jeff H.
If you are coming to Colorado Springs, be sure to add Garden of the Gods to your itinerary. I'm not really big on the whole "come check this nature out." Don't all trees look the same after awhile? Anyway, this place is one of the few exceptions to my jaded view. Park is free and while you can drive it, to really get the full scope of things, get out of the car and get to walking! The hike isn't difficult at all, and the cornucopia of colors of the rock are breathtaking. Put Garden of the Gods on your Colorado to do list, grab a camera, and enjoy.
(4)Judy Y.
most surreal and beautiful place Ive seen. For some reason I felt like I was in a Jurassic Park
(5)Willa C.
For what it is, it gets 5 stars. There are areas for climbing, lite hiking, a bit of exploring, and the site of red rocks that can be awe-inspiring (assuming you haven't been to Utah or Nevada). This place has some of the best rock formation scenery in Colorado by far and I have to congratulate the state and family estate that cares for it for doing such a fine job. I have heard some people complain that it isn't "natural enough" (whatever that means) with the paved trails and road laid out around it as it is... but personally I think it's a great idea. The way that it is set up is in a fashion so that everyone of every level of physical strength from avid hiker to handicapped can go. In fact, my family and I chose to go here after our son was born for a day trip because I was still using a cane to walk due to complications. I was able to hobble around and still get a glimpse of nature without killing myself. Sure, it's packed on the weekends to a point in which it reminds me of crossing over the Hoover Dam and trying to dodge pedestrians... but at the same time there is plenty of down time on weekdays and cooler seasons when you can come back and enjoy. Unlike many other natural preserves or hiking locations - GOTG is still free to the public. It is also surprisingly clean, considering how many people walk up and through it. I have to say I somewhat expected to see graffiti to mar the red rocks like I saw in the Valley of Fire in Vegas because it is general public accessible. Thankfully it is not all tagged up and the biggest annoyance of the day was that someone parked behind my car and I couldn't leave for about 30 minutes. GRRRR. That aside, I love GOTG and plan to make it a stop any time I am in the Colorado Springs area.
(5)Addie S.
This is one of the best places to visit in Colorado Springs. If the weather is nice you have to take a picnic and really enjoy the park.
(5)Lindsay A.
Was beautiful and free! My kids messed around, and we got some great pictures :) A must do if you are in the area!
(5)Hugo E.
One of the most beautiful places on earth offers great sight seeing, hiking, running, biking, rock climbing, or just chilling. There is no charge to visit this beautiful park. Anyone visiting Colorado Springs should take advantage of visiting this majestic place. You will fall in love with its awesome scenery.
(5)Minny R.
It's free. It's beautiful. Enjoy the red rocks! Yes, it can be crowded and it may feel on the "touristy" side, but if you're the average person from a mountain-less region, you'll probably love it. Remember, this is free. This is in stark comparison to the tacky tourist traps (e.g. Seven Falls, Royal Gorge, Manitou Cliff Dwellings) that charge you a huge admission fee. Hence, the five rating.
(5)Susan D.
It was interesting place! We enjoyed our visit, wish we had more time, to see more.
(5)Robert L.
I want to start by saying I am not trying to discourage anyone from going to Garden of the Gods. Garden of the Gods (GOTG for the purpose of time) is a very beautiful place and is awesome if you want to go for a light walk. The paved walkways are excellent for tourist type looking and taking pictures but there in lies the problem. This place is usually PACKED with tourist type people. If you don't get there early you won't have a good chance of finding a parking spot in the main parking lot. If you can't, don't worry, just drive up the road a little ways and there are multiple little parking lots along the drive. DO NOT PARK IN THE PULL OFF AREAS. I can't tell you how many people do that and it's so annoying. With all that being said if you do want a light hike there are a couple trails that you can do day hikes at. And actually the Palmer trail, if you walk the whole thing, is fairly long. None of the trails are necessarily challenging or anything but it's nice if your just looking to get out of the house and enjoy nature. If you park in the main parking lot and cross the street you can hike the back end of the Palmer trail which leads in the Siamese trail and some other trail (think it's called the Bulmer trail or something). Anyways, both those are pretty good hikes also. The tourists aspect of this area makes it a little hard to have a good time but if you get off on one of the less traveled trails it's not bad at all. Me and my girlfriend go and hike here about once a month and always enjoy ourselves. If your looking for a "real" hike though this is not where you want to go. Good family spot though and easy for children and elderly people. Oh and P.S. PLEASE bring a leash for your dog. It's super rude and annoying when people just let their dogs run around, no matter how "well behaved" they are. Thanks :).
(4)Indigo W.
Probably one of the coolest places I've ever been to. Gorgeous!
(5)David J.
In a word: fantabulous!
(5)joe w.
This is a fun place to visit and a visual camera feast to look at the red rocks. Admission is free so large families will love this place. Can be a bit hot on a summer day. Recommend standing a safe distance from the roped off areas as recent rains could have loosened rocks overhead. Recommend bringing a plurality of chilled water bottles as this place can be hot. Good place to do some rock climbing adventures--recommend setting aside some time and using a paid adventure company though.
(5)Jamie L.
Get there at Sunrise or Sunset, and bring a camera. The colors, the sky, the imposing rock structures... Just Wow. There are hiking trails, very easy to moderate in difficulty. The park is absolutely beautiful. It is a hallmark of the Colorado Springs area. The fact that it's free boosts its' appeal. It's small, so don't plan on spending a whole day there, but it's definitely worth the 10 minute drive out there to check it out. It's impressive, it's geology, it's history, it's nature.
(4)Honey R.
Thought this place was awesome. I had fun taking pictures and sight seeing this place. Nice views of the different shaped rocks. It's something I haven't seen before. Although, it gets really hot during the summer. Other than that, this place is definitely a must go if you're in the area.
(5)Justina R.
Natural wonders all around you. Fun and cool trails to hike/bike/jog. Makes me glad that I live in this city!
(5)Kim N.
I see these gorgeous red stones every day, and they still take my breath away. Be sure to visit the visitor's center where you can watch a cool little film about how they were formed. Then drive through the park looking for neat formations like Kissing Camels, Titanic, Cathedral Spires and more. Oh, and stop at the Trading Post in the middle for really cool Native American art and plenty of fun touristy trinkets too. If you're lucky, you'll catch a sale and be able to stock up on gifts.
(5)Jackie B.
It's worth taking a trip to Garden of the Gods at least once just to say you've been. I mean the rocks are beautiful but talk about a tourist trap. Maybe its because I went hiking the week before at one of the most beautiful places ever but most of my experience at GOTG was a turn off. Between the horse poop all over the Multi-purpose trail and all of the Tourist in sandals [sandals?! really?!], I just wasn't digging it. There's other hikes in Colorado that are just as awesome. Plus we definitely came back with everything coated in red dirt. I guess the paved "trail" is perfect for those site seeing but if you're looking more to get away from civilization and enjoy the great outdoors then this isn't the place for you. Besides, there are tons of beautiful scenery in the area, no need to jump on the tourist train just to see them.
(2)Stephen B.
Beautiful rocks, awful dirt trails. The outer dirt trail on the North end of the park was covered in horse droppings. And for those not familiar with horses, they don't drop candy. Eww. Beautiful views, but the traffic was just annoying. The... extras... were disgusting. Not going back until this is remedied.
(2)Erika G.
Beautiful and Amazing! Coming here really puts you in your place. You start to believe in Santa Claus and Leperchauns and Unicorns. Because it is so amazing to see all this natural rock and not think of some mystical spirit in the air. In the VIsitor Center: Take the 20 minute bus tour. Small bus, no air. But it starts you off in the right direction to learn things about the area. Also take in the little film "How'd the Rocks Get there" Very informative - a bit cheesey but full of Grade School Science that I had forgotten. There are 2 gift shops upstairs and downstairs. Also a restaurant - we never ate at. Do not wear white. No white tenny's. sandals, flip flops, shorts, t-shirts ANYTHING. That red rock will get on you somewhere and somehow andits a pain to get it out! Driving around in your own car: If you cannot park in the designated parking area and walk - Pull over as far as you can to the side to take your pictures if you must. Otherwise some pissed off tourist will bitch you out in Swedish! As I have seen.
(5)Lindsay L.
The Garden of the Gods Park was selected as Great American Public Space by American Planning Association. Have fun hiking, technical rock climbing, road and mountain biking and horseback riding in the park! You can also attend the annual events include two summer running races, recreational bike rides. This place is also very accessible. It is only 20 minutes from downtown Colorado Springs, and it is accessible by car, bicycle, and bus. There are two bus stops located 1.5 and 1.8 miles from park entrance. The Visitor center entrance is located at 1805 North 30th St.
(5)Susi H.
Awesome red rocks formations park. Free entry, that's always a plus. The paths are nicely paved so it's family and strollers friendly. Bring a binocular for bonus bird/goats watching :)
(5)Krystle H.
Garden of the Gods is one of those rare beauties... and it's free. How could you go wrong? The beautiful rust colored orange formations with the grandeur of the mountains in the backdrop makes for a heavenly morning walk or a gorgeous afternoon stroll. I wouldn't put GOTG in the same category as most tourist attractions. There are no lasers or fireworks or anything else shiny that might keep your attention entertained at every second... this offers nature at its finest. It took us (a first timer and someone who's been here countless times) about an hour to walk through the whole park. We last visited in mid October, so parking wasn't a real issue, but be warned: parking may become scarce in the prime summer months. It's best to come early to enjoy the sunrise, and get a good enough spot! A must see if you're in the area!!
(5)Kitt J.
It's definitely a must-see if you're in the area, and the formations are gorgeous. It's a super-nerdy place for geology enthusiasts, too. All good marks in my book. But coming from Oregon, I tend to prefer my outdoors with a little more backcountry flavor. This place seems to emphasize straight-up tourism... driving through the park and hanging out the window with a camera and such. Not such a huge fan of that. It always seems pretty crowded, too. Maybe I need to see it in the winter?
(3)Christine G.
We've been to GOTG several times, thanks to all the out-of-towners that come to visit us. It's always one of the attractions that I suggest to visitors, especially those who don't live in the West. It's quite a unique and breathtaking site for our family members from the East and Midwest. We've strolled along the main paths that are off of the first main parking lot and we've always stopped at the Balancing Rock so that visitors can get the typical cheesy tourist photo of them posing, Atlas-style, under the rock. The trails are easy to navigate and are mostly flat (good for those from sea-level who may be struggling a bit with altitude adjustment). The rock formations are spectacular and offer several glorious photo opportunities. The red rocks are a perfect contrast against the azure blue Colorado sky. Best of all, the appearance of the rocks change a bit depending on the time of day you visit. The quality of the light and the shifting shadows play up certain characteristics of the rock facade. And the fact that it's free doesn't hurt one bit!
(5)Rick T.
So beautiful here folks! Saw some amazing rock formations and a few local birds which I couldn't identify being from the south. Also met a few climbers that told us about the local area. This place is free to visit and well worth the trip. Colorado Springs is a must see for outdoor enthusiast.
(5)Charlene G.
So beautiful!!! We went with our friends and kids and walked around and really enjoyed the scenery. It's a quick visit...and feel free to bring your dog or workout clothes to get a little walk in. We were done in an hour, but very pleased!
(5)Brandon K.
If you are a nature lover at all you need to come see this! I'm reading some of these posts saying 'it's ok' or 'if you're in the area but on worth driving to' and they must have gone to the wrong place. If you're a total city slicker who doesn't enjoy anything that's not connected to wifi then do me a favor and stay in your hipster cafe. Nice trails, stunning scenery, awesome history and it's free to top it off. Bring a camera and enjoy!
(5)Adrienne H.
This is a gorgeous free attraction! Don't miss it. Go early to beat crowds. It's much better!! So much to see. Take a camera and shoot away. Again, worth every minute!!
(5)Sam A.
One of our states wonders. A FREE city park which should be on your must see list. We come often and enjoy in all types of weather and angles. Several walking / hiking trails.
(5)Michael S.
God has blessed Colorado Springs with his own personal Garden. This free city park is undoubtedly one of the most Gorgeous, Grandiose, and, well, Godly in the country. The scenery is breathtaking and inspiring as towering sandstone rock formations glisten under bright blue skies and the watchful eye of Pikes Peak. Many locals visit the Garden of the Gods daily for hiking, rock climbing, road biking, mountain biking, or horseback riding while thousands of tourists come for the scenery and photos. With 15 miles of trails and a 1.5 mile paved trail (Perkins Trail) this is a city park for everyone. We all have Charles Elliott Perkins and his family to thank for donating this beautiful land to the city of Colorado Springs in 1909. Much of the park remains the same as then except the modern roads and the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center and the Garden of the Gods Trading Post. At these, permits for rock climbing, touristy gifts, and snacks can be purchased plus there is a small cafe & meeting rooms. During the summer, the Garden of the Gods is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and then just 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. from Labor Day until Memorial Day. The Garden of the Gods is a free must-visit for anyone visiting Colorado Springs. It truly is a garden impressive enough for the gods and us mere mortals alike.
(5)Windy R.
This beautiful free attraction never gets old we could go all the time. It is the perfect place to simply walk around with your loved ones and experience nature! So beautiful it will take your breath away! Don't forget the water and the sun screen!
(5)Lisa Y.
An amazing sight to see! Everyone should go see this once in their lifetime. Visitors center was under construction, but was glad to watch the $5 movie about the history of Garden of the Gods. We drove through the park, which made it somewhat difficult to see everything and also stay on the road and not hit anyone. But it was wonderful to see and if I were to do it again, I'd park the car and hike!
(4)Danielle D.
Park is ok, it is very busy. This is a good place for people visiting, not so much people looking to be one with nature. The rock formations are amazing. It is easy for people with accessibility issues such as wheel chairs and strollers. They did have a lot of kids running around but it is a park. One lady yelled because she wanted to take the perfect picture but everyone kept walking in her way. When you are surrounded by amazing rocks, you tend to look around at nature instead of photographers. Plus, she complained about kids exploring and getting into her shot. Maybe she should have relaxed not come at a peak time. Anyways, parking can be a pain, bring water and do not liter.
(3)E M.
Great location whether you're taking pictures or going for a jog.
(4)Dave A.
Beautiful. Must see destination in Colorado Springs. Another great place similar is Red Rock Canyon which has GREAT hiking trails.
(5)Bill K.
I visited when I was on vacation. I only wish more of these natural wonders existed in this world. I look forward to returning.
(5)Pete V.
It is easy to forget that this is a CITY park. Many visitors think it must be a state park. For those of us lucky enough to live within walking distance it is a truly amazing backyard playground. It is definitely a must see for out of town guests. It's FREE, it's easy to get to, and it is truly a unique and memorable place to visit.
(4)Natalie S.
We had so much fun here! We took our 2-year old son and he had a blast climbing on the rocks! It's just absolutely a must-go-to place in colorado! Great for all ages!!
(5)Sam G.
Having grown up around these parts spending a good many high school nights in this park with, /cough, controlled, /cough, substances, I was always somewhere between noting the absolute sacred, beautiful nature of this site as well as being thoroughly nonplussed with its status a tourist attraction. And so, this tension continues (sans the accouterments), even after going back to it more than a decade later. If it's photo-ops you want, you will be vying for sovereignty at the tourist-designated spots of the kissing camels and the balancing rock (as a local, this was a great place to people watch with a running director's commentary). There will be mini vans and there will be families. If it's peace and lungful's of fresh air you're after, pull off on the side of the road along the road loops and just take a good long walk. There are many trails, some of which are paved, some are gravel, and some are made mostly by locals and explorers. You can walk for 15 minutes or you can walk for four hours. Choose your own adventure. Honestly, there is no better time to go to Garden of the Gods than in the summer during dusk. The colors are spectacular, the climate is cool, and the scents are potent. Everything hushes down. It's also a great place to stargaze and I recall one magical night of Hale-Bopp Comet watching. To avoid people, I prefer going in and out the Manitou Springs entrances because you don't have to deal with the tourist-trap side of the park as much. And I don't know what it is, but every time I take someone out to the Springs to show them a slice of my tattered childhood and adolescence, I end up driving us through this park and getting lost in its mystery.
(5)Mariah P.
What a beautiful scenic route through the mountains! Make sure to check it off your bucket list!
(5)Devan K.
This place was absolutely beautiful. The rock formations were truly amazing. The cool part is that you are allowed to walk on the some of the rock formations. Also if you want you can rock climb some of them. But I think you need to bring your own gear or sign up with someone who does that sort of thing. Also the beat part is that it is free. There is no fee to enter. So bring the whole family and enjoy this beautiful place
(5)Gilbert S.
Beautiful scenic view. The staff at the visitor center was amazing! I highly recommend to pay the $4 for the movie about the Garden of the Gods History. Don't forget to take a picture at the entrance sign and to park and walk around the area.
(5)Erika Z.
In was a combination of Sedona Red Rock and Rocky Mountain terrain. There is a lot of different formations to see and the walk is beautiful, we even saw a big horned sheep on the mountain. Great place for enjoying the wildlife, fun hiking area and beautiful to look at. Even the drive out was amazing!!
(5)Eli O.
Family loved it!
(5)d n.
I could go on & on about this place. I drove out to see Pike's Peak. I saw that, but also ended up here at the Visitor center, Trading Post, and the grounds. In this short trip I came here THREE TIMES and brought family & friends. I consider myself halfway decent at taking photos - I had two cameras, and still could not capture what this place looks like when you're in it. The cliche "You have to see it to believe it" applies here!. The crew was great as well. Take the Jeep tour!
(5)Bunny G.
Hiking with a stroller! Don't miss this incredible outdoor experience. Paved trails, breathtaking views, great for the whole family. It's free with convenient parking. Garden of the Gods has a special place in my heart since I took some wedding pictures here! It snowed so the scenery was magical! Don't miss it!
(5)Sarah N.
THIS is the best aspect of Colorado Springs. And it's all FREE! Awesome sandstone and limestone red rock formations soar into the sky, traced along the ground by winding, well-marked walkways and dirt trails. I've always found all this breathtaking against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. Been here too many times to count (surprised I haven't reviewed it until now). There are at least two running races here a year (Take 5 - 5K and 5Miler, and the Garden 10 Mile). The Visitor's Center is nice, and even though they're located across the main road, there is also parking for buses and RVs with easy access to the main Garden. The VC often holds public events (like Bighorn Sheep Days where they have several binoculars and scopes to look for sheep) and they also lead Segway tours. The main Garden's walkways are wheelchair and stroller friendly. Plenty of free parking inside the Garden, and a [mostly] one-way paved road curves around and brings you back to the main entrance (there are at least 3 points of entry/exit to the park). The road has nice, wide bike lanes along most of it. If you plan on climbing/scrambling, be sure to get a permit as they're pretty strict about this and fines are steep.
(5)Anjali C.
Not reviewing the rocks or nature, just the park itself. Yes it's free and yes it's beautiful, but we came on a weekday afternoon and it was very congested and overwhelming. It's hard to be relaxed when there are throngs of kids running around screaming at each other, climbing past the "don't climb here" signs. Parents, please control your spawn. Otherwise a nice little place to visit if you're in the area, but I enjoy the more "natural" trails and nature walks so it wasn't quite up my alley. It was kind of like a zoo or museum for huge awesome rocks. With tons of kids. I might have a different opinion if I was a rock climber, but sadly I'm not that cool yet.
(3)Amaya T.
This was very impressive! Natural beauty and nice trails of varying difficulty. It's sad that some of the nature has been destroyed by vandals putting names or initials on rocks :-( The gift shop was very impressive also, quite a selection...
(4)Reviewer O.
If you are visiting Colorado this is a must! Garden of the Gods is just breath taking. There are a lot of tourist in peak season but its still enjoyable. The views and formations are just incredible. We managed to go everyday we were in Colorado and everyday we went we saw something new. Its the perfect place for a picnic, hike, or scenic drive. I recommend this to everyone. Also, did I mention it is FREE and dogs are welcome!
(5)Joy F.
Beware!! We were hiking and a thief threw a rock through the window of rental car and stole my purse. We were parked in the parking lot and there was no security or cameras! The police officer that took the report said it happens all the time!!!! So, don't leave valuables in vehicle!!
(1)Sara B.
Did someone really post that they can't stand Colorado on the page of one of the most beautiful places in the state? Someone is obviously confused... Garden of the Gods is something that everyone should see. The huge rock formations seem to jut out of nowhere creating a feeling of awe. There are few things that you can do for free and, in my humble (yet, to me, HIGHLY important) opinion the Garden of the Gods is a gem. There are places to pull off of the driving path to park your car and walk throught the park. My beagle loves exploring...as does my boyfriend--there is no connection there, I swear. Whether you are a native, a visitor, an unwilling traveler like someone on this page, or a native-in-training, come see the Garden of the Gods. It is WELL worth the drive to Colorado Springs.
(5)Charles C.
Want to put a proper perspective on how grand the universe/nature is and how small/insignificant your life is when compared. Come here and check out the amazing feats of geologic wonders that mother nature produced. You'll be awed. And humbled. Believe it or not, this park is a city park. Garden of the Gods is not a national park. I was blown away when I learned this. Colorado Springs does a great job keeping this park in such a great condition. Love this place.
(5)Jamie R.
A geological wonder where protruding red rocks grace the landscape. This is a small area that is protected, with roads and rest stops maintained by the County. The best time to visit is the morning or evening when angled light really plays up the shadows and red/yellow/grey hues of tthe out-croppings.
(4)Emily T.
"Welcome to Colorful Colorado!" Whomever came up with that slogan was colorblind because I'm fairly certain even rainbows in Colorado stick to the brown and tan color scheme that is so prevalent throughout our state. However, there are a few exceptions and Garden of the Gods is one of them. Drive just outside of Colorado Springs and then, BOOM...you'll see red. Majestic red rocks and peaks bursting out of the brown earth and dull, dry grasses. There are trails so you can walk around the red rocks. There are permits so you can climb the red rocks. There are picnic areas so you can eat around the red rocks. There are roads and scenic overlooks so you can drive your car around the red rocks. If you're tired of seeing the same sights (and colors) or if you have company visiting, the Garden of the Gods is worth the drive. Get out and enjoy our semi-colorful state.
(5)Nic Z.
Beautiful park with varied scenery and landscapes. It will leave a great impression whether you're driving, walking, or hiking through. Well-worth a visit!
(4)Stephanie P.
Amazing place. Every picture I take at this place looks like a damn postcard. The trails are moderate to easy hiking and the view of Pikes Peak is breathtaking. Best part of the trip was the jeeps full of locals that had bumper stickers that read "Nobody cares that you're from Cali, Bro." The people here are nice, excited to tell you all about the area and just very helpful. People take pride in this state because it truly is God's country. There's always a lot of people here, but there are SO many places to stop and take it all in, all by yourself. I love Colorado and I hate leaving every time.
(5)SY Y.
BEAUTIFUL!!! Amazing! I've came here with my family twice, once 10 yrs ago, once 10 days ago. Both times, we were all amazed-! Everyone, whether they are old or young, men or women, will enjoy what you see! You should't miss this if you are in Colorado!!
(5)Alex V.
Beautiful and a must see!
(5)Kenny G.
Just moved out here in CO and went to see what the garden of the gods were about. I AAS BLOWN AWAY! I went a couple hours before sunset and the way the sun hit the rocks were just amazing.. I walked around by myself for an hour. A must see!
(5)James R.
If you have driven north on I-25 to Denver you have gone right by this site. If you didn't stop, it is your BAD. This is a fairyland of rock. It even has kissing camels. Take an hour or more and you will find it time well spent. It is a place of walking unless you are handicapped and have a scooter. No motorcycles. Go during the day when a school is having an outing and listen to the teacher explain about the park. It was given to the city of Colorado Springs on the condition that it was to be free to visitors always. Sunset & sunrise are best for photos. NO FEES!!
(5)Matt H.
One of the most awesome places I've ever seen. If you're visiting the springs it really needs to be a high priority on your list
(5)Cassandra B.
What a beautiful garden! It was much bigger than I expected and I would love to have a few hours here at some point in the future. There are plenty of trails to hike but if you have folks with you with limited mobility, you can easily just drive around for an hour, stopping to take pictures here and there.
(4)Teresa M.
Vety pretty and unexpected. We drove the loop 3 times and stopped for photos often. Gift Shop has everything. Did I mention the it is FREE.
(5)Christina M.
Beautiful place! We eloped in Colorado and went there for some pictures after and they turned out amazing!! We went on a Tuesday and there wasn't a lot of people there. I heard on the weekends the parking lots are full to the max!
(5)Sasha G.
I've been 100 times and every time I have a wonderful time. Beautiful place to walk or climb. At every turn it seems as though I'm looking at a new piece of sculpted art. Fun to watch the professional climbers. And great place to take a kid to do something different
(5)Katie K.
If you are in Colorado Springs you MUST stop here. The views are breathtaking. We took the Jeep Tour from the Visitor and Nature Center after watching the very informative movie there. The Jeep Tour was less 'adventurous' than we anticipated, but it was still great to see the entire park from the comfort of a shaded vehicle, and learn about the park from the very friendly tour guide. We were able to make stops and get out to take pictures and walk around. 4 Stars for the Jeep Tour 5 Stars for the Views!
(4)Paul K.
Breathtaking views and awe inspiring features. Decide whether to tour or stop by the visitor's center, they are very in depth by themselves. If at all possible, pay more to go further into the park, it is worth it. However, on my tour, the guides scammed me, saying the van was half an hour out when they had it sitting in the parking lot the whole time. If they try to pull this trick on you and it is just there in the lot, insist on going right there and then.
(4)Steve H.
This was free and fun to see. I would highly recommend you to go see. You will want to have your camera.
(5)Billie P.
Very spectacular rock formations of iron oxide that were made millions of years ago. Many spectacular spots you can drive or walk to. We witnessed a wedding there and it was beautiful.
(4)Chris S.
Go in the late morning during the summer months as is a great place to watch the afternoon clouds roll in. Tours are available by Jeep, walking or Segway. This place is on every tourism list for Colorado, so some driving for a parking spot can be needed, but there are places all around the park to park, some that will make for a bit less walking. There are restrooms and water on site that are free to use, Dame add the park itself.
(5)Ran T.
Beautiful park and it's free! There is a loop where you can drive your car to see all the neat rock formations. However, you should park your car and walk around because those rocks are simply amazing! We went on a Saturday so lots of visitors were with us. Bring plenty of water and take advantage of any bathrooms you may find because there aren't many in the park.
(5)Dani S.
Wow, breath-taking views! Nicely paved walkways, informative visitor's center, well marked trails, easy to follow maps and best of all - FREE!!!! Must visit if you are in Colorado Springs!
(5)Suze A.
This was the only thing we really planned to do whilst in the Springs, so we woke up early and drove the 15 minutes there. It's quite breathtaking for two kids from the Midwest to see these giant rock formations with mountains all around them. We're used to lakes and fields! We brought our cameras and proceeded to walk around the paved trails. We're not used to the elevation, so we did find ourselves a bit winded a few times, but nothing to write home about. It's animal and family friendly, with areas marked off so you can't scratch your name on the rocks like people used to do (seriously? So stupid.). We saw people rock climbing, which you can do with a permit. Best part? It's free!
(5)John K.
I was skimming through my reviews when I realized, I forgot to review this.That strikes me as kind of stupid because it was a highlight of my trip.It's beautiful and as others say more Southwest New Mexicoish than most of what I saw in Colorado.We went twice.It's free! It's wonderful !If you don't love it, go home , now !
(4)Chad P.
Beautiful rock formations. Could wander around all day. Especially gorgeous when the sun starts to set and you catch a glimpse of all the pink, orange, and red surrounding the rocks. Easy to walk around, or take some of the side trails throughout the area. If you don't feel like walking, take a drive and stop at any of the pull off areas. This is the first place I take anyone who visits me.
(5)Taryn W.
Garden of the Gods is absolutely gorgeous. It's usually very busy, so be prepared to drive slow and be on the lookout for a parking spot. On the weekends, parking is nearly impossible. But on weekdays while people are still at work, it's a little easier. The trails are wonderful, and the view is amazing! This is a MUST-SEE for anyone who is visiting Colorado, or who lives here already and hasn't been up there.
(5)Staci S.
So beautiful! Mostly paved trails so don't expect any hardcore hiking. More of a stretch your legs with an easy stroll type of place. Because of this, yes people bring their children. Children can be loud and excitable. Honestly, they are just acting on the emotions we are all feeling! Dwarfed and in awe of the surroundings and feeling truly amazed by crazy planet earth. It makes kids happy. It makes adults happy. It makes rock climbers happy (yes, allowed in specified areas by permit.) Grumpy people should stay at home and keep their reviews to themselves. :D
(5)Lori G.
Even though I've visited Garden of the Gods several times over the years, I am still in awe each time I walk around the grounds. It's definitely my favorite spot in Colorado Springs. + Dog friendly! + FREE + Trails are well-marked and easy to navigate If you are in the area visiting, I highly recommend a trip to Garden of the Gods. It's definitely worth the time!
(5)Zach C.
Beautiful scenery. Rock formations all over. Well marked hiking trails. Kinda crowed but it is a holiday
(4)Heather F.
To explain that this place is a free park of red rocks just doesn't do it justice. This is one of those places that you must see for yourself. It is unbelievably gorgeous and breathtaking. Evidence of past ages: ancient seas, eroded remains of ancestral mountain ranges, alluvial fans, sandy beaches and great sand dune fields can be read in the rocks formations. Hence why you don't come here to sit back and play Angry Birds on your iPhone. This is a place where you come with all of your eyes open, including your 3rd eye. Yes, everybody has a 3rd eye and if you aren't familiar with yours this place can help you to get there. There is an energy of pure grace and love coming from the rocks. Past years have discovered new species at Garden of the Gods and even a new dinosaur was unearthed here in the 19th century. You can come here to walk, hike, meditate or rock climb or just take in the sights. This place would best be experienced at dawn as it gets very crowded during the day.
(5)Gary B.
Amazing. A must see. A nice 5 mile hike around the park is a great way to spend some time.
(4)Samantha L.
What a cool natural garden! And, honestly, how often do you see something that's been around for 500 billion years? The Garden of the Gods is free to see, though you'll have to pay $5 to see the platonics movie across the way at the visitor center. I don't recommend the video, but giving $5 to keep this place around is worth it. There are a variety of trails and paths you can take throughout. You can wander into little crevices in the rocks and see a variety of skilled rock climbers trying their skills on everything from small rocks to vertical walls. The only two issues are that it can be really crowded on weekends, and, if you're like me, you might get a little upset by the fact that folks have carved their names into some of the lower boulders (really? It's been around since before the dinosaurs, but you feel the need to leave a mark?).
(5)Alexander M.
CRAZY! I can't say it enough... Let's say it again! CRAZY! I wanted to breakout the climbing the shoes and ropes and act like I was a professional rock climber. Unfortunately, this wasn't happening! Instead, we rolled through this park in total awe and a sense of what beauty the earth provides when we truly appreciate what mother nature is all about. There's a reason this is called the Garden of the Gods. It's truly amazing, beautiful and peaceful all-round! Pack a lunch and a camera for some sick photos. It's definitely an incredible back-drop for those of you that like to document your trips. I loved it!
(5)Jennifer B.
On our Christmas day trip to Colorado Springs we found ourselves at the Garden of the Gods. This place has also been on my list since I decided to move to Colorado. Brought my dog, Anja because I read that Colorado Springs was one of the most dog friendly cities in America - boy was I right! This place had nice well kept trails perfect for dog walking, and let me tell you every other family had a dog, and not just small ones but big ones like mine. Yeah!! It was a gorgeous day with almost fake looking bright blue skies. If I didn't have pics I would have to say someone photo shopped them. We read a lot about the rocks and how it became a park for the public. A very cool place for the K-9's, the family, and the kids. Even a romantic stroll sounds nice. Go during the day and plan to spend some time just walking around and enjoying all the sites. Bring lunch and find one of their picnic areas to pop a squat and have a nibble. Not overrated. A must see if you live within 200 miles. Go! You won't be disappointed - I wasn't.
(4)Linda G.
I've been to this place at least twice a year ever since I moved to Colorado Springs when I was six and this place's beauty never fails to take my breath away every time. I also have a lot of fond childhood memories here, and when the Waldo Canyon wildfire destroyed several parts of Colorado Springs and places near, I was very worried about this place. I love window shopping at the trading post. What's interesting is that the post has been standing there ever since it was built in 1864. Also, when Katherine Lee Bates journeyed to the top of Pike's Peak, Garden of the Gods is the exact spot where she began her journey.
(5)Beth C.
This was an incredible place to visit. Very beautiful and worst going to. It was very beautiful at sunset.
(5)Rachel S.
Went here today 1/6/11 to see balance rock. The views are nice and the park is clean. I'm spoiled coming from California and Nevada - I love the parks out there, so I guess it's just a matter of having some favorites out there that I'm comparing this park to. I'm sure if I came out in the summer or fall months, and was able to see more, my rating would be higher. I like that it's free to the public, which was one of the conditions that the guy who used to own the property gave to the city of Colorado Springs when he bequeathed it to them. The gift shop is also pretty nice. Lots of Native American and organic type gifts, which are right up my alley. Definitely at cool place to check out, just make sure to wear shoes you don't mind getting dirty because it's a little muddy in the winter!
(3)Carmen C.
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE! Free park to visit and it's so gorgeous. The views were quite breathtaking and the trails are so easy. There were a bunch of people rock climbing here, although you'll need a permit.
(5)Frances T.
As touristy as Garden of the Gods may seem, it blew my brains away! It is such a beautiful place to see that it should, by no means, be skipped by anyone. To put it simply, it is what heaven would look like to the Flintstones. Just like a kid would create pictures out of clouds in the sky, I toyed with the shapes of the rock formations and was about to make out the creative names they were given. I swear, I even saw Snoopy, but unfortunately, that rock was given another name. This place is an adventure land. You walk around and admire the unbelievable rock statues, and then hop into your car and drive a bit more down to see even more. My friends and I did a little hike so we could see the Siamese Twins and it was well worth every scorching hot degree we had to endure! I highly advise everyone to hike up and see Siamese Twins, let alone visit the establishment even if it is over 100 degrees out. You won't regret it.
(5)Keith W.
Truly one of most beautiful places on earth. Everyone needs to experience this place of often as they can. I encourage you to get off the main garden area and explore the other trails. Sit and enjoy the view of Pikes Peak.
(5)Rick C.
Geologically speaking its a "mini" Arches National Park (Moab, Utah) and Colorado National Monument (Grand Junction, CO) Best of all ... its FREE .... no entrance fees!
(5)Susan H.
I have to agree with Aleksandr - It is amazing. I have been going up here every other year for the last 34 years - seems like I long time but I swear I am not that *old* This is an amazing place. The balancing rocks are one of the main attractions but I also just enoying jumping, climbing, and sliding down the rocks. It is definitely a must even if you are just passing through. A beautiful creation from mother nature.
(5)Hailey Z.
We stopped here while on our way home from Colorado. We had heard about it on a tourist brochure and thought that we might as well stop by. What an amazing site! These rocks and rock formations were amazing and my husband and I especially enjoyed the kissing camels. My husband is a huge nature lover so this was especially exciting for him. Lots of animal sightings too, we came very close to a deer and it was beautiful to watch. We made it just in time before sundown and the natural moonlight hit the kissing camels rock and looked so amazing. Clear, beautiful skies and bright stars up above. Couldn't have asked for anything better for one of our last stops in Colorado. Also a very nice place to go just for a walk. Next time we go to Colorado we are definitely stopping here again. Wonderful for pictures as well. Only gripe about this place is that they say its RV friendly, but it seemed as though it wasn't so friendly to our 38 ft motor home. The road is a one way road that goes all the way around this place, and at times the roads were too narrow for us. Luckily this was at night time and there weren't a lot of cars on the road., but it seemed as though it took forever to get out of there, the road signs are also not very clear. Other than that, lots of open parking here that is easy for normal sized cars to get to.
(4)Alex W.
This place was very cool to explore, with a lot of trails. However, there were just way too many people for my liking. I like my nature experiences to be a little less crowded.
(3)Leo R.
More cities need free attractions like the Garden of the Gods! This is used by locals and tourists alike. It is a great reason to make a trip to Colorado Springs. I went here and they closed the main entrance for an annual walk for the cure. The staff could not direct me to another entrances which was open and they told me to wait the 10 or 15 minutes until they opened. They didn't open the main entrance for another hour. While that was a little frustrating, once I went around and used a different entrance, I was amazed! Great trails, awesome formations, and best of all, free! Great place for walking, running, biking, climbing, observing. This is a must visit for anyone in the area.
(4)Vanessa C.
It is beautiful here.
(4)Julie L.
My first impression was, "It's the highlight of Colorado Springs, must check it out!" If you're in Colorado Springs, you can't skip Garden of the Gods. I am a huge proponent of nature walks, and this is the best way for beautiful views and a feel into what Colorado Springs has to offer. The admission is free, and it's actually a big tourist spot which in some ways is the only thing bad about Garden of the Gods, because sometimes it can get a little crowded which takes away from the serenity of the place. But nonetheless, check it out once and you'll find yourself coming back again and again. Parking is plentiful and it's a great place to bring your dog for a walk. Come on a good day when the weather's cool, or if you visit during a hot summer day in Colorado, it's best to pay your visit in the early morning. The lasting impression? "Don't forget to check out the 'big rock!'"
(5)Gerry R.
Great rock formations, easy paved hiking trails or some easier nonpaved trails as well. Great views, a definate must see if you are in the Colorado Springs Area
(4)Justin S.
It seems to be a common statement that Garden of the Gods the highlight of Colorado Springs. If that really is true, than its a perfect representation of the repulsive, laughable and downright appalling nature that is Colorado Springs, and really all of Colorado. This is literally nothing but a pile of rocks. Unlike the beach, which is a different experience every time you attend and contains a countless amount of adventures to be had, these pebbles don't change. They don't change during the seasons, they don't change during weather conditions, yet on every repeat visit it always manages to feel like that feeling of disappointment that there's less to experience this trip than the one before, despite having nothing noteworthy on the original trip to begin with. How is that possible? Colorado Springs finds a way. I mean, what can you actually do with a pile of rocks? The only possible answer you've come up with is "climb them", but guess what? You can't even climb the damn things without going through the hassle of getting a permit. The worst part, though, is the fact that the locals make a bunch of crap up just to make excuses for the fact that such a cruddy little area exists where they live. Crap like "these rocks look like kissing camels!" Um, no, they don't. Really, they don't. Even the offensively pompous title of this place sucks! If this place is truly a land of "Gods", then a walk-through of this area will convert you to atheism faster than reading a book by Richard Dawkins or Christopher Hitchens. Yeah, it's "free", but so is drinking your own urine, doesn't mean its worth doing. If you've never been here before and have only been within a 100 miles of this area, than you've been there far too many times than necessary.
(1)Opinionated B.
MAN I CAN'T STAND CO! There is so little COLOR in this state. Blah blah and more blah! The garden of the Gods was at least a little nice. You can do driving or walking trails and at least get to add a couple variations of the BROWN color palate that CO offers. I would grab a soda and some FRESH FUDGE! yum :-) and take in the views from the cafe. Pass on the food though, all pretty run of the mill cafe. My salad while boring was fresh though!
(3)Carmine B.
If you are ever in Colorado and have the time you absolutely have got to dedicate what ever spare time you have at this wonderful place of such natural beauty.
(5)Christine S.
This seriously might be God's Garden... Or this is what I imagine a Garden of the Gods, or God's Garden would look like if I had to picture it before I saw it. The Garden of the Gods is THE MOST BEAUTIFUL thing I've ever seen in my life... hands down. Come here if you only have time to see one thing, while in CO.
(5)Kasey B.
Garden of the Gods is a pretty place for local to do some small-scale rock climbing, running, cycling, and more. I take all my out of town guests through here so they can get great pictures and the hiking experience at whatever pace they are comfortable with. It gets VERY crowded at peak hours and during tourist season, so I try to avoid the park completely in the summer. Also, be sure to hide your valuables out of sight and lock your car up because it WILL get broken into. It's a great place to take guests, your family, or visit yourself!
(4)Jennifer E.
One of the most beautiful places in the nation IMHO. Garden of the Gods is a park with free admission and miles and miles of hiking trails, with handicapped accessible parking and trails available. The red rocks that litter the park are beautiful and offer a unique chance to see some of the most interesting natural sculptures and some of which you can climb on with out the necessity of climbing gear. If you are a seasoned rock climber, there are lots of chances to test your skills in the central garden. I shudder the thought as I see some brave souls high above the ground, clinging to the rocks like ants on a log. Make sure you check out some of the popular and cutely nicknamed rock giants like "kissing camels" and "balancing rock". Bring lots of water if you plan on taking a hike, and a camera to snap some shots of you "holding up" balancing rock or when a deer pops out of no where (seems to happen every time). This is one of my favorite spots when I'm in Colorado Springs and Manitou.
(5)Ann M.
Really beautiful place, but badly designed parking lots and they were also too small for certain areas. Was there on a Monday in the middle of the day and the place was very over crowded. The place was still very beautiful and makes for very amazing photos. Vistors center is huge and laid out very nicely with helpful employees. I'd like to go back an allow myself more time to go hiking and exploring more as I was healing an injured foot so couldn't really hike all over.
(3)Jacquelyn M.
After our Pike's Peak adventure, we wanted to do some light hiking at the Garden of the Gods. Unfortunately, it started to pour. Instead of hiking, we drove around the park, so we could at least take in the beauty of this place before we left. The park is large, and absolutely breathtaking. I wish that we could have done some hiking here and been able to take in much more. Regardless, we drove around and it was still amazing.
(5)Elizabeth M.
We decided to stop by the Visitor's Center for some snacks and a map. The ladies at the front desk were incredibly nice and informative. We stopped at the first parking lot and walked the path around the rock formations. It was a nice walk and we were able to do it at our own pace and take plenty of pictures. The drive around wasn't as slow and you really can't take many pictures since the cars will pile up behind you, so I'd definitely recommend parking and walking. The visit will take you about an hour and it's open until 11 PM during the summer. Definitely a must see in Colorado Springs!
(5)Veronica S.
Absolutely beautiful place to see and experience!! Absolutely breath taking!! A lot of little trails to go on to see all it beauty!
(5)Pam Z.
Review #400 for Garden of the Gods! On a work trip traveling from Denver to Trinidad, my coworkers and I cruised slowly through majestic Garden of the Gods. (You know when your boss who formerly worked in Denver and the random lady in the airport coffee line AND one of your DC Yelp friends has reviewed a place, it's probably a good idea to stop by.) With Pikes Peak and green hills providing the perfect backdrop, the beautiful natural sandstone formations are really breathtaking and not too far off from civilization. Unfortunately, we were unable to stop for more than a few minutes and fully enjoy the park on foot, but it's definitely worth adding a some time to a drive through Colorado Springs area. I'm going to lobby my coworkers that we actually stop here on our way back to Denver. Balanced Rock was crawling (literally) with tourists so we couldn't park there, so you may want to plan your picturesque moments in the off season, starting from alternative spots, or earlier in the day than most tourists. If you want to do any rock climbing, you'll have to complete a free register at the visitor's center. They also have plenty of events (guided nature walks, presentations about the wildlife, etc.). A thirty minute guided nature walk is held at 10am and 2pm everyday. And of course, the park is free! The park site is super helpful, and you'll definitely want to pick up a map of the 15 miles of hiking trails. Like my friend Ruth C mentions, it's really hard to tell how far you're through the park, and you'll want to make sure you don't accidentally exit the park before you're ready. Park Hours: May 1 - October 31, 5:00 am - 11:00 pm November 1 - April 30, 5:00 am - 9:00 pm Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Winter Months 8:00 am - 7:00 pm, Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend
(5)Greg B.
This place is true perfection. How can you not give this place high marks? It would be a slap in the face of Mother Nature. There are paved walking paths that make it easy for all ages to navigate. However, you can also be a little more daring and traverse the cliffs. I would recommend doing that if you can as it provides better photo opportunities. I was wearing jogging shoes on this particular day, and wish that I had better hiking shoes. As such, I was very careful not to take any missteps, as I wasn't going to be deterred from making my way up the cliffs. What an awesome place. It was very sunny and 60 degrees, too. I would recommend bringing some water with you to hydrate. The air thins out, and you will huff and puff a little more than usual.
(5)Stephanie O.
Garden of the gods is so beautiful and definitely lives up to all of he hype. One of my favorite things about it is that there's really something for everyone! If you aren't in the mood to hike, you can just leisurely walk on the paved path that weaves in and out at the base of the rocks. If you're up for something more challenging, there are multiple trails to choose from ranging in easy to more strenuous. They have a great visitors center with lots to do also. The gift shop inside is huge and filled with lots of unique items (there's a book on Colorado wildflowers that I totally should have purchased). There's so much to see and do here, and you definitely can't beat the gorgeous setting!
(5)Emily C.
The best thing about this place is that it's free. We visited on a gloomy, rainy/snowy day, and the place was still packed. Parking can be a problem, and trying to find parking initially detracted from the visit. There are 2 smallish parking lots, and multiple 4-5 car pullouts where you can park if you're lucky. But if you find a spot, you're in luck! The hikes here are easy, elicit amazing views, and are worth your time. The redrocks are so stunning, especially against a blue-tinted, snowy backdrop of mountains. I think getting here super early in the morning or later in the evening would make this place perfect. The ability to have such incredible geological beauties all around you, and all to yourself would just be magical. Regardless, I'll definitely come here again and bring a better camera next time. Just wish Colorado Springs weren't so uppity. I don't like this city, I don't like to visit it, and I don't like the people who live here. But if I just stick to GoG, it's worth it.
(4)LaTonia W.
I see why people come from all over the world to see this marvel. So peaceful & majestic. I love to just drive through the park sometime or just park & take it all in. Regardless of what I do while there, I always feel refreshed when leaving. I love this place!
(5)Christina H.
During our road trip we came across a couple of really fantastic local parks that are on par with national parks and Garden of the Gods was one of them. Colorado Springs is lucky to have this gem in their backyard. As with most of the parks we visited we started out by stopping in the visitor center/gift shop. I was worried by the posted business hours on Yelp, but the visitor center is open later in summer and the park is open even later. We bought a couple souvenirs from the gift shop, picked up a map, and headed off to the park. We stopped at the first parking lot in the park where we followed a pretty easy trail (shaped like an 8 on the map, maybe the purple trail?). We were able to view lots of different rock formations and watch people rock climbing. The trail was really easy and the path was pretty easy to follow. We had a fantastic time here. We only spent an hour or so but it was a lovely time. I hope I'm able to go back again one day and do more of the trails.
(5)Natalie G.
Must see location while you're visiting the Springs! While you can drive through and see much of the park without stepping from your car, the trails are a must. These rock formations change throughout the day and are incredible to view at both sunrise and sunset. There are parking lots and restrooms but don't be afraid to park along the road in designated areas to get to the trailheads on busy days. Signs are posted, and you may see a rattlesnakes during the hot hours of the day, but don't let that stop you from visiting. They don't want to run into you either, so just keep your eyes on your path. There is a circle near the Kissing Camels that local drumming circles use to host special events during equinoxes and full moons etc, so if you've never enjoyed this at night, think about stopping by.
(5)Heidi S.
My oh my! This is an awesome walkabout! Seeing these gorgeous rocks just makes you take things in perspective, it is beautiful! I highly recommend visiting Garden of the Gods if you are in the area!
(5)Lorenze G.
The rock formation is out of this world. Garden of the Gods is a must see, must visit, and must go to if you are in Colorado Springs. Heck, wherever you are from, you must visit this place. 1) Admission is free. 2) Parking is free -- though difficult to find if you go there later during the day. 3) Beautiful scenery -- whether you want to hike, walk, or just take pictures. Wear good walking/hiking shoes, sunscreen, and bring cold water; you would not want to be dehydrated. Also, before you actually enter the Garden of the Gods, they have a sign and a little area where you can park your car. Stop and take a picture. Use your turn signal though. The sign is very near the intersection. I would love to visit Garden of the Gods again and actually hike whole area.
(5)Heather H.
Easy walking trails, inspiring rock formations, songbirds, rock climbing, a nature center, and happy kids exploring nature hands-on FOR FREE you say? This place is wonderful. I love it. Truly.
(5)Dan O.
Visited twice this past six months. It is a must-see if you're ever in the Colorado Springs area, especially if it's a sunny day. Stop at the visitor center for a short orientation film and pick up the guide maps, then take off on the route. Budget enough time to dismount and walk around some of the attractions. Several cannot be seen by the road. Some of the roads in the park were a little confusing. To hit all the main attractions, you need to double back and take the other fork in the road. Took a lot of pictures, georgeous landscapes! Recommend and will repeat whenever I'm in the Colorado Springs area!
(5)Shane E.
Say you switch jobs, and have two weeks before your start date at the next job and a burning desire to travel. With only a couple weeks, and a limited flight selection, where do you go? Colorado Springs happened to be my choice. Garden of the Gods was my first stop - it didn't disappoint. There are over 13 miles of relatively well-marked walking paths that take you through a "garden" of amazing landscape and mountainous terrain. There were so many moments when I literally stopped in my tracks just to take in what was around me. Drive down, park in the easy convenient lot right in the middle of the park, and be amazed. Places like this always spark the debate of whether I'd prefer to live in a place like Colorado, with the caveat always being "Well, I'd get used to the mountains and it wouldn't be the same." The main point - Garden of the Gods is one of those landmarks that make you question where you live. So go here.
(5)Renata K.
Some cool rocks over here, but I was expecting something bigger and with a better sunset photo potential :) lol The park is small in general and pretty crowded for some reason... Not sure why. It's alright. Too touristy though with people taking pictures in front of everything! Like next to a rock? Really? Like I understand if it's for a photo shoot but why do you need a picture standing next to a rock? Anyways, the park is okay and cool to see once in your lifetime I guess ;p
(3)Ruth C.
Breathtaking. Do you like light rock scrambling opportunities, cloud-gazing, and scenic vistas full of jetstreams... for free? If so, allot a few hours to experience the whole garden, even if you aren't planning on doing multiple hikes. I'm sure this would be a great rock climbing experience if you get the permit-- lots of tempting bouldering holds already eroded into the walls. Depending on how the sun is casting shadows across the formations across the day, some visuals are clearer than others. Similarly, the amount of foot traffic in any given parking lot can determine how peaceful a visit you'll get. Sahar R was spot-on in describing it as a 3D Rorschach blot test; even without a map in hand, you can appreciate shapes sculpted by the will and imagination of Mother Nature. That said, signage is poor enough that grabbing one would be wise if you want to avoid accidentally driving out of the park before you're ready, and to be sure you don't miss anything especially cool. Plenty of kitschy souvenirs and light snack options at the trading post, bathrooms in the back right behind the stuffed grizzly bear. A vehicle was broken into during our visit, so be sure to hide your valuables. Scotsman reminded me of Wario, and the balanced rock an anvil.
(5)Sonja S.
If you are in the Colorado Springs area you need to go here. First off it's totally free!! Great place to bring the whole family! Walking paths are very clearly marked and most are actually paved. If you do intend to go climbing/hiking on rocks I recommend hiking shoes! This place is great for all ages! We went on the first sunny day in a long time so that might have contributed to the number of people there. It was very busy- finding a parking spot felt like winning the lottery! They also have a gift shop/ restaurant (very big). Tip: the earlier you get there the better chance you have for a good parking spot!
(5)Pasquale M.
Garden of the Gods can get busy on the weekends so when you get your parking spot keep it. Park at the visitor center and walk into the Valley, which is a little over 1/2 of a mile. The scenery is gorgeous, the multi colored flowers, red rocks and blue skies give you photogenic views. You can take your dogs and strollers with you because it is paved. Finding a rock without a climber isn't very easy and they seemed to feel that they owned the park. It was easily handled by bringing my own scissors to shorten their ropes. ;) Enjoy with the entire family and pack a bottle of water for everyone.
(4)Robin D.
Amazing! Beautiful scenery, hiking trails and photo opportunities galore. I made time to come here every day I was in Colorado Springs this past summer. The rock formations are spectacular and the Colorado summer sky was equally amazing! On the last visit in August there was an incredible thunderstorm that echoed across the rocks and the sound was unreal. The lightning was really a sight to see and then it started hailing! Truly a magical place.
(5)Daniel L.
Incredible, beautiful place. A true garden of the gods. Oh, if you plan to Drone here it is forbidden. You will make the gods angry.
(4)Lisa N.
OMG! I absolutely love this place! It is so breathtaking! Although the weather was almost like torture since it was hot and humid, we still hiked anyway! Climbed up to a huge rock and the view was mind-blowing. It is a very safe park with employees placed through out to make sure visitors stay in track. If you haven't seen red rocks, this is the place to be and there are so many different trails to go hiking. If only California had something similar, that would be awesome. But I'm thankful for California's redwood trees and it's shadyness.
(5)Howard L.
Garden of the Gods during sunrise may be the most beautiful thing I've ever seen. None of the pictures that I, or anyone else, have uploaded to Yelp can do this place justice. I would recommend visiting during sunrise instead of sunset. Both times were amazing, but the angle of the sun during sunrise adds so much color to the sky. It was like a magnificent painting. As a bonus...THERE IS A LOT OF AVAILABLE PARKING early in the morning. You'll probably have a hard time parking your car during the middle of the day. You can always go back to sleep later in the morning :-)
(5)Joanne L.
I think all of the other reviews have covered how awesome this place is.... So I won't repeat what has already been said. This place is worth a visit
(5)Carrie N.
This park is filled with lots of trails, fresh air and picture perfect views. My advice is to stay pay attention to signs and to follow what they say. I have seen park rangers handing out fines for people not following the rules. The only down side is the lack of parking. It can be crowded on nice summer days. Help keep this park beautiful for many years to come. Do your part and pick up after your group, and your dogs.
(4)Susie A.
Spectacular! Memorable! Yes, it is touristy. Come early so you can experience it by yourself in it's natural glory. The whole area is kept pristine because the park founder wanted it that way. It does get busy with jogging, dog walking locals and visiting camera toters for good reason. The bright orange rock formations call to the nature lovers to explore. Selfie? Yep, I did it.
(5)Craig P.
I am a Colorado native born in Denver. I have distant memories of coming to this area as a kid but now as an adult I am absolutely taken aback at how beautiful this entire area is with its formations and landscape. I feel like I have seriously been missing out by not coming back here sooner. The trail system is great, the surroundings are magnificent. The air is clean and the sun was shinning the day we were there. Just a fantastic place for the whole family. You can tell that it is an outdoor persons place.
(5)Laura F.
I had one day to explore Colorado Springs before being inside the rest of my visit, and my aunt suggested seeing Garden of the Gods. One of the most beautiful places I have ever been. Don't read my review, look at the pictures! The pictures don't even do this place justice! A must see in Colorado Springs.
(5)Ashley P.
Garden of the Gods is located in the El Paso County of Colorado Springs. It is the city's most visited park and it is truly one of the most spectacular sights in the area. Open from 5am until 9pm (or 11pm in the summer months!), the park's approximate 1,300 acres are but a drop in the bucket of the beauty that is Colorado Springs. No matter the time of day, the rock formations and surrounding country-side are breathtaking. I have visited now during daytime, dusk, and night and I loved every part of it. The park is a haven for both the casual visitor or adventure seeker. There are areas that are paved for easy travel and handicap accessibility as well as others more rugged in nature. Activities within the park include photography, group outings, horseback riding, biking, guided tours, rock climbing, trails, hiking, bird-watching, and so much more. There are several parking lots and pull offs for cars traversing the park. The red rocks found jutting out of the land take on a number of interesting formations (often times creating a challenge for the rock climbers frequenting the park!). Some of the more popular formations include the Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, the Three Graces, Gateway Rock, Cathedral Spires, Steamboat Rock, etc. The park is free as is the Visitor & Nature Center that sits outside its main entrance. If you want to learn more about the history, geological formations, ecology, and more then the visitor center is the place for you. There are many signs throughout the park as well explaining the sights and sounds around you. The trip can be as educational as you'd like it to be! If you are visiting Colorado Springs... take a spin (or a walk, hike, climb!) through the park. You won't regret it!!!
(5)Patty R.
Beautiful stop near Colorado Springs. We had a wonderful walk here with our two girls under 10 years old. Everyone enjoyed the paved walkways and fun climbing to get to some of the rock formations we were allowed to climb. Awesome place for family photos. Highly recommend but get there early bc the lot fills up quickly!
(5)Paul F.
My sister says its like walking through a giant postcard. I have a feeling she is right. More descriptions later. Some time to spend with my wife til we meet up with family later tonite.
(5)Krystal E.
At first, I wasn't going to take my family to see this place because I thought it would be a tourist trap, but I am so glad I got over that! The drive to get to this place is spectacular, depending on when you visit. When we were there, the mountains cradled snowcaps, but in the valley the temp was like 70F, which was the perfect time for locals to go biking, driving, walking, and hiking. It's also a great place for photoshooting. The main parking are was a little crowded, but we managed a parking spot without a problem. The trail is an easy to climb., there are a couple of rugged places, but overall, seniors and youngsters will be able to hike this with some sound foot support. Take plenty of water and depending on how long you visit--you could even do a picnic lunch. Trail mix, protein bars, GORP and the like will be plenty to get you through it. They have a visitor's center on the hill. So, if you need to visit a clean necessary room, be sure to make time for that before you actually begin your hike. Plan to have a fun-filled day learning about geology and how this interesting piece of art was placed in Colorado for many of us to view :)
(5)Dee A.
The park is free, the parking seemed ample, so there's not any reason to not visit (weather permitting)! This was a highlight of my trip to Colorado this time around and I'm fairly certain I will be back to explore even more of this vast expanse of geological wonder. Just use common sense (see below!), and be mindful of your location and surroundings (I saw evidence of snakes, had it out with some really gnarly sticker burrs, etc, and there's a lot of open land to get turned around in if you stray). *The ONLY downfall was nobody's fault but my own... Lack of preparation: BRING SUNSCREEN! I failed to consider the altitude and seasonal factors and impulsively came here with no water, no food, no sunscreen. I'm still peeling from that day!
(5)Diana G.
We came like 2 weeks ago and even though it's October, the weather was very nice. We were able to make it around the trail in less than an hour, but will definitely want to check it out more in the future. Also, didn't get to check out Balance Rock since we were tight on time. Great sights and great exercise. Definitely, come check it out!
(5)Kai M.
Could this fabulous natural wonder be any better? No. It's perfection. Go see it in your choice of experience (Jeeps, cars, bikes, hiking, segways, whatever.) Just do it.
(5)Brittany S.
Talk about free fun and a beautiful morning with Mama Nature. I remembered visiting this place when I was in middle school but paying a second visit as an adult made a world of difference in my Garden of the Gods memories. To the point: -it's free -beautiful for walks and mini hikes -pet-friendly -especially great park to take older and younger individuals who may not be cut out for bigger hikes and walks -visitor center with gift shop and uber-friendly people -located only a few minutes from the touristy village of Manitou Springs (great place to stay overnight) -the rock formation and colors found at this park are hard to beat - I highly recommend kicking of the morning here before it warms up
(5)Joy R.
Breath taking would be the words to describe the beauty of this garden. The garden part has nicely paved walk way between rock formations and you can also take other hike ways to enjoy the mountain. You can see the pikes peak from visitor center viewing area.
(5)Steve K.
Don't miss this park. I arrived 30 mins before sunrise to see the effect the sun has on the rock colors. Marvelous. The sandstone formations you shouldn't miss to see and photograph: Balanced Rock, a formation known as the Three Graces, and Gateway Rock where the road divides around the rock. Close-in too: 30 mins or less from anywhere in Colorado Springs. Will return for the hiking next time for pleasure.
(5)John M.
My wife and I came here in the winter. It was like walking in a postcard. The scenery was breathtaking. Snow covered rocks and trees as far as the eyes could see. We saw rams, deer, and moose roaming wild. I have never seen such breathtaking scenery in my entire life. Get out of your cars and actually live it up and take this amazing beauty in. I will definitely be back here in warm weather at some point before I die.
(5)Steven G.
This place is incredible! My kids didn't want to leave. We had so much fun climbing on the rocks and checking out the natural beauty!
(5)Deya Z.
JUST beautiful!!! Good hikes, a little busy mid morning but LOVED it! I will say, I wish they'd make the map a little easier to read (for the tourists like me). The names of trails and the colors on the map didn't exactly match. We had to help another tourist hiker find the Siamese twins (she was on a completely different path).
(4)Tonya M.
Very informational, interactive exhibits, the gift shop has a good variety, a selection of activities from segways to keep tours, clean bathrooms, a couple photo op spots.
(4)Lo R.
My godness. Colorado never ceases to amaze. Whether you are traveling thru the state or just a local in the area, this place is a MUST see. It's absolutely enchanting. This natural Garden of the Gods can really make you feel like your on another planet. Dog friendly, this free place offers a gorgeous paved walk thru a gorgeous landscape. My wife and I walked the sidewalks with our baby and one of our boxers and couldn't believe our eyes. Truly gorgeous. We saw people rock climbing one of the towering rock faces. I couldn't tell you how many pictures we took. Every corner seemed to have a different view of nature that you didn't see just a second ago. This is a MuST! Go NOw!!
(5)Marrisa F.
Natural beauty at it's finest. My husband and I visited the Garden of Gods last September during our stay in Denver. We are not the hiking type. However, you can drive thru and there a pull offs that you can stop and park so you are able to get out of your car and view all the amazing breath taking points. My husband and I totally enjoyed ourselves, especially since it was something out of the ordinary for the both of us. Definitely only list to visit again.
(5)Richard H.
I can see why this place is called Garden of the Gods, spectacular scenery! This is a must see place if your in the area, words can not describe this place alone! I would love to come back here and visit it again,
(5)Zuzana B.
Gorgeous rock formations with paved trails and picnic areas for all ages to enjoy. Rock climbing and more rugged trails for advanced climbers and hikers as well. Dogs are allowed as well so bring the whole family!
(5)Yvette S.
Truly Amazing!! Wonderful thing to do if your in Colorado Springs.We will miss seeing all it's beautiful views and majestic rock formations. Its very clean,dog friendly and has outstanding picturesque terrain that you will never forget! I was sad to leave it all behind.Garden of the Gods we will meet again! You will be In my heart forever!!
(5)Steffi F.
Free and a must see in Colorado Springs! These rock formations are so beautiful and great for the whole family- including the dog. You can walk, hike, and drive through the park. Also, there are marked areas for rock climbing and horse trails too!
(5)Eric T.
This is an absolutely incredible place. I was recommended by two people (one local) in checking this park out. I've never been to a park that has had such beauty based on nature and its evolution over thousands and thousands of years. The rock formations and the different color variations are one thing. It is the size of the overall park that I found to be phenomenal. After arriving in the first parking lot area and walking around some of the main areas for an hour, I realized that there are several other parking areas around the park. In fact, there were so many that I actually got lost very briefly in trying to find my way out of the park and onto the main road! Of course, there is a pathway that allows for you to tour the area. This pathway also accommodates runners and bikers. You will see signs that suggest the rock climbers to climb only if you have a permit, and hikers are certainly welcome. There are bathroom areas at the front of the parking lots as well. And of course, the natural wildlife does have its fair share of rattlesnakes at any given time, so don't be terribly surprised (there are signs posted). If visiting Colorado Springs for the first time, I highly recommend putting Garden of the Gods on your must-see list. The area is quite breathtaking both literally and figuratively, and you will certainly get very good pictures in seeing some of the very best of what nature has to offer.
(5)Matthew M.
This place is absolutely beautiful. I was only in Colorado Springs for a couple days and this is the one place that I really went to as a tourist attraction. It's a park that you can just drive around and see all the rock formations or you can get out and climb on some of them. The main lot was very crowded when I was there, but luckily there are other stopping points around the park. It's not that big, so you can keep driving until you find a spot. Once you find a spot, you can pretty much walk to all the formations from one parking spot regardless of where it is. It's just that most people park in the main lot and venture from there. You can climb on some of the rocks a little bit unless you're a certified climber, then you can climb all the way up all of them. I did see a few climbers there. Pretty cool to watch. If you're not certified, there are signs telling you where you can't go beyond due to safety. If you ignore these signs threatening a $500 fine, there are, I guess Park Rangers that patrol the park area. I just thought it was funny to hear them shout across the park at people to get down. Not very intimidating in their Aussie looking outfits. I walked around most of the park and you can definitely feel the elevation if you're not a local. Glad I'm in good shape. This is a great place for photos and a great tourist attraction.
(5)Nutan A.
Must see . Went around in the daytime. Must see sunset. The red mountains scenic beauty is awesome. Really garden of Gods
(5)Angela C.
This place is just another example of how beautiful nature is. The red rock formations are incredible and the color is just so vibrant you can see it from far away. We went on a Saturday and there were a lot of hikers, yet the place is so big it didn't matter. A gorgeous place in Colorado Springs for walking with friends and family,dogs, taking photos, getting fresh air.. Just a great free, fun time.
(5)Amanda J.
This park was beautiful! It was free and highly populated but the experience was great. My bf had a great time climbing! The photos we got from this park are beautiful! We got to see a variety of wildlife as well. The park offers many experiences including rock climbing, permits required.
(5)Jennifer K.
Such a great place. Free trip. Spent hours hiking and taking pictures. If your in the area it's a must. Stop at the visitor center and head out!!
(5)Julie D.
There are not enough adjectives for me to begin to express my excitement and love for visiting Garden of the Gods. I was thinking we would be doing just a quick little fly by. I mean, really. I am from Utah. I have seen plenty of red rocks. But I couldn't have been more wrong! This place is amazing!!! The excitement started at the Welcome Center. I know, I know, it's the typical tourist trap. A huge gift shop filled with tourists. Most of them buying warm outer wear, since the weather turned off fairly cold the day we visited. And the usual food counter. But the view from out front takes your breath away. The red rock outlined by the bluest of blue skies! Stunning. Also, we took time for their quick little movie. Interesting info about how this national park came to be. It was created due to a geological upheaval millions of years ago. There is evidence to show that prehistoric people visited. And later, Native American friends camped in the park, including the Ute tribe and the Lakota. Petroglyphs found there are said to be typical of early Utes. And get this, in 1879, Charles Elliott Perkins purchased 480 acres of land that included a portion of the present Garden of the Gods. After his death, his family gave the land to the City of Colorado Springs in 1909, under the condition that it would always be a free public park. Amazing. There are several geological formations that are amazing. And while the parking lots are very crowded, people seem to move through fairly often, so do not get up. You will find a spot. The trails are very nice. And they have a lot of signage to help you find your way. One of my favorite formations was the kissing camels. All the formations are so amazing. Also, you get to watch rock climbers. This place really is incredible!
(5)Kimmy M.
I love garden of the gods. I drive through it when i'm feeling angry, or sad, or happy, or when friends are in town, or family, etc, etc. When my boyfriend who just moved here said he had never been I literally stopped what we were doing and b-lined it to the west side. I have no complaints. If you are a tourist I also recommend going on upper gold camp road by bear creek - i would say it's a close second!
(5)Kim M.
For some reason a DRONE was allowed to fly around the park while I was there. Not cool! They claimed they would be on one area of the trail for ten mins however it surpassed that. I wonder if they could even fly that thing Considering FAA laws on it and then of course the fact it being near large crowds. The park is beautiful on another note!
(2)Sarah G.
Had a good time hiking here midweek in late September. Drive in to the Visitor's Center and get a free map that points out all the hiking trails, and then move your car from the lot to one of the lots in the park (especially since the visitor lot gates close at 5pm). Several trails to choose from, but be sure to have a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen! The sun feels like it is about 5 feet away, and there is nothing around for 99% of the hikes to provide shade or relief from the beating sun. I brought my camelback because I knew it was going to be hot (83F), and I was very glad I did. Definitely bring water. I hiked for 2 hours and was happy I did it. Lots of places to take photos, and yes, such random formations!
(4)Jacob K.
Fun place to photograph - 4 stars While I was in CO Springs for business, I came here a couple times to get out of the hotel and shoot some photos. They have plenty of walking/hiking trails with one paved for easy walking and handicap. There are plenty of parking lots and pull-offs to check out the sites. The wildlife is sparse but you can see plenty of birds and bunnies. Overall, it is a cool place to get beautiful photos of red-rock formations and stretch your legs. Check out the visitors center for a free map, gift shop and educational center.
(4)A H.
It was quite nice to be able to drive through to see the rocks and get out to hike and view the rocks more closely. The rocks are amazing! It is a must-see attraction! It was really busy on the day that we went and so taking pictures of the most popular rocks like Balancing and Siamese were difficult. Otherwise, really nice!
(4)Brittany H.
Garden of the Gods is one of the many Colorado landmarks that one simply must visit. The stunning red rocks that jut up toward the sky never fails to leave me in awe. There are so many cool things about this park, the first being that it is free. I'll never escape the attraction toward cheap deals; I'm forever a college student in that respect. Just roll on up, park, and get out and hike without paying any fees. I also love that there are a ton of paved paths. So many amazing places in Colorado aren't too accessible for people with limited mobility, so you can't beat that. The paths lead you right into the heart of the red rocks, so stroll at your leisure and enjoy. Because GotG is so beautiful, it's almost always busy. After many years of visiting, the busyness of this park can be a bit overwhelming at times. So do be prepared for that during the peak seasons. Accessible, easy to find, stunning views of Pikes Peak, and free! I'm not sure what else can be said, but this is a Colorado must!
(4)Karol M.
This is a must-visit spot while in Colorado Springs. The aptly-named Garden of the Gods is an incredible wonder that is one of Colorado's finest jewels. Thanks to the foresight and generosity of its benefactor, it remains naturally preserved and free to the public. Think about that for a minute, in this age of development for profit. The paths are easily traversed and there are multiple priceless photo-ops, both at ground level and up the rocky trails. Families and folks of all ages were everywhere each time we were there, some with their dogs, some with baby strollers. Plan to walk a lot and spend several hours here. There's a restaurant at the Welcome Center, and you can book a guided tour if mobility or energy levels are an issue. But the best way to see it is to take your time and breathe it in. Not many beautiful, unspoiled places like this exist anymore, especially without a huge price tag.
(5)Larry C.
I was born and raised in the Midwest, so this kind of view is is simply out of this world. The size of everything is beyond imagination. These mountains ... these stone formations are awe-inspiring and simply beyond description. The visitor center here is friendly, clean, complete with a diner and store and plenty of people to answer questions. The visitor center itself has a balcony that offers a breathtaking view. There is a road that takes you around and through the monuments and allows you plenty of opportunity to pull off and view the sites. There are also hiking paths, of various difficulties, that will give you that up close look for those that are more adventurous. Our time here was something we won't soon forget, and I know will be back.
(5)Sharee A.
One of the most beautiful places I have ever been to. Breath taking views. Easy hiking and lots of places to pull over and park. It is free but make sure to stop at the vistors center to donate.
(5)Dan D.
I was amazed at this place. Very close to downtown Colorado Springs, free, and awesome sights to behold. If you are planning a trip to the area, definitely add it to your list of things to see! We would have missed it entirely had we not been told to go see it so I wanted to add a similar recommendation here. Definitely go!
(5)Mia W.
Very peaceful place plenty of beautiful rock formations. Free entry, i like free. The paths are nicely paved. Bring some binoculars for bird/goats watching and your camera to capture the awesomeness of the moment!
(4)Scott K.
Easy to get to and worth getting out and walking the park! Free entrance and parking. Their is a road that goes around the whole park with a running and bike lane. I'd run here if I lived here--great views.
(5)Jessica H.
I love Garden of the Gods. It's beautiful, it's free and I think given enough time and a good map, you could spend a lot of time here. The views are beautiful. It's fun to climb around. The weather was rainy and cold so we didn't explore as much as we could. The Garden of the Gods red rock formations were created during a geological upheaval along a natural fault line millions of years ago. Archaeological evidence shows that prehistoric people visited Garden of the Gods about 1330 BC. About 250 BC Native American people camped in the park. They are believed to have been attracted to wildlife and plant life in the area and used overhangs created by the rocks for shelter. There are many native peoples who have reported a connection to Garden of the Gods, including Ute, Comanche, Apache, Kiowa, Shoshone, Cheyenne, Pawnee and Lakota people.
(5)Jei L.
I stop by here EVERYTIME I come to visit Colorado. Visited last year during winter, and this year during summer. Probably again this winter. Why? Because its beautiful, free, and a great place to enjoy nature. They weren't kidding when they named it "Garden of the Gods." Pictures doesn't do it justice. Come see it in person. You will see lot of people strolling around here with their families and friends. Others come here to rock climb. Great place to explore and do some soul-searching. Don't miss the famous kissing camel and the balancing rock. I fall in love with place over and over again.
(5)Steph P.
You can't help but Marvel at Gods greatest creations. This haven is truly a place to capture the essence and sport of nature. Great for bikers, climbers, equestrians, tourists, bird watchers, yogis, meditators and those who need a breath of fresh air while taking in years of naturally made history. My personal lookout spot, Lot 8.
(5)Sonya F.
Grew up only 20 minutes from here. I think this is the kind of thing you don't appreciate as a child. What an amazing place! Would love to spend a weekend here!
(5)Kristen D.
What a beautiful place! I've lived in Colorado for over 20 years and this was my first time here. We saw tons of birds, some deer, and a few rock climbers. :-) Our kids, 4 and 1, loved exploring on all the trails. Would love to go back and spend the whole day!
(5)Brittany W.
Garden of the gods is absolutely breathtaking. As a Missourian who just moved to Colorado, of course this was one of the first things we we're taken to by our local friends. It is beautiful! The gorgeous red rocks with Pikes peak in the back ground...it's a must see. We only walked around for a couple of hours on the main trails, but there are tons of hiking trails. You could easily make this an all day activity. I will definitely be bringing my family here when they come to visit! And best of all....it's totally free!
(5)James R.
I had the pleasure of going to the Gardens of the Gods while visiting my brother in CO. The rock formations were very cool. Saw some deer & other wildlife. I had a lot fun up until the sun went down. It was freezing & being from FL, I didn't expect the temperature to change so much & so quick.
(5)Christina H.
A highlight and probably a MUST in Colorado Springs. It seems kind of random that this place is located right in the city limits, and you just drive up a road and bam, it's there; feels like you've been transported to a completely different location. I went both during the day and dusk, the place feels a bit more magical at dusk. The majority of the famous rocks are accessible by paved roads and not strenuous at all (definitely don't need full on hiking gear :) ) It's fun to look at the rocks and make your own names for them. Also great views of Pikes Peak from Siamese Twins rock.
(4)W B.
If you live here or you're just visiting and have not been to GoG yet... GO! GO NOW! STOP READING THIS AND GET UP, GET IN A CAR OR ON A BUS AND GO! HOW HAVE YOU NOT BEEN TO GOG YET? Epic views. Day or night. Big horn sheep. Cliffs. Hiking trails. Segway and horse back tours. The place is magical. Watching a video on YouTube or a pic on Instagram DOES NOT do it any justice at all. You MUST see this place for your self. And the closer you get to the rocks the better. It is life changing.
(5)Nel Adriel P.
This place was ok. If you are a simple person, and easily amused. This place is for your tourism and amusement. Its just rocks and pathways. It would be a great place to run, bike, jog, walk, site see, maybe picnoc too, and pictures. So i guess it wasnt awful. Its free so how can you complain. Inwould go here again if i was bored. I gave it two stars cuz its simple. Nothing mind blowing.
(2)Randy B.
Garden of the Gods, is magical, spiritual, and relaxing. Everywhere you look is a postcard. The colors, the shapes, the clouds, and the lighting -- all seems to change throughout the day, even in inclement weather. It's a must for any tourist, artist, or photographer whether pro or amateur. But, those Yelpers, well they are questionable. ;-) Perhaps slightly disappointed upon arrival, it regained 5-star form in about 10 seconds. Not left in its natural state, it's a well-groomed and maintained park. I expected to hike for 3-5 miles, but no. Instead, it's a paved and leisurely walkway throughout, safe for your whole family, small children, and can even bring your dogs, Sparky and Matilda, which are allowed as long as your they are leashed and you promise to pick up the poopies. Best yet, free admission to the park, and free parking. I found out after I left GOTG that there are miles and miles of trails all around. So the option is totally yours, easy or exercise. In addition, while there's no official lunch spot inside the park, the outside area roads feature picnic areas, with tables and still glorious views. Watch for signage. In my humble opinion, Garden of the Gods is the savior of Colorado Springs.
(5)Joe L.
THIS PLACE IS B-E-A-UTIFUL! Getting used to all the trails and hikes in California, this was truly a wonderful experience. The landscape and the view of the hikes in Colorado are amazing and MIND-BLOWING! The only thing I didn't like about the place was that the trails were all so confusing... When I come to hike the Garden of the Gods trail, I don't expect 5+ different routes to choose from. Also, the place is so well-preserved, that they make sure to keep it that way. Which means you can't really hike and explore the mountains the way you would like. You're told to go along the trail and squeeze in while you're at it with a BUNCH of people. When we did go through the harder courses, we were alone again and it did seem like we were alone on a mission -- which is what I loved about hiking in the first place. Being able to seclude yourself and your friends from society and just enjoy nature as it is. This place was amazing, though. A sight I'll never forget. Thank you to my girlfriend and her friends for bringing me along to this unforgettable hike!
(4)Danielle C.
Perfect place to go hiking! Great views and well maintained trails.
(5)Lotus S.
Gorgeous rock formations, easy parking, and free to everyone. The trails and park are extremely well maintained and clean. You aren't able to climb the rocks unless you have a permit, but it's a great place to go for a stroll on the paved red cement -- would recommend bringing the family and dogs or going for a casual run.
(4)Junie J.
I adore this free park. The visitor's center wasn't quite finished when we visited, however, we did see the movie about 'how Garden of the Gods was made'. Extremely informative and worth the $4 to see it.
(5)Charlie A.
It's incredibly beautiful. It's hard to imagine it being as close as it is to the city. The trail signs will confuse you. I went in with a map & directions from the gift shop barista girl & still managed to get lost, though you can only get so lost here. It's a must see for anyone spending more than a couple of hours on Colorado Springs.
(5)Kim P.
Amazing! If you're in the area, it's a must see. The park is much bigger than I imagined; wear good walking shoes and enjoy the many views!
(5)Marikym T.
Beautiful and a must see if you are visiting Colorado! It was fun walking around and taking a lot of photos (it's free!) The fiance was a good sport as I'm the ham in the family! You can bring fido as well:)
(5)Josh B.
I know if you boil it all down this place is just some big rock boulders in the middle of no where, but I still found the colors and just the sheer size of these supremely gigantic rock formations really exciting. First if all, It's a free way to enjoy nature. There are several trails to explore if you want to stretch your legs a bit after being on the road for hours, which is exactly what we did after driving on I-40 for a long time. The orange-red coloring of the rocks against the background of Colorado in the summer is just amazing. I am not sure if rock climbing is allowed but these would be an arduous feat for just about anyone. It is very easy to take a snapshot in time as you wander around the area and take in the very southwestern feel of Colorado Springs. Again, I know some people just dumb it down and say that that it is just some rocks but being in the Garden of the Gods really made me feel like someone up in the sky put this place here so that they may look down upon the travelers of the world. I felt dwarfed by the large rocky masses as well as the large amount of tourists circulating amongst the hustle & bustle.
(5)Jennifer G.
A beautiful place to see God's creation. The best part is that it's free. The colors, rock formations, and views are outstanding. There are hiking trails and a nice visitor center. There are many people taking pictures at the entrance due to the popular Balancing Rock. Make sure you drive in and see the whole place. I would caution parents to keep an eye on your small children, especially if you let them climb on the rocks. There are no guardrails and many parts that drop off. The rocks are also slippery if you are not wearing proper shoes. This is a must see if you are in the Colorado Springs area.
(4)Brittany P.
Beautiful and breath taking! I've gone on a gloomy and rainy day, on a sunny day and at sunset! The park is free, so it's a must see while in colo springs.
(5)Mark M.
Our first WOW moment on our vacation to the springs. About 5 min from our motel on Colorado Ave. Incredible.
(5)Gregg S.
Free. Easily located. Accessible for most people. Incredible sights. A mix of paved trails, well maintained gravel trails, and ones that require a bit of balance. The roads circumnavigate the main area, so you can see plenty without leaving your car is that's how you roll. Great spot for young and old alike. A must if you're in the Denver area.
(5)D D.
Mother nature at her best. It's free, it's mind blowing. I can't think of a single area that has the earth turned on it edge the way it is here. And to beat it all you can just drive the loop or get out and walk the paths. There's a video at the visitors center that's ought inspiring, & well worth the $4. Also from the visitors area you can get a good photo of Pikes Peak is the background.
(5)Allie S.
Amazing natural landmark, definitely a must see. Loved wandering around the park taking pictures of the rock formations. Best to come during the warm months before it gets even more slippery with the snow.
(5)Justin K.
Place is amazing! Nestled in a suburban area, turn the corner and there this place is! The loop isn't too huge. You're able to walk around the entire area maybe in a couple hours. The largest section is right next to the main parking lot. You can see most of the rock formations. The whole areas looks enchanted. It looks like the rocks magically were created or it looks like the set of Disney's Radiator Springs. There's nothing else that's like this. If you bring appropriate gear it looks like you can rock climb there! Kissing Camels - Really neat to see at the right angle Keyhole Window - just a hole White Rock - doesn't look too white Signature Rock - HUGE AND IMPRESSIVE Sleeping Giant - Also Huge Tower of Babel - Very iconic Three Grace - really interesting Cathedral Spires - Looks like it's falling apart! Balanced Rock - Really cool! Very Iconic! There is one loop you can hike up! It's really awesome! Great photo op areas everywhere! Also, be careful if it's in the snow. High chance of slipping, and if it's hiking on the boulders, you don't want to slip off and fall off the edges. Definitely worth it to check out!
(5)Jenn G.
Beautiful sights, breathtaking rocks, and all of it for free! We went during the winter time, and it was wonderful. Don't go too close to sundown, or it'll get super cold, super fast. Oh, and bring sunscreen. My face was burnt from the sun reflecting off the snow. I'm pretty fair. You can visit this amazing park from the safety of your car, if you like, as there is a road going most all the way around it. Drive safely, deer are wandering around the path! If you want to get out and hike, you can, but make sure to stay on the path. Staying on the path is really important because trekking around there with your boots can upset the environment and take away bits and pieces of the park that need to stay there for its preservation.
(5)Brenda L.
Free parking at a beautiful park with a lot of hiking options. What's not to like? Trails are horse friendly and there's portions of the trail that are paved (wheel chair accessible). Other parts of the trail are not paved but are easy hikes with little incline. Points of interest include the Siamese rocks and the balancing rock.
(5)Nick W.
Love this park! Every visit is like seeing it for the first time and different times of day create entirely new vistas and colors in the rock formations. Best of all, it's a free park so you can indulge yourself when you want to visit again.
(5)Jan L.
So totally worth visiting whatever your level of physical ability. Hiking trails, walking trails, places to sit and just be. This area is amazing with the rock formations. Definitely worth seeing at different times of daylight and different weather conditions. Cameras and binoculars are a plus.
(5)Adam M.
You have to see it in person. Pictures do it no justice. Take some walking shoes and water to get up close and personal with the rocks. You can climb in certain sections and get some incredible photos. The view of Pikes Peak is incredible too.
(5)Luke L.
Not too sure how to describe this tourist attraction, but those rocks (or granite if you want to be scientific here) were breathtaking and impressive at the same time. If you are planning to come here, then you can be spending quite a few bucks for its horseback riding, van tour ($10 per guest), Segway tour ($65 or $105 depending on the tour), jeep tour ($17, $25, or $40 depending on the tour), and $5 to see the movie at the visitor center. If you don't have that kind of budget, then you can just drive around the area and try various hiking trails. If you are at the Garden of the Gods, make sure to check out the Balanced Rock, the visitor center (where you can actually see Pikes Peak from here), and close-up look on the Kissing Camels. P.S. - The Garden of the Gods inspired Katharine Lee Bates and wrote "America The Beautiful".
(4)Shin M.
This place gets 4 stars for the beautiful views! To be honest, the red rocks weren't that amazing- I enjoyed the views more. You can drive through pretty Much the entire place too, if the weather is bad or if you don't feel like walking. You can also drive and park in each designated parking lot to walk up and take pictures too- so you get a mix of both walking and driving. My hubby and I went while it was raining. Do NOT go hiking on the trails if it is raining. The rain causes mini canals to be formed on the paths. Also, we wanted to do the 3 mile suggested hike but the trails made no sense... We ended up at the very top of the rocks ... when we got down from them, we saw signs that said do not climb. But the trails led us up there!!! We eventually gave up on the hike because the paths made no sense at all and just drove to the main parking lot to look at the main rock attraction. It was nice!
(4)Natalie G.
I grew up just down the road from here, and I still never get used to how BEAUTIFUL this place is! A must-see if you're anywhere near Colorado Springs. I also recommend staying at the Garden of the Gods Club hotel if you get a chance. :)
(5)Esra M.
Beautiful scenes and impressive mountains. The trail is for free and it's easy to walk on the paved way. You should not explore the area on your own though because they have warning signs of falling rocks up but climbers can have their climbing areas. We went on Presidents' Day so of course it was pretty crowded. It's definitely a nice place to take your family out for spending some time outdoors and let the kids explore nature. The views are amazing as well.
(4)Nicole S.
Stunning. Truly stunning. The rocks are so orange they look like they're on fire. The winding roads can be a little confusing and parking can be a pain, but the fact that you can drive through the park at a leisurely pace (or bike, or hike a trail) means no need to rush. Who'd want to rush through heaven anyway?
(4)Angela G.
Free... FREE! When is a park like this free. I always take out of town guests who are just blown away by how nice it is. On holidays it can be PACKED. The parking is very limited.. so expect to drive around several times till you finally find a spot. The visitors center is really nice too. There is a great deck there with a photo opp of the entire park in the background. I even remember coming here as a kid when we lived in Denver. Just a great park.
(5)Valeria F.
Gorrgeous! Half of the charm is in it's name (I mean, Garden of the Gods? Come on.), but it's still pretty cool in reality. Lots of large deep iron red rocks, in formations of interesting shapes high above you. The one downside would be the large number of tourists (even in November when I went), but if you can sneak in a picture of just you and the giant red rocks I promise you it'll look incredible! ;)
(5)Richard F.
We visited the Garden in June. We hadn't been there in 20 years so we really wanted to spend some time to see everything. The first thing to do is go to the visitor center. It is well staffed with very polite and knowledgeable folks who are eager to show you their pride and joy. You might want to spend some time seeing the movie, the gift shop or just stroll around. The also offer guided tours for a charge. We opted out but, they looked interesting. There are lots of trails so get a map and have the staff point out the best ones. There is a driving trail and several easy walking trails that will take you around all the formations. We spent the best part of a day there and got to see everything there and the best part was it was all free. This is a must see if you visit Colorado Springs.
(5)Jennifer E.
Eh. We went here on a weekend and there was not ONE place that we could pull over and stop. Call in advance and you can schedule a Segway tour.
(3)Arianne C.
Beautiful but it was too hot and there were not too much parking so you must come early.
(4)Adrian O.
How can you complain about Garden of the Gods? It's BEAUTIFUL and it is FREE. Not a hokey tourist trap by any means, as a resident I count my lucky stars that this is in our backyard.
(5)Marina M.
It's not that I don't love nature, and sight seeing... It's that I grew up in Central Oregon where Natural rocks protruding from the ground, and natural erosion is an every day thing. I guess I had my hopes up and didn't do enough research. It's a nice drive.
(1)Kayla Q.
Gorgeous! Went on a hike here with a group of people ranging in age from 5-65. The cool thing is you can make your walk through here as challenging or easy as you'd like! Beautiful sights to see along the way! Would love to go back next time I'm in Colorado!
(5)Jane S.
Beautiful views! Been here twice now and summer time was much better. Everything was green and luscious which against the red rocks it was spectacular. It's a great nature walk and not difficult at all. Definitely a great place to go with the family!
(5)Randy M.
While I can certainly see the tourist-driven aspect of the entire experience, I'm quite glad I visited. I was a tourist after all! It's a free local park with amazing red-rock formations and gently rolling pathways. The maps are not helpful at all. . . just explore, follow the general flow of crowds, and make sure to take photos. Parking was somewhat limited in the first lot, but we lucked out. There are several other lots along the one-way loop, so you may want to skip on to the next one. You'll be walking by all of the sights anyway. By the way, since you're in Colorado Springs, I recommend stopping by Josh & John's in the downtown area.
(5)Liz K.
Always love Garden of the Gods. The central areas tend to be a little overly full of inconsiderate crowds of people, but once you get off on the unpaved trails it's really just a beautiful peaceful place with so much to see and photograph. Always some wildlife to enjoy. Once found a rattlesnake on the sidewalk, so come in decent shoes folks.
(5)Schuyler L.
"Yay! I'm a fan." Free, great for kids and the dogs. There is absolutely no reason to miss Garden of the Gods when visiting Colorado; either by car, short walk, or a more involved hike The Garden is fun for the whole family. This is no Monument Valley, Utah/Arizona, but red and full of iron, the rocks are very impressive.
(4)James C.
This place is huge. The rocks and gardens are very beautiful and I definitely recommend a visit on a less busier day. I came here on a Saturday and there was no parking in the main lot. Traffic was backed up because of everyone wanting to go to the main lot as well as tons of people stopping at the pull offs. You can't fit many cars in the pull offs and many cars were stopping at the bike/pedestrian trails even though there were numerous signs saying no stopping/parking. I even saw a ranger stop their truck behind the parking spaces taking photos of the scenery. There are tons of trails you can hike/bike on but there is no tree cover. The day I visited it was too hot and did not feel like getting roasted so I just drove around once and decided the crowds was unbearable. I even saw a car get into a fender bender as they were backing out of the parking spot (do you look back when you reverse??).
(4)Angela A.
Super cool. Gardens of the Gods was one of the first places my family came when we ventured out west. I brought my husband here too when we took our frist vacation out here. It's just so beautiful. You can take in the scenery on a bike, on a hike (even guided hikes are offered) or by car. I recommed all 3, each offers different pereceptions. This park is very family and dog friendly. If you are coming to the Front Range and or beyond, you must hit this up. The park is super family and dog friendly. You can also drive right out into Manitou Springs, such a cute, quaint little town where you can shop, eat, and mosie around. Or you can take an off-road drive out back up to Denver. It's a fun way to spend an afternoon!
(4)Mike F.
We had great weather and a great day. There's no excuse to miss this if you're in the area. Wheelchair and senior friendly. We blew threw almost an entire flash card: it's a target rich photo environment!
(5)Justina J.
Never ceases to amaze me...so many trails to walk, beautiful formations to discover every time! Come here, park somewhere and start walking. Too many just drive up to balance rock and take a picture (go ahead and do that if you've never been here,) but the real beauty is in taking it all in...at your pace, and letting the nature and surroundings seep in you. Wonderful experience!
(5)Crystal T.
Absolutely beautiful sight that must be seen when in Colorado Springs. The rock formations are breathtaking and are great for pictures! The drive around the park is also quite fun and has lots of turns and loops. There is a souvenir store right across from the park that is wrote checking out too. You will have a blast here!
(5)Michelle M.
First off, it's free. If you're in the Colorado Springs area, you have no excuse NOT to come here. If you're not from the area, you'll enjoy the beautiful scenery and the fantastic red rocks (for lack of a better term... I'm no scientist) that surround you. If looking only at rocks aren't for you, try going on a day that's good weather- you might be able to watch rock climbers attempt to climb around! Great place for photo opportunities, and easy to navigate. Dog friendly as well.
(4)Diana W.
Not impressed at all. I understand that it did boast marvelous views and the rocks are pretty grand...but garden of the GODS sounds so big and GREAT when it was not that big...or great. We decided to do the hiking trails...which sucked cause they didn't even pass the big landmarks but looped AROUND the whole park. Also there are so many tourists here! When we finally got to the "hanging rock" it wasn't even that impressive! It was so low to the ground that grandmas and toddlers were climbing up it so I couldn't even take a decent picture of myself on it! Oh and beware of the scottish trail...it's a trail FILLED with horse crap. If you want to drive through it then that would be a better idea cause it is not worth the time to hike it. On a positive note, it was free.
(2)Ellen L.
Cute and easy.
(5)Steve G.
Garden of the Gods is a breathtaking public park right in Colorado Springs. There are no parking fees, no admissions fees and yet, the area is well-staffed with very helpful personnel and very well maintained. There are driving and hiking trails through the park, and along the way you'll see red rock formations. Some of these formations are stately, while others are surreal; it's all beautiful. Framing these magnificent views is Pike's Peak and the surrounding Rockies. I found these red rock formations to strangely resemble those seen in my Arizona travels. There is a visitors center across the street, with some interesting wildlife and natural history exhibits. Although they were completely civil and just enjoying the opportunity to hang together on a beautiful August afternoon, the visitors center was packed with sixteen year olds. Apparently, they appreciate this local treasure!
(4)Yulun W.
Amazing mountain views, take your camera, and enjoy taking the pics. It worth every film! It is heaven for climbing, I am not a climbing pro, but when I come here, I regret I did not take some advance classes for climbing. The rocks are huge and high, I can imagine the adventure to be on the top of the huge rocks!
(4)Lola A.
This is a beautiful place! Although rain & lightning strikes threatened our tour, it only made the scenery more exquisite. Gazing at the rock formations was awe inspiring. One wonders what unique set of events and circumstances sculpted these intriguing natural art masterpieces. We took a driving tour with our own vehicle. Biking and hiking tours are also available. Since I was not familiar with the area, I did do the movie. Yes, it was $5, but the park is free and I think it's important to support these type of endeavors. Plus, I learned many things I didn't know in terms of the historical roots behind these incredible formations. Highly recommended if you're anywhere near Colorado Springs.
(5)Ann L.
Loved this place! Better to get out of your car, and climb the rocks a little bit. Or at least walk around the rocks. I visited twice during my trip.
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