Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods 

Spectacular reddish-pink sandstone pinnacles and magestic sculpted rock formations are dramatically set against the outline of Pike’s Peak. This 1367-acre park is located west of Colorado Springs and has been a city park since 1909. Testimony to its great beauty and geological significance, it was designated a Registered National Natural Landmark in 1971. Rufus Cable, a co-founder of Colorado City, now a part of Colorado Springs, suggested in 1859 that the site was a fit place for the Gods to assemble, and it continues to be known as Garden of the Gods.

Colorado Springs

Minimum: About one and a half hours, including the Visitor Center, Loop Drive, and photo stops; Recommended: At least three hours

Open daily 9am to 5pm;  closed Tuesdays in January and February

Free entry to park and Visitor Center; Visitor Center movie: Adults $2 , Children $1

Visitor Center:  (719)634-6666

www.gardenofgods.com

Exit #146 off I-25; go right (west) 2.6 miles on Garden of the Gods Road, which dead ends into MCI building; turn left (south) on 30th Street and go 1.5 miles to Garden of the Gods Park; Visitor Center on left

Map:

Garden of the Gods

VISITING THE PARK

A recommended way to see the park is to (1) start at the Visitor Center, (2) walk the Gateway and Central Garden Trails, and (3) take the loop drive.  If you have more than about three hour's time, you may want to take a tour or guided walk, do more hiking, explore the Rock Ledge Ranch historic site, and visit the old Trading Post.  For those with the skill and inclination, the park is also a popular place for technical rock climbing.  Mountain biking and horseback riding are also favorite activities.