Visiting the Garden of the Gods in Colorado

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Exploring Colorado Springs Garden of the Gods

Colorado Springs most famous tourist destination, Garden of the Gods, is a supernatural collection of red rock formations slicing into the clear blue Colorado sky. Ranked number 9 in the world as top natural attraction, visiting and hiking Garden of the Gods Colorado in Colorado is a must.

Biggest perk? Visiting Colorado Springs Garden of the Gods is free!

Erupting from the ground beneath Pikes Peak, it is hard to believe so much natural beauty is contained in just one space.

Back in 1859, some surveyors on a road trip from Denver to what would later be called "Colorado City" stumbled upon this insane landscape. One of them, clearly struck by a stroke of genius (or maybe just too much sun), shouts:

"Beer Garden! Seriously, this place is so godly; we should name it the Garden of the Gods."

Yes, it is a fitting location for a beer garden for the gods. And since the founding of Colorado Springs, this god of gardens Colorado Springs has been a free park for its citizens and visitors to enjoy.

You might be wondering, is Garden of the Gods worth it?

Absolutely—it’s a stunning, free park with jaw-dropping rock formations and trails that’ll have you falling in love with Colorado’s natural beauty!

Stop right past the main parking lot at a pull out (accommodates 3 cars max) for stunning Garden of the Gods pictures.

Garden of the Gods in Colorado views from Rockledge Ranch trails.

Where is the Garden of the Gods Located?

Wondering where is the Garden of the Gods is like asking where is Pikes Peak. It’s hard to miss as you drive through the heart of Colorado Springs.

About an hour drive from Denver off I-25, take the Garden of the Gods exit for a few miles. Turn onto 30th and Garden of the Gods Colorado hiking trails and roads greet you!

Give yourself ample time to visit Garden of the Gods trails, its famous Trading Post and Balanced Rock. You might even consider horseback riding in Garden of the Gods.

Plan on at least 2 hours to drive the perimeter of the park or consider a half day hiking Garden of the Gods.

Going on hikes Garden of the Gods have to offer provides stunning views of Pikes Peak Mountain, jagged rock formations, and the chance to enjoy Colorado’s fresh air.

You can even plan a free outdoor wedding in the Garden of the Gods in Colorado.

Garden of the Gods Lookout at sunrise

Garden of the Gods Lookout

For stunning views of Garden of the Gods, hop on Mesa Road and stop at the Garden of the Gods Lookout. From here, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the central gardens at Garden of the Gods.

Located across from the Kissing Camels neighborhood and near the Garden of the Gods Club and Resort, this spot is perfect for capturing sunrise or sunset photos. The parking area accommodates around 30 cars, so plan accordingly!

Driving into Garden of the Gods brings you stunning Pikes Peak views in the heart of Colorado Springs.

How do I get to Garden of the Gods in Colorado?

From 1-25, there are several roads that lead to this National Monument. Check Garden of the Gods website for updated road closure information.

In November 2023, work began to add acceleration and deceleration lanes on I-25 between Fillmore Street and Garden of the Gods Road. This two year project was completed summer 2024. Located within a few miles of Manitou Springs, you can visit Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak in the same day. The views of both will keep you on a rocky mountain high for days.

1805 N. 30th Street Colorado Springs, CO 80904

PSST… For a once-in-a-lifetime hike, tackle the Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs. This steep ascent, often called nature’s staircase, is a tough nut to crack—but it’s worth it for the adventure!

While Garden of the Gods elevation tops out around 6,400 feet, the Manitou Incline has it beat, climbing over 2,000 feet in less than a mile to reach an elevation of 8,590 feet. If you're fit and ready for a challenge, conquering those stairs feels like unlocking a hidden adventure. Trust us, every step is worth it!

Garden of the Gods is a wonder at night.

When is the best time to visit Garden of the Gods Colorado Springs?

Massive rock formations sit in this 1,367-acre park, and with over 21 miles of Garden of the Gods trails to hike and walk, it offers outdoor delight for every person. Open year-round, visiting Garden of the Gods is beautiful no matter the season.

However, spring and fall tend to be the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and a generous selection of outdoor activities without the summer tourist traffic. You might encounter some mud on the hiking trails at Garden of the Gods so wear boots for off season treks.

Garden of the Gods in winter gives you the same amazing views with about half the foot traffic. While the elevation of Garden of the Garden of the Gods is high, these trails are well maintained and walked making snow hiking more fun than hassle.

Is Garden of the Gods Free to Visit?

Yes! Garden of the Gods is the #1 US Park on Tripadvisor, making this FREE park available to anyone!

If you only have a few hours to explore, these favorite Colorado Springs trails will leave you wanting more. Even better, spend a full day enjoying hikes Garden of the Gods offers, like the Grand Tour Loop Trail, which takes you through the entire park. Or explore the central gardens at Garden of the Gods for a quick tour of this majestic place.

When your camera roll is full, head to one or more of our favorite hops near the park.

One of the main parking lots in Colorado Springs Garden of Gods

Where Can I Find a Map for Hiking Garden of Gods trails?

As one of Colorado Springs top attractions, Garden of the Gods park map and sites are on their website. Make the Visitor Center your first stop and take a picture of the QR code for online maps.

NOTE! As of June 2024, the maps are no longer in print form. You can take a picture of the Garden of the Gods park map in the visitor center.

Keep reading for our favorite Garden of the Gods hiking trails, from a 2 hour blitz tour to an 11 mile hike around the park’s perimeter. We give you options for easy pop in and see the scenes walks to an all day one of a kind view of the Garden of Gods Colorado Springs. Most hiking trails at Garden of the Gods are well marked. A Garden of the Gods trail map is available online.

Easy Garden of the Gods Hikes

Garden of the Gods HIking Trails | 2 Hours or Less

If you only have a few hours to explore Garden of the Gods, choose one of these trails and be rewarded with stunning pictures and breathtaking views.

For you curious sort, we recommend you reserve a spot for a guided nature walk with a professional park interpreter. Or grab a Garden of the Gods trail map Colorado Springs visitor center provides via QR code. They have displays there to read along with suggestions for low key hikes within the central gardens at Garden of the Gods.

Note! Parking can be challenging, especially in summer months.

The Central Garden at Garden of the Gods Trails

Mileage: 1 mile round trip Elevation Gain: approx 30 feet

The Central Gardens at Garden of the Gods trail is great for all fitness levels and mobility. Handicap and stroller friendly with paved pathways, this loop takes you around Garden of the God’s most famous red rock formations.

For easy access to this loop, park at the main lot to the left as you enter the park. It’s one way traffic so plan on a 30 minute or more drive out of the park once you’ve explore the Garden trails. This lot fills fast.

The hiking trails at Garden of the Gods are well marked and paved within the main park.

Make a quick visit to the well stocked and cleaned bathrooms before heading out on the concrete wide path. As you start, look up to see Kissing Camels, one of the Garden’s most iconic natural sculpture rock formations. The Garden of the Gods trail map is posted throughout the park, making your route easy to navigate.

Take the loop either way - the views look amazing no matter the angle. And the brilliance of a loop hike is you’ll end up at your car one way or another.

Keep walking the paved path to see the Tower of Babel, a rock that is the height of a football field end to end. Keep going to see Cathedral Spires aka “Temple of Montezuma” and North Gateway Rock. Each of these rocks are well marked on your paper map and great signage in the park.

The Inner loop trail is all paved, stroller and ADA friendly.

There are several stories behind the names of the rocks as well as the Garden as a whole. The Ute Native American Indians called this area the doorway to the red earth mountains.

In late fall each year, their families came down out of the mountains, gathered at the Garden of the Gods and camped there during the winter.

As you walk the loop, the brilliant Colorado blue sky is a stark backdrop for these red rock formations. Think about the hundreds of years of joy and delight spent in this red stone paradise.

Scotsman Trail | Popular among Garden of the Gods Hiking Trails for horses

Mileage: 1 mile round trip Elevation gain: 118 feet

A bit less traveled than the Central Gardens Trail, hiking Garden of the Gods trails like this one gives you stunning views of Pikes Peak Mountain. It is not paved (expect sand) and is often used for the Garden of the Gods horseback riders. However, the trail is well marked and worth a little mud and dirt on your shoes!

To catch Scotsman Trail, head past the main parking lot on Garden Drive. Look out for signs for parking on the left before reaching the Siamese Twins Trail. Hiking Garden of the Gods is easy in this area with well marked trail signs.

NOTE! There can be a fair amount of horse manure on the trail depending on the time of day you hike.

We hiked this trail around 11:00 am in January and only had to dodge one pile. Scotsman Trail is a great spur trail to the Central Gardens Trail for views of Pikes Peak and a chance to experience some of the best Garden of the Gods trails.

After your hike, hop over to the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center. Recently renovated, this visitor center offers very clean bathrooms.

Take an hour to explore the free museum exhibits, which showcase the geological history of the park and the stories of the people who shaped this area.

Garden of the Gods Visitor Center 1805 N 30th Street Colorado Springs CO 80904

Open 9-3 (Mon - Thurs) 9-5 (Fri - Sun)

Siamese Twin rock formations offer the pefect set up for Pkes Peak views

Siamese Twins Trail | COHH FAvorite Short & EAsy Hike

Mileage: 0.5 miles Elevation Gain: 104 feet

This has become a favorite Garden of the Gods Colorado hike, with easy access from its own parking lot. An easy hike that gives you the best bang for your (free) buck on a quick garden tour. Head here for sunrise, sunset or daylight - its views are stunning no matter what time of day you get there!

Under one mile, this loop takes you to the most fascinating rock formations in the garden. Think Mars colliding with earth.

The Siamese Twin rock formations are large enough for kids and adults to climb on, sneaking views of Pikes Peak no matter which area you settle. A fun keyhole makes for the best photos, giving you the memory making phoo with its cut out for Pikes Peak to shine through.

Directions: From I25, take exit 146 for the Garden of the Gods road. Keep right at fork, following signs for Colorado TEch/Rusina Road. Merge into the Garden of the Gods Road and drive for around 2 miles. Use left 2 lanes to turn left onto N 30th Street. At traffic circle, take first exit onto Gateway Road. Around a half mile, turn right onto Juniper Way Loop. Drive 2 miles, staying on Garden DRive until you turn right onto Spring Canyon Height Drive. Parking lot will be on the right.

RELATED LINK: Siamese Twins is one of 6 COHH favorite short and easy hikes in Colorado Springs.

snack Break!

Stop in Manitou Springs and check out these Colorado Hikes and Hops favorites.

  • Red Dog Coffee 739 Manitou Ave. Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 313 9080

Opening at 7:00 am, Red Dog offers great brews as well as brunch options. Perfect stop for that early morning hike you just completed!

Burgers are on point but so are the cheese fries. Dogs are allowed on the patio as well.

Call in your order ahead of time if you are in a rush. Large sized hot dogs with buns are a bang for your buck!

Moderate Hiking in Garden of the Gods

Do you have a bit more time and want to take in the full glory of Garden of the Gods? In addition to walking the Central Loop Trail, add a few extra trails to experience the full wonder of this majestic park.

As you’ll be out on the trail a bit longer, add an extra bottle of water to your daypack. Colorado Springs elevation gain can create a few hurdles if you’re not prepared. Take a minute to check the Garden of the Gods trail map Colorado Springs Visitor Center has available through a QR code.

Beginners and advanced hikers can be victims of the 6,400 feet elevation gain in Garden of the Gods. Load up on water, electrolytes, and salty snacks to keep those pesky altitude headaches at bay.

INSIDER TIP! Go slow. Even the most in shape sea level athlete finds the climbs in Colorado Springs having them breath hard. Give yourself grace and enjoy your surroundings.

Garden of the Gods Loop

Mileage: 4 miles round trip Elevation Gain 400 feet Route: Point-to-Point

Garden of the Gods Loop is one of the best moderate trails for hiking Garden of the Gods. Start at the main parking lot, crossing the road to begin hiking either way on Palmer Trail. There are many spurs and trails you can explore on this route.

*For an interactive map, check out the REI Hiking Project.

Keep to the right as you go. This is one hike for picture taking! Everywhere you go, see spectacular views of the diverse Colorado rock formations like Gray Rock, Sleeping Giant and the Cathedral Spires.

About halfway along the loop, you’ll hike by Hamp Hut, owned by the Girl Scouts of Colorado. In summer months, many Girl Scout troops are busy learning outdoor skills. While you won’t get free cookies, stop and say hi!

This is a great spot to stop for a quick snack and hydration break.

Note that portions of this trail are mountain bike friendly. Hiking rule of the trail is hikers always have the right away. That said, be aware of the fast rider!

INSIDER TIP! This would be the perfect field trip day for home educators and families. Before you enter the park, pick up a $2 Junior Ranger booklet at the front desk of the Visitor Center.

When your hike is over, stop at the Trading Post for an ice cream cone and have your kids share their findings. Hand them a badge and certificate (free with your booklet).

REI HIking Project Garden of the Gods Loop

This loop has many spots to add hiking and yoga. With incredible views of Pikes Peak, stop at one of the many meadows and take in the scenery. Combining hiking and yoga outdoors is a fantastic way to acclimate to the altitude as well as allow your mind to remember the sites. Grounding your senses along with cyclical breath keeps your mind and body present to the beauty you see!

Hungry and Need a Quick Bite?

Garden of the Gods Trading Post’s Balanced Rock Restaurant 324 Beckers Ln Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 685 9045

This place has great wraps and buffalo burgers. Grab a seat outdoors in the summer months, order a beer and scroll through your pictures from the day. In a rush, grab that order to go.

Colorado Custard Company 906 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs. CO 80829

As you leave the park, head into Manitou Springs. Custard typically has fewer calories than ice cream so order two scoops and enjoy.

Armadillo Ranch 962 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 374 5580

Known for their amazing pork and beef sandwiches, they also have vegan and vegetarian options. Live music on Saturdays with beer on tap during opening hours.

Manitou Brewery Company 725 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 282 7709

Founded in 2014, this Colorado brewery creates all their beers from water found near the top of Pikes Peak. They take pride in using organic, Colorado grown and malted barley in their beers.

Trust us, you can taste the difference. Not in the mood for a beer? Cocktails and wine are offered alongside bowls of homemade pork green chile and well-made pub food.

Related Link: Perhaps like us, you love a good craft beer. We have compiled Colorado Springs local microbreweries and craft beers in one place.

Garden of the Gods Hiking Trails | A Full Day in the Park

The Grand Tour

Mileage: 11.1 miles Elevation Gain: 1,192 feet Route: Point to Point

Head down 30th Street, parking on the east side of the road (that’s left if you are going south or away from Pike’s Peak) near the Navigators headquarters located at 3820 N 30th Street.

Trail Tips for this Mega Garden of the Gods Hike

  • Keep Right. The Trail will take you under a small bridge and out onto a paved walkway.

  • Meander down this trail for around a mile before heading up a slight hill into the park.

  • Left or Right? As you approach the Y shaped road, take a left or right. This trail is a loop so either way takes you back to your car.

  • Start on the Palmer Trail.

  • Your hike will take in all the sights: Siamese Twins rock, Balanced Rock, stunning views of the Central Garden as well as a slight detour to Balanced Rock.

  • Stay on the perimeter of the park, hiking along the ridges and outer trails.

  • Take your time, stopping often for pictures. There are a lot of spurs on this trail. Be curious and take a few.

  • Dead Ends can be the best photo ops. Oftentimes you’ll come upon Pikes Peak Mountain looming large just ahead or to the side.

  • INSIDER TIP! If you are nervous about getting lost, download the trail on All Trails or REI Hiking project.

    We love these apps as they provide well marked trails you can follow on your phone. The apps are free with the bonus feature of recording your route. Share your mileage and pictures with friends from the app!

Love a good challenging hike? Consider summiting Mount Rosa in Colorado Springs.

The Grand Tour takes you around the entirety of the park as well as inside all the most famous garden formations. You’ll find much less foot traffic on this loop allowing for some solo deep thinking or animated hiking partner conversation.

This is Melody’s favorite way of enjoying Garden of the Gods. There is a large herd of Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep that tend to hang out near the north end of the park. She has often spotted them at the beginning of the hike. As with all wildlife, keep a safe distance, following the rule of thumb rule.

Garden of the Gods Balanced Rock

Garden of the Gods Balanced Rock

While the main trails don’t take you by Balanced Rock, make sure you add this to you MUST DO Garden of the Gods list.

This famous 35 foot, 1.4 million pound red rock balances near the south entrance of the Garden of the Gods. One of the most popular attractions in Colorado Springs, visitors love taking pictures “holding up” this famous piece of stone.

Fun Fact! Every May Colorado Springs local running clubs hold the Garden of the Gods 10 mile/10K run through the park, taking you by Garden of the Gods Balanced Rock. Many pro athletes come to Colorado Springs for the event, marking the start of the running season in town.

Check out our favorite nearby local restaurants

Trinity Brewing Company 1466 Garden of the Gods Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719 634 0029

Based in a warehouse, this brewery has great burgers along with gluten free and vegan fare for all to enjoy. They have an outdoor patio for your furry friends to tag along.

Red Leg Brewing Company 4630 Forge Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 719 598 3776

This local brewery has several gold winning ales including the Howitzer or the Ninja School Karate Lager. There are several fire pits and comfy chairs to kick back with that IPA.

Adam’s Mountain Cafe 26 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829 719 685 4370

Opened in 1985, this Manitou Springs cafe offers homemade food, most sauces and condiments made inhouse. With antique tables and decor, stop here for hearty portions of healthy and delicious food. We love their whole grain pancakes and Green Mountain Falls polenta.

3.14 Sweet & Savory Pi Bar 5152 Centennial Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80919 719 314 6172

This one of a kind pie shop has it all. Salads, cocktails and beers, pizzas and sandwiches. The standout winners are the pies: savory and sweet. We highly recommend the Wicked Dutchman with its bourbon cooked apples.

Nearby Hiking Trails in Colorado Springs

  • Got the hiking bug after spending some time in the Garden? Colorado Springs has hundreds of trails for all levels and abilities. Check out our favorite five hikes within minutes of central Colorado Springs are five fantastic day hikes.

  • If you have more time, we highly recommend exploring North Cheyenne Cañon. From one trailhead, you can access 7 hikes that have waterfalls, pine laden forests, some steep inclines or feeder trails to Rock Rocks Canyon.

    This free regional park has delightful hikes for the adventure hiker, the young family, the solo explorer and the distance trekker. Within the park are many options. These two are perfect for the family, solo hiker, adventurer and nature lover.

    • Louds Cabin While a bit of a trek at 6.2 miles, this trail ends at an old miner’s cabin in the heart of the Colorado mountains.

      The trail begins at Seven Bridges Trailhead, taking you along a meandering river and over seven bridges. You get water, bridges, views, and history in one hike.

    • Mount Muscoco The perfect hike to do with your tweens or teens, this moderate hike takes you two miles to the summit with breathtaking 360 degree views of Colorado Springs and her mountains.

Taking pictures of Pikes Peak from Siamese Twins rock formations.

Colorado Springs Hikes Local Insider Tips and Tricks

Hiking Garden of the Gods is fairly simple and easy depending on which trail you choose. To make it the best experience for you, consider these tips.

Be prepared

The elevation Garden of the Gods sits at is 6,400 feet above sea level. Those 1,951 meters can do a doozy on the sea level visitor. Altitude sickness can make the best visit a bummed out experience.

  • Drink water and lots of it.

  • Add an electrolyte supplement for added energy as well as headache remover. We love NUUN tablets as well as Gatorade.

  • Bring layers. Colorado Springs is notorious for having all four seasons in an hour. The Colorado native will tell you, “Don’t like the weather? Wait 5 minutes and it will change.”

    CoHH Tip! Hands down, Patagonia’s Nano Puff Jacket is the layer we wear the most. This multi season, multi use jacket will become your favorite, and perhaps only, hiking jacket.

  • Bring a daypack. You’ll want something to hold layers, a few snacks and water. Not sure what type of backpack you need, check out our review of hardworking daypacks.

  • Wear sunscreen. You are much closer to the sun. While you might not feel hot, you’ll be surprised with just how that sun can turn your beautiful skin into lobster red!

  • Sturdy hiking or athletic shoes work best for the trails. While many of the trails are paved, once you’re on the outer trail loops, expect loose dirt, rock and scree. We’ve taken the guesswork out of which hiking boots, shoes or trail runners to wear.

Take the guesswork out of what to wear visiting and hiking Colorado Springs. We’re rather simple but practical folk, layering up because the weather is as fickle as our craft beer taste buds.

Download the FREE Colorado Hikers Capsule Wardrobe Checklist below.

OUR GO-TO GEAR FOR COLORADO HIKING TRAILS IN 2024:

Keep off the rocks|Rock Climbing Rules

This diverse landscape is a nationally registered landmark. Staying off the rocks keeps them beautiful for many more generations while also saving you some money.

Yep! If you want to climb in the Garden, you need a permit. Caught climbing without one and you are out $500. Check the Visitor Center well in advance of your trip if you want to book one of their climbing or rappelling experiences.

Please don’t take a piece of the park with you. The Garden of the Gods Visitor Center has all kinds of fun park centric momentos to buy. Or better yet, take some photos with your phone.

INSIDER TIP! We often tell our kids to take a photo with their mind and to touch with their eyes (not their hands!).

child-with-map

Stop for 30 seconds, look at the beauty and think about all the colors your mind is soaking in. These mind photographs are some of the best free memories you could have!

Stay on the trails

If all of Colorado Springs visitors thought they could hike off trail, Garden of the Gods would no longer resemble the beautiful attraction it is.

Heading off trail damages plant life as well as encouraging others to do the same. As moms, we love showing our kids how to care for the geological treasures in our state.

As with any hike, maintaining trail etiquette is not only important for the environment but also allows everyone to have those amazing photo memories for years to come. Grab a Garden of the Gods trail map online for hiking trails in and around the park.

Dispose of all Trash

Garbage can become a big problem. There are animals in this park. Throwing away your apple core in the bushes can create a whole host of issues.

RJ the racoon might not live in the Garden of the Gods but as you know from Dreamwork’s Over the Hedge, human trash can create animal dependence on humans for food.

There are trash cans all over the park. If you’re on a trail that does not have one, pack it out. (We bring ziplock bags to pack out our trash. They seal up as well as hold a lot!)

Paved walking paths are adjacent to the main parking lots, making Garden of the Gods hiking accessible for everyone.

parking at Garden of the Gods

Ah, this can be tricky especially in the height of summer tourist hours. Recently the Garden of the Gods added a shuttle for their busy summer hours. Times vary so check their site before heading out.

INSIDER TIP! Typically the best places to park are at Rock Ledge Ranch, right before entering the park. You’ll have to walk a bit but many of the trails connect to this spacious lot.

The Main Parking lot is just off Juniper Way Loop. From 30th street, turn west (toward Pike’s Peak) onto Gateway Way. At the junction turn right onto Juniper Way Loop. The lot will be on your left.

The Garden of the Gods Visitor Center also has many parking spots. Bonus? You can add a bit of mileage to your hike from their lot.

The park has 336 parking spots. Visit early to ensure you get one of them!

garden-of-the-gods-sunset

What is the BEst Time of Day to Visit Garden of the Gods?

If you are visiting Garden of the Gods from out of town, you probably won’t see too many locals during prime touring hours.

Sure, the fearless will be out climbing up those great slabs of red rock but the garden regular knows the best time to head out is NOT midday.

INSIDER TIP! Head to the park early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds and get parking.

The Garden of the Gods has some of the most spectacular sunrises and sunsets in our state. In the morning, grab your Yeti of coffee and get out before 5:30 am for an amazing summer sunrise.

Want to stir up some romance? Get to the park around 4:30 pm (winter) or around 7:30 pm (summer) with your can of wine and partner to watch a breathtaking Colorado sunset. The Garden of the Gods lookout point is perfect for romantic moments.

Be parked and backpack on by 7:30 am for the least amount of trekkers on the trail as well as ample parking. Plus you’ll probably run into a few friendly locals out walking their dogs.

Bathroom facilities located at the main parking lot at the Garden of the Gods in Colorado

Bathroom Facilities

Face it. Everyone at some point has to use the facilities. Remember, this is a public park.

Not only could you be served with a fine for indecent exposure, human waste is becoming a major issue on trails.

You can access bathrooms with toilets and running water at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center, the Trading Post, as well as Rock Ledge Ranch and the main parking lot off Juniper Way Loop.

Pets on the Trails

Are dogs allowed at Garden of the Gods?

Yes, dogs are allowed as long as they are on their leashes. Coloradans are notorious for keeping their dogs off leash.

I’m sure you’ve run into those “he’s friendly” situations only to have your new hiking pants covered in dirty paw prints.

The park takes this rule seriously and you will be fined if caught.

Garden of the Gods Unleashed Area

There is one designated area where dogs can run unleashed; south of Gateway Road, West of 30th Street, and east of Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site.

Please pick up your dog’s poop and dispose of it in the appropriate place. No one wants to hike a trail and come upon a nice neatly tied bag of dog poop on the trail. Carry it out and throw it away!

INSIDER TIP! Keep in mind that horses are allowed on many of the trails in the park. If your pet is skittish with large animals, or you prefer a 50 foot leash, this is not the park for your furry friend.

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Where to Stay Near Garden of the Gods

Colorado Springs is the second largest city in Colorado. Visit Colorado Springs when you want, how you want and where you want.

Stay near Garden of the Gods for favorite short and easy hikes, good craft beer and stunning sunsets.

Reserve your vacation home near downtown Colorado Springs.

Spring, Summer, Fall, or Winter — RV rentals in Colorado are a fabulous way to soak in all the natural hot springs, hiking, biking, fishing, climbing, paddling, skiing, and more with the ones you love the most.

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Save $50 OFF your next Outdoorsy RV Rental when you use our exclusive Colorado Hikes and Hops promo code “COHH50” on your next booking.

Already Own an RV? Wanna make up to $50,000 this next year?

Best side hustle yet! Rent your RV when you’re not using it. Folks are always looking for all kinds of RVs to rent, but especially Class B and Class C RVs.

Glen Eyrie Castle

Nearby Hotels and Resorts

GLEN EYRIE CONFERENCE and Guest Center

Stay at Glen Eyrie Castle, just steps from Garden of the Gods via a scenic walking path. Enjoy exclusive access to private trails, cozy up at the on-site coffee shop, and savor meals in the grand dining area. With 95 guest rooms across seven stunning buildings, it’s a one-of-a-kind retreat!

Garden of the Gods Resort and Club

3320 Mesa Road, Colorado Springs 80904 719 632 5541

This exclusive resort is just minutes from Garden of the Gods. Accommodations include cabins, hotel rooms and suites providing options for families and individuals as well as a romantic getaway.

Kinship Landing

415 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 719 203 9309

Kinship Landing Hotel

One of Colorado’s newest hotels in the heart of Colorado Springs, this hotel has bunk rooms for the solo traveler, suites for families and couples.

Located in the Trolley District of Colorado Springs, Kinship Landing is within walking distance of some great new eateries as well as the US Olympic and Paralympic Museum and America the Beautiful Park.

Cheyenne Mountain Resort

3225 Broadmoor Valley Road,
Colorado Springs, CO 80906 800 588 0250

A full scale resort with five pools (including a kid’s pool!) plus an 18 hole golf course, Cheyenne Mountain Resort is the perfect home away from home.

Nestled amidst the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, enjoy the fresh mountain air as well as many of their in house eateries.

LOCAL TIP! Colorado Springs has grown exponentially over the past decade. Local hotel chains such as Marriott and Best Western are budget friendly options. Stay in the 80919 and 80904 zip codes for closest proximity to Garden of the Gods.

We’d love to hear about your experience exploring Garden of the Gods. What was your favorite trail?

Colorado SpringsMelody Monberggarden of the gods, hiking, tourist attraction, colorado springs2 Comments