Garden of the Gods Scenic Drive
Explore 1,300 acres of towering red sandstone formations against a backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Free entry!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Garden of the Gods Scenic Drive
Best Time
Fewer crowds, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 1,300 acres of towering red sandstone formations against a backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Free entry!
"An otherworldly place with breathtaking, towering rock formations that look like surrealist paintings."
๐ Utilize the Scenic Drive
The 7-mile drive offers many pull-offs to access trails and viewpoints.
๐ง Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in summer, it gets hot with limited shade. Stay hydrated!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Drive
Park-wide
A breathtaking 7-mile loop with numerous pull-offs to explore iconic rock formations.
Balanced Rock
Near Trading Post
An iconic, gravity-defying sandstone boulder that's a must-see photo opportunity.
Siamese Twins Trail
Central area
A short, accessible trail leading to unique twin rock formations with stunning vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for the Best Views
Free Entry, Prepare for the Elements
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
๐ Utilize the Scenic Drive
The 7-mile drive offers many pull-offs to access trails and viewpoints.
๐ง Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in summer, it gets hot with limited shade. Stay hydrated!
๐ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even easy trails can have loose rocks and gravel. +1
๐ธ Capture the Views
Every angle is picturesque; bring your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
๐ Utilize the Scenic Drive
The 7-mile drive offers many pull-offs to access trails and viewpoints.
๐ง Bring Plenty of Water
Especially in summer, it gets hot with limited shade. Stay hydrated!
๐ Wear Comfortable Shoes
Even easy trails can have loose rocks and gravel. +1
๐ธ Capture the Views
Every angle is picturesque; bring your camera!
๐ป Watch for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for deer and other animals, especially during dawn and dusk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Garden of the Gods for its breathtaking natural beauty, unique rock formations, and free admission. The accessibility of trails and the scenic drive make it enjoyable for all ages and fitness levels. Some find parking limited and summer heat intense, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Pros: this is a fairly easy hike/view point. My small children did it wearing dresses and flip flops and we had no water or other supplies. Clearly under prepared for this impromptu hike lol! There is a bathroom and water fountain with decent tasting water at the main walkway. Stroller friendly and handicap friendly (drive past the first parking lot if you would like handicap only parking that is closer to the view point). The only "difficult" part on the main loop is the .2 mile upper loop that takes you up stairs, a few rocks and a small incline, to the top to see a full view. You can then climb higher if you are capable. Just know your limits. Biker, dog, runner friendly. RV and large van friendly but I only saw two dedicated spots. Make sure you go all the way to stop 15 to see the balance rocks and trading post for fun trinkets.
Cons: Limited resting spots and hot during high sun in the summer. Limited parking on busy days.
8/10 recommend."
Muriah Johns
"THIS IS A MUST SEE. And the awesome thing about this park. IT'S ABSOLUTELY FREE. Drive through. Hike. Walk about. There is all kinds of wildlife. Every spot is picturesque. Hike. Bring water. Be prepared. Some hikes are easy but being prepared is just as easy. Be courteous to other hikers. Caution when driving do to wildlife and deer. Amazing views from the top of Palmer Trail. Hiking sticks are a plus. Loose rocks and gravel."
Robert Herrera
"Garden of the Gods is an otherworldly place. The orange rocks contrast the vivid blue sky. We visited on Labor Dat and it was quite busy, but the sites are something to behold. The ground path is suitable for everyone, but I also traveled in some of the rougher areas. There was so much to see, although it's not a vast area. The towering rock formations are breathtaking. The vistas look like they could be in a surrealist painting. It was free to enter which made things even better. Overall, I'd highly recommend this place for any travel itinerary."
Chris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
๐ ๐บ๏ธ Getting There
Garden of the Gods is easily accessible by car. It's located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The main entrance is off 30th Street. The park offers a scenic drive that winds through the rock formations, with numerous parking areas and pull-offs.
While there isn't direct public transportation to the park's core, you can take a bus to a nearby stop and then walk or arrange a short taxi/rideshare. However, driving is the most convenient way to explore the scenic drive and various trailheads.
Many visitors enjoy driving the scenic loop and stopping at various viewpoints. For a more immersive experience, explore the numerous hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels.
Yes, there are several parking lots throughout the park, including at the Visitor Center and various trailheads. Parking can be limited during peak times, so arriving early or late is recommended.
The park can accommodate RVs and large vans, but dedicated spots may be limited. It's advisable to arrive early to secure suitable parking.
๐ซ ๐ซ Tickets & Entry
Garden of the Gods is absolutely free to enter! This makes it a fantastic and budget-friendly natural attraction for everyone.
The park is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. The Visitor & Nature Center has specific operating hours, typically from 9 AM to 5 PM, but always check their official website for the most current information.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. You can visit anytime during park hours.
While the park is free to explore independently, there are often guided jeep tours or other private tour options available in Colorado Springs that can take you through Garden of the Gods, which might be ideal for those who prefer not to hike.
Yes, the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center is free to enter. It offers exhibits, information, and great views of the park.
๐ซ ๐๏ธ Onsite Experience
The main loop and paved pathways are very accessible. The Siamese Twins Trail is relatively easy, and the Central Garden Trail offers stunning views without strenuous climbing. The scenic drive itself allows you to experience the beauty from your car.
Don't miss Balanced Rock, the Siamese Twins, Kissing Camels, and Cathedral Spires. The Central Garden area is packed with iconic formations.
Yes, many of the main paths and the Visitor Center are stroller and wheelchair accessible. The upper loop of the Central Garden Trail involves stairs, but there are accessible viewpoints.
You might spot deer, bighorn sheep, various birds, and even bears (though bear sightings are rare and should be observed from a safe distance).
The best light for photography is during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Experiment with different angles to capture the scale and unique shapes of the red rocks against the sky.
๐ฝ๏ธ ๐ฝ๏ธ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants within the park itself. However, the Trading Post offers trinkets and snacks. You'll find a wide variety of dining options in Colorado Springs just a short drive away.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the scenery. There are designated picnic areas, and you can also find scenic spots to set up your own picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash.
There is a water fountain with decent-tasting water located near the main walkway and Visitor Center. It's recommended to bring your own water bottle to refill.
๐ธ ๐ธ Photography
Everywhere! The Central Garden area, Balanced Rock, and viewpoints along the scenic drive offer incredible photo opportunities. The contrast of the red rocks with the blue sky is stunning.
Sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting, casting a warm glow on the red rocks. Mid-day can be harsh, but the vibrant colors are still impressive.
Drone usage is generally prohibited within Garden of the Gods to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check park regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast landscapes and towering formations. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the sky and rock colors.
While the main attractions can be busy, exploring some of the less-trafficked trails or visiting during off-peak hours can lead to more secluded photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
๐จโ๐ฉโ๐ง Families with Kids
Look for wildlife like deer, which are often seen grazing. The park's free entry makes it an economical choice for family outings. Consider a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas to make the most of your visit.
๐ถโโ๏ธ Solo Travelers & Non-Hikers
+1Focus on the accessible trails like the Central Garden Trail or the Siamese Twins Trail for a taste of exploration. The Visitor Center also provides great insights into the park's geology and history.
๐ธ Photographers
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the vastness and unique shapes. Don't forget to look for wildlife and capture the interplay of light and shadow on the rocks. The park's free entry means you can visit multiple times to catch different lighting conditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Scenic Drive
+1Many visitors recommend taking your time along the drive, stopping at as many overlooks as possible. The drive itself is an attraction, with the landscape constantly unfolding around you. It's a fantastic way to get a comprehensive overview of the park's geological wonders. Remember to be cautious of other visitors and wildlife when pulling over and exiting your vehicle.
For the best experience, consider driving the loop during the early morning or late afternoon. The softer light enhances the vibrant red hues of the rocks and reduces the number of other vehicles and visitors, making for a more serene and picturesque journey.
Hiking Trails for Every Level
More adventurous hikers can explore trails like the Siamese Twins Trail, a moderate loop offering unique rock formations and panoramic vistas, or the Palmer Trail, which provides longer, more challenging routes with stunning views of the park and Pikes Peak. Regardless of your chosen trail, always be prepared with water, sun protection, and sturdy footwear, as some paths can be rocky and uneven.
Many visitors find that even the shorter, easier trails offer incredible scenery and photo opportunities. The key is to choose a trail that matches your comfort level and to take your time enjoying the otherworldly landscape.
Wildlife Encounters
Birdwatchers will find plenty to observe, with various species of raptors and songbirds inhabiting the park. While less common, there have been reports of bears in the area. If you are fortunate enough to see wildlife, it's crucial to maintain a safe distance, never feed them, and avoid disturbing their natural behavior.
Observing wildlife adds another layer of wonder to your visit. Remember that you are in their natural habitat, so responsible viewing is essential for both your safety and the animals' well-being.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit