High Point Overlook
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. Easily accessible with stunning sunrise and sunset light.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
High Point Overlook
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak. Easily accessible with stunning sunrise and sunset light.
"The view is breathtaking…layers of soft desert hues, dramatic ridgelines, and a sky that seems to stretch forever."
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The 30-space lot fills quickly, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning or late afternoon.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Sunset and sunrise offer stunning light for photos and a peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Sunset Views
Garden of the Gods
Witness breathtaking layers of desert hues, dramatic ridgelines, and an endless sky. A truly humbling and peaceful experience.
Sunrise Spectacle
Garden of the Gods
Experience the landscape transform with magical light and shadow play as the sun rises over the formations.
Pikes Peak Backdrop
Garden of the Gods
Marvel at the majestic Pikes Peak, often snow-capped, contrasting with the vibrant red sandstone.
Central Garden Formations
Garden of the Gods
Gaze upon the iconic sculpted red sandstone fins of the Central Garden from a prime vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The 30-space lot fills quickly, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning or late afternoon.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Sunset and sunrise offer stunning light for photos and a peaceful atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Easy Access for All
Paved, accessible paths make it easy for everyone to enjoy the views.
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
Ideal for engagement, elopement, or family photos with dramatic backdrops.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
The 30-space lot fills quickly, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning or late afternoon.
🌅 Chase the Golden Hour
Sunset and sunrise offer stunning light for photos and a peaceful atmosphere.
🚶♀️ Easy Access for All
Paved, accessible paths make it easy for everyone to enjoy the views.
📸 Perfect for Photoshoots
Ideal for engagement, elopement, or family photos with dramatic backdrops.
🚫 No Facilities On-Site
Bring your own water and snacks; there are no restrooms or cafes here.
🐶 Leashed Pets Welcome
Enjoy the views with your furry friends, as long as they are on a leash.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise High Point Overlook for its absolutely stunning, breathtaking panoramic views of desert hues, ridgelines, and expansive skies. It's described as peaceful, humbling, and a must-see for its otherworldly light transformations, especially at sunrise and sunset. The easy accessibility and free entry are major draws, making it a quintessential Colorado experience.
"We visited High Point Overlook for sunset and it was absolutely stunning. The view is breathtaking…layers of soft desert hues, dramatic ridgelines, and a sky that seems to stretch forever. It’s peaceful, expansive, and somehow humbling in the best way.
This spot is a must-see, whether you’re up early for sunrise or winding down at golden hour. The light here transforms the landscape into something almost otherworldly. Bring a blanket, something warm to drink, and give yourself time to just be with it.
Easy to access, not overly crowded, and one of the most memorable moments of our trip so far."
Jane Davidson
"High Point Overlook is a must-visit gem nestled just south of the Garden of the Gods loop. Tucked off Ridge Road, it’s a convenient pull-off with a parking area for about 30 cars, making it one of the most accessible vantage points in the park . From the moment you step out of your car, you’re greeted by sweeping panoramic views: the sculpted red sandstone fins of the Central Garden, Pikes Peak towering to the west, and layers of mountain ridges stretching across the horizon .
The overlook is thoughtfully designed for everyone—there’s an ADA-accessible path and a shaded pergola with informational signs that enrich the experience . The setting is serene, making it ideal for a family outing, a photographer’s golden-hour session, or even a special moment like a proposal or engagement photo shoot . Hollywood-worthy backdrops abound, with Pikes Peak often draped in snow, contrasting beautifully against rust-red rock and seasonal foliage .
While there aren’t restrooms or a café on site, its simplicity is part of the appeal. If you’re up for a short stroll, a spur trail leads off toward the Old Colorado City Trail for a bit more adventure . And if you arrive early—especially around sunrise or sunset—you’ll beat the heavier midday tourists and enjoy those breathtaking light-and-shadow plays across the formations .
A few key details to know:
Parking: Roughly 30 spaces, including ADA spots. The lot fills up fast on weekends, so early arrival is wise .
Accessibility: Paved, gentle pathways accessible for wheelchairs and strollers .
Cost: Free—no entrance fee, reservations, or permits required. Leashed pets are welcome .
In summary: High Point Overlook delivers major impact with minimal effort. Easy parking, smooth access, epic views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, and a peaceful vibe all around. It’s a quintessential Colorado experience that deserves a spot on any must-see list."
Chinmay S
"High Point Overlook is one of the most accessible spots in Garden of the Gods, zero hiking, just a short walk from the nearby parking lot. It offers sweeping views, wide open skies, and that classic Colorado backdrop that makes it a favorite for engagement and elopement photos.
It’s a high-traffic area for a reason, but catching it early in the morning or on a weekday helps beat the crowds. Summers are heavy with tourists because of it's easy accessibility. If you're looking for a location that's easy, scenic, and delivers every time, this is the spot."
Manny Herrera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
High Point Overlook is located just south of the main Garden of the Gods loop, off Ridge Road. It's a convenient pull-off with a dedicated parking area.
Yes, it's a well-marked and easily accessible spot within Garden of the Gods Park. Look for signs directing you to the overlook.
Absolutely! You can drive right up to the overlook and park in the adjacent lot.
From the main Garden of the Gods Visitor Center, follow the main park road. Turn onto Ridge Road, and the overlook will be clearly marked.
Public transportation options are limited for direct access to High Point Overlook. Driving is the most common and convenient method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, High Point Overlook is completely free to visit. There are no entrance fees, reservations, or permits required.
Garden of the Gods Park, including High Point Overlook, is generally open from sunrise to sunset. It's recommended to check the official park website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
No, Garden of the Gods Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee.
Reservations are not required for High Point Overlook. It's a first-come, first-served basis for parking.
While rare, closures can occur for maintenance or special events. It's always a good idea to check the park's official website or social media for any last-minute updates.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset are prime times for photography due to the dramatic lighting and softer shadows. The 'golden hour' before sunset is particularly stunning.
You can capture panoramic landscapes, close-ups of the red rock formations, Pikes Peak, and the expansive sky. It's a popular spot for portraits and engagement photos.
With minimal light pollution away from the main park road, High Point Overlook can offer decent opportunities for astrophotography, especially during new moon phases.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of Pikes Peak or rock formations.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the specific park regulations before flying a drone.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
No, High Point Overlook is very accessible. You can walk a short distance from the parking lot to the viewing area. There's also a spur trail for a short stroll.
Yes, High Point Overlook features ADA-accessible paved pathways, making it easy for wheelchairs and strollers to navigate.
It can get crowded, especially during peak hours (midday) and on weekends. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
You can relax, take photos, enjoy a picnic, and connect with nature. A spur trail also offers a short walking option.
Yes, leashed pets are welcome at High Point Overlook and throughout Garden of the Gods Park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to enjoy with the stunning views, or simply let the kids marvel at the unique rock formations. The overlook provides a safe and engaging environment for children to experience the natural beauty of Garden of the Gods. It’s a memorable stop that requires minimal planning and offers maximum visual reward.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1This spot is particularly popular for engagement and elopement photoshoots, but any landscape or portrait photographer will find ample inspiration. The accessibility means you can set up your gear without a long trek. Be prepared for crowds during peak times, but early mornings or weekdays can offer more solitude for capturing that perfect shot.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Bring a blanket, some favorite snacks, and enjoy the serene ambiance as the light paints the landscape. The ease of access means you can focus on each other and the incredible scenery without any hassle. It’s a simple yet profound way to connect and create lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Golden Hour
Beyond the visual spectacle, the atmosphere during these times is often serene. The daytime crowds thin out, allowing for a more contemplative experience. It's a moment to connect with the vastness of the landscape and appreciate the natural beauty of Colorado Springs. Whether you're seeking a romantic setting or a moment of quiet reflection, the golden hours at High Point Overlook deliver an unforgettable experience.
Pro Tip: Check the exact sunrise and sunset times for your visit and plan to arrive at least 30-45 minutes beforehand to secure a good spot and witness the full spectacle.
Accessibility and Inclusivity at High Point
This inclusive design makes High Point Overlook an ideal destination for families with young children, seniors, and anyone who prefers not to undertake strenuous hikes. The presence of a shaded pergola with informational signs further enhances the visitor experience, providing context and comfort. It's a place where diverse groups can gather and share in the natural wonder without barriers.
Key Features: ADA-accessible paths, shaded pergola, minimal walking required from parking. This thoughtful planning makes High Point Overlook a truly welcoming spot for all visitors.
Photography Hotspot: Capturing the Colorado Landscape
It's particularly popular for engagement and elopement photoshoots, with the dramatic natural backdrop providing a stunning setting for memorable portraits. The interplay of light and shadow, especially during sunrise and sunset, creates a magical ambiance that photographers seek. Even with a smartphone, visitors can capture impressive shots of the unique geological formations and the grandeur of the surrounding mountains.
Photography Tips: Utilize a wide-angle lens for expansive views, a telephoto lens for Pikes Peak details, and be patient for the best light during golden hours. Remember to respect other visitors and the natural environment while capturing your shots.
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