Garden of the Gods

The basics

On the outskirts of Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods is a convenient and spectacular spot to enjoy Colorado's red rock country. Tour options range from Segway, Jeep, walking, and photo tours to guided rock-climbing excursions. Travelers can also combine their visit with a stop at nearby Pikes Peak or a Jeep tour of the Red Canyon Loop.

Things to know before you go

• This city park is a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

• Dogs are welcome on a 6-foot leash; cleanup bags are available at the visitor center.

• The 1.5-mile (2.5-kilometer) Perkins Central Garden Trail is both wheelchair and stroller accessible.

• The Garden of the Gods offers little shade—bring sunblock, a hat, and water, especially in summer.

• The park offers several picnic areas, as well as a café.

How to get there

The park is located in the Pikes Peak region of the Rocky Mountains, not far from the city of Colorado Springs. Garden of the Gods parking lots have more than 330 spaces, though they can fill up in summer. Many guided Garden of the Gods tours do not include round-trip transportation from Colorado Springs, but tours from Denver and Cañon City generally do.

When to get there

The Garden of the Gods is open and accessible year round, but the best time to visit is during the shoulder season—from September to April—when the weather is cooler, parking is easier to find, and there are fewer crowds. Arriving in the early morning or late afternoon means more shade on the trails and the chance to watch a spectacular sunrise or sunset.

How did the Garden of the Gods form?

The Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center doubles as a natural and cultural history museum. Visitors can learn about the geology, wildlife, people, and history of the park through a series of interactive exhibits. A highlight is the Geo-Trekker Theater, where a 15-minute video digs into the park's history while offering amazing views from an aerial drone.

How long does Garden of the Gods take to tour?

Garden of the Gods usually takes an hour or two to tour. However, many people visit the Garden of the Gods as part of a full-day tour that also goes to Pikes Peak. These tours generally last a full day if you factor in transit time from central Colorado Springs.

Do you need a reservation to go to Garden of the Gods?

No, you do not need a reservation to go to the Garden of the Gods. Entry is free and Garden of the Gods tickets are not required. However, if you plan to visit as part of a tour, it's wise to book your tour in advance to guarantee your spot, particularly if you're visiting in the summer.

What is the best time of day to go to Garden of the Gods?

The best time to visit Garden of the Gods is first thing in the morning, particularly if you're visiting during the summertime. This will allow you to beat the heat of the day and avoid crowds. If you come early enough, you can even catch the sunrise.

Is Garden of the Gods worth the trip?

Yes, Garden of the Gods is worth the trip, particularly if you love hiking in the great outdoors or are into photography. Travelers who'd rather just take in the views will likely enjoy their visit, as it's easy to comfortably enjoy the park without getting out of your vehicle.

How do you spend a day at Garden of the Gods?

With a full day in the Garden of the Gods, you'll have plenty of time to explore. You can spend your morning hiking and taking photographs, stop for a mid-day picnic lunch or a bite at the on-site cafe, and then devote your afternoon to rock climbing or exploring by Jeep or segway.

Can you drive your own car through Garden of the Gods?

Yes, you can drive your own car through Garden of the Gods. There are plenty of areas to park or pull over if you want to take photos, traffic permitting. Some people find it easier to join a Jeep tour instead so that they can leave the driving to someone else.

Ways to explore

On the outskirts of Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods is a convenient and spectacular spot to enjoy Colorado's red rock country, just minutes from town. Beyond simply exploring on your own two feet—overlooks and trails wind throughout the park— tour options range from Segway, Jeep, walking, and photo tours to guided rock-climbing excursions suitable for intermediates and pros. Travelers can also combine their visit with a stop at nearby Pikes Peak or a Jeep tour of the Red Canyon Loop.

Accessibility

The Garden of the Gods is surprisingly accessible, from the accessible Visitor and Nature Center to wheelchair rentals to the park’s accessible, open-air Jeep to paved trails.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, sunscreen, camera, snacks, layers for changing weather conditions

What to wear

Comfortable, layered clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, hat/sunglasses

Not allowed

Dogs off-leash, littering, defacing rocks and petroglyphs, drones

Amenities

Visitor center, restrooms, café, gift shop, wheelchairs for rent

Address 

Garden of the Gods is located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, about 70 miles (112 kilometers) south of Denver. The park is easily accessible by car or guided tour.

Driving

From Denver, the Garden of the Gods is roughly 90 minutes away via Interstate 25. There are various small parking lots spread throughout the park, but they fill up early and often.

Public transportation

Shuttle buses run during the summer months between Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center, the Overflow Parking Lot, and the intersection of Gateway Road and Juniper Way Loop. Otherwise, your best bet is a guided tour—there are tons of options out of Colorado Springs.

Best times to visit

Garden of the Gods is busy in the warmer months. The closer you can get there to opening time (typically 5am), the better.

Best months to visit

Try to avoid summer, as it's busy. Spring and fall are great for mild weather and slightly smaller crowds. Winter is nice, too, with the contrast of snow against the red rocks (and the relative lack of visitors).

Special events

Daily programming can be found at the Visitor and Nature Center in the warmer months. There are also a few special events, like the Garden of the Gods Arts Festival, typically in May.