Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods is Colorado's most visited natural attraction—and it's completely free. The 300-million-year-old red sandstone formations tower against a backdrop of Pikes Peak, creating one of the most photographed landscapes in the American West. Unlike most iconic parks, this one sits right in Colorado Springs, accessible without entrance fees, park passes, or reservations.

The name comes from surveyors in 1859 who declared it "a fit place for the gods to assemble." They weren't exaggerating. The formations—some reaching 300 feet—glow orange and red at sunrise and sunset, creating scenes that look almost too dramatic to be real. Whether you have an hour or a full day, this is the single must-do in Colorado Springs.

The Formations

Balanced Rock is the park's icon—a massive red boulder perched impossibly on a pedestal. Accessible via a short paved trail, it's the most photographed formation in the park. Early morning offers the best light and smallest crowds.

Kissing Camels are exactly what they sound like—two rock formations that resemble camels touching noses. Best viewed from the North Parking Lot area. The resemblance is genuine and not a stretch of imagination.

Cathedral Spires rise dramatically near the park's center, their jagged silhouettes creating the classic Garden of the Gods profile. These are popular with rock climbers (permit required).

Gateway Rocks frame the main road through the park. Driving between these towering formations gives you a sense of scale that photographs can't capture.

Trails

Perkins Central Garden Trail (1.5 miles, easy) is the main paved loop through the heart of the park. Wheelchair and stroller accessible. Passes most major formations and offers the essential Garden of the Gods experience.

Siamese Twins Trail (1 mile, easy) leads to a unique formation with a window framing Pikes Peak. One of the park's most iconic photo opportunities.

Palmer Trail (3+ miles, moderate) circles the park's perimeter, offering views from different angles. Connects to Palmer Park for extended hiking options.

Scotsman Trail (0.8 miles, moderate) climbs to overlooks above the formations. Short but steep, with rewarding views of the rock garden below.

Rock Climbing

Technical climbing is permitted on many formations with a free permit from the Visitor Center. The sandstone requires specific techniques—it's not granite. Many classic routes exist, but climbers should understand the rock type before attempting.

Guided climbing is available through authorized outfitters. Good option for beginners or those unfamiliar with sandstone climbing. The setting is spectacular.

Bouldering is not permitted—the park restricts climbing to roped routes to protect both climbers and formations.

Visitor Center

Location: At the park's south entrance, the Visitor and Nature Center offers exhibits on geology, wildlife, and Native American history. Free entry, though some programs have fees.

Exhibits explain how the formations developed—ancient seabeds tilted vertical by the same forces that created the Rocky Mountains. The 14-minute film is worth watching if you have time.

Gift shop and café provide souvenirs and refreshments. The terrace offers views of the formations.

Visiting Tips

Arrive early. Parking fills quickly, especially on summer weekends. The park opens at 5 AM—serious photographers arrive for sunrise. By mid-morning, finding parking near popular trailheads becomes challenging.

Sunset is equally spectacular. The rocks glow intensely in the last hour of daylight. Plan to stay until the light fades for the full experience.

One-way roads: Much of the park uses one-way traffic flow. This helps manage congestion but means you can't simply turn around. Plan your route accordingly.

Weather awareness: The park is exposed with little shade. Summer afternoons are hot, and thunderstorms develop quickly. Carry water and watch the sky.