Garden of the Gods Tours

Garden of the Gods showing mountains and tranquil scenes
Garden of the Gods featuring a gorge or canyon
Colorado featuring hiking or walking, a gorge or canyon and desert views
Garden of the Gods which includes mountains
Garden of the Gods which includes signage and a gorge or canyon


Get a taste for the Colorado landscape as you explore this huge city park on your own or during a guided bus or Segway tour.

The rugged landscape of the western states of America has long been central to the region’s reputation as the Wild West and the Garden of the Gods is a stunning example of this terrain. As the low, grassy plains around Denver give way to dense woodlands, a series of rock formations rise dramatically upwards. These phenomenal red rocks are the centerpieces of the 1,367-acre (553-hectare) Garden of the Gods park, a favorite destination for hikers, mountain bikers and other lovers of the great outdoors.

Spend a day exploring the expansive natural landscape of Colorado. A network of scenic drives will take you through the park and many of the biggest attractions can be seen from the road. Stop a while at the site of the delicately poised Balanced Rock, one of the most photographed rock formations in the area. 

While you may feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, the Garden of the Gods is located just outside of Colorado Springs and just an hour's drive from Denver. Those eager to really go off the beaten track will love the trails that take you through gorges, over mountains and between the huge rocks. Trek through the wilderness on the Siamese Twins Trail, one of the park’s most popular hikes. 

There are also 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) of paved paths, which are accessible by people in wheelchairs or families with strollers.

Guesthouses and restaurants are located on the edge of the park. Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot to enjoy the scenic views of Pikes Peak. 

Pick up maps and trail recommendations at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center. The park is located approximately 67 miles (108 kilometers) south of Denver and is best reached by car. There is no fee for entry. Parking is also free. On some of the busier public holidays, a four-wheel drive vehicle or coach bus tour is available for a fee to take you around the park. Segway tours are another option to explore this amazing landscape.

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Reviews of Garden of the Gods

4.8
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
1247
5 - Excellent 82%
4 - Good
243
4 - Good 16%
3 - Okay
29
3 - Okay 2%
2 - Disappointing
4
2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
2
1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Be prepared for crowds!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

We went to the trading center also.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Get there early or later in the afternoon.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

This is a small park of rock formations. You drive through it, with occasional parking stops to get out and walk through the formations... very scenic.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Beautiful place to walk and enjoy the scenery. Many picture ops

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Take enough time to see the whole area, and hike around its many trails. A full day trip is worthwhile, particularly if the weather is good. The Trading Post has quite a bit of artistically created items that would be of interest to those aesthetically inclined. Nearby is a beautiful place called Glen Eyrie, now owned and run by the Christian group called the Navigators. It is also exceptionally unusual in its location and scenery, and has a unique history as well as an ongoing relationship to larger communities in the area as well as internationally that is very impressive,

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods Resort and Club

Garden of the Gods Resort and Club

4 out of 5
3320 Mesa Rd, Colorado Springs, CO
Garden of the Gods Resort and Club
Quality Inn and Suites Garden of the Gods

Quality Inn and Suites Garden of the Gods

2.5 out of 5
555 W Garden Of Gods Rd, Colorado Springs, CO
Quality Inn and Suites Garden of the Gods
Best Western Plus Fillmore Inn & Suites

Best Western Plus Fillmore Inn & Suites

3 out of 5
3150 N Chestnut St, Colorado Springs, CO
Best Western Plus Fillmore Inn & Suites
Glen Eyrie Castle & Conference Center A Ministry of the Navigators

Glen Eyrie Castle & Conference Center A Ministry of the Navigators

2.5 out of 5
3820 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO
Glen Eyrie Castle & Conference Center A Ministry of the Navigators
Magnuson Grand Pikes Peak

Magnuson Grand Pikes Peak

2.5 out of 5
45 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO
Magnuson Grand Pikes Peak
Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort

2 out of 5
2 El Paso Boulevard, Colorado Springs, CO
Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort
Days Inn by Wyndham Manitou Springs

Days Inn by Wyndham Manitou Springs

2.5 out of 5
120 Manitou Ave, Manitou Springs, CO
Days Inn by Wyndham Manitou Springs
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Manitou Springs by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Manitou Springs by IHG

2.5 out of 5
114 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs, CO
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Manitou Springs by IHG
The San Ayre Court

The San Ayre Court

2 out of 5
3320 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO
The San Ayre Court
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Garden of the Gods

At Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including hiking, rock climbing, and taking in stunning sunrises. For those looking for additional amenities, there are nearby golf courses and wellness centers, along with opportunities to experience live music, making for a well-rounded vacation experience filled with outdoor adventure and relaxation.

Shopping

The nearest shopping option is Ruxton's Trading Post, located 4.8km from Garden of the Gods, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. Chapel Hills Mall, 9.7km away, features various shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, the Focus on the Family Welcome Center is 11.3km away.

Recreation

At Red Rock Canyon Open Space, immerse yourself in nature with hiking and meditation, just 3.2km from Garden of the Gods. Experience elite training at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center, 8.0km away, or enjoy the luxury amenities at Colorado Springs Country Club, located 6.4km from the park.

Adventure

Experience the Manitou Incline, a challenging hiking trail located 6.4km from Garden of the Gods, offering stunning scenery and outdoor adventure. For family fun, visit the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, located 14.5km away, featuring thrilling water slides and entertainment. Climb at The Sport Climbing Center, just 4.8km away, for an exhilarating sports experience.

Nightlife

In Garden of the Gods, Cosmo's Magic Theater enchants with its romantic and cultural performances, while Edith Kinney Gaylord Cornerstone Arts Center offers a similar vibe. For family fun, head to Arcade Amusements, where adventure awaits just a short drive away.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Garden of the Gods

At Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, visitors can enjoy a mix of history and culture, with attractions like museums and universities. This stunning park offers outdoor experiences paired with local points of interest, including the iconic Gods Park and the intriguing Gods Club. Whether you're seeking adventure or a deeper understanding of the area's rich heritage, there's something for everyone to explore in this beautiful setting.

  • Glen Eyrie Castle: Nestled just 1.6km from Garden of the Gods, this enchanting castle offers a glimpse into the past with its stunning architecture and romantic ambiance. Explore its beautiful grounds and learn about its rich history, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
  • Cave of the Winds: Located 4.8km away, this thrilling cave system invites adventure seekers to explore its rugged beauty. Experience guided tours featuring breathtaking rock formations and exhilarating activities like the Wind Walker Challenge Course and the thrilling cave rides.
  • Colorado College: Also 4.8km from the park, this modern college campus boasts vibrant city vibes. Stroll through its picturesque grounds, admire contemporary architecture, and soak in the lively atmosphere of student life.

Best time to go to Garden of the Gods

The best time to visit Garden of the Gods is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January26.2°F (-3.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February27.0°F (-2.8°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March36.3°F (2.4°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April43.3°F (6.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
July68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September61.3°F (16.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October46.9°F (8.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
November36.0°F (2.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December26.8°F (-2.9°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Garden of the Gods

To save money on your trip to the Garden of the Gods, consider visiting in the off-peak months of January, February, or November for lower accommodation rates, especially on Tuesdays. Avoid Saturdays, as they are typically the most expensive. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and explore package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options, and always check for enticing offers to maximize your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Garden of the Gods are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Garden of the Gods is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Garden of the Gods is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool gives you the flexibility to set your budget and choose your desired location, among other preferences. You can easily arrange your search results to display the lowest prices first, helping you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel category; for instance, if you check the Eco-certified filter, you'll uncover a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at the Garden of the Gods with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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