Garden of the Gods Colorado Day Trip

A registered National Natural Landmark in Colorado, the Garden of the Gods, is home to stunning sandstone rock formations that stretch into the skies—making up the front range of the Rocky Mountains. The rock features of this public park date back millions of years since being created by an uprising along a fault line.

Visitors can look forward to dramatic views of the towering sandstone rock formations against a backdrop of brilliant blue skies and snow mountains surrounding Pikes Peak. Garden of the Gods is one of the most picturesque destinations in Colorado and a must-see for anyone traveling through the area.

Garden of the Gods Visitor Center

The visitor center is the best place to start your journey into this historic public park. Inside the center, you will learn about the rock formations and view several interactive exhibits. There is also an informative Geo-Trekker Theater movie experience. A well-stocked souvenir shop and the Bean Sprouts Café can also be found in the visitor center.

Guided Nature Walk

A great way to explore the park’s flora, fauna, and geology is on a free guided nature walk. The naturalist-led walk is held twice daily at 10 am and 2 pm, starting at the American Flagpole near the Visitor Center. The naturalists are well versed in areas making for a very informative experience.

Rock Climbing at Garden of the Gods

The stunning rock formations in the park make it a rock-climbing paradise. The park is one of the world’s most historic climbing venues. Sign up for a Front Range Climbing pass that allows you to scramble, climb or rappel, or if you have rock climbing experience, then spend the whole day climbing these mighty rocks. Remember to register at the Visitor Center before you embark.

Hiking Through Garden of the Gods

There is much to explore in this beautiful park, and a great way to see it is to hike along its many trails. Free trail maps are available from the Visitor Center’s Information Desk. There are fifteen miles of trails to choose from in the garden. Hiking opportunities range from easy to moderate levels of difficulty.

Biking The Trails

If you’re more of a bike person, the park offers bike rentals and bike tours. Electric bikes make riding the hilly terrain surprisingly easy, irrespective of how old you are or how fit you are. Mountain bike rentals are also offered for a self-guided tour of the park. You can even bring your bike to cycle around the Garden of the Gods.

Junior Ranger Program

The park runs a Junior Ranger Program for kids between the ages of 7 and 12. Pick up a fun-filled activity booklet from the Visitor Center, and earn a badge and certificate, along with a public announcement over the PA system on the successful completion of the activity booklet.

Getting There

Admission to the park and the visitor center is free. Dogs on leashes are allowed in the Garden of the Gods Park. The monument is at the foot of the Rocky Mountains at 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO. Visit the park website for more information.

More Colorado Day Trip Ideas

White Sands National Monument

Pinnacles National Park