Garden of the Gods Park is an adventure of dramatic sandstone rock formations and stunning views of Pikes Peak.
Getting off the paved paths, away from the crowds is a magical hiking experience.
When I venture down from the mountains to meet up with a friend of mine in Colorado Springs, we always end up here. She and I have a favorite route that we hike leading us around the “paved paths” into “wilder, less crowded, beautiful terrain.
BEYOND the PAVED PATHS, to WHERE the LOCALS GO
There are 21 miles of trails within the park, each mile as stunning as the next. It’s never a disappointment, no matter the weather or the time of year.
Fall, winter & spring are pristine times to hike, with fewer crowds, crisp air & snow-capped Pikes Peak views, it’s simply captivating.
Getting away from the busy Park attractions and hiking the trails is truly like no other hike you will find in Colorado.
Download a MAP of Garden of the Gods trails or pick up a free color map at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center information desk.
GARDEN ROCK FORMATIONS
Many of the rock formations have names located on the Garden of the Gods Map. Above (left/top) are the Siamese Twins.
Garden of the Gods is becoming a worldwide destination. One not to be missed. Its rugged beauty will leave you awestruck.
Garden of the Gods Trading Post is fabulous. Don’t miss it! Gobs of goodies, souvenirs, high-end merchandise, and specialty foods inside. People milling about from all over the world. You will spend lots of time here. Balanced Rock Cafe inside the Trading Post has a wonderful outdoor patio to start or end your day. TIP: ask for a glass and you can get free water. We refuel here…
Our FAVORITE TRAILS in Garden of the Gods
We start at the Visitor Center and hike Gateway Trail, taking a right onto Susan G. Bretag Trail, which turns into Palmer Trail with views of Pikes Peak and views looking down into the Stunning garden area. Palmer trail takes you to the Siamese Twins trail then onto Balanced Rock Trail. Now you are at the Trading Post.
We head back the same way we came adding Cabin Canyon Trail on the way back. Beautiful area. CLICK HERE for a map!
Of course, there are so many options to choose from for a short or longer hike. Or schedule a guided hike.
NOTABLE
Garden of the Gods offers much more than just hiking.
Make sure to wander in the Visitor & Nature Center.
Open year-round
Visit the Garden of the Gods website for updates on hours, tours, events, and trail maps.
Dogs ok on a leash
Busy in the summer months, if possible, fall, winter, and early spring are beautiful times to explore & hike.
Family Friendly
It’s FREE!
Nathan Hydration Packs, are perfect for short hikes.
Altra Lone Peak is my new favorite shoe for short hikes.
You can’t go wrong with a Colorado Mountain Club Hike Book!
FAVORTIE HIKES NEARBY
Seven Bridges Trail
The Crags Trail
Spruce Mountain Trail
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