Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is exactly as spectacular as everyone says it is.. The park is a stunning collection of towering red rock formations—dramatic, otherworldly, and completely free to explore—just about an hour from Denver with the Rocky Mountains as your backdrop.
Bring the whole family. Kids absolutely love Garden of the Gods, and with good reason—the Garden of the Gods hiking trails range from easy paved loops to scramble-worthy paths that feel like a real adventure. Chris and I have been visiting for years, and it never gets old. Solo travelers and adults without kids will love it just as much—the photography alone is worth the trip.
20 Reasons Kids LOVE Garden of the Gods (And Adults Too!)
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Garden of the Gods offers a variety of guided activities that are informative and fun for guests of all ages. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, you’ll quickly discover that this park delivers for everyone—families with kids, couples on an evening stroll, solo adventurers, and everyone in between.
1. Nature Walks
Start your visit at the Garden of Gods Visitor Center—it’s free, world-class, and the perfect launching pad for exploring the park. From there, join a guided nature walk led by Park Naturalists, departing daily and following the Gateway Trail toward the Central Garden Trail. Walks run 45–60 minutes. Reservations are required.
2. Explore Rock Ledge Ranch
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is a living history museum tucked right inside Garden of the Gods Park. Historical interpreters in period-appropriate clothing bring the past to life through tours, demonstrations, and hands-on activities—giving visitors a genuine glimpse into daily life on the frontier. It’s one of those unexpected highlights that kids and adults both walk away talking about.
3. Rock Climbing Classes
Garden of the Gods is one of the oldest climbing areas in the United States—and with routes available for all skill levels, it’s a fantastic way to experience the park from a whole new angle. Sign up for a rock climbing class and earn a bird’s-eye view of those spectacular formations. Kids especially love the adventurous side of the Garden.
One important note: all climbers must complete a rock climbing permit before heading up. Climbing without one can result in a fine of up to $500 and loss of climbing privileges for up to 12 months. Don’t skip this step.
4. Balanced Rock
Head to the south end of the park to find one of Garden of the Gods’ most photographed landmarks—Balanced Rock. It’s busy for good reason. Kids love scrambling around it, the photo opportunities are fantastic, and yes, it will even impress your teenagers. Save it for the end of your visit and make it your last stop before heading out.
5. Scramble On the Rock Formations
You only have to walk a few steps along the Garden of the Gods hiking trails before you encounter impressive rock formations begging to be climbed. Kids will be scrambling before you even finish reading the trail map—and honestly, the adults won’t be far behind. It’s hands-on geology at its finest..
6. Bike or Electric Bike Tours
Hop on an e-bike and let the technology do the hill work while you soak in the scenery. A knowledgeable guide will lead you to the best Instagrammable views in Garden of the Gods while sharing the history and features of the park along the way. Open to all ages—no prior biking experience required.
7. Jeep, Trolley & Segway Tours
Discover endless Instagrammable views in Garden of the Gods on a variety of touring vehicles: jeep, trolley or segway. You will absolutely love the views, local animal life, plant life and the amazing rock formations in the park. Delve into the history of the park, see the amazing geological wonders of the Kissing Camels, the Sleeping Giant, the Praying Hands, and Three Graces, and maybe hear a few tall tales along the way.
Book a guided tour through Viator:
8. Free Summer Shuttles
Here’s one of the best Garden of the Gods tips for families: after a long day of exploring and climbing, nobody wants to walk back to the car. The free summer shuttle runs a loop connecting Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site, the Visitor & Nature Center, the overflow parking lot near Juniper Way Loop, and the Central Garden Trail. Shuttles depart approximately every 15 minutes—just sit back and let someone else do the driving.
9. Horseback Riding
Garden of the Gods welcomes equestrians on several designated trails—a genuinely unique way to experience the park. If you’re hauling a trailer, note that Parking Lot 16 near Balanced Rock and the Trading Post is the only lot that accommodates larger vehicles and trailers.
Horseback trails at Garden of the Gods:
- Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop (easy)
- Gateway and Susan G. Bretag Trail Loop (easy)
- Buckskin Charlie Trail Loop (moderate)
10. Junior Ranger Program
Did you know that ALL ages are welcome to participate in the Junior Ranger Program? Another great reason why kids love Garden of the Gods…and kids at heart. After purchasing your booklet from the gift shop at the Visitor Center, it will take 1 to 2 hours to complete the Junior Ranger activities. Be sure to turn your booklet in for a patch or sticker and a certificate of completion.
11. Shop for Souvenirs
No visit to Garden of the Gods is complete without a stop at the iconic Garden of the Gods Trading Post, established in 1900 at the south end of the park. Pick up souvenirs, mementos, and—most importantly—the famous fudge. The Visitor Center also has a souvenir shop if you’re already there. Either way, don’t leave without the fudge.
12. Eat at Gateway Cafe or Balanced Rock Cafe
When hunger hits after a day of hiking and scrambling, you have two solid options. The Balanced Rock Cafe inside the Trading Post and the Gateway Cafe at the Visitor Center both offer casual, family-friendly menus—think cheeseburgers, pizza, and ice cream. Something for everyone.
Prefer to bring your own food? Picnic areas are scattered throughout the park and make for a great midday break with a view.
13. Kids Indoor Scavenger Hunt
The Kids Indoor Scavenger Hunt is designed for children ages 2–10 and is one of those activities that keeps little ones genuinely engaged. Held on the upper level of the exhibition hall at the Visitor Center, the hunt includes the Geo-Trekker Movie and a snack—making it a complete experience on its own. All children must be accompanied by an adult and registered to participate.
14. An Adventure Challenge
Think escape room meets treasure hunt—except you’re outdoors in one of the most stunning parks in Colorado. The Adventure Challenge through Amp’d Adventures takes groups of 2–6 throughout the center of Garden of the Gods, completing a series of challenges, solving clues, and racing against the clock. Designed for ages 6 and up, it runs 90–120 minutes and includes the Geo-Trekker Movie experience. Whether you’re in it for the competition or just the fun, it’s an interactive experience the whole family will talk about long after you leave.
15. Watch the Geo-Trekker Movie at the Theater
Step back in time a billion years at the Geo-Trekker Theater inside the Visitor Center. In just 15 minutes you’ll travel through the history of dinosaurs, ancient sea monsters, and millions of years of local geology—plus stunning aerial drone footage of Garden of the Gods from above. It’s a great way to add context to everything you’re seeing in the park, and kids are genuinely fascinated by it.
16. See the One and Only Theiophytalia Kerri Dinosaur Species
Garden of the Gods is home to something you won’t find anywhere else on the planet—the world’s only known fossil of the Theiophytalia kerri dinosaur, discovered right here in the park. It’s on display at the Visitor Center and is exactly the kind of unexpected highlight that makes kids’ eyes go wide. One park, one fossil, nowhere else on Earth.
17. Take a Self-Guided Audio Tour
Much like the GuideAlong Audio Tours (formerly known as GyPSy Guide), Garden of the Gods offers its own self-guided audio tour of the park—and it’s completely free. Listen through your headphones on foot or through your car speakers as you drive through. It’s a great way to absorb the history and geology of the park at your own pace without committing to a scheduled tour.
Explore Garden of the Gods Hiking Trails
Hiking in Colorado delivers some of the most stunning scenery in the country, and the Garden of the Gods hiking trails are no exception. You’ll find options ranging from paved paths to dirt trails, with difficulty levels to match every age and ability.
If you simply want to wander, the Central Garden Trail from the Main Parking Lot is a perfect starting point—wheelchair accessible, stroller friendly, and scenic from the first step. Access the Main Parking Lot on the north end of the park via Juniper Way, less than a half mile from the entrance at Gateway Road.
Here’s a sampling of some of the easier trails in the park:
18. Perkins Central Garden Trail
If you visit Garden of the Gods, this trail is a must. It is an accessible, paved 1.5 mile loop that shows off the natural wonder of the rock formations within Garden of the Gods. This trail is proof that Garden of the Gods is for families; your kids will LOVE climbing on the rocks and in the nooks and crannies. It makes for pretty amazing photo opportunities too.
You may even spot rock climbers scaling the rocks. Many other trails spur off of this trail, so if the path gets a little too busy for your liking, veer off onto other trails. It may add distance to your hike, but you’ll love the views and Garden of the Gods photography moments.
Kissing Camels Garden of the Gods—Where Are They?
The Kissing Camels are tucked into the large red rock formation at the north end of the park near the Main Parking Lot. As you drive north on Juniper Way Loop, look left—you’ll spot them near the top of the ridge (hint: the pink arrow in the photo above helps!). Walk the Perkins Central Garden Trail for the best photo opportunity with the camels as your backdrop.
19. Ridge Loop Trail
At just 0.4 miles, the Ridge Loop Trail is short but mighty—perfect for kids who love to scramble up, over, and around everything in sight. It also makes a great warm-up hike before tackling longer, more strenuous trails in the park. If you’re visiting from out of state, don’t skip the warm-up—Colorado’s elevation has a way of humbling even seasoned hikers, and starting with a shorter trail gives your body time to adjust.
20. Siamese Twins Loop Trail
At just 0.5 miles, the Siamese Twins Loop Trail is one of the most popular Garden of the Gods hiking trails—and for good reason. The Siamese Twins rock formations create a natural frame for some truly stunning photos, including a classic view of Pikes Peak through the opening. Be patient at the trailhead parking—spots fill up fast—and plan to wait your turn for the perfect shot. A tourist-free photo is possible, but no guarantees.
Pro tip: Get an early start for less crowded trails.
Garden of the Gods Tips for Hiking
A few simple tips will make your time on the Garden of the Gods hiking trails much more enjoyable:
- Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Have access to maps. Pick one up at the Visitor Center, download the online map to your phone, or use the AllTrails App to explore all 31 trails in the park.
- Bring plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Bring snacks (especially if you are traveling with kids!).
- Dress in layers. Colorado is famous for having all four seasons in a single day, and the weather can change fast.
History of the Garden of the Gods
The land that is now Garden of the Gods was purchased in 1879 by Charles Elliott Perkins, head of the Burlington Railroad, originally intended as a summer home site. Perkins bought 240 acres in Colorado Springs but preferred to leave the land in its natural state—for his own enjoyment and for the public. That summer home was never built.
Before his death in 1907, Perkins made arrangements for the land to become a public park. In 1909 his children fulfilled his wish, deeding the property to the City of Colorado Springs. A plaque displayed prominently along the Central Garden Trail near the Main Parking Area reads:
“The Garden of the Gods given to the city of Colorado Springs in 1909 by the children of Charles Elliott Perkins in fulfilment of his wish that it be kept forever free to the public.”
How the Garden of the Gods Got its Name
In August 1859, two surveyors—M.S. Beach and Rufus Cable—set out to establish a new townsite outside of Denver. In their exploration they stumbled upon an area of stunning sandstone rock formations. Beach suggested it would make a fine spot for a beer garden as the area grew. His companion Rufus, described as a “young and poetic man,” wasn’t having it: “Beer Garden! Why it is a fit place for the Gods to assemble. We will call it Garden of the Gods.”
And so it has been known ever since. Rufus Cable, we owe you one.
Garden of the Gods Tips
Whether you’re here for the hiking, rock climbing, exploring, or a relaxed family day, Garden of the Gods has something for everyone—with over 21 miles of trails to discover.
Start at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center. Knowledgeable guides, naturalists, and staff are on hand to help you plan your hikes and adventures. Pick up a free color trail map while you’re there, or access the online map of Garden of the Gods before you go.
This park is free and open to the public—no America the Beautiful pass required.
Parking fills fast during peak summer months. With over 300 spaces throughout the park, patience is key—park only in designated areas and consider arriving early or later in the day to snag a spot.
Garden of the Gods Visitor Center & Park Hours
Park Hours
- November 1 – April 30: 5:00 am – 9:00 pm
- May 1 – October 31: 5:00 am – 10:00 pm from
Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center Hours
- Off Season: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Memorial Day — Labor Day: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
- Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
Things to Do Close By
If you’re already planning a day around the Garden of the Gods hiking trails—whether for the hikes, the photography, or simply soaking in the scenery—you’re in luck. Colorado Springs has plenty of notable attractions within easy reach. Here are a few worth adding to your itinerary:
Air Force Academy
The U.S. Air Force Academy is open to visitors daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and is one of the most motivational stops in Colorado Springs. Explore exhibits on the planes, the cadets, campus life, the academy’s history, and the honor code. It’s a surprisingly moving experience for kids and adults alike. Note that the iconic Cadet Chapel is currently closed for repairs and projected to reopen in 2027.
Broadmoor Hotel Colorado Springs
If you’re looking to splurge, the Broadmoor is worth every penny. This Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond resort sits at the foot of the mountains and puts you within easy reach of Garden of the Gods and everything else Colorado Springs has to offer. Book your stay and make a weekend of it.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Visit Cheyenne Mountain Zoo (CMZ) and build memories that will last a lifetime. USA Today 10 Best ranks Cheyenne Mountain Zoo #3—and one visit makes it easy to see why.
CMZ is home to one of the largest giraffe herds in North America, plus hippos, penguins, a Komodo dragon, elephants, orangutans, lowland gorillas, lemurs, lynx, river otters, bald eagles, and enough animals to keep the kids moving for hours.
Manitou Springs & the Manitou Incline
Manitou Springs sits just half a mile from Garden of the Gods and is well worth a detour. This charming historic town draws visitors for its walkable downtown, natural mineral springs available to the public, art galleries, street performers, festivals, unique boutiques, and restaurants along the creek.
If you’re feeling ambitious, reserve your spot on the Manitou Incline. This is not a casual stroll—2,768 steps straight up, rated “Extreme,” and it will humble you fast. Consider it the ultimate test after a day on the Garden of the Gods hiking trails.
Pikes Peak & Train
At 14,155 feet, Pikes Peak is America’s most famous mountain and a must on any Colorado Springs itinerary. Take the Pikes Peak Cog Railway for a 3.5-hour round trip experience from the Manitou Depot, or choose to drive the highway yourself. Both require advance reservations and both deliver jaw-dropping scenery all the way to the summit.
Seven Falls
Seven Falls is tucked into a dramatic box canyon between the towering Pillars of Hercules, where water plummets 181 feet to the canyon floor. This natural wonder has often been called the “grandest mile of scenery in Colorado”—a bold claim that holds up in person.
At the base of the falls, Restaurant 1858 offers a rustic patio with authentic Colorado fare, open seasonally. A great way to end a day of exploring.
The Olympic Training Center
Colorado’s high elevation has long been considered a training advantage for elite athletes—which is exactly why the U.S. Olympic Training Center calls Colorado Springs home. Plan a public tour and get a glimpse inside a world-class facility that includes an Olympic-size swimming pool, velodrome, indoor shooting range, gymnasiums, weight rooms, and a sports science laboratory. It’s one of those stops that leaves you unexpectedly inspired.ory.
The Ghost Town Museum
The Ghost Town Museum brings Colorado’s frontier history to life through structures, artifacts, and memorabilia that paint a vivid picture of what a town looked like 100 years ago. Kids of all ages will love moseying through it—it’s a genuinely fascinating slice of the Old West right in the middle of Colorado Springs.
Want to see a real ghost town? Check out St. Elmo outside of Buena Vista and Salida for the full experience.
Things to Bring
Be prepared with the hiking essentials you’ll need for exploring, picnicking, or hitting the Garden of the Gods hiking trails:
- CAMERA or PHONE for taking amazing pictures
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Camelbak hydration pack
- Foldable cooler
- Yeti cooler (if you live close by or for road trips)
- Snacks
- Backpack
- Hiking boots
- Socks
- Hat or Visor
- Rain Jacket
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there hot springs in Colorado Springs?
There are no hot springs in Colorado Springs, but there are springs in places such as Manitou Springs, Florence, Salida, and Buena Vista.
Can you visit Garden of the Gods in winter?
Yes. Garden of the Gods is open all year long, and each season offers a unique experience—spring wildflowers, summer adventures, fall colors, and snow-dusted red rocks in winter.
Is Garden of the Gods pet friendly?
Pets are welcome. Please observe that all pets must be on a leash at all times and all pet waste must be picked up and disposed of properly (waste bags are available at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center and in the designated pet area).
How do I practice “Leave No Trace” in the park?
A few ideas include staying on the trail, picking up your trash, and not stepping on small plants off the trail.
How many visitors come to Garden of the Gods each year?
Well over 6 million visitors experience the park each year. Because kids love Garden of the Gods, they like to bring their parents back again and again!
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Warning: Garden of the Gods Is Highly Addictive
After a full day—or two, or three—at Garden of the Gods, you’ll still find yourself staring at the red rock formations with fresh eyes. It’s one of those magical places that lives in your memory long after you leave, the kind kids ask to come back to again and again. Don’t blame me when they start lobbying for a return trip.
Chris and I are lucky enough to call this area home now, which means the Garden of the Gods hiking trails and those incredible Instagrammable views are practically in our backyard. We are still discovering new favorite spots every time we visit—and we have a feeling you will too. Before you head out, grab my Day Hike Packing List so you’re ready for every trail on your list.
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I need to get back to Colorado soon, it’s places like this that make it such a fun state to explore. The beautifully unique rock formations, dinosaurs and trails are definitely some of my top reasons for wanting to visit the Garden of the Gods
Our kids always enjoyed visits to Garden of the Gods! Glad you included the Manitou Incline as well. We did it again this summer, and I’m always glad to have done it. It’s definitely a tough climb though, especially if people are not used to the altitude.
I’m planning a trip out to Colorado next year and Garden of the Gods is top of my list of things of like to do while I’m there. Looks so beautiful!
What a beautiful place to visit! I especially love any place with junior ranger badges and scavenger hunts for kids!
My kids would love Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, the indoor scavenger hunt sound like so much fun and Balanced Rock looks stunning!
My grandparents took me to Garden of the Gods as a kid and I loved scrambling around on the rock formations and all of us saying what we thought they looked like! Good memories.
Such a detailed post! Looks like an incredible place! Thanks for sharing ✨️❤️
Oh, we love the Garden of the Gods! We have visited a few times with our kids, and I think we need to go back again. It will be a different experience with teens! Thanks for sharing!
This looks like a lot of fun for the whole family! Thank you for the tips!