Garden of the Gods Recreation Area - The Colorado Vacation Directory

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Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

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Garden of the Gods recreation area covers 480 acres in the Colorado Springs area. In the 1850's, two surveyors from Denver City came upon this area of sandstone formations. M. S. Beach, who related this incident, suggested that it would be a "capital place for a beer garden" when the country grew up. His companion, Rufus Cable, a "young and poetic man," exclaimed, "Beer Garden! Why it is a fit place for the Gods to assemble. We will call it the Garden of the Gods." Committed to remaining free to the public, Garden of the Gods Park is open from 5 AM - 11 PM in the summer and 9 AM - 5 PM in the winter, bringing over one million visitors every year.
garden of the godsgarden of the gods

The park is best known for its stunning rock formations, which began forming over 320 million years ago. Sculpted through time by erosion, the 20 sandstone rock formations offer beautiful views. Two of the most well known formations are Balanced Rock and Kissing Camels. Balanced Rock sits upon another rock, looking as if it will fall on the road. However, after a group of college students tried to topple the rock, a cement layer was added to secure the rock. Kissing Camels formation looks as its name implies, two camels kissing each other.

Hiking is a popular activity at the park. The park has eight miles of trails, both paved and unpaved. Perkins Central Garden Trail is the easiest and most accessible trail for all. Usable by wheelchairs and strollers, the 1.5 mile trail only gains 30'. For a more difficult trail, try the Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Trail. Almost circling the entire park, the 3 mile hike is of moderate difficulty, gaining 250'.

garden of the godsgarden of the gods

The Visitor and Nature center offers many exciting ways to learn about the park. Be sure to view the movie "How Did Those Red Rocks Get There?" This twelve minute movie explores the geological history of the park. The center also provides a 30 minute bus tour of the geology and history of the park, as well as, hands on exhibits relating to the geology, ecology and cultural history of the park. The visitor center is open from 9 AM - 5 PM in the winter, and 8 AM to 8 PM in the summer.
Places to Stay near Garden of the Gods Recreation Area:
  • El Colorado Lodge
      Majestic Pikes Peak overlooks our 4 acres of adobe cabins and giant Blue Spruce trees! AAA Approved. Historic modernized cabins in Manitou Springs near Colorado Springs. Large heated pool.
  • Garden of the Gods Campground
      A Family Place! Quick access to I-25 & Highway 24 in Colorado Springs: RVs, tents, cabins, motel rooms, store, game room, 2 pools (1 adult only), hot tub, playground, Free Wi-Fi and internet access in lobby.
  • Goldfield RV Park & Camper Cabins
      Open all year. Between Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs. Near all Pikes Peak attractions. Shaded level full hookup sites with pull-thrus, cable TV and Wi-Fi. Many discount programs. Plus camper cabins.
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  • Lone Duck Campground, Cabins & Fishing Pond
      Hidden in beautiful mountain valley near Pikes Peak, away from city lights, by a stream. Scenic mountain views at every site. High speed Wi-Fi. Fishing pond, heated pool. "A Top 10 Campground" Denver Post.
      swimming pool
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  • Rodeway Inn & Suites
      Nearby sites include World Arena, Broadmoor Convention Center, downtown Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs and Fort Carson. Enjoy in-room coffee, 60-channel cable, outdoor pool, and picnic area.
    • More Activities & Information:
    Garden of the Gods Hiking Trails Map
    Colorado Springs Local Area Map
    Pikes Peak Area Map
    Pikes Peak Road Scenic Byway

    Directions:
    From I-25 in Colorado Springs, take exit 146 and head west on Garden of the Gods Road. Follow to its end ("T" intersection) at 30th Street; turn left (south) and go about 1.5 miles. The visitor center will be on the left and the park entrance on the right.

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    Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site / Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park / Blue Mesa Reservoir/Curecanti National Recreation Area / Canyons of the Ancients National Monument / Chimney Rock Archaeological Site / Colorado National Monument / Comanche National Grassland / Dinosaur National Monument / Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument

    / Garden of the Gods Recreation Area / Great Sand Dunes National Park / Hovenweep National Monument / Mesa Verde National Park / Pawnee National Grassland / Pikes Peak / Rocky Mountain National Park / The United States Air Force Academy

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