garden tour colorado springs

Colorado Springs Garden Tour

Friends of Extension, El Paso County

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The Colorado Springs Garden Tour Committee is excited to announce the dates of our 2024 tour below. We are looking forward to seeing you all again this summer!

June 22-23, 202 4 Garden Tour

Inspirational gardens.

Where: Bonnyville and Patty Jewett Neighborhoods Time: 9:00am — 3:00pm, both days

Tickets may be purchased through Eventbrite at this LINK

*** Please note that there is a handling fee when using Eventbrite. Or beginning on May 15th, you may purchase tickets at any of the garden centers listed below:

🌸 Garden Centers Selling Tour Tickets 🌸

• Colorado State University Extension    17 North Spruce St. 80905
• Don’s Garden Shop and Landscape Materials   6001 E. Platte Ave 80915
• Harding Nursery 721 N. Powers 80915
• McCord’s Garden Center   2720 McShane Drive, Monument, CO 80132
• Phelan Gardens  4955 Austin Bluffs Parkway 80918
• Summerland Gardens 806 Arcturus Drive 80905
• Sunset Greenhouse 1023 Sunset Rd. 80909

GARDEN LOCATIONS: Your ticket provides the addresses for the garden locations where printed tour guides can be obtained on the days of the event. The guide will provide information about all gardens, including a map.

*** Please be aware that private gardens may not be able to accommodate strollers, walkers or wheelchairs due to narrow pathways and steps. Also, no bicycles  will be allowed in private gardens. Working service dogs are allowed.

MASTER GARDENERS : Colorado Master Gardeners from the El Paso County Extension will be available at each of the gardens to answer your questions about plants and good gardening practices.

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The Colorado Springs Garden Tour

June 22, 2024 9:00 am –3:00 pm, event summary.

The primary fundraising activity for FOX is its annual garden tour. Since the tour’s inception in 2011, this popular event has been in various Colorado Springs locations, including Village Seven, the West Side, the Old North End, Patty Jewett, the Broadmoor, Divine Redeemer and Shooks Run area, and north central Colorado Springs. The 2024 tour takes participants to the Bonnyville and Patty Jewett neighborhoods.. Tour attendees observe gardening practices including water conservation, xeriscaping, deer-resistant techniques and raising vegetables.

Also Occurs On

• Saturday, June 22
• Sunday, June 23

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The Colorado Springs Garden Tour

Accessibility Info

Presented by FOX EPC, Inc. at Bonnyville and Patty Jewett neighborhoods , Colorado Springs CO

Expert gardeners are at each garden to answer questions about plants and gardening practices. Plein Air Garden Artists and live music augment the experience.

The primary fundraising activity for FOX is its annual garden tour.

Since the tour’s inception in 2011, this popular event has been in various Colorado Springs locations, including Village Seven, the West Side, the Old North End, Patty Jewett, the Broadmoor, Divine Redeemer and Shooks Run area, and north central Colorado Springs.

The 2024 tour takes participants to the Bonnyville and Patty Jewett neighborhoods..

Tour attendees observe gardening practices including water conservation, ... view more »

Tour attendees observe gardening practices including water conservation, xeriscaping, deer-resistant techniques and raising vegetables.

ADMISSION INFO

$25 per ticket, ages 13 and up. (Twelve and under, free.)

Ticket information at extensionfriends.org .

Tickets available through eventbrite.com beginning May 1 and in select area garden centers on May 1

Some gardens may not be accessible by walker, wheelchair or stroller.

Phone: (719) 233-0147

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.coloradospringsgardentour.org

INDIVIDUAL DATES & TIMES*

• Jun 22, 2024 at 09:00 am - 03:00 pm (Sat)
• Jun 23, 2024 at 09:00 am - 03:00 pm (Sun)

Dates and Times

9:00 am at Bonnyville and Patty Jewett neighborhoods

various locations, Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Accessibility Information: Currently, no accessibility information is available for this event.

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Community Gardens

2024 season is almost here! It is time to think about your garden plots.

About Community Gardens

In a community garden, neighbors gather to plant flowers, fruit, vegetables, and herbs in a natural setting. They encourage local and fresh food production, create more green space, and build stronger communities. The City of Colorado Springs has a variety of community gardens available for the public to participate.

Support Community Gardens

Are you looking for a new way to support our community gardens? Donate today! Your contribution will go towards updating garden infrastructure, gardening supplies, and awareness. Click here to donate . 

Learn more about Community Gardens

If you’re interested in learning more about gardening in Colorado Springs, be sure to reach out to our partners:

• Colorado State University – El Paso County Extension Master Gardener Program
• Colorado Native Plant Society  
• Broad-Based University Gardening – Karen Fleming, [email protected] 

Garden of the Gods Colorado

• Things to Do

Garden of the Gods Tour: Self-Guided

Stop 1: mesa road overlook.

10-20 minutes

Set the stage for this wonderful tour with an awe-inspiring and often overlooked (pun-intended) vantage point. Mesa Road sits in an elevated position above the visitor center and offers a sweeping view of the northern end of Garden of the Gods, Kissing Camels, the Rampart Range, and Pikes Peak.

Getting to the Mesa Rd. Garden of the Gods overlook

The easiest way to find the small overlook parking lot is to head north of the visitor’s center on 30th street.  Soon after, will be a right-hand hairpin turn onto Mesa Rd. — take it.  The overlook parking lot is up the road on the right.

Google map:  https://goo.gl/maps/sjYV2SoXjwN2

Stop 2: Garden of the Gods visitor and nature center

30-60 minutes

Head down from Mesa Road to newly renovated Garden of the Gods visitor and nature center . Inside the center, you will find beautiful exhibits (the wildlife display is a personal favorite), gifts, food, Geo-Trekker theater, an observation deck, and clean bathrooms.

Besides presenting a fantastic photo opportunity, the observation deck offers a wonderful photo opportunity and even the ability, sometimes, to view Bighorn sheep.

The visitor center is a great place to get any questions answered by knowledgable staff/volunteers.

Getting to the Garden of the Gods visitor and nature center

The visitor center is easily found on the east side of north 30th street.

1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Google map: https://goo.gl/maps/vCnzAiDdiYL2

Stop 3: Kissing Camels walking tour

30-90 minutes

It’s time to get some exercise and go on a walking tour of the central Garden on the Perkins Central Garden Trail.  This part of the tour is an absolute must. There are so many marquee features along the walk, and the way is paved (smooth-walking, wheelchair accessible).

See the famous Kissing Camels formation along this route, and encounter plenty of opportunities for memorable photos.

Getting to the main North parking lot and the Perkins Central Garden Trail

Cross 30th Street from the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center onto Gateway Rd. and head west into the park. Gateway Rd. will t-bone Juniper Way Loop, go right on the one way road.  After rounding the bend, the parking area will be the first big pull-off on the left.

Google map: https://goo.gl/maps/phg9Ht756q72

Stop 4: Pull-off

5-15 minutes

After enjoying a stroll through the fantastic formations near Kissing Camels, catch your breath with a brief drive up the hill and around the corner on Juniper Way Loop. The road leaving the central Garden parking lot is one way so you can’t miss this pull-off. When you see a small pull-off overlooking a view straight from the world of Dr. Seuss, you’ve arrived!

Stop 5: Siamese Twins

45-75 minutes

The Siamese Twins formation is located near the southwestern part of Garden of the Gods and frames an incredible view of Pikes Peak.  The two spires leave a perfect window through which to capture fun photos of the peak, pets and people.

The formation can be accessed from a couple different directions. For the tour, we recommend parking at the Spring Canyon parking area, and hiking the Palmer Trail — up to the formation.

This route does involve some climbing and uneven terrain, so it should only be attempted by those in decent shape.  Expect a roundtrip of about 1/2 mile.

Getting to the Siamese Twins Spring Canyon parking area

As you head W/SW along Garden Drive, look for a parking area on the right, not long after the “Y” in the road and at the bottom of a hill.

Google map:  https://goo.gl/maps/7XHPFN2iUQE2

Stop 6: Balanced Rock

15-30 minutes

Near the southern end of Garden Drive is the always popular Balanced Rock. A massive red rock perches at a precarious angle over the road and gives plenty of angles for creative photography.

Getting to Balanced Rock

Google map: https://goo.gl/maps/efCCjFtq6NM2

Stop 7: Garden of the Gods Trading post

Besides countless natural wonders, the park has another wonder: the  Garden of the Gods Trading Post . A perfect way to finish a self-guided highlights tour, the trading post boasts a wide range of gifts, art, books, food, clothing, and even panning for gold.

Trading posts in the West are often full of junk souvenirs. While the Garden of the Gods Trading Post does have its share of trinkets and novelties, it also has many wonderful and unique offerings. Original art and jewelry are always on offer, and for a wide range of budgets.

This is a wonderful place to find a gift, but it’s also a fun place to grab a snack or bite to eat.  Grabbing a ice cream and relaxing in the courtyard, while the kids pan for gold is always a hit.

Getting to the Garden of the Gods Trading Post

From Balanced Rock, head north on Garden Dr. — back the way you came from and then take the first right on to Garden Ln., the trading post will be on your right.

Google map:  https://goo.gl/maps/VGVREdqfTtJ2

There’s more to do at Garden of the Gods, but after this self-guided highlights tour you may want to look into some lunch or lodging .

Brian Erickson

Check-in date

Check-out date.

GOGC, LLC may receive some affiliate compensation for link referrals to other businesses, products and services.

719-578-0935

• Contact Adventure Concierge

Garden of the Gods Tours

Garden of the Gods Foothills

$98.00 Adult     $68.00 Child

Private tours are available for +$99.

Your GOG Foothills Tour highlights Colorado Springs most well-known landmarks: the Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Canyon, and Manitou Springs.  Colorado History, Railroad Tunnels and amazing scenery will provide an adventure you’ll never forget.

Tour Details

Our most popular Jeep tour.  This historic sight-seeing adventure is a great way to enjoy and learn about the Pikes Peak region! Our entertaining and informative cowboy guides take you on a journey through time in the foothills of Pikes Peak.  The tour highlights western  scenery and some of Colorado Springs’ most famous historical sights. Attractions include North Cheyenne Canyon, (Helen Hunt Falls – Closed through May 2021), the Shortline Railroad and its 100-year-old tunnels, Old Colorado City, Manitou Springs, and the spectacular red rock park, Garden of the Gods. In our open-air Jeeps, your photo opportunities are unobstructed! This tour is about 70% on paved roads and 30% on dirt and is offered year-round. Includes bottled water, light snacks, wool blankets, and the best cowboy Jeep guides in The West!!

Due to the growing popularity of these locations, the ability to stop and get out may be restricted.  Your guides will their best to provide photo stops and leg stretching opportunities as they present themselves.

Our guide was great and the scenery amazing…

Juniper Loop Tour

Adventure Level Segway Tour

Includes Kissing Camels, Praying Hands and Park Overlook areas.

$92.00 per guest

Total activity time is 1.5-2 hours with 30 minute cone zone training.

Tours depart the Garden of the Gods Visitors and Nature Center every hour 9:00am-4:00pm

The segways were incredible and the guides were super! My 12 year old had a blast!

Balanced Rock Tour

Expert Adventure Level Segway Tour

Advanced tour.   Riders with previous experience prefered. This tour is offered by reservation only.

$120.00 per guest

Total activity time is 2-2.5 hours with 30 minute cone zone training.

Call to Book 719-578-0935

Our tour was so much fun! My family loved our adventure!

Palmer Trail Hike

2.5 mile hike. See the whole park up close and personal.

60-90 minute tour.

$60 per guest. 

Hiking through the park was wonderful. it was my favorite part of the whole trip.

Group Tours

AOW offers customized adventures for you and your team.  Group Tour Operators, DMCs, Team building, Scavenger Hunts,  AOW has your needs covered.  Our fleet can carry up to 80 people.

Click here to visit the Garden of the Gods group tour page.

Western Jeep Tours

An AOW Jeep Tour is a memory for a lifetime.  Our Cowboy guides and well maintained Jeeps will ensure a fantastic adventure for you.  For 25 years AOW has been the premier Tour company in Colorado.  We are here to help make your adventure the best possible.  Call our office if you have any specific questions, custom tour needs or Group tour inquiries.

 Our tours take place in the great outdoors and are subject to the whims of God the Father.  Remote locations, high elevations and rough roads can and will affect the outcome of tour offerings.  Our experienced guides are authorized and trained to make tour adjustments for your safety and enjoyment.  Please be prepared for an awesome adventure in the Colorado Rockies.

We use a variety of Vehicles and models for our tours including classic Jeep Scrambler, modern 4 door Jeep Unlimited and the Hummer H2.  Depending on the tour booked and guest loads we will choose the vehicle that best fits your needs.  Tour vehicles are modified to enhance the guest experience and do not offer as much protection as a traditional vehicles from both the elements and other vehicles.  The tour vehicles are commercial vehicles and are regulated by the State of Colorado.  Seat belts and Car seats are not required but are recommended.  Please bring your own car seat if you need it.

All tours include snacks and water.  We also carry wool blankets for your needs.  The Summit tours up Pikes Peak also include Columbia brand Summit Parkas if needed.  Guest should dress in layers and wear sunscreen.  This is wind in your hair fun and adventure.  You might get wet!

All summer-only tours are open on the calendar. Book your summer adventure now!

Pikes Peak Cog Railway & Garden of the Gods Tour

The Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak are two of the most famous attractions in Colorado, and we’ve packed them into a single tour. You get to explore the giant red rock formations at the Garden of the Gods, a National Natural Landmark, before you ride the Cog Railway to the highest summit in the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains at 14,115 feet.

• Fantastic photo opportunities

• See world-famous red sandstone rock formations

• Ride the Cog Railway up the highest 14'er on the Front Range

• A friendly guide navigates the drive from Denver for you

See Available Tours

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Jed was very knowledgeable about the ecosystem and history of each town we visited and the trails we hiked. Jed was also very accommodatiive to everyone's needs.

wrote a review

Hiking Adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver

This was an excellent way to see Garden of the Gods and pike's peak. Our guide Mike was very knowledgeable about the area and was wonderful to talk to. I would highly recommend this outing!! See you on my next trip.

October 1, 2022

Excellent …service here we back next time for sure, I recommend thiscome here……we love this place.

November 16, 2022

THE INSIDE HOOKUP

10 Best Garden of the Gods Tours With 5-Star Reviews

This website may contain affiliate links and we may be compensated (at no cost to you!).

Garden of the Gods is often considered the country’s number one best city park, especially for tours. And to some it’s not even a park at all. 

This epic landscape of lush grasslands, native wildlife, and stunning red rocks, is like no other park you’ve ever visited.

The marvelous green valleys are only surpassed by the grandeur of the towering red rock formations.

As someone who lives Colorado Springs (and have my whole life), I visit Garden of Gods nearly every month for hiking and biking.

And the best way to see Garden of the Gods is by booking a fun tour. You’ll uncover unique geology, learn the history of the wild west, and understand what makes this place so sacred.

What are the best Garden of the Gods tours?

✔️  Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour :  Best for epic sightseeing

✔️  Rock Climbing Tour :  Best for adventure seekers

✔️   Electric Bike Ride :  Best for kids & families

Thinking of living in Colorado? This guide will help you avoid costly mistakes and remove the stress of planning so you can experience the joys of mountain living.

All of these Garden of the Gods tours (and many more!) are listed below with more in-depth info.

If you are looking for the best Garden of the Gods tour keep reading so you can have the best experience exploring the outdoors this year.

1. Foothills & Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour

The Pikes Peak region features epic sights and historic adventures, many of which we have shared on this blog. And touring Garden of the Gods is just the beginning.

One of the best ways to take in the breathtaking views of the area is by booking this Garden of the Gods Jeep tour . Enjoy a custom 4×4 tour to take in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Plus, learn the history of the old west, and snap photos of the Colorado Springs valley.

And of course, you’ll be able to tour the spectacular views and red rock formations of Garden of the Gods.

What makes this Garden of the Gods Jeep tour our favorite?

Included with this Garden of the Gods Jeep tour for free :

✔️ Bottled water & sodas

✔️ 2.5 Hour tour

✔️ Snacks & refreshments

✔️ Wool blankets

As you ride along in the Jeep, about 70% of the drive will be on paved roads with the other 30% will be on dirt roads.

During this 2.5 hour tour , the Jeep will make stops at the foothills of Pikes Peak, including places like:

• North Cheyenne Canon
• Helen Hunt Falls
• Old Colorado City
• Manitou Springs

This tour, and many other Jeep tours in Colorado Springs , are available year-round and pretty much in any weather, rain or shine. 

Still, we recommend bringing warm clothes or dressing in layers due to Colorado’s unpredictable climate. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also a must as they are not provided while in the Jeep.

Book a Jeep Tour of Garden of the Gods 🤩 5/5 stars (400+ reviews)

2. Rock Climbing at Garden of the Gods

If you’re a more active and ambitious traveler, we highly recommend booking this private Rock Climbing adventure at Garden of the Gods. 

This 4-hour long tour is ideal for individuals who want to get their hands dirty and work hard to be rewarded with epic mountain views.

A rock climbing adventure is perfect for anyone hoping to avoid the crowded walking trails or popular Visitor Center.

Get outside and experience spectacular views and the marvelous environment that this National Historic Landmark has to offer.

Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate rock climber, this experience is perfect for you.

Why go rock climbing at Garden of the Gods ?

Rock climbing allows you to see Garden of the Gods from a different perspective. This activity is perfect for adventure lovers and thrill seekers.

✔️ Beginner or intermediate skills

✔️ Learn basic climbing techniques

✔️ Safety equipment included

✔️ 4-hour private experience

Get ready to learn basic rock climbing techniques geared at protecting these historic rock formations. Plus, find out how to tie secure knots and descend gently and safely.

Included with your ticket is all the equipment you will need plus a professional and experienced guide to help you along the way.

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that can be layered easily, as well as comfortable walking shoes. 

This Garden of the Gods Rock Climbing tour starts at 8am so be prepared for changing weather throughout the day.

Book a Rock Climbing Adventure 🤩 5/5 stars (250+ reviews)

3. Garden of the Gods Ebike Tour

If you’re not interested in a Jeep tour of Garden of the Gods, or riding around on Segways, then you might like this electric bike tour .

Explore the stunning views and scenic stops at Garden of the Gods Park with a pedal and throttle-assisted e-bike.

This means you can relax and enjoy the tour instead of working to pedal a manual bike. An electric bike tour is perfect for kids and adults of all skill levels.

Take in the spectacular views at Rock Ledge Ranch and Balanced Rock. Then stop at the Nature Center for a free museum tour.

After a quick safety training with a local guide you’ll learn to easily operate your very own e-bike.

What makes this Ebike tour of Garden of the Gods so fun?

An electronic bike is a great way to see all of the scenery at Garden of the Gods, without breaking much of a sweat.

✔️ Relaxing 5-mile bike ride

✔️ Free bottled water

✔️ 4-hour tour with expert guide

Included with your tour is a personal electric bike along with bottled water, snacks, helmet, and other safety equipment.

Book an Ebike Tour of Garden of the Gods 🤩 5/5 stars (25 reviews)

4. Garden of the Gods Segway Tour

Don’t want to be stuck in a jeep? Get out on foot and explore geologic formations, winding roads, and beautiful wildlife by booking this Garden of the Gods Segway Tour .

If you’ve never been on a Segway adventure it’s a fun and unique experience you’ll never forget. 

Don’t worry, the Segway tour guide will teach you how to use a Segway before the tour starts. You’ll also be given a helmet and other safety equipment included with your trip.

Slowly drive along the paved roads inside Garden of the Gods and experience gorgeous sights and sounds of nature, wildlife, and rock formations.

This tour makes stops at scenic destinations like the Park Overlook, Kissing Camels, and Praying Hands. 

Listen in as your tour guide shares the history of this beautiful park as well as tales of the old wild west for 1.5 hours. 

Plus, learn about the local foliage, fauna, and wildlife that inhabits the park’s 1,367 acres.

What’s included with this Segway tour at Garden of the Gods?

Included with your Segway tour of Garden of the Gods is the following:

✔️ Tour of Juniper Loop

✔️ Safety equipment

✔️ 1.5 hour tour with pro guide

✔️ Great for couples

Please note that this Segway Tour is more suitable for teenagers and adults. This tour does not allow children under 12 years or women who are pregnant.

It’s recommended to dress in layers and wear comfortable, close-toed shoes while on the Segway. 

And bring lots of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected throughout the day.

Book a Garden of the Gods Segway Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (60+ reviews)

5. Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods

Embark on a journey through time as you explore the secrets of Colorado’s geologic hike at the Garden of the Gods . 

This tour offers a fun and educational hike that showcases the best that the park has to offer. 

On this geology history tour, you will learn to recognize the local minerals and unique rock formations.

Discover fascinating fossils that reveal Colorado’s rich geologic past, and gain a deeper appreciation for how the current breathtaking landscape was formed. 

This geology hike is guided by a knowledgeable and officially authorized pro. And you’ll be provided a daypack, basic geology field equipment, and hiking poles (if necessary).

Why try this Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods?

Included with this Landscapes & Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods:

✔️ Best trails at Garden of the Gods

✔️ Geology equipment included

✔️ 2-hour private hike

✔️ Service animals allowed

✔️ Free snacks & bottled water

Plus, included with your tour is a daypack, hiking poles, and basic field equipment so you can identify local minerals. 

Children who complete this hike will also receive a special geology sample bag that includes a fossil and a trail gem as a souvenir. 

The total hiking distance is around 2 miles on well-maintained dirt trails, so it’s relatively easy for all skill levels. 

A geology hike at Garden of the Gods is an educational and fun experience for all ages.

Book an Ancient Landscapes & Geology Hike 🤩 5/5 stars (likely to sell out)

6. Garden of the Gods Small Group Hike

If you’ve never been to Garden of the Gods before, a small group hiking tour is the perfect introduction .

Join a knowledgeable hiking guide for a private tour of the area’s massive landscape including native plants, red rocks, and local wildlife. 

Your 2-hour journey starts at the main Garden of the Gods entrance with your photo being taken. 

What other time will you have to capture this picturesque landscape as the backdrop?! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

From here it’s an easy hike to the Central Park area and onto lesser-known trails.

As you continue hiking, on some paved and unpaved trails, your tour guide will talk about the local history and geology of the park. 

The history of Garden of the Gods is quite fascinating and includes local plants, Native Americans, and sacred traditions.

Why book this small group hike at Garden of the Gods?

This small group hiking tour is an easy hike between 2-3 miles long . It’s suitable for all ages and any ability level, and perfect for families and kids. 

✔️ Leashed dogs are welcome

✔️ Free bottled water & snacks

✔️ Minimum of 4 people

✔️ 8-hour tour with expert guide

The great thing about this Garden of the Gods tour is that dogs are welcomed on the hike as long as they are on a leash.

Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring any extra food or water you might need along the journey. 

And as usual we recommend bringing sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the hot Colorado sunshine.

Book a Small Group GotG Hike 🤩 5/5 stars (900+ reviews)

7. Pikes Peak COG Railway & Garden of the Gods Tour

Combine two of the most famous attractions in Colorado into one epic all-day tour . 

Explore the wonders of the red rock formations at Garden of the Gods, then ride the newly-renovated COG Railway to the summit of Pikes Peak.

This tour is an all-day event that takes place over approximately 8-9 hours.

Why book this Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods tour?

This entire all-day adventure includes two of the most popular attractions in Colorado Springs, along with the following for free .

✔️ Delicious lunch

✔️ Parking fees

✔️ Bottled water

✔️ COG Railway Tickets

The tour starts at 7am in Denver at the historic Union Station. Once everything is complete you will be dropped off here at the end of the day.

After visiting Colorado Springs, hiking at Garden of the Gods and taking a 3-hour ride on the iconic COG Railway, you’ll have time for a quick stroll through Manitou Springs.

If you’re visiting from Denver the Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak COG Railway Tour makes a great addition to your travel itinerary.

Book a Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak COG Railway Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (likely to sell out)

8. Full-Day Pikes Peaks Regional Wonders

Coming from Denver, this Full-Day Pikes Peak Region tour offers the opportunity to see iconic Colorado scenery. All while being located in the state’s second largest urban area. 

Kicking off the tour at the Capital’s Union Station, you will head south past the Palmer Divide and into Colorado Springs to explore the Pikes Peak region. 

The journey really begins when you get to the Pikes Peak Highway and start the ascent to the top of America’s Mountain. 

Be as inspired as Kathrine Lee Bates was at the landscape and wildlife around you on your way to 14,110 feet above the clouds. From the top of Pikes Peak, take in the 360 degree views from all sides.

Next, travel back down to the foot of the mountains and visit the mountain town of historic Manitou Springs .

In this Victorian town, you will spend time eating, shopping or having fun in the historic Penny Arcade . Or try one of the many bubbly natural mineral springs in the area that give the town its name.

Why book this full-day tour of Pikes Peaks wonders ?

✔️ Drive to Pikes Peak summit

✔️ Temperature-controlled vehicle

✔️ 9-hour group tour

The final destination of this tour will be into Garden of the Gods Park where you can explore some of Colorado’s natural history.

Take an easy walk through ancient and colossal rock formations on one of the many trails. And keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. 

Stop at the Visitor and Nature Center to learn about the extended history of the rocks and for a quick tour of the museum’s exhibits. 

Afterwards, take a break for a bite to eat or ice cream treat at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post.

This 9-hour tour of the natural wonders of Colorado is well worth the time to explore some of the state’s most scenic and iconic destinations. 

Book a Pikes Peak Regional Wonders Tour 🤩 5/5 stars (likely to sell out)

9. Balanced Rock & Juniper Loop Tours

Adventures Out West offers a wide variety of tours at Garden of the Gods, including a Balanced Rock Tour and Juniper Loop Tour. 

Both tours are done on Segways with an expert guide to provide safety training and equipment.

Balanced Rock and Juniper Loop are some of the most iconic destinations at Garden of the Gods. 

In addition, along these Segway tours you’ll see formations like the Kissing Camels, Praying Hands, and Sleeping Giant.

Finally, you’ll learn about the geology of the park, the cultural history, and some of the most famous tales of the Old West and Colorado.

No snacks or drinks are provided on this 2-hour tour, so it’s recommended to bring a refillable water bottle.

Adventures Out West is a local tour company in Colorado Springs, so be sure to check their website for available times and cost.

10. Garden of the Gods Trolley Tour

A personal favorite of ours for touring Garden of the Gods is the 1909 Trolley Tour . 

This open-air trolley will take you back in time for more than 100 years, when the park first became part of Colorado Springs.

Stay entertained with local stories thanks to a knowledgeable and friendly tour guide, all while learning about the history of the park.

This 45-minute tour is perfect for beginners or locals who don’t have a lot of time or money for a longer tour of Garden of the Gods.

Just hop into one of the 14 seats available on this custom 1909 trolley. Then enjoy the fantastic sights with stops at popular formations like Balanced Rock.

Tickets are relatively affordable at just $17 per person and can be purchased at the activity desk inside the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center.

How long does a Garden of the Gods tour take?

The time it takes for a fun tour of Garden of the Gods depends on the type of adventure you’ve booked.

A Jeep tour or rock climbing experience of the Park typically runs about 2-3 hours. Whereas a Segway tour is often a bit shorter at around 1 hour to 1.5 hours.

However, the average visitor spends about 1.5-2.5 hours at Garden of the Gods during their visit. So you can expect to spend at least a n hour or two exploring the epic scenery and enjoying a tour!

When is the best time of year to visit Garden of the Gods?

As someone who goes to Garden of the Gods every month with a hiking group, the best of the year to visit is spring or fall.

This is when the weather conditions are mild and you can explore the park and any of these outdoor activities without the summer tourist traffic.

Although the Park is open year-round and beautiful no matter what the season, summer is an extremely busy time of year for Garden of the Gods.

It sees a ton of tourism during the warmer months which means crowded trails and lots of traffic.

So it’s best to avoid visiting Garden of the Gods in June through August if possible.

How much does it cost to visit Garden of the Gods?

A visit to Garden of the Gods is completely free no matter what time of year or day you visit.

When Charles Perkins, the founder of Garden of the Gods, passed away his children gifted the park to the City of Colorado Springs.

But the main requirement was that this National Natural Landmark would always remain open and free for visitors.

So, if you’re planning to explore Garden of the Gods, this is a completely free destination, and one of the top Colorado bucket list destinations .

Is there free parking at Garden of the Gods?

Yes, there are multiple places within Garden of the Gods to park for free. There are two large lots with plenty of free parking available.

The first, and most popular parking area, is the Visitor & Nature Center which is also the meeting place for most tours at the Park.

The second, more of an overflow lot, is located at the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site.

In addition, Garden of the Gods has 16 smaller parking lots scattered throughout the grounds, labeled as P1 through P16 on the map .

You can easily pull off the main road to park for free as well as access many of the various hiking trails inside Garden of the Gods.

Can you drive your car through Garden of the Gods?

Yes, one of the great things about Garden of the Gods are the paved roads that wind throughout the Park.

There are also multiple parking lots where you can park for free to get out and hike, bike, or rock climb.

But you don’t have to get out of your car if you don’t want to. You can simply drive around Garden of the Gods for free in your own vehicle.

We go hiking at Garden of the Gods every month and it’s one of our favorite hikes in Colorado Springs.

From epic photo opportunities to an amazing scenic drive through Garden of the Gods, a tour is a great way to take in the beautiful scenery that Colorado has to offer.

We hope these spectacular Garden of the Gods tours help you create unforgettable memories while visiting Colorado Springs.

Colorado Native & Personal Chef

Ryan Nicholson is a homegrown born and raised Colorado native. Being a rare unicorn to have grown up in CO, he has a unique perspective on the changes here and knows all the hidden spots to get outside in this state. Ryan's a classically French trained chef so he LOVES to try new foods and places to eat. When he's not experimenting in the kitchen or working as a personal chef along the Front Range, he loves to get outdoors and away from it all hiking, camping and backpacking.

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Park Hours: 5 am – 9 pm  | Visitor & Nature Center: 9 am – 5 pm (Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day)

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Segway Tours at Garden of the Gods

Adventure Level Segway Tours

Tours available 9 am – 4 pm (hourly).

Unobscured views and a mellow pace will make your visit to this beautiful park memorable. Your guide will point out exotic plant life, local animal life, and of course, numerous spectacular geologic formations and the unique caricatures hidden within them. We make several short stops to admire the sights, and will stay on the Segways for most of the tour. You’ll view the wonders of the South and North Gateway Rocks, Kissing Camels, Three Graces, Sleeping Giant, Park Overlook, and Praying Hands. You’ll learn about the geological and cultural history of the park, not to mention, the opportunity to learn the most famous tall tales and true stories The Old West and Colorado Springs have to offer.

These tours take place on city streets and bike lanes and are considered moderate to advanced.  All guests will receive training and rider evaluation, in the coned zone, prior to the tour.

Duration: 1.5 – 2hrs Cost: $92 per guest (minimum of 5 guests)

Day-of, In-person reservations may be available, at The Visitor and Nature Center, but we recommend making reservations in advanced. These tours ar available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Segway Tours are Powered by Adventures Out West. For More Details Call 719-219-0118