Colorado Springs is filled with natural beauty, but Garden of the Gods is arguably the most scenic spot in town. It’s certainly one of the most unique natural areas thanks to those red sandstone rock formations and spires. And the fact that the Garden is a public park, free forever? Truly priceless. It’s no wonder Garden of the Gods has been designated as a National Natural Landmark and draws an estimated 6 million visitors each year.
The best way to explore all the beauty of Garden of the Gods is on foot (at least for most of us — rock climbers get a unique vantage point). Hiking, running or even walking around the overlooks can help you get away from the crowds and connect you to the contours of the land and the sights, sounds and smells of nature. Yes, you can touch those rocks (you just can’t climb them above 10 feet without a permit and proper gear). There are 21 miles of trails in Garden of the Gods that range from easy to advanced. They include paved, gravel, dirt and rock, and some are universally accessible. Most of the trails are relatively short but offer multiple connections for longer hikes.
So what are the best hiking trails in Garden of the Gods?
Here are seven of our favorites. You can compare them with this relatively detailed map at coloradosprings.gov and adapt your hike or run to best fit your needs.
Central Garden Trails
No matter where else you go in Garden of the Gods, make sure you stroll around the Central Garden Trails. The wide, paved pathways take you up close and personal with the towering rock formations at the heart of the park. These trails are relatively flat, wheelchair accessible and great for all ages.
From the Main Parking Lot, you’ll pass beneath the famous Kissing Camels, cross between the Gateway Rocks and then loop around a variety of rock formations on their west side. Here you can appreciate the height and verticality of the red rocks, and it’s a great spot to see rock climbers in action. The Central Garden Trail is 1.5 miles long, and you can connect to other trails on all sides. Don’t miss the southern loop which will take you past the beautiful Cathedral Spires and Three Graces rocks.
Niobara Trail, Chambers Trail
The loop around the Niobara and Chambers trails is one of our favorite hikes in Garden of the Gods. The route circles the southeast section on the front of the park, taking you out of the most crowded central area and providing excellent views of the Gateway Rocks and Pikes Peak. From the South Garden Parking Lot, catch the Niobara Trail south. It will lead you through piñon pines and around to the limestone, hogback ridge with beautiful views. After descending from the ridge, turn right and briefly follow the Valley Reservoir Trail to the Chambers Trail, which will lead you around the north side of your counter-clockwise loop. You’ll be circling large valley meadows that were once a reservoir for the historic Rock Ledge Ranch. You’ll see trail options to cross back more directly to the parking lot, but we recommend the entire circuit, which is about 2 miles long. If you’re looking for a mountain bike ride, this is the only area in Garden of the Gods that allows bikes.
Ridge Trail
Want a short taste of the Garden’s rocky ruggedness? The Ridge Trail is not extreme, but it’s uneven. The trail crosses some rock outcroppings, and adventurous kids will love scrambling over them. Overall, the Ridge Trail delivers a lollipop loop with excellent Pikes Peak views, as well as a scenic overlook of the park’s frontside valley. Access it across the road from the South Garden Parking Lot.
Dakota Trail
Want to see the local bighorn sheep herd? They often hang around the north side of Garden of the Gods where you can see them from the Dakota Trail. Access it from the Main Parking Lot. Cross the road you came in on (Juniper Way Loop) and start on a short section of the Susan G. Bretag Trail. In just 0.1 miles, take a left on the Dakota Trail, which is 0.4 miles long.
For a longer loop through the open space of the park’s northeast side, connect the Foothills Trail, Gateway Trail and Bretag Trail for wide views of the Gateway Rocks with Pikes Peak beyond. This loop is nearly 2 miles long and makes a great hike for kids.
Siamese Twins Trail
This one will take you to another favorite, photogenic rock formation: the Siamese Twins. The loop hike is just over a half mile, and the star of the show is the conjoined rock towers. The keyhole in the middle makes a perfect frame for photos of Pikes Peak. And the rocks are another great spot for kids to scramble. While the secret definitely is out about the Siamese Twins, it can be a good place to escape some of the crowds since it’s in the back of the park. Start this hike at Parking Lot 14. It’s not large and can fill up on busy summer days.
Scotsman Trail, Buckskin Charlie Trail
Want to roll through some scrubby hills and arroyos? The Scotsman trail will lead you on a 1.6-mile loop in the middle of the Garden. You can access it from two small parking lots on Garden Drive, the road that splits off of the main Juniper Way Loop. There’s a picnic area with several tables, so pack the cooler. If you want to go farther, turn onto the Buckskin Charlie Trail for an additional 1-mile loop. Either way, you’ll get great views of Pikes Peak.
Palmer Trail
The Palmer Trail runs nearly 2 miles along the western side of the park. It roughly parallels the roads but weaves through forests, up and down gullies and over rocky points. You may still hear traffic passing nearby, but you’ll also experience a sense of wildness in Garden of the Gods. You can follow the Palmer Trail from the Main Parking Lot all the way to the Siamese Twins loop for a nearly 5 mile hike or run. For a shorter route, we recommend following the Palmer Trail then crossing the road and circling the Central Garden Trail, passing between the Gateway Rocks and returning to the Main Parking Lot.
Tips for Hiking in Garden of the Gods
Here are a few insider tips for exploring Garden of the Gods.
- Stay on the Trail.
With millions of visitors to the Garden, every footstep adds up. Help prevent erosion and damage to the Garden’s sensitive soils by staying on marked paths. - Take Only Pictures.
Leave the park’s natural features for others to enjoy, including rocks, plants or animals. - Drink Plenty of Water.
The best way to prevent any negative effects from Colorado’s high elevation is to stay hydrated, especially when you’re out on the trails. - Keep an Eye Out for Rattlesnakes.
Garden of the Gods is a natural park, and its residents include rattlesnakes. Chances are you won’t see them, but stay aware, especially in the spring and especially if you are hiking with kids or pets. - Be a Responsible Dog Owner.
Dogs are welcome in the park as long as they are on a leash. And you must remove any waste they leave behind. - Want to Beat the Crowds?
Your best best is to visit early or late, avoiding peak hours in the middle of the day. - Know Where You’re Going.
Stop by the Visitor Center for trail maps and any updates and info on current conditions.
Want a Guided Hike at Garden of the Gods?
Yep, you can get that by joining the daily Guided Nature Walk. A ranger will lead you from the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center along the Gateway Trail to the Central Garden Trails and offer insights along the way. The daily tour leaves at 10:30 a.m. and lasts about an hour. Reservations are required, and the cost is $5. Reserve your spot at gardenofgods.com.
Looking for More Hiking Trails in Colorado Springs?
Explore our Top 10 of local trail networks in 10 Must-Do Colorado Springs Hikes.
