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Garden of the Gods Rock Formation
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Experience the towering red rock sandstone formations of Garden of the Gods as you go for a scenic drive or walk. The National Natural Landmark was given to the city of Colorado Springs in 1909 by the children of railroad magnate Charles Elliot Perkins with the wish it be kept forever open and free to the public. As a result, this amazing park can be enjoyed free of charge.
Hiking Trails are located throughout the park.
Start at the main parking lot for easy, accessible concrete paths through the heart of the red rock formations. From the South Garden parking lot there are approximately 5 miles of trails for mountain biking, hiking or horseback riding. In addition, all one-way roads in the park have paved bike lanes.
Pick up a map at the VisitorsCenter.
Photographers will enjoy the spectacular scenery and rock formations. Favorite rock formations are the Gateway and Balanced Rocks or, try the Siamese Twins trail for a unique view of Pikes Peak framed by a beautiful rock formation.
Free naturalist-led walks are held daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Learn about the fascinating lore about wildflowers, rattlesnakes, gold-seekers and many other topics. Special programs may be arranged for school and scout groups to include a Junior Ranger Program.
Summer Evening Programs include a Bat Walk and Falcon Bird of Prey hike.
Nature Presentations take place on a daily basis at the VisitorCenter. They are free, last about 20 minutes, and explore a wide variety of topics, including the geology, ecology, wildlife and the cultural history of the Park. For more information call (719) 219-0108. "How Did Those Red Rocks Get There?"is shown every 20 minutes in the theatre during the summer and every 30 minutes in winter months. Admission is $2.00 for adults, $1.00 for children 5 - 12 years old, with special group rates available.
At the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center shop for souvenirs, attend free nature presentations or relax and enjoy a delicious lunch or snack at the Café at the Garden. Stunning views of the Garden of the Gods Park and majestic Pikes Peak can be scene from inside the Nature Center or on the terrace. Picnic areas are also located throughout the park.
Technical climbing is permitted on established routes, in groups of two or more. Proper climbing equipment is mandatory, and the use of Eco Chalk is recommended. All other climbing or rock scrambling is illegal. *Rock climbers must first register at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and NatureCenter.
Weddings in Garden of the Gods are free however you must fill out an event form to reserve the area. For more information call (719) 385-5940.
Park Hours: May 1 - October 31: 5 a.m. - 11 pm and November 1 - April 30: 5 a.m. - 9 pm
The Visitor & NatureCenter is open from 8 am to 8 pm Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the winter months.
The Park and VisitorCenter are Free and open to the public.
Directions: From I-25: Take Exit #146 (Garden of the Gods Road), Go West (towards the mountains) for 2.5 miles, Turn Left onto 30th Street, The Visitor & Nature Center will be on the left (a little over a mile)
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