by Michele Kadison

Named the Garden of the Gods in 1859 by two surveyors, the land with its soaring rock structures rising to the sky deserves the moniker. The land was bought in 1879 by Charles Perkins, owner of the Burlington Railroad, who added more acres over time. When he died in 1909, his children donated all of the accumulated 480 acres to the city of Colorado Springs. More land was acquired later to preserve the sanctity of the area.

With its wide variety of flora and fauna, the Garden of the Gods is a hugely popular tourist destination for those who are thirsty for majestic vistas and vast natural settings. With its contrasting greenery from abundant willows, scrub oak, juniper, and pinon pine against the brilliant red of the towering rocks, the park is truly awe-inspiring. Winter brings its own form of beauty, with soft snow dusting the rocks’ shoulders. The area is known for having several different ecosystems, which accounts for the variety of plant and animal life all around.

There are many outdoor activities to enjoy in the Garden of the Gods. Whether it is rock climbing, skating, hiking, or horseback riding, the park offers great adventures to one and all.

Take some time at the Visitors & Nature Center where information and displays on the ecology and geology of the area are both educational and entertaining. For those of you who are natural science buffs, be sure to take one of the daily 20-minute walks with knowledgeable staff member who will tell you about the natural evolution of the area. The recent discovery of Native Americans having lived on this land 3,000 years ago makes for a fascinating topic on the cultural history of the land.

The park’s gift shops are known as some of the best in Colorado Springs. Here you will find exquisite samples of Native American jewelry and pottery, porcelain sculptures, books, postcards, and other interesting items, including some of the best fudge this side of your grandmother’s kitchen. Enjoy the café with its amazing views, including Pikes Peak which looms nearby. If you are in the southwest corner of the park, visit the Garden of the Gods Trading Post where you can buy Native American art, Pueblo pottery, sand paintings, and enjoy the many special events hosted by the Trading Post. Though the Trading Post is not an official part of the park, it enjoys a special relationship with all involved. Here too there is a café where you can enjoy a lunch in the surroundings of immense natural beauty.

There are many special events in the park such as a free 30 minute walking tour on Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. Learn about the local wildflowers, reptiles, and other fascinating subjects.

Take the “bat walk” on Tuesday evenings, June through August where you can learn about these nocturnal critters and then talk a walk to see them in their natural habitat. Reservations are required: 719-219-0108.

On Wednesdays at 5 pm, June through July, there are guided walks where you can see the Prairie Falcons nesting atop the great rocks or hunting for food. No reservations necessary.

One of the most spectacular events at the Garden of the Gods is the Easter Dawn Service held each year and attended by thousands. Watch the sun rise over the majestic display of rock formations to get a true sense of spiritual grandeur within a setting that will create memories for years to come.

Create your own special event by scheduling a wedding or a get-together by booking well in advance. The park has a chapel along with other areas that are ideal for receptions and parties.

…and don’t forget…

The Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

Just across the street from the Garden of the Gods Visitors Center you can enjoy many special events at this living history that is open from June to Labor Day.

Garden of the Gods Information:
Address: 1805 N 30 St. Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Phone: 719-634-6666 (park info) 719-219-0107 (gift shop)
Directions: On I-25, find Garden Of The Gods Road exit (#146), go west towards the mountains 2-1/2 miles, turn left on 30th. Slightly over 1 mile you will find the Visitors and Nature Center on the left, the park on the right. From Manitou Springs & Camp; Old Colorado City, find Ridge Road where it crosses Colorado Ave on the west side of Old Colorado City (west of 31st) and slightly east of Manitou Springs–just east of where Colorado Ave (called Manitou Ave in Manitou Springs) cross under US Highway 24.
Hours: 5 am to 9 pm Nov through April; 5 am to 11am May through Oct
Admissions: Free
30 min narrated bus tours: $5 adults, $2.50 children

Handicap accessible.

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site:
Directions: see above directions and go to Visitor and Nature Center at east entrance to park. Site is across the street.
Phone: 719-578-6777
Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Wed through Sun, June to Labor Day
Admission: $6 adults, $4 teens and seniors, $2 children 12 years and under

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