Garden of the Gods: The Colorado Springs Park’s Geology and Wildlife

The Garden of the Gods is a wonderland of towering red rock formations that draws more than two million visitors to Colorado Springs annually. On this walking tour, you’ll walk through the heart of the park’s spectacular geological wonders, where sandstone spires pierce the sky against a backdrop of the majestic Pikes Peak.

The tour begins in the Garden of the Gods parking lot, from where you’ll make your way onto the Susan G. Bretag Trail. I’ll tell you all about the land’s first inhabitants, the Ute People. You’ll walk through the Central Garden area, discovering how ancient geological forces shaped these remarkable rock formations over millions of years, and hearing insights about the local ecosystem’s diverse wildlife and plant species.

I’ll show you a unique view between the North Gateway Rock and South Gateway Rock, where you’ll find out how this natural wonder was transformed from sacred Native American grounds into one of America’s most beloved public parks. The tour ends at the park’s main intersection at the Garden of the Gods Plaque, where you can choose to walk back or catch the seasonal shuttle service.

Along the way, you’ll have a chance to:

• Take snapshots at the iconic Garden of the Gods Sign and other exclusive vantage points
• Discover why the Ute People named Pikes Peak “Tava” and hear how it got its present name
• Find out what relevance this area has to the Louisiana Purchase, when the US bought the state from France in 1803
• Spot Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep in their natural habitat – if you’re lucky!
• Learn how these massive rocks got their playful names like “Kissing Camels”
• Explore hidden trails most visitors never find, including a spectacular view of Pikes Peak

This 90-minute hike is perfect for first-time visitors looking to do more than just drive through the garden and for anyone interested in learning about the local area.