Park Directions & Location

Garden Of The Gods Park: Location Map and General Description

This incredible city-owned park is truly one of a kind. The site is a National Natural Landmark, having been recognized by the Department of the Interior as “a nationally-significant natural area.” The Park offers towering sandstone formations, a wonderful view of Pikes Peak, both paved and unpaved hiking paths, horseback trails, a mountain bike area, and several picnic areas. The Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site is located on the eastern portion of the Park.

Historically, the park was privately-owned until 1909, at which time 480 acres of land that includes the large rock formations was gifted to the city by the children of railroad magnate Charles Elliot Perkins. It was Perkins’ wish that the park be kept forever open and free to the public. Since 1909, other lands around the original 480 acres have been acquired by the city. Currently, the Garden Of The Gods Park is 1320 acres in size. Call (719) 385-5940 for additional park information.

Parking Areas: The main parking lot in the north end of the Park is the best place to park in order to enjoy the Central Garden Area. A paved pathway will take you between the towering Gateway Rock Formations and into the heart of the Park. Nature walks begin at the Main Parking Lot at 10 am and 2 pm daily. A restroom facility is available.

Other parking lots include the Scotsman Picnic Area, Spring Canyon Trailhead, the Spring Canyon South Picnic Area, High Point Overlook, South Garden Parking Lot, and the Balanced Rock Area. There are also numerous pull-off areas where trails can be accessed. Refer to the detailed park map for wheelchair accessible areas. Please remember to keep any valuables left in your vehicle out of sight, and lock you vehicle.