Planning a road trip from Denver to Garden of the Gods this summer?
Garden of Gods Park is an incredible road trip destination from the Mile High City.
This scenic journey showcases the stunning natural beauty of Colorado, from the towering Rocky Mountains to the red rock formations of Garden of the Gods.
This road trip is perfect for those who love the great outdoors and breathtaking landscapes.
Add in the attractions in Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak, and you have a fun road trip ahead!
Here is an ultimate guide to planning your Denver to Colorado Springs road trip.
Also Read: 18 Best Road Trips from Denver
Denver to Garden of the Gods: Driving time and distance
The Denver to Garden of the Gods road trip covers approximately 70 miles.
It takes just over an hour and a half without traffic.
Expect to spend more time on the road during peak travel season, especially during summer.
We recommend planning for traffic and taking your time on the journey to truly savor the magnificent views and scenery.
Best Route for the Denver to Garden of the Gods drive
The best route to take on this road trip is to start in Denver, head south on I-25, and then exit onto US-24 W towards Manitou Springs.
The route is easy to follow and well-marked, so there’s no need to worry about getting lost.
Along the way, you’ll see charming towns, expansive plains, and of course, the majestic Rocky Mountains.
Denver to Garden of the Gods Road Trip: Essential Stops
The journey from Denver to Garden of the Gods features several incredible natural wonders.
Some of the essential stops you won’t want to miss include the famous Pikes Peak fourteener, downtown Colorado Springs, and the Red Rock Canyon Open Space.
For history buffs, the Old Colorado City Historic District in Colorado Springs is a definite must-see.
End your journey at Garden of the Gods, where you can hike, climb, and explore the stunning red rock formations.
Here are the essential stops as well as nearby attractions for this road trip.
Denver
Denver, the capital of Colorado, is characterized by a vibrant arts scene, a diverse culinary landscape, and an abundance of outdoor activities.
The city’s cultural heart lies at the Denver Art Museum, home to a remarkable collection of indigenous works.
For those interested in science, Denver Museum of Nature & Science provides interactive exhibits.
Sports fans will appreciate a visit to Coors Field or the Broncos Stadium.
The thriving food scene in Denver, with its remarkable restaurants and craft breweries, is surely a delight to foodies.
Union Station is also a highlight for its architecture and eateries.
Also, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the city’s impressive parks and trails.
Castle Rock
Castle Rock, halfway between Denver and Colorado Springs, is a delightful stop on this road trip.
It is named after the iconic castle-shaped rock formation in the area.
The town presents an ideal mix of small-town charm and big-city amenities.
Castle Rock is known for its beautiful open spaces and parks, such as the Philip S. Miller Park and Rock Park, which provide excellent opportunities for hiking and observing local wildlife.
The town’s downtown area is filled with quaint shops and restaurants, making it a great place to enjoy a meal or pick up a unique souvenir.
The Outlets at Castle Rock, one of Colorado’s top shopping destinations, attract visitors looking for quality goods at discounted prices.
The town also has a vibrant cultural scene, with events and festivals taking place throughout the year.
Take some time to explore Castle Rock’s charm and attractions before continuing your journey towards Garden of the Gods.
Garden of the Gods
Upon reaching Garden of the Gods, visitors are greeted by dramatic red rock formations juxtaposed against a backdrop of the snow-capped Pikes Peak.
This public park, located in Colorado Springs, is a registered National Natural Landmark.
The Visitor & Nature Center is the first stop for many, where interactive exhibits provide insight into the park’s geology, ecology, and cultural history.
There is a selection of trails to suit different levels of hiking ability.
For an easy, accessible walk, the Perkins Central Garden Trail is a paved, wheelchair-accessible route that takes you through the central garden zone.
It’s a 1.5-mile round trip offering up-close views of the park’s most prominent rock formations.
The more challenging Siamese Twins Trail, on the other hand, is a 1-mile loop that rewards hikers with a unique view of Pikes Peak through a natural window in the rock.
The park is also home to a number of iconic landmarks.
Balanced Rock, for instance, is a popular spot for photos due to its seemingly precarious position.
Kissing Camels, another famous formation, features two rocks that appear to be sharing a smooch.
For those who prefer to explore by car, the park has a free scenic drive.
The 4-mile route winds its way around the park’s main areas, with multiple spots to pull over and enjoy the view.
It’s a great way to see the park if you’re short on time or prefer not to hike.
Garden of the Gods is not just about natural beauty, though.
It’s also a place where you can learn about the region’s past at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center.
Rock climb under the supervision of experienced guides, go mountain biking, or marvel at the wildlife, including numerous bird species and Bighorn Sheep on your visit.
Things to do near Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods is just one of many attractions in Colorado Springs area.
Here are other essential stops on this road trip.
Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, home to the Garden of the Gods, is a city full of attractions.
The Old Colorado City Historic District is a noteworthy stop with its historic architecture and unique shops.
This historic area gives visitors a glimpse into the city’s past and is a great place for shopping and dining.
Art lovers should visit the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center, which features regional and international artists.
For those interested in the city’s history, the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum gives an in-depth look at the area’s heritage through various exhibits and artifacts.
For an immersive experience in the city’s military history, the National Museum of WWII Aviation and the Peterson Air and Space Museum are must-visit sites.
The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, America’s only mountain zoo, provides an interesting day out with its diverse collection of animals.
At the end of the day, unwind with a meal at one of the many restaurants in the downtown area, which feature a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes.
Explore Colorado Springs and discover its many attractions as part of your road trip adventure.
Also Read: 27 Best Day Trips from Colorado Springs
Pikes Peak
Pikes Peak, often referred to as ‘America’s Mountain’, is another must-visit attraction on your road trip.
This famous mountain is the highest summit in the Front Range of the Rockies.
It towers over the area with an elevation of 14,115 feet.
Pikes Peak owes much of its fame to Katharine Lee Bates’s poem “America the Beautiful,” which was inspired by the stunning panoramic views from its summit.
The Pikes Peak Highway, a scenic toll road, provides a thrilling drive to the summit.
It starts at an altitude of 7,400 feet and dramatically ascends to the peak over 19 miles, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Mile markers guide you through multiple stops such as Crystal Reservoir Visitor Center, Glen Cove Inn, and Devil’s Playground, each providing its unique view and charm.
For those who prefer a unique travel experience, the Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway provides a thrilling alternative to reach the summit.
The railway, which reopened in 2021 after extensive renovations, takes passengers on an unforgettable 3-hour round-trip journey through an alpine wonderland of scenic vistas and wildlife.
Experienced hikers might opt to ascend the summit via the Barr Trail.
This challenging 13-mile trail, starting from Manitou Springs, gains 7,800 feet in elevation and is among the most popular routes to the top of Pike’s Peak.
At the summit, there’s no shortage of things to do.
The newly renovated Summit Visitor Center offers educational exhibits, a gift shop, and a dining area where you can enjoy high-altitude dining with the famous Pikes Peak Donuts, made specifically for consumption at the peak’s height.
Step outside to experience the sweeping 360-degree views that stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a unique opportunity to take in the grandeur of the Rockies.
Manitou Springs
Manitou Springs, a unique small town close to Colorado Springs, is well-known for its historic charm and natural beauty.
The town’s main attraction is its eight natural mineral springs, each with a distinct taste due to the different minerals present.
Visitors can sample the waters using the free-flowing fountains found across the town.
The Manitou Cliff Dwellings, another key attraction, are ancient Anasazi ruins that were relocated to Manitou Springs in the early 1900s.
These well-preserved dwellings provide insights into the life of the Anasazi people.
The town is also home to the Manitou Springs Heritage Center, which provides detailed information about the area’s history.
Outdoor activities are plentiful in Manitou Springs.
The challenging Incline Trail, a massive staircase built on the site of an old cable car line, attracts fitness buffs with its steep incline.
For fun and games, head to the Penny Arcade, an amusement center filled with hundreds of vintage and modern arcade games that require mere pennies to play.
Manitou Springs is also home to unique shops and art galleries, as well as delightful eateries and sweet shops, perfect for food lovers.
Garden of the Gods to Denver Road Trip Guide
Garden of the Gods to Denver is a great road trip for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
This route offers travelers the chance to explore Colorado’s natural beauty, with plenty of scenic stops along the way.
The first stop on this journey is Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs.
After taking in the stunning views at Garden of the Gods, continue on your road trip to Pikes Peak.
The historic town of Manitou Springs is a great pit stop before starting the climb up Pikes Peak.
After reaching the summit, head back down and drive north to Denver.
On the way, make sure to take in some of Colorado’s stunning mountain ranges and meandering rivers.
Denver offers stunning views of the Rockies from its many vantage points, as well as a variety of attractions to explore.
Visit the Denver Botanic Gardens, take a tour of Coors Field or enjoy an evening out at one of Denver’s many restaurants and bars.
For outdoor lovers looking for some adventure, try rock climbing or rafting at Clear Creek near Golden.
End your road trip on a high note by exploring the Denver Art Museum or taking in the views from Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
The Denver to Garden of the Gods Road Trip is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience, full of exciting adventures and breathtaking views.
Best time for Denver to Garden of the Gods Road trip
The Garden of the Gods offers a captivating spectacle all year round, with each season providing a unique backdrop to the majestic rock formations.
Spring brings mild temperatures and vibrant wildflowers, making it a perfect time for hiking and photography.
The park is less crowded during this season, offering a tranquil experience.
Summer days can be hot, but the clear blue skies provide a stunning contrast to the park’s red rocks.
Early morning or late evening visits are recommended to avoid the heat.
Fall is a visually sensational time to visit the Garden of the Gods.
Fall leaves provide a beautiful contrast to the red rocks, and the crisp air makes for comfortable exploration.
Visiting the Garden of Gods in winter is a magical experience.
The snow-capped rocks create a serene, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
The park is less crowded during winter, but be prepared for cold temperatures and ensure you dress appropriately.
Regardless of the season, the natural beauty of Garden of the Gods never fails to impress.
Just remember that the weather in Colorado can be unpredictable, so always check the forecast before your visit.
Denver to Garden of the Gods by flight
For those who prefer not to drive, the Denver to Garden of the Gods Road Trip can easily be done by air.
The Colorado Springs Airport is located just a short distance from the park and offers direct flights from Denver International Airport.
It’s also easy to get from the airport into the city with shuttle services and car rental companies available.
Denver to Garden of the God Private Tour
You will find several private tours taking you from Colorado’s Capital to visit Garden of the Gods, a unique landmark.
The package usually includes transportation, a tour guide and all the necessary permits for visiting the attraction.
On the day of your Garden of the Gods tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in Denver and driven to Colorado Springs.
Once you arrive at Garden of the Gods, your private guide will take you around the park and provide you with interesting facts and stories about this natural wonder.
The guided tour will conclude with a drop-off back in Denver – a perfect day trip!
For visitors who want to enjoy the peace and quiet of the park without driving, private tours are an excellent option.
The Denver to Garden of the Gods road trip is an amazing adventure that everyone should experience.
With its incredible natural beauty, breathtaking views, and amazing destinations along the way, it’s easy to see why this is a must-do road trip for anyone visiting Colorado.
When are you planning your Denver to Garden of the Gods road trip? Let us know below.