10 Best Garden of the Gods Tours With 5-Star Reviews

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Garden of the Gods is often considered the country’s number one best city park, especially for tours. And to some it’s not even a park at all. 

This epic landscape of lush grasslands, native wildlife, and stunning red rocks, is like no other park you’ve ever visited.

The marvelous green valleys are only surpassed by the grandeur of the towering red rock formations.

As someone who lives Colorado Springs (and have my whole life), I visit Garden of Gods nearly every month for hiking and biking.

best garden of the gods tours in colorado springs

And the best way to see Garden of the Gods is by booking a fun tour. You’ll uncover unique geology, learn the history of the wild west, and understand what makes this place so sacred.

What are the best Garden of the Gods tours?

✔️ Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour: Best for epic sightseeing

✔️ Rock Climbing Tour: Best for adventure seekers

✔️ Electric Bike Ride: Best for kids & families

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All of these Garden of the Gods tours (and many more!) are listed below with more in-depth info.

If you are looking for the best Garden of the Gods tour keep reading so you can have the best experience exploring the outdoors this year.

1. Foothills & Garden of the Gods Jeep Tour

booking colorado jeep tours

The Pikes Peak region features epic sights and historic adventures, many of which we have shared on this blog. And touring Garden of the Gods is just the beginning.

One of the best ways to take in the breathtaking views of the area is by booking this Garden of the Gods Jeep tour. Enjoy a custom 4×4 tour to take in the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

Plus, learn the history of the old west, and snap photos of the Colorado Springs valley.

And of course, you’ll be able to tour the spectacular views and red rock formations of Garden of the Gods.

What makes this Garden of the Gods Jeep tour our favorite?

Included with this Garden of the Gods Jeep tour for free:

✔️ Bottled water & sodas

✔️ 2.5 Hour tour

✔️ Snacks & refreshments

✔️ Wool blankets

As you ride along in the Jeep, about 70% of the drive will be on paved roads with the other 30% will be on dirt roads.

During this 2.5 hour tour, the Jeep will make stops at the foothills of Pikes Peak, including places like:

  • North Cheyenne Canon
  • Helen Hunt Falls
  • Old Colorado City
  • Manitou Springs

This tour, and many other Jeep tours in Colorado Springs, are available year-round and pretty much in any weather, rain or shine. 

Still, we recommend bringing warm clothes or dressing in layers due to Colorado’s unpredictable climate. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also a must as they are not provided while in the Jeep.

Book a Jeep Tour of Garden of the Gods
🤩 5/5 stars (400+ reviews)

2. Rock Climbing at Garden of the Gods

red rock canyon mini garden of the gods

If you’re a more active and ambitious traveler, we highly recommend booking this private Rock Climbing adventure at Garden of the Gods. 

This 4-hour long tour is ideal for individuals who want to get their hands dirty and work hard to be rewarded with epic mountain views.

A rock climbing adventure is perfect for anyone hoping to avoid the crowded walking trails or popular Visitor Center.

Get outside and experience spectacular views and the marvelous environment that this National Historic Landmark has to offer.

Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate rock climber, this experience is perfect for you.

Why go rock climbing at Garden of the Gods?

Rock climbing allows you to see Garden of the Gods from a different perspective. This activity is perfect for adventure lovers and thrill seekers.

✔️ Beginner or intermediate skills

✔️ Learn basic climbing techniques

✔️ Safety equipment included

✔️ 4-hour private experience

Get ready to learn basic rock climbing techniques geared at protecting these historic rock formations. Plus, find out how to tie secure knots and descend gently and safely.

Included with your ticket is all the equipment you will need plus a professional and experienced guide to help you along the way.

We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that can be layered easily, as well as comfortable walking shoes. 

This Garden of the Gods Rock Climbing tour starts at 8am so be prepared for changing weather throughout the day.

Book a Rock Climbing Adventure
🤩 5/5 stars (250+ reviews)

3. Garden of the Gods Ebike Tour

garden of the gods tours

If you’re not interested in a Jeep tour of Garden of the Gods, or riding around on Segways, then you might like this electric bike tour.

Explore the stunning views and scenic stops at Garden of the Gods Park with a pedal and throttle-assisted e-bike.

This means you can relax and enjoy the tour instead of working to pedal a manual bike. An electric bike tour is perfect for kids and adults of all skill levels.

Take in the spectacular views at Rock Ledge Ranch and Balanced Rock. Then stop at the Nature Center for a free museum tour.

After a quick safety training with a local guide you’ll learn to easily operate your very own e-bike.

What makes this Ebike tour of Garden of the Gods so fun?

An electronic bike is a great way to see all of the scenery at Garden of the Gods, without breaking much of a sweat.

✔️ Relaxing 5-mile bike ride

✔️ Free bottled water

✔️ Safety equipment included

✔️ 4-hour tour with expert guide

Included with your tour is a personal electric bike along with bottled water, snacks, helmet, and other safety equipment.

Book an Ebike Tour of Garden of the Gods
🤩 5/5 stars (25 reviews)

4. Garden of the Gods Segway Tour

garden of the gods mountain snow

Don’t want to be stuck in a jeep? Get out on foot and explore geologic formations, winding roads, and beautiful wildlife by booking this Garden of the Gods Segway Tour.

If you’ve never been on a Segway adventure it’s a fun and unique experience you’ll never forget. 

Don’t worry, the Segway tour guide will teach you how to use a Segway before the tour starts. You’ll also be given a helmet and other safety equipment included with your trip.

Slowly drive along the paved roads inside Garden of the Gods and experience gorgeous sights and sounds of nature, wildlife, and rock formations.

This tour makes stops at scenic destinations like the Park Overlook, Kissing Camels, and Praying Hands. 

Listen in as your tour guide shares the history of this beautiful park as well as tales of the old wild west for 1.5 hours. 

Plus, learn about the local foliage, fauna, and wildlife that inhabits the park’s 1,367 acres.

What’s included with this Segway tour at Garden of the Gods?

Included with your Segway tour of Garden of the Gods is the following:

✔️ Tour of Juniper Loop

✔️ Safety equipment

✔️ 1.5 hour tour with pro guide

✔️ Great for couples

Please note that this Segway Tour is more suitable for teenagers and adults. This tour does not allow children under 12 years or women who are pregnant.

It’s recommended to dress in layers and wear comfortable, close-toed shoes while on the Segway. 

And bring lots of water and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected throughout the day.

Book a Garden of the Gods Segway Tour
🤩 5/5 stars (60+ reviews)

5. Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods

garden of the gods classes and programs

Embark on a journey through time as you explore the secrets of Colorado’s geologic hike at the Garden of the Gods

This tour offers a fun and educational hike that showcases the best that the park has to offer. 

On this geology history tour, you will learn to recognize the local minerals and unique rock formations.

Discover fascinating fossils that reveal Colorado’s rich geologic past, and gain a deeper appreciation for how the current breathtaking landscape was formed. 

This geology hike is guided by a knowledgeable and officially authorized pro. And you’ll be provided a daypack, basic geology field equipment, and hiking poles (if necessary).

Why try this Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods?

Included with this Landscapes & Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods:

✔️ Best trails at Garden of the Gods

✔️ Geology equipment included

✔️ 2-hour private hike

✔️ Service animals allowed

✔️ Free snacks & bottled water

Plus, included with your tour is a daypack, hiking poles, and basic field equipment so you can identify local minerals. 

Children who complete this hike will also receive a special geology sample bag that includes a fossil and a trail gem as a souvenir. 

The total hiking distance is around 2 miles on well-maintained dirt trails, so it’s relatively easy for all skill levels. 

A geology hike at Garden of the Gods is an educational and fun experience for all ages.

Book an Ancient Landscapes & Geology Hike
🤩 5/5 stars (likely to sell out)

6. Garden of the Gods Small Group Hike

garden of the gods colorado springs

If you’ve never been to Garden of the Gods before, a small group hiking tour is the perfect introduction.

Join a knowledgeable hiking guide for a private tour of the area’s massive landscape including native plants, red rocks, and local wildlife. 

Your 2-hour journey starts at the main Garden of the Gods entrance with your photo being taken. 

What other time will you have to capture this picturesque landscape as the backdrop?! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

From here it’s an easy hike to the Central Park area and onto lesser-known trails.

As you continue hiking, on some paved and unpaved trails, your tour guide will talk about the local history and geology of the park. 

The history of Garden of the Gods is quite fascinating and includes local plants, Native Americans, and sacred traditions.

Why book this small group hike at Garden of the Gods?

This small group hiking tour is an easy hike between 2-3 miles long. It’s suitable for all ages and any ability level, and perfect for families and kids. 

✔️ Leashed dogs are welcome

✔️ Free bottled water & snacks

✔️ Minimum of 4 people

✔️ 8-hour tour with expert guide

The great thing about this Garden of the Gods tour is that dogs are welcomed on the hike as long as they are on a leash.

Be sure to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring any extra food or water you might need along the journey. 

And as usual we recommend bringing sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the hot Colorado sunshine.

Book a Small Group GotG Hike
🤩 5/5 stars (900+ reviews)

7. Pikes Peak COG Railway & Garden of the Gods Tour

pikes-peak-cog-railway

Combine two of the most famous attractions in Colorado into one epic all-day tour

Explore the wonders of the red rock formations at Garden of the Gods, then ride the newly-renovated COG Railway to the summit of Pikes Peak.

This tour is an all-day event that takes place over approximately 8-9 hours.

Why book this Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods tour?

This entire all-day adventure includes two of the most popular attractions in Colorado Springs, along with the following for free.

✔️ Delicious lunch

✔️ Parking fees

✔️ Bottled water

✔️ COG Railway Tickets

The tour starts at 7am in Denver at the historic Union Station. Once everything is complete you will be dropped off here at the end of the day.

After visiting Colorado Springs, hiking at Garden of the Gods and taking a 3-hour ride on the iconic COG Railway, you’ll have time for a quick stroll through Manitou Springs.

If you’re visiting from Denver the Garden of the Gods & Pikes Peak COG Railway Tour makes a great addition to your travel itinerary.

8. Full-Day Pikes Peaks Regional Wonders

pikes peak at garden of the gods

Coming from Denver, this Full-Day Pikes Peak Region tour offers the opportunity to see iconic Colorado scenery. All while being located in the state’s second largest urban area. 

Kicking off the tour at the Capital’s Union Station, you will head south past the Palmer Divide and into Colorado Springs to explore the Pikes Peak region. 

The journey really begins when you get to the Pikes Peak Highway and start the ascent to the top of America’s Mountain. 

Be as inspired as Kathrine Lee Bates was at the landscape and wildlife around you on your way to 14,110 feet above the clouds. From the top of Pikes Peak, take in the 360 degree views from all sides.

Next, travel back down to the foot of the mountains and visit the mountain town of historic Manitou Springs.

In this Victorian town, you will spend time eating, shopping or having fun in the historic Penny Arcade. Or try one of the many bubbly natural mineral springs in the area that give the town its name.

Why book this full-day tour of Pikes Peaks wonders?

An electronic bike is a great way to see all of the scenery at Garden of the Gods, without breaking much of a sweat.

✔️ Drive to Pikes Peak summit

✔️ Free bottled water & snacks

✔️ Temperature-controlled vehicle

✔️ 9-hour group tour

The final destination of this tour will be into Garden of the Gods Park where you can explore some of Colorado’s natural history.

Take an easy walk through ancient and colossal rock formations on one of the many trails. And keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. 

Stop at the Visitor and Nature Center to learn about the extended history of the rocks and for a quick tour of the museum’s exhibits. 

Afterwards, take a break for a bite to eat or ice cream treat at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post.

This 9-hour tour of the natural wonders of Colorado is well worth the time to explore some of the state’s most scenic and iconic destinations. 

Book a Pikes Peak Regional Wonders Tour
🤩 5/5 stars (likely to sell out)

9. Balanced Rock & Juniper Loop Tours

garden of the gods overlook

Adventures Out West offers a wide variety of tours at Garden of the Gods, including a Balanced Rock Tour and Juniper Loop Tour. 

Both tours are done on Segways with an expert guide to provide safety training and equipment.

Balanced Rock and Juniper Loop are some of the most iconic destinations at Garden of the Gods. 

In addition, along these Segway tours you’ll see formations like the Kissing Camels, Praying Hands, and Sleeping Giant.

Finally, you’ll learn about the geology of the park, the cultural history, and some of the most famous tales of the Old West and Colorado.

No snacks or drinks are provided on this 2-hour tour, so it’s recommended to bring a refillable water bottle.

Adventures Out West is a local tour company in Colorado Springs, so be sure to check their website for available times and cost.

10. Garden of the Gods Trolley Tour

garden of the gods trolley tour

A personal favorite of ours for touring Garden of the Gods is the 1909 Trolley Tour

This open-air trolley will take you back in time for more than 100 years, when the park first became part of Colorado Springs.

Stay entertained with local stories thanks to a knowledgeable and friendly tour guide, all while learning about the history of the park.

This 45-minute tour is perfect for beginners or locals who don’t have a lot of time or money for a longer tour of Garden of the Gods.

Just hop into one of the 14 seats available on this custom 1909 trolley. Then enjoy the fantastic sights with stops at popular formations like Balanced Rock.

Tickets are relatively affordable at just $17 per person and can be purchased at the activity desk inside the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center.

How long does a Garden of the Gods tour take?

The time it takes for a fun tour of Garden of the Gods depends on the type of adventure you’ve booked.

A Jeep tour or rock climbing experience of the Park typically runs about 2-3 hours. Whereas a Segway tour is often a bit shorter at around 1 hour to 1.5 hours.

However, the average visitor spends about 1.5-2.5 hours at Garden of the Gods during their visit. So you can expect to spend at least a n hour or two exploring the epic scenery and enjoying a tour!

When is the best time of year to visit Garden of the Gods?

garden-of-the-gods-kissing-camels-in-winter

As someone who goes to Garden of the Gods every month with a hiking group, the best of the year to visit is spring or fall.

This is when the weather conditions are mild and you can explore the park and any of these outdoor activities without the summer tourist traffic.

Although the Park is open year-round and beautiful no matter what the season, summer is an extremely busy time of year for Garden of the Gods.

It sees a ton of tourism during the warmer months which means crowded trails and lots of traffic.

So it’s best to avoid visiting Garden of the Gods in June through August if possible.

How much does it cost to visit Garden of the Gods?

A visit to Garden of the Gods is completely free no matter what time of year or day you visit.

When Charles Perkins, the founder of Garden of the Gods, passed away his children gifted the park to the City of Colorado Springs.

But the main requirement was that this National Natural Landmark would always remain open and free for visitors.

So, if you’re planning to explore Garden of the Gods, this is a completely free destination, and one of the top Colorado bucket list destinations.

Is there free parking at Garden of the Gods?

parking at garden of the gods visitor center

Yes, there are multiple places within Garden of the Gods to park for free. There are two large lots with plenty of free parking available.

The first, and most popular parking area, is the Visitor & Nature Center which is also the meeting place for most tours at the Park.

The second, more of an overflow lot, is located at the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site.

In addition, Garden of the Gods has 16 smaller parking lots scattered throughout the grounds, labeled as P1 through P16 on the map.

You can easily pull off the main road to park for free as well as access many of the various hiking trails inside Garden of the Gods.

Can you drive your car through Garden of the Gods?

Yes, one of the great things about Garden of the Gods are the paved roads that wind throughout the Park.

There are also multiple parking lots where you can park for free to get out and hike, bike, or rock climb.

But you don’t have to get out of your car if you don’t want to. You can simply drive around Garden of the Gods for free in your own vehicle.

We go hiking at Garden of the Gods every month and it’s one of our favorite hikes in Colorado Springs.

From epic photo opportunities to an amazing scenic drive through Garden of the Gods, a tour is a great way to take in the beautiful scenery that Colorado has to offer.

We hope these spectacular Garden of the Gods tours help you create unforgettable memories while visiting Colorado Springs.

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