Read on to learn more about the top 5 Garden of the Gods hikes.
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Siamese Twin Trail
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Perkins Central Garden Trail
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The Ridge Trail
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Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Hiking Trail
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Scotsman/Buckskin Charlie Trail
1. Siamese Twin Trail at Garden of the Gods
- Distance: 0.5 mile hike or 1 mile roundtrip loop.
- Difficulty: Moderately challenging.
- Duration: Approximately 15 minutes to complete.
- Elevation Gain: 104 feet
- Parking/ Trailhead: There are two trailheads with clear markers leading to parking lots 14 and 16.
The Siamese Twin Trail at Garden of the Gods is a scenic, moderately challenging hike that leads to one of the park’s most unique rock formations, known as the “twins.” This iconic feature earned its name because of its two side-by-side rock columns, which are connected by a natural window in the stone. The formation is beautifully framed against the backdrop of Pikes Peak, offering a picture-perfect view. The trail is a mild, mile-long roundtrip loop with an elevation gain of just 104 feet, making it a popular choice for visitors of all skill levels. Taking about 15 minutes to complete, it’s easy to navigate and begins and ends at the same spot, with clearly marked trailheads near parking lots 14 and 16. Its combination of stunning scenery and fascinating geology makes the Siamese Twin Trail a must-visit for anyone exploring Garden of the Gods.
Answers From Our Guides
How long does it take to go through the Garden of the Gods?
Hiking times vary depending on the trail and your pace, but most visitors spend 1 to 3 hours exploring. Whether you’re here to explore the trails, take in the stunning views, or learn about the park’s rich history—like the discovery of the dinosaur Theiophytalia kerri—this is a place that truly has something for everyone.
2. Hike the Perkins Central Garden Trail
- Distance: 1.5 mile loop trail.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Duration: Approximately 25 minutes to complete.
- Elevation Gain: 30 feet
- Parking/ Trailhead: Overflow parking and trailhead are near the main entrance.
If you’re looking for the best trail in Garden of the Gods, the Perkins Central Garden Trail is a top choice for many visitors. This 1.5-mile, mostly paved loop takes you right into the heart of the park, offering incredible views of its most iconic rock formations. With just 30 feet of elevation gain, it’s an easy, accessible hike suitable for all skill levels and takes about 25 minutes to complete. The trail loops around the base of the largest rock formations, giving you a unique and up-close perspective of their grandeur. Like the Siamese Twin Trail, it’s a roundtrip hike, so you’ll finish where you started. The trailhead is located near overflow parking by the main entrance and is wheelchair accessible, with four designated accessible parking spots available. Whether you’re new to hiking or just looking for a relaxing walk, the Perkins Central Garden Trail offers a wonderful way to experience the Garden of the Gods.
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Can you drive your car through the Garden of the Gods?
Yes! For those short on time or preferring a more relaxed experience, you can drive through the park with several parking areas available for exploring different sections. The time to drive through varies based on stops and activities.
3. The Ridge Trail at Garden of the Gods
- Distance: 0.4 mile loop.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Duration: Approximately 12 minutes to complete.
- Elevation Gain: Less than 100 feet
- Parking/ Trailhead: Parking Lot 10 is on the east side of the Juniper Way Loop Road. From the parking area head across the road to where the Ridge trail begins.
The Ridge Trail at Garden of the Gods is a 0.4-mile loop that provides an enjoyable hike with stunning views of the park’s rock formations, all without being too strenuous. It’s a great choice if you’re still adjusting to the elevation since the trail is flat and easy to navigate. With an elevation gain of less than 100 feet, it takes about 12 minutes to complete. The Ridge Trail offers a higher vantage point, letting you look down at the Central Garden area and see the massive sandstone formations from a unique perspective. The trailhead is located near Parking Lot 10, on the east side of Juniper Way Loop Road. From there, just cross the road to get to the trail. With amenities like free parking, the Ridge Trail is perfect for anyone looking to take in the beauty of Garden of the Gods without committing to a long hike.
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How much does it cost to get into Garden of the Gods?
The Garden of the Gods park and nature center are both free to enter. Hikers can venture out on self-guided treks but the Garden of the Gods trails also offer guided nature walks for a small fee ($5). These hour-long walks are led by expert interpreters who share information about the geology, ecology and significance of the park. The guided, mile-long hike is a great experience. Self-guided hikers can also read interpretive signs while covering more ground if desired.
4. Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Hiking Trail at Garden of the Gods
- Distance: 3 mile hike.
- Difficulty: Challenging.
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes.
- Elevation Gain: Roughly 250 feet rise in elevation.
- Parking/ Trailhead: Trail begins from the main parking.
The Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Hiking Trail is a 3-mile route in Garden of the Gods that offers a more challenging experience for those looking to push themselves a bit further. The trail navigates the edge of the park, passing through rolling hills and rock formations, and offers a unique opportunity to see the park from nearly every perspective, including views of iconic formations like Balanced Rock from less-visited angles. Balanced Rock was formed as erosive processes removed the softer layers near its base, eventually leaving the precarious-looking outcrop seen today. With an elevation gain of roughly 250 feet, the hike remains moderate despite the length, taking about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. Since fewer visitors choose this route, it offers a more private and peaceful experience, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the park without the crowds. The trail begins at the main parking lot, though parking can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early. This trail is perfect for adventurous hikers looking to explore more of Garden of the Gods while still keeping the elevation gain manageable.
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When is the best time of day to go to the Garden of the Gods?
The park is open year-round, with hours from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. in winter and until 10:00 p.m. in summer. The best time to visit is between March and October, with April and May being less crowded. In the summer, you’ll want to hit our top 5 trails early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the busiest times. And for an unforgettable adventure, consider combining your visit with a rafting trip in nearby Canon City. With its stunning scenery and variety of trails, Garden of the Gods is a bucket-list destination you don’t want to miss
5. Hike the Scotsman/Buckskin Charlie Trail
- Distance: 1 mile loop.
- Difficulty: Moderately challenging.
- Duration: Approximately 25 minutes.
- Elevation Gain: About 30 feet.
- Parking/ Trailhead: The Buckskin Charlie Trail departs from the Old Colorado City Trailhead off Ridge Road.
The Scotsman/Buckskin Charlie Trail is a moderately challenging 1-mile loop in Garden of the Gods, offering a great opportunity for hikers looking for an easy stroll. With an elevation gain of about 30 feet, the trail is manageable and takes approximately 25 minutes to complete. The trailhead can be found at the Old Colorado City Trailhead off Ridge Road, making it easy to access. While the trail is less trafficked than some of the shorter hikes, it still sees a fair number of visitors and winds through the park’s interior zone. The trail is known for its wildflowers, especially in early summer, adding a beautiful touch to the scenery. This is a dog-friendly trail, though a leash is required, making it a great option for those looking to hike with their pets. The Buckskin Charlie Trail is named after a Southern Ute chief who was born in the Garden of the Gods area. Like many of the trails in Garden of the Gods, the terrain is largely flat, and elevation changes are minimal, ensuring a pleasant experience for hikers of all levels.
Answers From Our Guides
What else is there to do near the Garden of the Gods?
Don’t Forget To Add Colorado Whitewater Rafting To Your Adventure List!
There’s no doubt in our mind that you are an adventurer! After a long hike at Garden of the Gods, won’t you join us in cooling down on the river? Arkansas River Tours is your premier Colorado white water rafting outfitter! Our professional guides emphasize customer safety while providing the most memorable adventures. From family-friendly Bighorn Sheep Canyon rafting to extreme Royal Gorge rafting, there’s a trip for everyone! View our Colorado Springs rafting trips to explore your options.
