Instructions for the Garden of the Gods, Colorado Landmark
In the heart of Colorado Springs lies a breathtaking natural wonder, a landmark that has captivated visitors since the late 19th century. Known as the Garden of the Gods, this remarkable destination is a testament to the beauty and grandeur of nature.
The name "Garden of the Gods" was bestowed upon this area in 1859 by two surveyors, M.S. Beach and Rufus Cable, who were struck by the stunning, majestic red rock formations. Rufus Cable, in particular, exclaimed, "Nothing more grand could be imagined," likening it to a garden fit for the gods.
General William Jackson Palmer, the founder of Colorado Springs, played a significant role in promoting the area. In 1879, he encouraged friends to establish homes near the Garden of the Gods, helping the site become more widely known.
The name evokes the awe-inspiring natural beauty and seems fitting for the remarkable geological features of the park, which represent about 300 million years of geological history. Notable rock formations visible along the Gateway Garden Trail include White Rock, Signature Rock, Gateway Rock, and the Kissing Camels.
Visiting the Garden of the Gods is an experience not to be missed. For those with limited time, self-guided hiking trails are an excellent option. The Gateway Garden Trail, a 1.5-mile paved hike, offers stunning views of the park's sandstone formations.
One of the most popular spots is the Balanced Rock, a precariously balanced rock formation that is one of the most photographed in the world. It's a favourite among children, who enjoy climbing around its base. A stairway off the Gateway Garden Trail leads to a viewpoint at the top of South Gateway rock, where the views are unbelievable.
The visitor center at Garden of the Gods provides a clear map and is well-maintained. It's also a great place for learning about dinosaurs, the history of the place, and even offers tours.
When visiting, it's important to practice Leave No Trace principles to ensure the park remains as pristine as it is today.
For those planning a road trip, booking a campervan from Escape's Denver location is a great way to visit the Garden of the Gods and other Colorado landmarks. The park is located about an hour away from the rental location.
Sadly, during our visit, we had to cut our hiking time short due to a looming snow storm and a goal of reaching Rocky Mountain National Park. However, we look forward to returning to explore more of this beautiful area and its many opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and guided tours.
The Garden of the Gods, with its romantic 19th-century name, has become a cherished landmark in Colorado Springs, symbolizing natural wonder and spiritual inspiration. A visit here is a must for anyone seeking to experience the majesty of nature.
- The exclamation by Rufus Cable, one of the surveyors who named the Garden of the Gods, not only captured the stunning beauty of the site but also compared it to a garden fit for the gods, reflecting the 'lifestyle' and 'gardening' elements in a unique way.
- For those who enjoy adventurous travels, the Garden of the Gods offers an array of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and guided tours, making it an ideal destination for a 'road trip'.
- The visitor center at the Garden of the Gods is not just a stop for maps and learning about the park's history, but it also provides insights into dinosaurs, offering a blend of 'home-and-garden' and 'travel' experiences.
- After exploring the Garden of the Gods, continuing the journey with a campervan rented from Escape's Denver location allows visitors to discover other Colorado landmarks, combining travel and an off-the-grid 'lifestyle' experience.
