Backyard of the Gods may be one of the iconic locations to hike in Colorado and it’s utterly free to go to. Whether or not you’re driving by Colorado Springs or planning a visit to the world, it’s value making time for. With paved and unpaved trails, dramatic purple rock formations, and views of Pikes Peak, Backyard of the Gods affords one thing for each sort of hiker, from informal walkers to these trying to log miles. Whereas we weren’t operating, we noticed some runners once we ent.
It’s arduous to not be impressed the second you pull into the park. Large sandstone formations tower above the paths and roadways, and even for those who’ve seen footage earlier than, it’s a type of locations that’s extra breathtaking in particular person. Plus, you don’t have to spend a ton of time there for those who don’t have the time.
Fast Info About Backyard of the Gods
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
Park Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day
Customer & Nature Heart Hours: 9 a.m. to five p.m. (test seasonal hours earlier than you go)
Path Size: Over 15 miles of trails, starting from quick loops to longer scenic routes
Price: Free (sure, actually!)
Canine: Allowed on leash
Restrooms: Out there on the Customer Heart and some trailheads
What’s Backyard of the Gods?
Planning a visit by Colorado? Try my publish on mountain climbing North Cheyenne Cañon Park for one more nice choice close by.
What’s Backyard of the Gods?
Backyard of the Gods is a public park recognized for its dramatic purple rock spires and monoliths. The realm was designated a Nationwide Pure Landmark in 1971 and is likely one of the most visited sights in Colorado. It’s distinctive as a result of you possibly can hike, bike, rock climb, or simply take a scenic drive and nonetheless get unimaginable views. The park can also be surprisingly accessible for vacationers coming from Denver (about 1.5 hours south) or close by cities like Manitou Springs.
Why is Backyard of the Gods free? Backyard of the Gods is free to go to, and that’s not by chance. In 1909, the land was donated to town of Colorado Springs by the youngsters of Charles Elliott Perkins with one massive situation…it needed to keep free and open to the general public perpetually. Perkins had purchased the land with the concept that it ought to be loved by everybody, and his household made certain that promise was saved. Greater than 100 years later, it nonetheless is. That’s a part of what makes Backyard of the Gods so particular…you get jaw-dropping views and world-class trails with out paying a dime.
On the lookout for different iconic spots? Don’t miss my information to mountain climbing Fishers Peak State Park for those who’re heading farther south.
Finest Trails in Backyard of the Gods
There are greater than a dozen trails all through the park, however among the hottest embrace:
Perkins Central Backyard Path (1.5 miles, paved): That is probably the most well-known and best path to comply with. You don’t want path sneakers. It winds by the central rock formations and offers you up-close views of most of the most well-known rocks like Kissing Camels and Sentinel Spires.
Ridge Path (0.5 miles): Quick however affords elevation acquire and views from above. Nice in order for you a fast detour.
Siamese Twins Path (1 mile): This loop takes you to the rock formation often called the Siamese Twins, which additionally frames Pikes Peak completely for a photograph.
Chambers/Bretag/Palmer Path Loop (3 miles): In the event you’re searching for a much less crowded choice with extra of a mountain climbing really feel, this path affords a scenic loop that circles a lot of the park.
You can even create your personal journey by connecting a couple of trails collectively. The paths are well-marked, and there are many maps all through the park, nevertheless it’s a good suggestion to seize one from the Customer Heart earlier than heading out. We ended up mountain climbing and strolling round for about 90 minutes.
What to Count on on the Trails
Relying on the path you select, you’ll encounter a mixture of paved pathways, grime trails, and rocky steps. Some trails are very flat and stroller-friendly; others are steeper and extra rugged. Count on crowds close to the central backyard space, particularly on weekends. In the event you’re searching for a quieter expertise, go early within the morning or later within the night.
Backyard of the Gods can also be at elevation…over 6,000 ft…which suggests the air is thinner than you may be used to. In the event you’re not acclimated, take it simple and keep hydrated. Though many trails are quick, the altitude can nonetheless make issues really feel tougher than anticipated.
When’s the Finest Time to Go to?
Backyard of the Gods is open year-round, and every season affords one thing completely different:
Spring: Cooler climate, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds
Summer season: Peak vacationer season, hotter temps, and afternoon thunderstorms
Fall: Crisp air, altering leaves, and clear views of Pikes Peak
Winter: Snow-dusted purple rocks and fewer guests, however test for icy circumstances on trails
I went in early spring and lucked out with a sunny day. Though it did get somewhat toasty.
Ideas for Visiting Backyard of the Gods
Parking: It’s free, nevertheless it fills up quick…particularly close to the Central Backyard. Arrive early in order for you a spot near the primary trails.
Convey Water: There are a couple of ingesting fountains, however they aren’t all the time working. Convey your personal water bottle and are few and much between.
Use the lavatory: I in a short time realized it may be arduous to search out restrooms except you’re on the customer heart so don’t get caught on a path with out utilizing it first.
Put on Good Footwear: Even the straightforward trails can have uneven footing.
Watch the Climate: Afternoon storms roll in rapidly throughout summer time. Be conscious for those who’re out on uncovered trails.
Use the Customer Heart: It’s value stopping in. You’ll discover maps, path suggestions, loos, and even a café with nice views.
My Expertise Mountain climbing Backyard of the Gods
We determined to simply pull over and stroll round for 90 minutes. It was a superb mixture of simple strolling, photograph stops, and simply having fun with the surroundings. Even with crowds, it by no means felt overwhelming. I noticed households with youngsters, path runners, rock climbers, and vacationers all having fun with the area in their very own approach. I even noticed individuals taking anniversary images. I all the time respect seeing so many individuals lively.
For some components, there have been crowds, and others components we have been on our personal overwhelmed path simply having fun with nature and rocks. I believed it was a lot enjoyable to observe the rock climbers get to the highest (perhaps as a result of that isn’t in my very own pursuits LOL). What I respect most about Backyard of the Gods (after the pure magnificence) is there actually is one thing for everybody. If you wish to stroll on a paved path, they’ve it. If you wish to do some rugged mountain climbing, they’ve that too. In the event you simply wish to admire the attractive rock formations, you don’t need to do any mountain climbing.
Conclusion: Who Ought to Hike Backyard of the Gods?
Whether or not you’ve lived in Colorado your complete life otherwise you’re simply passing by, Backyard of the Gods is a enjoyable cease. Even when mountain climbing or path operating isn’t your factor you possibly can drive by. You don’t want a complete day to take pleasure in it, however you may want one.
Backyard of the Gods is ideal for:
Informal hikers searching for quick, scenic trails
Households and guests new to mountain climbing or these wanting a simple path
Anybody touring by Colorado Springs
Backyard of the Gods may not be for you if:
You’re searching for strenuous, backcountry mountain climbing
You don’t like crowds or choose distant trails
You need trails with none paved sections
You possibly can see extra hikes right here.
Inquisitive about how I do gear opinions? You possibly can examine that right here. Love operating? You possibly can subscribe to my weekly publication or learn extra about trainers in my e book.
Questions for you:
What’s your favourite hike?
Have you ever been to Backyard of the Gods?
