Balanced Rock: A Geological Balancing Act

Marvel at Balanced Rock in Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs: a 35-foot, 1.4-million-pound sandstone wonder seemingly defying gravity.

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Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock, a 35-foot-tall, 1.4-million-pound sandstone formation in Colorado Springs' Garden of the Gods, appears to defy gravity as it balances on a narrow base. Formed through millions of years of erosion, this natural wonder has been a popular subject for tourist photos since the late 19th century.

A brief summary to Balanced Rock

Garden Dr, Colorado Springs, West Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80904, US

Monday 5 am-11 pm
Tuesday 5 am-11 pm
Wednesday 5 am-11 pm
Thursday 5 am-11 pm
Friday 5 am-11 pm
Saturday 5 am-11 pm
Sunday 5 am-11 pm

Local tips

Arrive early, especially during summer and weekends, as parking near Balanced Rock is limited and fills up quickly.
Bring your camera! Balanced Rock offers numerous angles for creative and memorable photographs.
Stay on marked paths to protect the environment and ensure your safety. Climbing on Balanced Rock is prohibited without a permit.
Combine your visit to Balanced Rock with other attractions in Garden of the Gods, such as the Kissing Camels or the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center.

Getting There

Car

If driving from Colorado Springs, head west on Colorado Avenue, which turns into Garden of the Gods Road. Follow the road to the Garden of the Gods entrance. Once inside the park, follow signs for Balanced Rock. There are parking spaces available near Balanced Rock. Parking is free, but limited, especially during peak hours. Consider entering Garden of the Gods from the south via Garden Drive. After turning left from El Paso Boulevard onto Garden Drive, Balanced Rock will be on the left in about 0.5 miles.
Public Transport

From downtown Colorado Springs, take Mountain Metro Transit bus route 3 towards Garden of the Gods. Get off at the Garden of the Gods stop. From there, walk approximately 1 mile to Balanced Rock, following the marked trails. Check the bus schedule for the return trip. A single fare for Mountain Metro Transit is typically $1.75.
Walking

From the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, head west on Gateway Road. Turn right onto Juniper Way Loop, then follow Garden Drive to the southern section. Balanced Rock will be on the right side of the road. The walk is approximately 3 miles.

Discover more about Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock, an iconic formation within Colorado Springs' Garden of the Gods, is a testament to the power of geological processes over vast stretches of time. This massive sandstone boulder, standing 35 feet tall and weighing approximately 1.4 million pounds, captures the imagination with its seemingly precarious balance. Formed by the uplift of the Rocky Mountains and subsequent erosion, Balanced Rock is an erosional remnant, where softer rock layers were gradually worn away by wind and water, leaving behind the more resistant sandstone. The red hue of the rock comes from hematite, a form of iron oxide. Located near the southern entrance of Garden of the Gods, close to Manitou Springs, Balanced Rock has been a popular attraction for well over a century. In the 1890s, the Goerke family even charged visitors a fee to see and photograph the rock. Today, it's free to visit and photograph this natural wonder. Visitors often take pictures that create the illusion they are holding up or pushing the rock. While some concrete was added to the base long ago to prevent damage, the rock's stability primarily relies on its natural geological structure. Geologists believe that only a significant natural event, such as a strong earthquake, would be capable of dislodging it.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum

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Explore the captivating history of Manitou Springs at the Heritage Center and Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.

Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum

Governor's House

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Discover the historical allure of Governor's House in Manitou Springs, where rich history meets stunning Colorado landscapes.

Williams Canyon

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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Williams Canyon, a serene ravine in Manitou Springs, Colorado, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.

Shoshone Spring

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Explore the historical Shoshone Spring in Manitou Springs, a serene landmark that showcases the area's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Rainbow Falls

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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Rainbow Falls in Colorado – a stunning natural attraction perfect for hiking and photography.

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

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Explore the historic charm of Rock Ledge Ranch, a living history museum in Colorado Springs, showcasing the rich heritage of the region amidst stunning landscapes.

Iron Spring

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Explore Iron Spring in Manitou Springs, a historical landmark known for its effervescent mineral waters and stunning natural beauty in Colorado.

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

2.8 km

Explore the breathtaking red rock formations and adventure opportunities at Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, a must-visit destination in Colorado Springs.

City Hall of Old Colorado City

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Explore the City Hall of Old Colorado City, a captivating historical landmark showcasing the rich heritage of Colorado Springs in a charming setting.

Pike's Peak, Colorado

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Experience the stunning beauty and historical significance of Pike's Peak, a breathtaking landmark in Colorado, ideal for adventure and exploration.

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

3.1 km

Explore the breathtaking vistas of Pikes Peak aboard the historic Cog Railway, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in Colorado.

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Pikes Peak By Rail

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Glen Eyrie Castle

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Experience the magic of Glen Eyrie Castle, a historic hotel in Colorado Springs offering breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and outdoor adventures.

The Michael Garman Museum & Gallery

3.7 km

Explore The Michael Garman Museum & Gallery, a unique destination in Colorado Springs showcasing the artistic legacy of Michael Garman through captivating sculptures and exhibits.

Magic Town at the Michael Garman Museum & Gallery

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Unmissable attractions to see

Steamboat Rock

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Colorado Garden of the Gods

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Garden of the Gods Trading Post

0.4 km

Discover Colorado's oldest and largest gift shop and art gallery at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post. A unique shopping and dining experience since 1929.

Horse Parking Garden of the Gods

0.7 km

Dedicated parking for equestrians exploring the trails of Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs' natural sandstone wonder.

Schryver Park

0.8 km

Escape to Schryver Park in Manitou Springs: a scenic oasis with a pond, playground, and trails for family fun and relaxation.

Siamese Twins

1.0 km

Hike to the Siamese Twins in Garden of the Gods for a unique view of Pikes Peak through a natural rock window.

Garden of the Gods

1.2 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Garden of the Gods, a stunning natural park in Colorado Springs, featuring iconic red rock formations and scenic trails.

Historic Manitou Springs Sign

1.3 km

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Pikes peak

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Manitou Cliff Dwellings

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Seven Minute Spring

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Memorial Park, Manitou Springs, CO

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Manitou Springs

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High Point Overlook

1.6 km

Experience panoramic views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak from the easily accessible and stunning High Point Overlook.

The Cliff House at Pikes Peak

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Experience authentic Greek flavors at Jake and Telly's Greek Taverna in Old Colorado City—where every dish tells a story.

Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at The Castle Gift Shop in Manitou Springs, where local culture meets historic charm.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Heroes Hollow

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Red Mountain Bar and Grill

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Royal Tavern

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Townhouse Sports Grill

1.9 km

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Kinfolks

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Trails End Taproom and Eatery

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The Rocks Lounge & Dining Room

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Experience the best of Colorado Springs dining at The Rocks Lounge & Dining Room, where local flavors meet stunning views in a cozy atmosphere.

Nova West

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Upstairs Wine Bar

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The Fifty-Niner

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OCC Brewing and Restaurant

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Pub Dog Colorado

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Colorado Mountain Brewery

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Mill Hill Saloon

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Voodoo Brewing Company - Colorado Springs Pub

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Voodoo Brewing Company - Colorado Springs Pub

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Balanced Rock: A Geological Balancing Act

A brief summary to Balanced Rock

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transport

Walking

Unlock the Best of Balanced Rock

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Balanced Rock

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum

Governor's House

Williams Canyon

Shoshone Spring

Rainbow Falls

Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site

Iron Spring

Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center

City Hall of Old Colorado City

Pike's Peak, Colorado

The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Pikes Peak By Rail

Glen Eyrie Castle

The Michael Garman Museum & Gallery

Magic Town at the Michael Garman Museum & Gallery

Unmissable attractions to see

Steamboat Rock

Colorado Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods Trading Post

Horse Parking Garden of the Gods

Schryver Park

Siamese Twins

Garden of the Gods

Historic Manitou Springs Sign

Pikes peak

Manitou Cliff Dwellings

Seven Minute Spring

Memorial Park, Manitou Springs, CO

Manitou Springs

High Point Overlook

The Cliff House at Pikes Peak

Essential places to dine

Adam’s Mountain Cafe

Amanda's Cantina and Fonda

The Keg Lounge

Swirl Restaurant and Wine Bar

Manitou Brewing Company

Mona Lisa Fondue Restaurant

Cliff House Dining Room

Border Burger Bar

Armadillo Ranch Bar, Restaurant, Live Music Venue

The Loop

Grand View

Paravicini's Italian Bistro

Ristorante Di Sopra

Alchemy

Jake and Telly’s Greek Taverna

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Piramide-Dragonfly of Colorado

Kill Your Culture

Legrande Accents Boutique

Mountain High Gallery and Gifts

La Henna Boheme

Manitou Outpost

Ten Spot

Mountain West Trading USA

La Tienda

Sante Fe Springs

Leprechaun Shoppe

Eagle Dancer

Osburn Gift Shop

The Hemp Store

The Castle Gift Shop

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Heroes Hollow

Red Mountain Bar and Grill

Royal Tavern