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Kissing Camels: A Geological Love Story

Witness the Kissing Camels, an iconic red rock formation in Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, sculpted over millions of years.

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The Kissing Camels are a famous rock formation in Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, resembling two camels in a loving embrace. Formed over millions of years, these towering red sandstone structures are a must-see landmark within the park.

A brief summary to Kissing Camels

  • 2336-3818 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, West Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80904, US
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Visit at night to see the Kissing Camels illuminated by spotlights, offering a different perspective.
  • Walk the paved Perkins Central Garden Trail for an accessible, close-up view of the formation.
  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking at the main lot.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, cross 30th Street onto Gateway Road and head west into the park. At the intersection of Gateway Road and Juniper Way Loop, turn right onto the one-way road. The main parking area is the first large pull-off on the left, providing direct access to the Perkins Central Garden Trail and the Kissing Camels. This walk is approximately 0.5 miles and should take no more than 15 minutes. There is no cost for this walking route.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Colorado Springs, take Mountain Metro Transit Route 3 or 16 to the intersection of 30th Street and Gateway Road. From there, cross 30th Street and walk west on Gateway Road into the park. At the intersection of Gateway Road and Juniper Way Loop, turn right onto the one-way road. The main parking area is the first large pull-off on the left, providing direct access to the Perkins Central Garden Trail and the Kissing Camels. The bus fare is $1.75 per ride. This route involves a walk of approximately 0.5 miles from the bus stop to the Kissing Camels.

  • Driving

    From I-25, take Exit 147 for Garden of the Gods Road and head west. Turn south onto 30th Street and proceed to Gateway Road. Turn west onto Gateway Road into the park. At the intersection of Gateway Road and Juniper Way Loop, turn right onto the one-way road. The main parking area is the first large pull-off on the left, providing direct access to the Perkins Central Garden Trail and the Kissing Camels. Parking is free, but the lot can fill up quickly during peak season. An overflow lot is available across from the Visitor Center.

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Discover more about Kissing Camels

The Kissing Camels, an iconic rock formation within Colorado Springs' Garden of the Gods, presents a captivating testament to nature's artistry. These majestic red sandstone formations, sculpted by wind and water erosion over 300 million years, stand approximately 70 feet tall, creating a striking visual against the Colorado sky. The formation distinctly resembles two camels in a gentle, eternal kiss, making it easily recognizable and a favorite photo opportunity for visitors of all ages. Located in the northern part of the park within the Perkins Central Garden, the Kissing Camels are easily accessible and visible from Juniper Way Loop. For an up-close experience, visitors can stroll along the paved Perkins Central Garden Trail, which offers accessible pathways for strollers and wheelchairs. At night, the formation is illuminated by spotlights, enhancing its allure under the moonlight. The full moon aligning perfectly behind the camels a few times a year creates a picturesque scene. Beyond their geological significance, the Kissing Camels hold cultural importance. The Cheyenne people revered these formations as sacred, using them as a central point for ceremonies and gatherings for centuries. Oral history suggests that the Garden of the Gods served as neutral ground for Native American tribes, where even rivals would lay down their weapons, and the Kissing Camels symbolized peace and respectful interaction. Today, the Kissing Camels continue to inspire and captivate. As one of the most photographed locations in Colorado, they stand as a reminder of the natural beauty and cultural history of the region.

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