South Gateway Rock: A Majestic Sentinel
Explore the towering red rock formations of South Gateway Rock in Colorado Springs' Garden of the Gods, a geological wonder.
South Gateway Rock, a prominent sandstone formation in Colorado Springs' Garden of the Gods, offers stunning views and varied climbing routes, making it a popular destination for hikers and climbers alike. Its imposing presence marks the southern entrance to the park's central garden area.
A brief summary to South Gateway Rock
- Colorado Springs, West Colorado Springs, Colorado, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking and avoid crowds.
- Bring water and wear appropriate footwear, as the trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Check for seasonal climbing closures due to raptor nesting.
- Visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center to learn about the park's geology and history.
Getting There
-
Walking
From the main Garden of the Gods Visitor Center, follow the paved Gateway Trail southwest. Pass under N 30th Street via the underpass. Continue on the trail as it parallels Gateway Road. At the intersection with Juniper Way Loop, cross the road to enter the Central Garden area. South Gateway Rock will be visible to the south. This walk is approximately 1 mile and should take about 30 minutes.
-
Public Transport
From downtown Colorado Springs, take Mountain Metro Transit bus Route 3. Disembark at the intersection of 30th Street and Colorado Avenue. Walk west on Colorado Avenue to the entrance of Garden of the Gods Park. Follow the main road to the South Gateway Rock area. The bus fare is approximately $2.00.
-
Car
From the main entrance of Garden of the Gods Park at 1805 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, enter the park and follow the main road. Continue straight until you reach the parking lot for the South Gateway Rock area. Parking is free. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.
Discover more about South Gateway Rock
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Glen Eyrie Castle
1.6 km
Experience the magic of Glen Eyrie Castle, a historic hotel in Colorado Springs offering breathtaking views, luxurious accommodations, and outdoor adventures.
Manitou Springs Heritage Center and Museum
3.5 km
Explore the captivating history of Manitou Springs at the Heritage Center and Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Governor's House
3.7 km
Discover the historical allure of Governor's House in Manitou Springs, where rich history meets stunning Colorado landscapes.
Williams Canyon
3.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Williams Canyon, a serene ravine in Manitou Springs, Colorado, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.
The Cliff House at Pikes Peak
3.8 km
Discover the serene beauty and luxury of The Cliff House at Pikes Peak, where stunning views meet exceptional dining and historic charm.
The Michael Garman Museum & Gallery
3.8 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
3.8 km
Explore the enchanting Magic Town at the Michael Garman Museum & Gallery, where art and storytelling come to life in Colorado Springs.
Bancroft Park
3.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bancroft Park in Old Colorado City, a serene escape perfect for families and nature lovers in Colorado Springs.
Wheeler Town Clock - Manitou Springs
3.8 km
Discover the charm of Wheeler Town Clock in Manitou Springs, a beautiful park and iconic landmark that embodies the spirit of this historic Colorado town.
Old Colorado City, Colorado
3.8 km
Explore the historic streets of Old Colorado City, a vibrant blend of culture, shopping, and stunning mountain views.
Old Colorado City Historical Society & History Center
3.9 km
Discover the captivating history of Colorado Springs at the Old Colorado City Historical Society & History Center, a must-visit destination for history lovers.
Unmissable attractions to see
Central Gardens at Garden of the Gods
0.1 km
Discover the iconic rock formations and vibrant gardens of Central Gardens at Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, a breathtaking natural wonder.
North Gateway Rock
0.2 km
A towering red sandstone formation marking the entrance to Garden of the Gods, offering stunning views and challenging climbs.
Three Sisters Plaza
0.2 km
Discover stunning rock formations and panoramic views at Three Sisters Plaza in Colorado Springs' Garden of the Gods.
Kissing Camels
0.2 km
Iconic rock formation in Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, resembling two camels kissing in a geological embrace.
Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site
0.8 km
Explore Colorado's past at Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site in Colorado Springs: a living history museum with Native American, pioneer, and Victorian-era stories.
Garden of the Gods
0.8 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.
Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center
0.9 km
Discover the stunning red rock formations and outdoor adventures at the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center in Colorado Springs.
Mesa Overlook
0.9 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from this easily accessible scenic overlook in Colorado Springs.
Garden of the Gods Off-Leash Area
1.0 km
Let your furry friend run free in this scenic off-leash area near the iconic Garden of the Gods, with stunning views of Pikes Peak.
Siamese Twins
1.1 km
Hike to the Siamese Twins in Garden of the Gods for a unique view of Pikes Peak through a natural rock window.
High Point Overlook
1.4 km
Experience panoramic views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak from the easily accessible and stunning High Point Overlook.
Horse Parking Garden of the Gods
1.6 km
Dedicated parking for equestrians exploring the trails of Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs' natural sandstone wonder.
Colorado Garden of the Gods
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant beauty of the Colorado Garden of the Gods, where stunning red rock formations and outdoor adventures await in Colorado Springs.
Kissing Camels Golf Course
1.9 km
Experience championship golf amidst stunning scenery at Kissing Camels Golf Course in Colorado Springs. A challenging and picturesque course awaits!
Garden of the Gods Trading Post
1.9 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.
Essential places to dine
Grand View
1.1 km
Experience fine dining at Grand View with breathtaking vistas of Garden of the Gods—a perfect blend of culinary excellence and nature's beauty.
Chef Bob’s Lobstah Trap
2.2 km
Experience the best seafood in Colorado Springs at Chef Bob's Lobstah Trap – where coastal flavors meet Rocky Mountain hospitality.
Adam’s Mountain Cafe
2.4 km
Experience delicious vegetarian breakfasts and warm hospitality at Adam's Mountain Cafe in scenic Manitou Springs.
Amanda's Cantina and Fonda
2.4 km
Experience vibrant Mexican cuisine at Amanda's Cantina in Colorado Springs – a culinary gem offering authentic flavors and warm hospitality.
Heart Of Jerusalem Cafe
2.9 km
Experience authentic Middle Eastern flavors at Heart Of Jerusalem Cafe in Colorado Springs—where every dish tells a story.
Black Bear Diner Colorado Springs - Garden of the Gods
3.2 km
Experience hearty American meals at Black Bear Diner near Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs—perfect for families and food lovers alike.
Ristorante Di Sopra
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Di Sopra in Old Colorado City - where every meal is a delightful journey through Italy.
Paravicini's Italian Bistro
3.3 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Paravicini's Italian Bistro in Old Colorado City - a must-visit culinary destination.
Alchemy
3.5 km
Discover Alchemy in Old Colorado City: A gastropub blending Irish tradition with modern flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
Jake and Telly’s Greek Taverna
3.5 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors at Jake and Telly's Greek Taverna in Old Colorado City—where every dish tells a story.
TAPAteria
3.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish cuisine at TAPAteria - where delicious tapas meet fine wines in a cozy atmosphere.
Bon Ton's Cafe
3.6 km
Discover Bon Ton's Cafe in Old Colorado City – where delicious American breakfasts meet cozy charm.
Dat's Italian!
3.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Dat's Italian!, where every meal is a celebration of fine dining in Colorado Springs.
Uchenna Ethiopian Restaurant
3.7 km
Discover authentic Ethiopian flavors at Uchenna Ethiopian Restaurant in Colorado Springs—where every meal is a shared celebration of culture.
Mother Muffs
3.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort food and craft drinks at Mother Muffs in Old Colorado City.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Leechpit Records and Vintage
2.9 km
Discover a vintage wonderland at The Leechpit Records and Vintage, where music and nostalgia intertwine in a unique shopping experience.
Little Colorado & Camino Real
3.4 km
Explore handcrafted treasures at Little Colorado & Camino Real, a charming souvenir store in Old Colorado City, perfect for unique gifts and local crafts.
Heartshake Studios
3.5 km
Explore Heartshake Studios for unique gifts, art, and home decor in the heart of Old Colorado City, Colorado.
Everest Tibet Imports
3.5 km
Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture at Everest Tibet Imports, your destination for authentic Buddhist supplies, jewelry, and spiritual treasures in Colorado Springs.
The Mountain Mercantile
3.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at The Mountain Mercantile in Old Colorado City, Colorado Springs, where every purchase tells a story.
Febra's
3.6 km
Explore Febra's, a boutique in Old Colorado City featuring unique fashion and local art, perfect for tourists seeking distinctive finds.
Expressions
3.6 km
Explore Expressions in Old Colorado City for unique gifts and local art that capture the essence of Colorado Springs.
Eclectic OCC.
3.6 km
Explore Eclectic OCC in Old Colorado City for handcrafted treasures and local artistry that reflect the spirit of Colorado Springs.
Jen's Place Boutique & Gift Shop
3.7 km
Explore Jen's Place Boutique & Gift Shop for unique gifts and local crafts in the heart of Old Colorado City, a must-visit for every tourist.
All About Colorado
3.7 km
Explore All About Colorado - your go-to spot for unique souvenirs and books celebrating the beauty and culture of Colorado.
Sanctuary Inspired Goods & Henna
3.7 km
Explore Sanctuary Inspired Goods & Henna for unique local gifts and art in Colorado Springs, featuring beautiful henna designs and handcrafted treasures.
Circa Vintage by Eclectic CO
3.7 km
Explore Circa Vintage by Eclectic CO for a unique selection of vintage clothing, accessories, and eclectic finds in Old Colorado City.
Buffalo Ridge Trading Post
3.7 km
Discover unique T-shirts and souvenirs at Buffalo Ridge Trading Post, a must-visit shop in Colorado Springs for lasting memories.
Out West
3.8 km
Explore Out West Gift Shop in Old Colorado City for unique gifts and local artisan treasures that embody the spirit of Colorado.
Santa Fe Springs
3.8 km
Explore the delightful Santa Fe Springs Gift Shop in Old Colorado City for unique local treasures and souvenirs that embody the spirit of Colorado Springs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rocks Lounge & Dining Room
1.1 km
Experience the best of Colorado Springs dining at The Rocks Lounge & Dining Room, where local flavors meet stunning views in a cozy atmosphere.
Trails End Taproom and Eatery
3.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Colorado Springs at Trails End Taproom and Eatery, where craft beer meets gourmet cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
Nova West
3.6 km
Nova West: Where Craft Drinks Meet a Lively Atmosphere in Old Colorado City, Colorado Springs.
Red Mountain Bar and Grill
3.8 km
Discover the authentic taste of Colorado at Red Mountain Bar and Grill, where delicious grilled favorites meet stunning mountain views.
Upstairs Wine Bar
3.8 km
Experience a delightful fusion of wine and craft cocktails at Upstairs Wine Bar, a must-visit destination in Colorado Springs.
Heroes Hollow
3.8 km
Discover the charm of Heroes Hollow, a cozy bar in Manitou Springs, Colorado, perfect for unwinding with friends and enjoying craft cocktails.
The Fifty-Niner
3.9 km
Discover The Fifty-Niner in Old Colorado City, where great food, local brews, and board games come together for an unforgettable experience.
Royal Tavern
3.9 km
Experience the heart of Manitou Springs at Royal Tavern, where local charm meets a vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks.
Townhouse Sports Grill
3.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Townhouse Sports Grill, where American comfort food meets the excitement of live sports in beautiful Manitou Springs.
Kinfolks
3.9 km
Experience the lively spirit of Manitou Springs at Kinfolks, a vibrant pub with live music and a friendly atmosphere.
Voodoo Brewing Company - Colorado Springs Pub
3.9 km
Explore the vibrant craft beer scene at Voodoo Brewing Company, where unique brews and delicious pub fare await in Colorado Springs.
OCC Brewing and Restaurant
3.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of craft brews and delectable cuisine at OCC Brewing and Restaurant in Colorado Springs, a local gem in Old Colorado City.
Pub Dog Colorado
4.4 km
Discover the unique flavors of crafted beers and infused cocktails at Pub Dog Colorado, a must-visit bar in Colorado Springs.
Colorado Mountain Brewery
4.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of American cuisine and craft brews at Colorado Mountain Brewery in Colorado Springs, where every bite and sip tells a story.
The Public House at The Alexander
5.2 km
Discover The Public House at The Alexander, a gastropub in Colorado Springs, offering gourmet dishes, craft cocktails, and live music in a lively atmosphere.
