Central Garden at Garden of the Gods
Explore iconic red rock formations at the heart of Garden of the Gods, an accessible and unforgettable natural landmark in Colorado Springs.
The Central Garden at Garden of the Gods is the heart of this National Natural Landmark, showcasing towering red rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak. This accessible area offers paved trails for easy exploration of iconic rock structures like Gateway Rocks. It's a must-see for visitors of all abilities.
A brief summary to Central Gardens at Garden of the Gods
- Chuckwagon Pavilion, 2336, 3818 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, West Colorado Springs, CO, 80904, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
- Bring water and wear sunscreen, as the area offers limited shade.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle service during the summer months to easily access different parts of the park.
- Check out the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center to learn more about the park's history and geology.
- Consider taking a guided nature walk to discover hidden gems and learn about the local flora and fauna.
Getting There
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Walking
From the main parking lot at the north end of the park, a paved, wheelchair-accessible path leads directly into the Central Garden. The trail meanders through the most iconic rock formations. This walk is short and relatively easy, taking approximately 25 minutes to complete the 1.1-mile loop. There are no costs associated with walking into the Central Garden.
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Public Transport
Mountain Metro Transit (MMT) operates bus routes in Colorado Springs. From various points in the city, take the bus to a stop near Garden of the Gods. From there, you may need to walk or take a short ride-share to the park's entrance. As of July 2025, a single bus fare is $1.75. A day pass costs $4.00. Please note that free fares were offered in June-August 2025, but this may not be an ongoing promotion.
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Ride-Share
From anywhere in Colorado Springs, use a ride-sharing service (like Uber or Lyft) to get to the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center or the main parking area for the Central Garden. A typical ride from downtown Colorado Springs to Garden of the Gods costs approximately $15-25, depending on demand and distance. Parking at the main lot is free.
Discover more about Central Gardens at Garden of the Gods
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