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Kissing Camels: A Geological Love Story

Marvel at the Kissing Camels, a whimsical rock formation in Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs. A natural wonder sculpted over millions of years.

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The Kissing Camels are a famous rock formation in Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs, resembling two camels in a gentle kiss. Formed over millions of years by wind and water erosion, these towering red sandstone structures are a must-see attraction.

A brief summary to Kissing Camels

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

Local tips

  • Visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center to learn about the park's geology and history before seeing the Kissing Camels.
  • Arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure parking at the main lot and avoid crowds.
  • Take the Perkins Central Garden Trail for the best close-up views and photo opportunities of the Kissing Camels.
  • Stay after dark to see the Kissing Camels illuminated by spotlights.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From downtown Colorado Springs, take US-24 W. Exit onto 31st Street and head north. Turn right onto W Colorado Ave, then left onto N 30th St. Continue on N 30th St until you reach the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center. From there, cross 30th Street onto Gateway Road and head west into the park. Turn right onto Juniper Way Loop. The main parking area will be on the left. Parking is free, but can be limited during peak season.

  • 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, it's approximately a 15-minute walk west into Garden of the Gods Park. Follow Gateway Road, then turn right onto Juniper Way Loop. The main parking area will be on the left. A single ride fare is $1.75.

  • Walking

    From the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, cross 30th Street onto Gateway Road and proceed west into the park. Continue until you reach Juniper Way Loop, then turn right. Follow the one-way road, and the parking area for the Perkins Central Garden Trail and Kissing Camels will be on your left. The walk from the Visitor Center is approximately 20 minutes.

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Discover more about Kissing Camels

The Kissing Camels, a captivating rock formation within Colorado Springs' Garden of the Gods, presents a whimsical geological spectacle. These two red sandstone formations, sculpted by over 300 million years of wind and water erosion, stand approximately 70 feet tall and strikingly resemble two camels in a loving embrace. Located in the Perkins Central Garden on the park's northern end, near the main parking lot, the Kissing Camels are easily visible while driving north on Juniper Way Loop. The adjacent Perkins Central Garden Trail offers an opportunity to walk closer and capture memorable photos with the camels. At night, the formation is illuminated, offering a different perspective under the stars. Beyond their visual appeal, the Kissing Camels hold historical and cultural significance. The Cheyenne people revered these formations, incorporating them into ceremonies and gatherings for centuries. Today, the Kissing Camels continue to inspire, appearing in art and souvenirs, and drawing tourists from around the globe. Garden of the Gods itself is a National Natural Landmark, boasting towering sandstone formations and views of Pikes Peak. The park was privately owned until 1909 when the children of Charles Elliot Perkins gifted 480 acres, including the rock formations, to the city, with the wish that it remain free and open to the public. Today, the park spans 1,320 acres, offering hiking trails, picnic areas, and the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site.

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