Kissing Camels, Pikes Peak Travel Guide

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Witness the enduring embrace of the Kissing Camels, a natural wonder in Colorado Springs' Garden of the Gods.

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 sandstone structures are a must-see within the park's stunning landscape.

A brief summary to Kissing Camels

2336-3818 N 30th St, Colorado Springs, West Colorado Springs, Colorado, 80904, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kissing Camels.

Visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center first to learn about the park's geology and history before seeing the Kissing Camels.
For the best view, drive north on Juniper Way Loop and look to the left, or walk the Perkins Central Garden Trail.
See the Kissing Camels at night when they are illuminated by spotlights.
Bring your camera! The Kissing Camels are a popular photo spot, especially when the full moon is behind them.

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Explore Kissing Camels on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Kissing Camels, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From I-25, take Exit 141 for US-24 W toward Cimarron St. Continue onto US-24 W, then turn right onto N 30th St. Drive north on N 30th St to the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, 1805 N. 30th Street. Cross 30th Street from the Visitor Center onto Gateway Road and head west into the park. When Gateway Road intersects with Juniper Way Loop, turn right onto the one-way road. The main parking area will be on the left. From the parking lot, the Kissing Camels are easily visible. Parking is free, but the main lot can fill quickly 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, near the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center. From there, walk across 30th Street into the park. Follow Gateway Road, then turn right onto Juniper Way Loop. The Kissing Camels will be visible on the left, a short walk from the main parking area. A one-way bus fare is $1.75.
Shuttle

During peak season (Memorial Day weekend through August, and Labor Day weekend), a free shuttle operates within Garden of the Gods Park. The shuttle connects the Rock Ledge Ranch Historic Site parking lot, the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center, and the intersection of Gateway Road and Juniper Way Loop. From the Gateway Road/Juniper Way Loop stop, it's a short walk to the Central Garden area where the Kissing Camels are located.

Discover more about Kissing Camels

The Kissing Camels formation is a captivating sight within the Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs. These majestic red sandstone rocks, standing approximately 70 feet tall, have been sculpted by wind and water erosion over 300 million years, resulting in a formation that strikingly resembles two camels kissing.This geological wonder isn't just a visual treat; it also carries historical and cultural significance. 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, including the Kissing Camels, served as neutral ground where even rival Native American tribes would gather in peace, laying down their weapons.Today, the Kissing Camels continue to inspire awe and wonder in visitors from around the world. Lit by spotlights at night, the formation offers a picturesque scene, especially when the full moon aligns perfectly behind the camels. Whether you're driving by or taking a stroll along the Perkins Central Garden Trail, the Kissing Camels are easily visible and offer a memorable photo opportunity.