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Garden of the Gods
4.9 ★★★★★ 58,076 Google reviews · Running trail in Colorado Springs, Colorado · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Loop distance
- 1.5 mi
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Garden of the Gods' own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Comprising 1,300 acres of sandstone formations, this park offers a visitor center & hiking trails.
What runners say about Garden of the Gods
“The park is well maintained with easy walking paths, scenic viewpoints, and plenty of spots for photos.”
“Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a scenic hike, or even rock climbing, there’s something for all levels.”
“The trails are clearly marked, and every turn offers another stunning photo opportunity.”
“Whether you’re into photography, nature walks, or just want a peaceful place to enjoy incredible scenery, Garden of the Gods is a must-visit in Colorado Springs.”
“Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a scenic hike, or even rock climbing, there’s something for all levels.”
What a lovely park in addition to being all inspiring, it is accessible for a short walk. A long hike, a drive through it, birdwatching animal watching and paleontology and anthropology thinking.
Visiting Garden of the Gods is an absolutely unforgettable experience. The towering red rock formations set against the bright blue Colorado sky look almost unreal – like something from another planet. The views are breathtaking from every angle. 🌄 The park is very well organized and accessible for everyone.
Absolutely amazing. May be a little crowded and have initial trouble parking but crowded for a good reason. Well worth the visit. Beautiful sights with easy stroll of a walk. Water and bathrooms available.
FREE and open 9-5! The easy to meander Central Garden Trail is just a 1.5mile paved loop that puts you directly beneath 300-foot sandstone towers. It’s brilliant! I loved the kissing camels best! It’s awesome to see these formations both from a distance and up close!
Trail conditions & character
“The trails are easy to enjoy whether you want a short walk or a longer adventure, and the views around every corner seem better than the last.”
“It’s accessible for all types of visitors, whether you’re just passing through or spending time exploring.”
“Sometimes over the weekend the parking gets full (even though there are several parking lots across the park).”
“Whether you’re into photography, nature walks, or just want a peaceful place to enjoy incredible scenery, Garden of the Gods is a must-visit in Colorado Springs.”
“There are plenty of paved and unpaved trails for walking and hiking, scenic viewpoints for photos, and pull-offs if you prefer to drive through.”
“5mile paved loop that puts you directly beneath 300-foot sandstone towers.”
Plan your run at Garden of the Gods
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- Loop distance1.5 mi back to where you parked
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitegardenofgods.com
- Phone+1 719-634-6666
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Tuesday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Wednesday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Thursday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Friday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Saturday | 5 am–10 pm |
| Sunday | 5 am–10 pm |
Running trails near Colorado Springs
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Palmer Trail
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