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Garden of the Gods and Other Wonders in Colorado Springs
By Scott Kendall
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When my son received orders to Colorado Springs a few years ago, he was excited about his new duty station. The Space Force had moved him to Peterson Air Force Base, and he was pretty excited about his new job as well as his new digs. My wife and I have been lucky to visit him several times over the past few years. As someone who always likes to explore new environs, our extended time in Colorado Springs gave me ample opportunity to explore to my heart’s content. In this article, I am highlighting the fabulous Garden of the Gods National Park as well as several other top level attractions in Colorado Springs. 6 in
Garden of the Gods
Noted by many tourists and travel experts as one of the most beautiful parks in the nation, Garden of the Gods is aptly named. When Colonel James Palmer’s descendants donated this magical piece of God’s handiwork to the city, it proved to be a priceless gesture. Visitors can drive, hike, and bike through this treasure trove of natural wonders – all for free.
Unique rock formations include Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, Siamese Twins, and other oneof-a-kind natural rock structures. On several occasions, I have been lucky to be in the park at sunrise or sunset, when the sun glistens off the red rock surfaces, radiating a brilliance that has to be seen in person to truly see and feel this magical sight.
Pikes Peak, America’s Mountain
After searching high and low in a tough housing market, my son was able to buy a house near base that had an awesome view of Pikes Peak from his living room and back porch. Each morning I was in town, I enjoyed my morning coffee looking out at the purple majesty of the Rocky Mountains. The new cog railway in nearby Manitou Springs whisks guests up to the 14,000 plus summit of America’s Mountain in about an hour. This modern cog railway, the highest in the world, makes the summit more accessible to the many tourists, as well as locals, who take in this natural attraction.
The Manitou Incline
One of the most unique and challenging trails in the US, the Manitou Incline is a hugely popular attraction in nearby Manitou Springs. With a gradient up to 68 percent, and an average rise of 45 percent, this hiking trail attracts Olympic athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and everyday people from around the world. With the high elevation and steep climb, this trail can challenge even the most fit athlete.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space Just a few miles south of Garden of the Gods is picturesque Red Rock Canyon Open Space. This 1,474 acre outdoor playground is very popular with hikers and rock climbers (with permit) who want to get their exercise while viewing the beautiful landscapes of Colorado Springs. You can even bring your dog. With 11 marked trails ranging from 1.7 miles to 5.4
miles, there is plenty to take in.
Some of my favorite views of Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods are from spots in Red Rock Canyon Open Space.
The Broadmoor
Since being built by legendary businessman Spencer Penrose in 1891, The Broadmoor is the ultimate resort destination. This Forbes Five-Star resort, nestled at the foot of Cheyenne Mountain in southwest Colorado Springs, offers scenic natural wonders, unparalleled service and amenities, and the timeless elegance of European luxury.
Glen Eyrie Castle
Glen Eyrie Castle is a fascinating English Tudor style castle just north of Garden of the Gods. The castle was built by the founder of Colorado Springs, General William Jackson Palmer, in 1871. The beautiful grounds are a gorgeous setting for the 17 guest rooms, library, dining rooms, and the Castle Great Hall.
Other Attractions
Don’t think Colorado Springs is just a bunch of really pretty big red rocks. There are lots of other fantastic attractions in Colorado’s second largest city. For many years, Colorado Springs has been known as Olympic City. Thousands of world class athletes have lived and trained in this mile high city, and several museums, training, and event sites are located in Colorado Springs.
Don’t take my word for it. Go see for yourself. I think you will agree that Colorado Springs has an overabundance of awesome things to see and do.
More to Do in Colorado Springs
Olympic and Paralympic Museum Olympic Training Center Peterson Air Force Base Air Force Academy Carson Army Base Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Helen Hunt Falls
Photos from opposite page: Window to Pikes Peak in Garden of the Gods ©Scott Kendall; Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs ©Scott Kendall; Balanced Rock in Garden of the Gods ©Scott Kendall ; Window to Pikes Peak at the Siamese Twins in Garden of the Gods ©Scott Kendall; Pikes Peak - America's Mountain © Scott Kendall; The Broadmoor ©Scott Kendall; Glen Eyrie Castle ©Scott Kendall
