Welcome to the Garden of the Gods Tour
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the natural wonders of Garden of the Gods with this self-guided driving and walking tour. Discover red rock formations which rival Sedona—just an hour’s drive from Denver! Marvel at Balanced Rock as it seems to defy the laws of physics. Gaze up at Montezuma Tower and the Three Graces. And find out how all these geologic marvels formed in the first place!
This self-guided Garden of the Gods tours experience is sure to enhance your visit.
About the Tour
Your journey through the Garden of the Gods Colorado begins with a walk through the Central Gardens, home to towering red rock formations sure to inspire awe. Here, you’ll discover formations like the gargantuan Gateway Rocks, the Three Graces, and Montezuma Tower. As you stroll, you’ll uncover the geologic history behind these natural wonders and find out how they formed in the first place.
Next, you’ll hop in your vehicle and drive past the Tower of Babel as you make your way to the western section of the park. Along the way, you’ll pay a visit to the Giant Footprints and find out how the formation of the Rocky Mountains helped create this fascinating landscape. Then, stop for photos at Balanced Rock, a physics-defying formation that’s easily one of the most famous sights in the park.
Finally, you’ll cruise past the Sleeping Giant before ending up at a fabulous overlook of both the Garden of the God and the towering Rockies beyond. This stunning landscape is only an hour’s drive from Denver, so there’s no reason not to go!
Want all of our tours? Upgrade to Action+:
- An annual $99.99/year subscription offers access to over 200+ tours.
- Unlimited use throughout the year.
- Includes free access to new tours as they are released.
Nearby Tours
Driving
34 Stories
2 - 3 Hrs
Driving
35+ Stories
1-2 Hrs
Driving
29 Stories
1 - 2 Hrs
Garden Of The Gods Map
Where To Start?
Recommended Starting Point: 3105 Gateway Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80904, USA
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good Wi-Fi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Garden of the Gods Audio Tour Stops
Things to do on the Tour Include:
-
Welcome
-
Kissing Camels
-
Chuckwagon Pavilion
-
Buffalo Rock
-
The Gateway Rocks
-
Building Monuments
-
Sand to Stone
-
One-Seed Juniper & Piñon Pine
-
Pulpit Rock
-
The Ute
-
Three Sisters Plaza
-
Three Graces & Montezuma Tower
-
Kindergarten Rock
-
South Gateway Rock
-
Sentinel Spires
-
Tower of Babel
-
Geology
-
Giant Footprints
-
Beginnings of the Ute
-
Siamese Twins
-
Mount Manitou
-
Balanced Rock
-
Trading Post
-
What's in a Name?
-
The Lost Dinosaur of Garden of the Gods
-
Sleeping Giant
-
High Point Overlook
-
Conclusion
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
Any season has its charm, but for mild weather and vibrant scenery, spring and fall are delightful. The park and Visitor & Nature Center are open all year, with varying hours across seasons.
Absolutely! It’s a National Natural Landmark featuring dramatic sandstone rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak.
Don’t miss iconic formations like the Three Graces, Steamboat Rock, and the Siamese Twins. For hiking enthusiasts, the Perkins Central Garden Trail offers a unique perspective of the largest rock formations.
The park is open to the public for free, with guidelines to ensure it stays pristine. Activities like rock climbing require registration and adherence to safety rules.
Yes, pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. It’s a great place for a walk with your furry friend amidst stunning natural beauty.
Colorado Springs is well-served by rental agencies. If you’re coming from Denver, a drive south on I-25 will get you to the park in about 1.5 hours, making car rental a convenient option for the trip.
Combine your visit with our Rocky Mountains Tour which is just a run away of 4-5 hours.
Bring water, sunscreen, comfortable hiking shoes, and a camera to capture the park’s stunning views. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sunny days!
Absolutely! With our easy to moderate audiobooks, it’s a fantastic place for explorers of all ages.
The Gateway Cafe offers refreshments for visitors, ensuring you have the energy to explore the park’s wonders.
The Junior Rangers Program is a hit, offering engaging and educational activities that make the park’s wonders accessible to younger visitors
Explore 200+ Tours
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Tours are valid forever.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or Wi-Fi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, get travel tips, hear narrated guides, and see hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
