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If you are looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience in Colorado, the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs should definitely be on your bucket list. This natural wonder is a stunning collection of towering sandstone formations that date back over 300 million years, and it offers visitors an opportunity to explore the beauty of the state’s landscape.
Our journey to the Garden of the Gods began in Flagstaff, AZ, where we set off on an 11-hour drive to Colorado Springs. However, the trip was not without its challenges as we were being chased by a huge snowstorm that left many stranded on the highway. Despite the snowstorm, we pushed through, and our determination to visit the Garden of the Gods paid off in the end.
Upon our arrival, we were greeted by the breathtaking beauty of the towering red rocks that make up the park’s landscape. We decided to start our exploration by hiking the trails that wind through the formations. The trails vary in length and difficulty, so there is something for everyone, from easy paved pathways to more challenging hikes that take you to the tops of some of the formations.
One of the most popular hikes in the Garden of the Gods is the Siamese Twins Trail, which takes you to a set of rock formations that resemble a pair of twins joined at the hip. This trail is a little over half a mile long and is considered an easy hike. The view from the top of the Siamese Twins is absolutely breathtaking, and it is definitely worth the climb.
Another popular hike is the Perkins Central Garden Trail, which takes you through the heart of the Garden of the Gods. This trail is just over a mile long and is paved, making it accessible for all levels of hikers. Along the way, you will see some of the park’s most famous formations, including Balanced Rock, which is a 700-ton boulder that appears to defy gravity.
After hiking for a few hours, we were ready for some refreshment, so we headed to the nearby “Wines of Colorado” for a wine tasting. This quaint winery offers tastings of local Colorado wines, and we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of the wines on offer. In addition to the wine, we also sampled some of the delicious buffalo burgers that are served at the winery’s restaurant.
Overall, visiting the Garden of the Gods was an unforgettable experience. Despite the long and challenging journey to get there, the natural beauty of the park made it all worth it. If you are planning a trip to Colorado Springs, be sure to put the Garden of the Gods on your itinerary. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking for a beautiful place to relax and take in the scenery, this park has something for everyone. And, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, be sure to try out the local wine and cuisine at “Wines of Colorado.”