Planning a Red Rock Canyon and Garden of the Gods day trip?
These two Colorado Springs gems are just minutes apart and each offers a totally different kind of beauty.
Red Rock Canyon feels wild and peaceful, with winding trails and fewer crowds, while Garden of the Gods delivers those jaw-dropping red rock spires and iconic viewpoints you’ve seen in every postcard.
My husband and I spent a chilly but beautiful April morning exploring both parks, and it was the perfect way to combine fresh air, colorful scenery, and quiet trails in one day.
In this post, I’ll share exactly how to plan your Red Rock Canyon and Garden of the Gods day trip, including which trails to hike, how long to spend at each park, and a few insider tips to make the most of your visit.
Red Rock Canyon & Garden of the Gods Day Trip
If you’re visiting Colorado Springs and only have half a day to explore, you can still experience two of the area’s most beautiful natural attractions, Red Rock Canyon Open Space and Garden of the Gods.
This itinerary is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy Colorado’s stunning red rock landscapes without spending an entire day on the trail.
Start your morning hiking the scenic trails at Red Rock Canyon, where you’ll find peaceful paths, dramatic rock formations, and fewer crowds than its more famous neighbor.
Then, head just a few miles north to Garden of the Gods, one of Colorado’s most iconic landmarks, to wander among towering sandstone spires that seem to glow under the sunlight.
This half-day adventure was part of our larger Three-Week Four Corners Road Trip, where we also explored Colorado ski towns and made a memorable stop at Great Sand Dunes National Park.
But even if you’re short on time, this compact itinerary showcases the very best of Colorado Springs’ natural beauty.
Red Rock Canyon
Located just a short drive from downtown Colorado Springs, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a hidden gem for hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
The park offers a network of well-marked trails with panoramic views of Pikes Peak and the city below.
There is no admission fee to visit Red Rock Canyon, but there is a small parking fee of around $5 per vehicle at the main trailheads.
Contemplation Trail
The Contemplation Trail is one of the most peaceful hikes in Red Rock Canyon.
It’s a 1.8-mile loop that takes about 45 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on your pace.
The trail meanders through stunning red sandstone formations and offers plenty of spots to pause, take photos, or just enjoy the quiet.
As its name suggests, it’s the perfect place to slow down and reflect while surrounded by nature’s beauty.
You’ll also spot wildflowers in spring and summer, along with occasional wildlife like mule deer or rabbits.
The gentle inclines make it a great option for most fitness levels.
Sand Canyon Trail
If you’re up for something a bit longer, the Sand Canyon Trail is a 3-mile out-and-back hike that typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
It connects with several other trails in the park, so you can easily extend your hike if you have more time.
This trail showcases sweeping views of both Red Rock Canyon and Garden of the Gods in the distance.
Along the way, you’ll encounter sandstone cliffs, juniper trees, and shaded sections perfect for a quick rest.
The trail is moderately challenging with some rocky terrain, making it a fun and rewarding hike for adventure seekers.
Garden of the Gods
Just a 10-minute drive from Red Rock Canyon, Garden of the Gods is one of Colorado’s most photographed destinations, and for good reason.
Garden of the Gods is completely free to visit, and parking is free in the multiple lots throughout the park.
The park is home to dramatic red rock formations that rise hundreds of feet from the ground, creating a jaw-dropping backdrop against the snow-capped peaks of Pikes Peak.
Perkins Central Garden Trail
Most visitors explore the Perkins Central Garden Trail, an easy 1.5-mile paved loop that winds through the heart of the park.
It typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on how often you stop for photos (and trust us, you’ll stop a lot).
If you have extra time, the park offers more than 15 miles of hiking trails, ranging from short strolls to longer scenic loops.
Gateway / Central Garden Trails
The Gateway and Central Garden Trails offer an easy, low-grade hike that’s perfect for exploring the heart of Garden of the Gods.
Starting at the Overflow Parking Lot near the main entrance, follow the paved Foothills Trail to connect with the Gateway Trail.
The trail crosses the road and leads into the Central Garden Trail, where you can wander short loops at the base of the park’s tallest and most iconic rock formations, covering about 1.5 miles in total.
After taking in the stunning scenery, return to the Overflow Parking Lot along the Gateway Trail for a full, approximately 2.5-mile loop.
This route provides a great mix of paved paths and natural beauty, making it ideal for hikers of all levels.
Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center
Be sure to visit the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center for exhibits, restrooms, and panoramic views of the park.
Tip: Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the most beautiful lighting for photos.
Where To Eat In Colorado Springs
After exploring Red Rock Canyon and Garden of the Gods, you’ll definitely have worked up an appetite!
One of our favorite spots to grab a bite is the Skirted Heifer, a local burger joint known for its fresh ingredients and creative menu.
We first learned about this place from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!
The name comes from the “skirt” of crispy melted cheese that extends beyond the burger, and yes, it’s as delicious as it sounds.
The Skirted Heifer offers both classic and unique burger options, along with hand-cut fries and milkshakes that hit the spot after a morning of hiking.
It’s casual, affordable, and a great place to refuel before continuing your Colorado adventure.
I recommend the Half and Half Fries and Hangover Burger that comes topped with a fried egg, cream cheese, and Bloody Mary sauce (it was reviewed by Guy Fieri too)!
Where To Stay In Colorado Springs
We stayed at the Colorado Springs KOA, which turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip.
Whether you’re camping in a tent, RV, or cabin, the KOA offers clean facilities, friendly staff, and plenty of amenities.
Our tent camping experience was interesting because it got down to 29 degrees overnight and it snowed several inches.
But, we were in a small 2 person tent, and we had lots of layers that we slept in, lots of blankets and pillows, a blow up mattress to keep us off the ground, and winter gear like ski masks, gloves, and knee high socks.
So we actually slept quite cozy, but at this age, I probably wouldn’t do it again without a little more extra preparation.
Having the overhead covering and the walls helped block wind and snow too.
Click Here To Book Your Colorado Springs KOA Stay Today!
Conclusion: Red Rock Canyon & Garden of the Gods Day Trip
Even with just half a day, you can experience some of the best that Colorado Springs has to offer.
Start your morning at Red Rock Canyon, exploring trails like Contemplation and Sand Canyon, then make your way to Garden of the Gods for a walk among Colorado’s most breathtaking rock formations.
Finish your adventure with a hearty meal at The Skirted Heifer and a relaxing night under the stars at the Colorado Springs KOA.
Whether you’re road-tripping through Colorado, visiting the Four Corners region, or planning to explore Great Sand Dunes National Park, this itinerary is a perfect addition to your Colorado travel bucket list.
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