When the weekly hustle and bustle gets just a little too overwhelming, it’s time to pack a bag and get out of town for a few days. The geologic grandeur of Garden of the Gods is a refreshing starting point for a weekend of adventure. From its stunning formations to its fascinating history, here’s how to enjoy a winter weekend getaway at Garden of the Gods in Colorado.
The year 1859 is when this beautiful sandstone area was first stumbled upon, it might have become a beer garden, if not for an inspired surveyor who thought it was a “fit place for the Gods to assemble.” Now a registered National Natural Landmark, the 300-foot towering rock formations that rise against the spectacular backdrop of Pike National Forest and sky-high Pikes Peak is freely accessible to the public. There are 15 miles of hiking trails that wind through this awe-inspiring rocky paradise. Check in at the Visitor Center for a map and take off on a self-guided hike or hook up with a naturalist for a free guided nature walk. Plan on about two hours to absorb the entire experience.
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There are 225 miles of trails in the forest that has a footprint of more than one million acres. Popular trails are the Centennial Bike Trail, Crags Trail and the Rampart Reservoir Trail. All are easy to moderate hikes that range in length. But, if you have the drive, determination and staying power, head up Barr Trail, the most well-traveled route to the 14,115-foot summit. At 13.5 miles one-way, it will challenge even the most experienced hikers. Access is free.
Campgrounds in Pike National Forest shut down for the season in mid-October because of snow, plus it starts getting really cold. Primitive camping is still accessible, but again … snowy and cold. This resort has a little something for everyone—tent camping, RV sites, bunkhouses, garden studios, and cottages that accommodate from one to four people. Amenities include hot showers, complimentary Wi-Fi, laundry services, a kid’s area and a dog-friendly viewpoint. And it’s just down the road Garden of the Gods Park.
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In October and November, hunting season opens for deer and elk. Hunting is highly regulated throughout the state. Applying for a permit can only be done online only. This website has voluminous amounts of information on where and when hunting can take place, what types of guns and ammunition can be used.
This popular area brings hundreds of off-roaders to its miles and miles of trails. The terrain is hardpack, which makes it smooth and fast. There are a few challenging rugged climbs and a well-known rock climbing section known as Moab Hill. Trails are accessible to motorcycles, ATVs, UTVs and 4x4 Jeeps. A permit is required and staying on the trails is mandated.
This outfitter, the only one with a permit to offer horseback rides in the Garden of the Gods Park, offers one and two hour guided trail rides, with a real cowboy in the lead no less. Relax as your horse does all the work, leaving you free to listen to the cowboy commentary on the sights, history and flora and fauna in the park, as you take this gentle journey. All skill levels are accommodated with a horse that fits into any comfort zone. Available year-round.
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Established in 1929, this is the region’s oldest gift shop and gallery. Today, this 25,000-square-foot store is chockfull of apparel, posters, postcards, mugs, books, cooking gear, jewelry, homemade fudge and kitschy gewgaws. There’s also an art gallery that features local Colorado artists, as well as handmade Native American arts. Don’t miss the “world famous” Buffalo Burger at the Balanced Rock Cafe.
Have you ever eaten a doughnut at 14,000 feet? Here’s your chance, and yes, they taste and look different then at lower elevation. This restaurant lays claim to having the highest deep fryer in the country. Frying at high altitude creates a lighter, fluffier doughnut. These are enhanced with a little cinnamon and nutmeg. Aside from the doughnuts, the Summit House has other souvenirs, as well as an atmosphere for you and the family to hang out in and take in the magical views. Go for the spectacular 360-degree views, but stay for the doughnuts. Add a cup of hot chocolate for good measure.
Clean out your gear closet and trade it in for some cash at this store, one of the largest used mountain sporting goods store in the country. Put your stuff on consignment, offer it up for trade or just flat out sell it. Each option pays off at different percentages, so find that one that fits your needs. What sells best are climbing, kayaking, biking, snow sports, backpacks and roof racks and accessories. If you are looking for new outdoor gear and equipment for your next adventure, this is the perfect place to get anything and everything you may need! The best brands and deals can be found here.
Thar’s gold in this here town! Yes, a gold panning opportunity is included in the admission price to this town, a historic collection of real buildings and artifacts from old Coloradan western towns. The museum is housed in the old Colorado Midland Railway train workshop, built in 1899. There’s plenty to see and do for kids and adults—crank a butter churn, see if you’re a dead eye at the shooting gallery, try your hand at games in the old-time arcade and sip your first sarsaparilla. Open year-round.
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