Garden of the Gods is one of Colorado’s most remarkable natural landmarks, attracting travelers, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers from all over the world. But part of what makes this geological marvel so breathtaking—its impressive altitude—can also raise questions for visitors unfamiliar with the Colorado terrain.
Whether you’re preparing for a hiking adventure, exploring with family, or simply looking for scenic beauty, understanding the altitude at Garden of the Gods and how it might affect you is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
This ultimate guide breaks down everything you need to know about the altitude of Garden of the Gods, including its elevation points, potential effects on your body, and tips to help you acclimatize.
The Garden of the Gods is located in Colorado Springs, a city sitting at an elevation of approximately 6,035 feet above sea level. The park itself is perched slightly higher, with the average altitude ranging from 6,237 to 7,067 feet feet depending on where you are within the park.
Garden of the Gods Altitude:
With its iconic red rock formations towering against a stunning mountain backdrop, the altitude is one of the key factors that enhance the striking views, giving Garden of the Gods its unique charm.
Several highlights make Garden of the Gods a standout destination—but these spots come with varying altitudes. Here’s a quick breakdown of some notable points and their approximate elevations.
Altitude of Each Point at Garden of the Gods:
Each point offers a slightly different perspective, but collectively they provide unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in the majesty of Colorado’s diverse elevation landscape.
Yes, Garden of the Gods is considered high altitude, located even higher than Colorado Springs and Denver.
Garden of the Gods sits comfortably in what’s considered “moderate altitude,” making it higher than most destinations you’d encounter in other states. While places like Pikes Peak (over 14,000 feet) are classified as "very high altitude" locations, Garden of the Gods is far more accessible for the average traveler.
That said, if you’re not accustomed to altitudes above 6,000 feet, you'll likely some changes in how your body reacts and be at risk of altitude sickness — especially when you’re hiking or engaging in physical activities.
For many visitors, Garden of the Gods and Colorado Springs’ elevation can cause problems.
Visitors coming from sea level are often most negatively affected, giving a good chance for you could experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness.
Even travelers coming into Denver (at 5,280 feet) or just passing through the Denver Airpot (at 5,430 feet), often see signs of altitude sickness which are at elevations much lower than Garden of the Gods.
Altitude sickness, some call mountain sickness, happens when your body struggles to adapt to lower oxygen levels found at Colorado's elevations. While these issues can vary for each person at the Garden of the Gods’ altitude, here are some symptoms to watch out for, which at a minimum many visitors will feel a shortness of breath.
Garden of the Gods altitude sickness symptoms may include:
Typically, these symptoms are mild and manageable, but it’s always wise to monitor how you feel and for some they can make their trip miserable. Make sure to watch out especially in the first 6-24 hours upon arriving to Colorado Springs or adventuring into the Garden of the Gods.
Keep reading to follow our expert tips to avoiding altitude sickness.
Garden of the Gods isn’t the only stunning destination in the region. Close to Colorado Springs, you’ll find plenty of other attractions worth exploring:
Aside from these popular destinations, Colorado Springs is a mecca for outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. With its beautiful scenery and mild climate, it's no wonder that Colorado Springs is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
As a local based Colorado company, here are practical steps we've laid out to help you stay comfortable and healthy during your visit to Garden of the Gods:
By prioritizing a good night's sleep and following all the tips provided, you can ensure you're ready to fully enjoy the wonders the spectacular Garden of the Gods destination has to offer.
With its moderate altitude, breathtaking vistas, and diverse activities, Garden of the Gods promises an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and casual visitors alike. Now that you’re equipped with this ultimate altitude guide, all that’s left is to soak in the natural beauty of one of Colorado's most iconic landmarks!
The Garden of the Gods 10-Mile Run offers participants a challenging route with breathtaking views and an elevation gain of approximately 1,000 feet. Elevations through the run can range between 6,237 to 7,067 feet high.
This elevation gain adds an extra element of intensity to the race, making it an exhilarating experience for both seasoned runners and those seeking a new fitness challenge.
Garden of the Gods is conveniently located approximately 70 miles south of Denver, making it easily accessible for a day trip or weekend getaway. With a comfortable drive of about 1 hour, the relatively short distance from Denver makes Garden of the Gods a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, vacationers, and outdoor adventurers alike.
Garden of the Gods is a geological marvel that took thousands of years to shape into its awe-inspiring form. The park's unique rock formations were formed through a combination of geological processes and natural forces.
Over time, the relentless forces of erosion, including wind and water, carved and sculpted the rocks into their distinctive shapes that we see today at Garden of the Gods.
While Garden of the Gods is undoubtedly one of the most iconic destinations for red rock formations in Colorado Springs, it's not the only place to see these stunning geological wonders.
Some other popular spots in Colorado include:
Each of these locations offers its own unique views and experiences with red rock formations to capture the beauty of Colorado's natural landscape.
Yes absolutely! The majestic Pikes Peak, standing tall at an elevation of 14,115 feet (4,302 meters), provides a breathtaking backdrop to the already stunning beauty of Garden of the Gods.
As you explore the park, you'll find several vantage points that offer awe-inspiring views of Pikes Peak, allowing you to soak in the natural grandeur of this iconic mountain.
Yes, there’s a well-maintained paved road that allows you to drive and explore the park, offering access to many of its key sights.
The road winds its way through the park, providing convenient stops and viewpoints along the way. Keep in mind that driving through the park allows you to cover more ground, and there's also stop and park areas where you can get out of the car.
With multiple trails offering diverse experiences, the time required to walk through Garden of the Gods can vary. The duration can range from a quick stroll to a more leisurely exploration, taking anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, depending on your chosen trail, route and pace.
When it comes to hiking in Garden of the Gods, most trails in the park are rated as moderate, making them accessible to hikers of all skill levels.
While the majority of the trails are relatively easy to navigate, it's important to note that some areas may have uneven terrain and occasional inclines.
Located in the stunning city of Colorado Springs, there are many accommodation options available for visitors exploring Garden of the Gods. Whether you prefer a luxurious hotel with mountain views, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly motel, you'll find the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate after a day of adventure.
Some popular nearby areas to consider for lodging include:
With so many options surrounding the Garden of the Gods, it's hard to wrong and there's a good area for any preference.
When planning your visit to Garden of the Gods, there are several hotels that offer convenient access to this stunning natural wonder.
Here are a few recommended options:
No matter where you choose to stay near Garden of the Gods, you'll be able to be close proximity to enjoy easy access to the park while also experiencing the hospitality and amenities of Colorado Springs.
SOURCES:
1. Garden of the Gods Elevation
https://gardenofthegodscolorado.com/garden-of-the-gods-elevation/
2. Garden of the Gods Park
https://www.visitcos.com/things-to-do/garden-of-the-gods-park/
3. Garden of the Gods The Park
https://www.gardenofthegodstradingpost.com/the-park/
4. Visit The Garden Of The Gods - Cheyenne Mountain Resort
https://www.cheyennemountain.com/blog/visit-the-garden-of-the-gods/
