I haven’t been there for sunrise yet, but I imagine it would be spectacular to watch. This is a 160-mile trail that runs through the Shawnee National Forest, spanning from the Ohio River to the Mississippi River. As such, it’s exceedingly welcoming to beginners, intermediates, and experts alike. Tent camping is allowed all over the area. At its peak, it elevates to over 900 feet, offering beautiful views of Shawnee National Forest in its entirety. Instead of looping the Ute Trail, continue south on the Niobrara Trail. The Garden of the Gods became a National Natural Landmark in 1971. Come see this extraordinary dinosaur at the Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center. Interested in backpacking? is a moderate trail that loops through the Park. We’ll discuss the specifics of both below. Photograph taken from Susan G. Bretag trail with early morning light. If Pikes Peak is Colorado Springs’ biggest attraction, Garden of the Gods is its most awe-inspiring one. Because this area has over one hundred routes, it would be nearly impossible to comprehensively cover them all. Thanks for dropping in! This is an easy, 1 1/2 mile roundtrip path, with less than a 30 foot rise. It’s a loop with different pull-outs, parking lots and viewpoints. First, we will get your photo with the entire park backdrop--a classic park picture! More Garden of the Gods Pictures. There are 15 miles worth of trails in Garden of the Gods park. When you get to the first main lookout area on Garden of the Gods Observation Trail, about 10 minutes into the hike, you’ll be able to jump from rock to rock to get the best view of these impressive and steep bluffs, including the coveted Camel Rock, which sits opposite the first lookout. If so, you needn’t look any further. Here are a few options for a good Garden of the Gods hike. It also descends at points, though never goes below 570 feet of elevation. Check ‘Em Out Now! There is an established campsite just adjacent to it. There are various maps for the Garden of the Gods park. Several short to medium distance hiking trails – ranging from easy to moderate – provide excellent views of the Garden of the Gods and surrounding areas. Note, though, that like in the rest of the state, in order to hunt there, you need a valid Illinois hunting license. Looking to go camping close to the trail? So I watched their 15-minute movie that shows how the Garden of the Gods formed through history. We visited this amazing spot a couple of times, both during the day and right at sundown, to get a full, gorgeous experience and really get to enjoy hiking Garden … The Perkins Central Garden Trail is the most popular hike (see the second … The simpler of the two trails is the Observation Trail. Rock climbing is also very popular. Turn right on Rampart Range Rd. Garden of the Gods Hiking: A Guide to the Illinois Hiking Spot, Going Camping? Cheapest Options, The Best Camping Kettle of 2020 – Buyer’s Guide, Finding the Best Camping Pillow for Side Sleepers (2020 Guide), Choosing the Best Inflatable Fishing Kayak: A Guide. The above picture is of Balanced Rock...I don't know how it balances there, but somehow it does. The front side of the loop is absolutely gorgeous with the towering center of the Garden of the Gods in full view. One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. . If you click one of these links, I could earn a commission from subsequent purchases. It’s stunning. Over time, this sandstone lifted, forming plateaus. Most trails on the east side are open to mountain biking and horseback riding. You might also enjoy our Self-Guided Hiking Program or our Guided Nature Walks. Less than a 30 foot rise upon all of Shawnee National Forest in its entirety getting the... 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