Balanced Rock; Garden of the Gods The Complete Guide for 2023
Want to visit the famous Balanced Rock Garden of the Gods in 2023? I got you covered!
For any adventurer visiting Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a must-visit destination however, one particular attraction is worth visiting due to its uniqueness. I am talking about Balanced Rock – a jaw-dropping natural wonder that you don’t want to miss and my favorite place to take friends and family!
In this blog post, I’m going to share with you a complete guide with everything you need to know to have an unforgettable adventure exploring Balanced Rock in Garden of the Gods.
All Our World with Jessy blog posts contain affiliate links. This means that, at no cost to you, I will receive compensation when you finalize a purchase. By using these links, you support me continuing to create free travel guides for you. Find more information in my disclaimer page. Thank you for your support, truly.
Balanced Rock, Garden Of The Gods: Overview
What is Balanced Rock?
The Balanced Rock is a natural geological formation that consists of:
- A 700-ton red sandstone boulder sitting on a pedestal-shaped rock formation.
- 30 feet tall and 16 feet wide.
- It’s balanced in a way that defies conventional laws of physics.
Why is Balanced Rock Important?
Aside from its sheer magnificence, Balanced Rock is an important testament to the power and creativity of nature. It is a reminder that nature has the power to shape and mold the earth into amazing formations that leave us awestruck. Perfect for outdoor adventure travel photographers like myself!
Price of Admission to Garden of the Gods
The best part about visiting Garden of the Gods, including the Balanced Rock, is that there is no fee for visitors! Admission to the park is completely free, and you can access all the trails and landmarks, thanks to the city of Colorado Springs!
Hours of Operation
Garden of the Gods is open 365 days a year, and visitors can access the park during daylight hours. During the summer months (from Memorial Day to Labor Day), the park is open from 5 am to 11 pm. During the winter (from Labor Day to Memorial Day), the park is open from 9 am to 5 pm.
Best Garden Of The Gods Tours
There are various ways to explore the Garden of the Gods. You can hike and bike as well as more immersive experiences like a jeep or segway tour. However you feel like exploring, you’ll for sure find something that fits your adventure style!
1. Garden of the Gods and Foothills Jeep Tour
When it comes to exploring the Garden of the Gods, a Jeep Tour is an experience that cannot be missed. And the Foothills Jeep Tour provides you with a more extensive view of the park, making it an extraordinary experience!
Here’s a list of information about this tour that includes and what you’ll get to experience:
- The tour runs for a total of two hours.
- You’ll be picked up from your hotel in a comfortable Jeep, with an experienced driver and guide ready to take you around the park.
- The tour leads you to some of the most incredible spots in the park, including the Central Garden, Kissing Camels, Balanced Rock, and Three Graces.
- You’ll learn about the rich history and fascinating stories of the Garden of the Gods as the tour guide expertly navigates you through the towering rocks and formations.
I personally recommend this tour because it provides you with an opportunity to experience one of Colorado’s most beautiful parks in a unique way. The Jeep tour goes to places in the park that you wouldn’t be able to reach on foot. For example, the tour guide takes you into a dirt road where the sight of the rugged mountains and formations extends for miles, which is something that must be seen to be truly appreciated!
2. Garden of the Gods Segway Tour
I highly recommend you check out the Garden of the Gods Segway Tour. This tour is a one-of-a-kind experience and a fun way to explore the Garden of the Gods Park!
Here’s a list of information about this tour that includes and what you’ll get to experience:
- The tour includes the use of a Segway for 2 hours.
- Safety gear is included, such as helmets, and a specialized guide who will give you a tour of the park’s most beautiful sights
- There will be a brief safety training session before the tour. For this reason, you should arrive at least 15 minutes ahead of your tour time to check-in and complete the required forms.
- The ride is easy to navigate, and a great option for every age in your group!
- You’ll have the opportunity to stop and take pictures at various spots, and your guide will tell you the story and history of the different formations and landmarks you encounter along the way.
- Gives you a chance to tour the park in an eco-friendly way!
The Garden of the Gods Segway Tour is a fantastic adventure that I highly recommend to any outdoor traveler visiting Colorado Springs. The tour’s blend of informative sightseeing with the excitement of gliding on a Segway is an experience of a lifetime!
3. Horseback Riding Tours
If riding a horse is your thing, then a horseback riding tour is the way to go. Not only will it help you with the steep inclines on some of those hiking trails, there’s no better feeling that experiencing Balanced Rock and Garden of the Gods on a beautiful horse. They are guided by horse riding experts and horses are well maintained- another reason to support a local family company!
Here’s a list of information about this tour that includes and what you’ll get to experience:
- Professionally guided one-hour horseback rides through the Garden of the Gods
- Professionally guided two-hour horseback rides through the Garden of the Gods
- Safety briefing
- Helmets are required and will be provided
- Commentary on sights, history, flora, and fauna
It’s honestly the best tour on here! Trust me on this one!
How To Get To Balanced Rock In Garden Of The Gods
It’s fairly easy to get to Balanced rock.
Option 1: Get a map at the Visitor Center and hike the Balanced Rock Trail.
You can drive to the main parking lot of the Visitor Center and grab a map. There are several trails that lead to the formation, but I recommend taking the Balanced Rock Trail. This relatively easy trail is just under a mile long and takes about 30 minutes to complete.
Option 2: Drive straight to the main parking lot of Balanced Rock.
Driving straight to the main parking lot sitting at the base of Balanced Rock. Balanced Rock is located on the south side of the park, roughly a 10-minute drive from the visitor center. There is a designated parking lot right by the rock, so you won’t have to hike far to reach it. There you can see the formation from your vehicle and hop right out if you want to shoot some photos right next to it!
LOCAL TIP: The Parking Lot can get full during the day!
The parking lot can get very full during the day, so plan to circle around a couple times before you find a place to park.
Where To Stay Near Garden Of The Gods
As an outdoor enthusiast myself, I know the importance of staying somewhere conveniently located near exciting outdoor activities. These are some of the best places I recommend staying near The Garden of the Gods.
⨠Buffalo Lodge Bicycle Resort
So this place is probably one of my favorites! It’s the cutest hotel you’ll stay at! It’s about a 10 minute drive to Garden of the Gods and right at the entrance of Manitou Springs. They have the cutest lounge center where guests can hang out and also an assortment of bicycles to cruise around town!
⨠Days Inn by Wyndham Manitou Springs
The best part about this inn is that it’s very close to Manitou Springs! You’re just a 10 minute drive from Garden of the Gods and a walk to downtown Manitou Springs where you’ll find cute shops, restaurants, and local cafes!
⨠Garden of the Gods Club & Resort
Not only is this resort known for its luxurious accommodations and incredible amenities, but it also has something that no other resort can boast: an unbeatable location right in from of Garden of the Gods. It also has the BEST view of Pikes Peak!
FAQs
As someone who has visited Balanced Rock many times, I’m excited to share my tips and answers to some commonly asked questions to help make your visit as enjoyable as possible.
Does Balanced Rock still exist?
Yes! Despite its balanced position, this natural wonder has stood the test of time and remains a must-see attraction for visitors to Garden of the Gods. So if you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to add it to your bucket list!
What hiking trail leads you to Balancing Rock in Garden of the Gods?
The trail you’ll want to take is the named Balanced Rock Trail. This short, easy trail is only about a quarter of a mile long, but it offers an unforgettable experience. There are also numerous trails surrounding the area that will take you there.
How big is Balanced Rock in Garden of the Gods?
Balanced Rock stands roughly 25 to 30 feet wide, and tall.
Is Balanced Rock man-made?
Balanced Rock in the Garden of the Gods is not man-made. It was formed over millions of years due to the natural processes of erosion, which wore down the softer layers of rock, leaving the harder sandstone cap balanced on top.
Why are Garden of the Gods rocks red?
The rocks are red mostly due to the presence of iron minerals within the sandstone. When exposed to oxygen and water—through a process known as oxidation—the iron minerals react and produce that vibrant red hue.
Can I climb on or touch Balanced Rock?
No, climbing on or touching Balanced Rock is strictly prohibited. The formation is fragile and could be damaged by even small amounts of pressure. Additionally, there are signs and warnings throughout the park urging visitors to respect the natural environment and leave no trace.
I hope you enjoy your time seeing Balanced Rock in the Garden of the Gods. If you have any additional questions, feel free to send me a DM through my Instagram or contact me through my email, [email protected]. Safe Travels!
Don’t have time to read? Save for later!
