Balanced Rock; Garden of the Gods -The Complete Guide for 2025

Want to visit the famous Balanced Rock Garden of the Gods in 2025? I got you covered!

For any adventurer visiting Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a must-visit destination and a great day trip from Colorado Springs 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.

You Ready?

Let’s Get Into It!

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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 (1st Most Popular!)

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 (2nd Most Popular!)

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 very important 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!

4. Garden Of The Gods E-Bike Tours (3rd Most Popular!)

If gliding instead of hiking sounds more like your speed, the Garden of the Gods Segway Tour is where it’s at. You’ll roll past towering red rock formations, cruise to Balanced Rock, and take in the scenery without breaking a sweat.

The best part? You’ll get fascinating commentary on the park’s history, geology, and wildlife from a knowledgeable guide—all while having way too much fun learning to ride a Segway.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Professionally guided one- or two-hour Segway tours through Garden of the Gods
• Safety briefing and training before you ride
• Helmets provided and required
• Stops for incredible photo ops
• Insightful stories about the park’s history, geology, flora, and fauna

It’s the kind of tour that makes you wish every national landmark had a Segway option.

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!

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 (From The Community)

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.

Q1: 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!

Q2: 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.

Q3: How big is Balanced Rock in Garden of the Gods?

Balanced Rock stands roughly 25 to 30 feet wide, and tall.

Q4: 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.

Q5: 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.

Q6: 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.

Final Travel Tips for Planning Your Perfect Trip to Balanced Rock!

~ My Colorado Springs Google Maps

I’ve created a Colorado Springs Google Maps with over 77+ spots— including trailheads, scenic overlooks, coffee stops, and hidden gems—into one easy-to-use Colorado Springs Google Maps Guide.

It’s a great map to use in addition to exploring Balanced Rock in Garden of the Gods.

You can grab the full guide as an instant download (and keep it forever!) for just a few bucks. Perfect if you’re the kind of traveler who loves a little freedom with a side of direction.

• [Colorado Springs Google Maps Coming Soon!] — and start planning your Colorado Springs day trip!

~ What To Pack (Travel Journal, Hiking Clothes, Camera, etc.)

Colorado weather loves to keep us on our toes, so always pack layers—even in summer, mornings and evenings can get chilly, especially at higher elevations. 

I also recommend sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, sturdy shoes, and a hat for sun protection. 

If you’re planning to hike or explore off the beaten path, throw in lots of snacks, a printed map (cell service can be spotty), and of course… your camera or journal to capture the moments.

~ Mindful Travel and Low-Impact Habits

As you’re out exploring these beautiful places, I just want to gently remind you—how we travel matters. The more we slow down, respect the land, and show up with curiosity and care, the better stewards we become for the places we love. Whether it’s a quick morning hike or a full-day road trip, every little choice adds up.

Here are a few low-impact habits I try to follow every time I head out:

• Pack it in, pack it out—leave no trash, even in town or at overlooks
• Stay on trail to protect fragile ecosystems (especially in places with wildflowers)
• Support local—grab food, coffee, or gear from small businesses when you can
• Travel off-peak when possible to ease pressure on busy local towns, destinations, and hiking trails
• Be wildlife-wise—give animals space and never feed them, no matter how cute they look. Always give them space to protect both you and them
• Respect Indigenous lands and stories—many of these places hold deep cultural meaning far beyond what we see on the surface

It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being present, paying attention, and remembering that we’re guests in every place we explore.

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The Wrap Up: Visiting Balanced Rock, Garden of the Gods

I hope you enjoy your time seeing Balanced Rock in the Garden of the Gods, it truly is a beautiful place and rock feature! 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!

Keep The Journey Going:

• 💌 Subscribe To My Email: “Letters From The Road” Mindful Travel Newsletter
• 📍 (Coming Soon!) My Free Ultimate Guide to Mindful, Smart, and Easy Packing (With Printables)
• 📸 Link to my Photography Gear List (Camera & Lens Recommendations)

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