Garden of the Gods is a breathtaking, free public park in Colorado Springs known for its towering, fin-like red rock formations. A designated National Natural Landmark, the park showcases a dramatic meeting of ecosystems—where the Great Plains grasslands, the southwestern pinyon-juniper woodlands, and the mountain forests of Pikes Peak converge. Visitors can drive through the park for stunning views, or explore on foot along miles of paved and unpaved trails that wind through the massive sandstone spires. The rocks, some of which are over 300 feet tall, were formed by a geological upheaval millions of years ago, creating a surreal and unforgettable landscape set against the backdrop of the majestic Pikes Peak.
The historic mineral water springs of Manitou Springs are a series of natural artesian springs bubbling up from deep within the earth, famous for their unique mineral content and natural carbonation. Revered by Native American tribes for centuries for their healing properties, the springs became a destination for health-seekers in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and their water was even bottled and sold nationwide. Today, visitors can still take a self-guided walking tour to sample the distinct flavors of the eight public springs, each with its own unique blend of minerals. The Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau at 354 Manitou Ave offers a free map and information on each of the eight springs.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a 1,474-acre park in Colorado Springs known for its beautiful series of parallel red rock ridges and canyons. Though less famous than its northern neighbor, Garden of the Gods, this park offers a similar stunning landscape with a more rugged and secluded feel. Featuring a network of multi-use trails, the open space is a popular spot for hikers, mountain bikers, and rock climbers, and also includes a free-ride bike park and two designated off-leash dog areas.The park's dramatic geology, which is a continuation of the same rock formations found in Garden of the Gods, provides a scenic and accessible outdoor escape with fantastic views of the Front Range.
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a scenic and historic journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, "America's Mountain." As one of the highest cog railways in the world, this train ride departs from Manitou Springs and ascends over 8,000 feet, winding through stunning canyons, lush forests, and past unique rock formations. The 9-mile trip provides riders with unparalleled panoramic views of the changing landscape and glimpses of wildlife before arriving at the 14,115-foot summit, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree vistas that inspired the song "America the Beautiful."
The railway may not go all the way to the peak in inclement weather.
The Manitou Incline—affectionately known as “The Incline”—is one of Colorado’s most iconic and challenging hiking trails. Gaining 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile via 2,768 steep steps, it offers a heart-pounding workout with unmatched views as your reward.
Reservations are required at no cost.
Manitou Brewing Company is a small brewpub located in Downtown Manitou Springs. The brewery occupies the site of the historic Manitou Burro Line in which visitors to Manitou Springs could rent a burro and ride it to the top of Pikes Peak. The brewery offers a diverse selection of beer on eighteen taps and locally-sourced pub fare.
Manitou Springs Heritage Center
Ruxton's Trading Post
Miramont Castle
Manitou Cliff Dwellings
Iron Springs Chateau
Rainbow Falls
Garden of the Gods Trading Post
Red Rock Canyon Open Space
Bancroft Park
Barr Trailhead