Stairways, Red Rocks, and a Picnic: A Day at Seven Falls and Garden of the Gods
Climb the canyon stairs, picnic with a view, then walk among the tilted red-rock cathedrals of Colorado Springs.
You arrive before most of the tour buses, the air still carrying the cool, mineral tang of the canyon. Spray from Seven Falls hangs in the box canyon like breath—fine mist that dots your jacket and lights the sun into a hundred tiny prisms. The first thing you notice is sound: water moving with purpose, answering stone with a low, constant percussion. Wooden handrails and a steep stairway of 224 steps hug the canyon wall, inviting you to climb. Each step gives you a new angle on falling water and folded rock, until the canyon opens and the falls step back, a series of seven curtains totalling about 181 feet in vertical drop.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early
Arrive at Seven Falls before mid-morning to avoid crowds and snag easier parking; cooler, softer light also improves photos.
Footwear Matters
Wear shoes with good traction—wet stair treads in the canyon and coarse sandstone in Garden of the Gods reward grippy soles.
Hydrate for Altitude
Drink extra water before and during your hike—Colorado Springs sits near 6,000 ft and exertion on stairs can feel harder than at sea level.
Protect from Sun & Spray
Bring sunscreen and a lightweight waterproof layer—the canyon mist cools you while the plains sun can be intense.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Balanced Rock viewpoint at first light for dramatic shadow lines
- •Old Colorado City—historic district with cafes and craft breweries for a post-hike meal
Wildlife
Mule deer, Red-tailed hawk
Conservation Note
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile desert soils and cryptobiotic crusts; Seven Falls and Garden of the Gods both emphasize Leave No Trace practices.
Garden of the Gods was donated to the city of Colorado Springs by Charles Elliott Perkins in 1909 to remain free to the public.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Waterfall flows, Wildflowers in lower meadows
Challenges: Mud on trails, Unpredictable weather
Snowmelt boosts the falls and green starts returning; pack layers and be ready for muddy sections on approach trails.
summer
Best for: Long daylight, Picnics and paved strolls
Challenges: Crowds and midday heat, Limited parking later in the day
Warm weather highlights the red rocks and makes picnicking pleasant—start early to beat heat and congestion.
fall
Best for: Clear light for photos, Cooler hiking temperatures
Challenges: Shortening days, Possible early snow
Crisp air and dramatic skies make autumn an excellent time to visit; bring a warm layer for sunsets.
winter
Best for: Fewer visitors, Snow-dusted scenery
Challenges: Icy stairs and trails, Reduced services at Seven Falls
Snow transforms the canyon and red rocks, but watch for icy steps—microspikes are useful on colder days.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy Hiking ShoesEssential
Grip for wet canyon steps and rough sandstone in Garden of the Gods.
Hydration Pack or 2L WaterEssential
Keeps hands free and ensures you meet extra hydration needs at altitude.
Light Waterproof Layer
Protects against canyon spray and sudden mountain showers.
Sun Protection (hat & SPF)Essential
The high-altitude sun is strong—protect exposed skin during open sections of the hike.
Common Questions
How long is the hike and how many steps are there at Seven Falls?
Expect to spend 1–2 hours at Seven Falls if you climb the main stairway; the staircase has 224 steps to upper viewpoints.
Is Garden of the Gods wheelchair or stroller friendly?
Several paved loops and viewpoints are accessible; some trails and short scrambles are not—check park maps for accessible routes.
Are there entrance fees or permits required?
Garden of the Gods is free to visit; Seven Falls charges an admission fee—confirm the tour’s details as entrance may be included.
Is the trip suitable for children?
Yes—families with older children who can handle stairs and short hikes will find it rewarding; supervise kids near drop-offs and water.
How does altitude affect visitors?
Colorado Springs sits around 6,000 ft; you may notice shortness of breath—drink water, pace yourself on stairs, and avoid overexertion early in the day.
Can I bring my dog?
Pets are allowed in Garden of the Gods on leash, but check Seven Falls’ current pet policy—many canyon areas restrict animals.
What to Pack
Sturdy hiking shoes (traction on wet rock), 2L water or hydration pack (altitude hydration), sun protection (hat & SPF for exposed sandstone), light waterproof layer (canyon spray and sudden showers)
Did You Know
Seven Falls consists of seven cascading waterfalls with a combined drop of approximately 181 feet, and Garden of the Gods was deeded to Colorado Springs in 1909 to remain free for public use.
Quick Travel Tips
Buy Seven Falls tickets in advance; start at Seven Falls early to avoid crowds; bring cashless payment—some park concessions are card-only; plan for 6–8 hours total including travel between sites
Local Flavor
After the hike, head to Old Colorado City for laid-back cafés, local bakeries, and Phantom Canyon Brewing for a post-adventure beer; for a splurge, The Broadmoor restaurants offer refined mountain cuisine and views.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Colorado Springs Airport (COS); Trailhead/Start: Seven Falls, South Cheyenne Cañon (≈8–12 min drive from downtown); Driving between sites: ~12 miles / ~20 minutes; Cell service: reliable on park roads, limited in the canyon; Permits/Passes: Seven Falls charges admission—Garden of the Gods is free but parking fills early.
Sustainability Note
Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails to protect fragile desert soils, and avoid feeding or approaching wildlife—both sites prioritize conservation and public access.