Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods Tour by Explorer Tours
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8.5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical condition, capable of walking short trails and handling altitude changes.
Overview
Journey through Colorado’s dramatic landscapes on Explorer Tours' full-day trip to Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. Witness towering red rock formations and summit views on this standout mountain adventure.
Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods Tour
Starting at $199 | 8.5 Hours | Ages 8+ | Discover Pike's Peak | Lunch included!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
This tour features breathtaking peaks in virtually every direction and an unspoiled, panoramic view of nature at its finest!
Rates
Guests (Ages 8+): $199 Gratuity is not included. 15% gratuity is recommended.
If you have participants under 8 years old choose a private tour option, please. Car Seats will be provided at no additional cost.
Duration and Overview
8.5 hours - Walking/Sightseeing Tour
The Pikes Peak Tour takes you through the jewels of Colorado and allows you to be inspired by the beauty of nature.
Discover Garden of the Gods. Located in Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods is a public park. Its impressive rock formations inspired some of the earliest European explorers to the area in the late 1850s, who declared that it would be an excellent place for the gods to congregate. Don't miss the opportunity to snap a photo near Balanced Rock and the Kissing Camels formations.
Visit Pikes Peak. Many people believe that Pikes Peak inspired the "purple mountain's majesty" line in America the Beautiful. Located in Pike National Forest, its summit reaches 14,115 feet. As the highest point in the southern section of the Rocky Mountains' front range, Pikes Peak is snow-covered almost every day of the year. Pikes Peak is home to a large herd of bighorn sheep, and you may also be lucky enough to spot an occasional bear, mountain lion or snowshoe hare. Listen for the yellow-bellied marmot, which whistles when it senses danger. Enjoy the Drive Through Iconic Manitou Springs. After descending from the mountain, our tour continues with drive through Manitou Springs, a small resort town to the west of Colorado Springs.
- Pikes Peak Highway is open year round. In case the summit is not accessible due to weather conditions, constrictions, and other road closures we will drive to the highest point possible.
- Round Trip Distance: approx. 199 miles
- Includes: Transportation, guide, entrance fees, lunch, and water refill (bring a bottle)
- For reservations within less than 48 hours, please call +1(720)556-6164
Tour departs daily at 9:30am from:
Flagpole outside of Denver Union Station at 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202
Adventure Tips
Bring layers for mountain weather
Temperatures at Pikes Peak can vary sharply; bring warm clothing even in summer.
Start early to avoid crowds
Begin your tour from Denver early to maximize time at each scenic stop.
Stay hydrated at high elevations
Altitude can cause dehydration—carry water and take breaks as needed.
Watch for wildlife from a distance
Bighorn sheep and marmots are common; keep a respectful distance for safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bighorn sheep
- Yellow-bellied marmot
History
Garden of the Gods was named in the 1850s by early settlers who imagined these majestic rock formations a fitting meeting place for the gods.
Conservation
Efforts focus on preserving rock formations and preventing erosion along popular trails, encouraging visitors to stay on designated paths.
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Adventure Hotspots in Denver
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Helps adjust to temperature swings from base to summit.
all specific
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Needed for uneven terrain in Garden of the Gods and trail sections.
all specific
Sun Protection
Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen protect against intense mountain UV rays.
spring|summer|fall specific
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is critical when traversing high altitudes.
all specific