Top Things To Do in Colorado Springs:
Colorado Springs is located 60 miles south of Denver. Although these two cities are located within close proximity, their terrains are very different. Come to Colorado Springs to explore Garden of the Gods and the beautiful red rock formations, or Pikes Peak, the largest peak on the southern Rocky Mountain Front Range at 14k feet. Stay for the quaint towns such as Manitou or Old Colorado City and enjoy their delicious noms & brews. In this Colorado Springs Travel Guide we will outline the top things to do, places to eat, and brews to taste in a one-day itinerary.
1. Breakfast at Mountain Shadows Restaurant in Old Colorado City
Mountain Shadows Restaurant has been family-owned for 30 years and serves delicious brunch from giant omelets and pancakes to biscuits and gravy. They have a relaxed, welcoming dining experience in a converted-home with friendly staff and incredibly large portions. They were featured in Diners Drive-In's & Dives, reviewed as "simply perfection" by Guy Fieri himself.
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2. Start with an easy hike at Garden of the Gods
Located in Garden of the Gods, this Central Garden Trail brings you up close to the red rock formations. At the paved path accessible for all skill levels, you will see some rock climbers (permit-only) climbing these magnificent formations, as well as, several plaques and information pertaining to the history of the park. Stray beyond the central garden and you will find yourself among the red-soiled paths for horse-back riders, bikers, and other nature-loving enthusiasts.
Also Read: Top 8 Hikes and Day Trips from Denver
Trail Information
Completing the Perking Central Garden Trail is 1.1 miles round-trip with 88 feet in elevation gain. The trail is a loop and is rated as "Easy" difficulty. Plan at least 30 minutes to complete the entire trail. For more information and to download the trail offline on your mobile device, visit AllTrails.
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3. Enjoy breathtaking views on the Niobrara and Bretag Trail
Located in Garden of the Gods, this unique park is free to the public. The trail takes your around the exterior of the central garden. A stark contrast to the soil farther north on the Front Range, the soil near Colorado Springs has a higher consistency of iron, giving it a red color and making you feel like you are walking on Mars! It allows for pleasing contrasting colors next to the bright blue sky, white snow capped mountains, and forest green trees. Walking around this park, we soon realized how accurately it was named, Garden of the Gods.
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