Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

One of the most photographed locations in the state, Garden of the Gods' scenic beauty is extraordinary. In the recreation area you can hike, camp, nature watch or picnic.

The Observation Trail features unique sandstone rock formations and panoramic views of the surrounding Garden of the God Wilderness. Interpretive signs explain the geological history. The 1/4-mile trail is made of natural sandstone and takes about an hour to walk. It contains short, steep grades and steps; benches are located along the trail and as a whole the trail is not tiring. Caution should be used due to the high cliffs in the area.  

Garden of the Gods Brochure and Map 

Title:	GOG Fall View
Caption:	GOG Fall View
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Title:	GOG Anvil Rock
Caption:	GOG Anvil Rock
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Title:	GOG Boardwalk
Caption:	GOG Boardwalk
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Title:	Garden of the Gods from the Obs Trail
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Title:	Garden of the Gods
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General Information

From Harrisburg: Take Highway 145 south 5 miles, to Highway 34, then take 34 south for 10 miles. Then turn east onto Karbers Ridge Road 2.5 miles to Forest Road. Turn north. Drive 1.5 miles to the recreation area entrance road. 

Observation Trail has three large parking lots.

Overflow parking is at the Golden Circle Trailhead just outside the recreation area along Forest Road. To reach Golden Circle Trailhead from the Recreation Area, go back down the entrance road, turn north (left) onto Forest Road and go a short distance around the curve then turn east (right) into the Golden Circle Trailhead parking lot.

No overnight parking is allowed in picnic area or Observation Trail parking lots.

Overnight parking is allowed at Backpacker's Parking Trailhead in Garden of the Gods Recreation Area. There is also overnight parking allowed nearby outside of the Garden of the Gods Recreation Area at Hitching Post Trailhead along Eagle Creek Road (to the west) and to the east, Golden Circle Trailhead along Forest Road.

Know Before You Go

Additional Camping:  

Located 6 miles east of Garden of the Gods is Pounds Hollow Recreation Area with a large campground with 13 electric sites & 41 non-electric sites.

Trail Markings:
River To River Trail - blue letter i 
Hiker-Only Trails include:  The Observation Trail, Indian Point Trail, portions of the Anvil Rock Trail, and Trail # 108H. 

Safety:
When venturing into Garden of the Gods wilderness or on extended hikes precautions should be taken: Carry water, food, first-aid kit, etc.  Poison ivy & venomous snakes are present in the area.

Be aware cell phone coverage is spotty or non-existent. Expect longer response times by emergency personnel. If you have an emergency and your cell phone is working, call 911.