Garden of the Gods

The stunning Garden of the Gods, Manitou Sp[rings, Colorado

(Pictures to be added soon)

You can spend a stunning morning or afternoon at the Garden of the Gods, which is right alongside Manitou Springs.

The 'Gods' in question are massive sandstone rocks protruding from the ground – or, in one case, resting precariously on another rock. As they have worn down over the millenia many of the rocks have assumed distinctive shapes and have been named for what they represent. For example, you can see Kissing Camels and Siamese Twins as well as the most famous of all, Balanced Rock. Some of these unique sculptures are over 300 million years old.

Garden of the Gods is a 'driving park' – it is a beautiful drive through its 1350 acres of land, with many fantastic views and ample stopping points. At the stopping points there are marked parking places and you can stop for a hike or to eat the picnic or cook the barbecue you have bought with you.

There is also a 'Trading Post' offering fairly basic food and souvenirs. This whole area has a big Native American influence, and many of the souvenirs show of Native American jewelry and design talents.

Approaching Garden of the Gods

As soon as you arrive at the park – entry is free – you are confronted with a tight corner and a narrow squeeze as you navigate around a huge, red, sandstone rock at the entrance. You can then park immediately if you want to and inspect Balanced Rock which is the main 'photo-opportunity' taken by most visitors.

In the early 20th century an enterprising photographer bought the land surrounding Balanced Rock. Initially, he charged to take pictures of tourists in front of it on horseback. When people started bringing their own cameras, he fenced it in, and charged an entrance fee. Eventually, in 1909, the local authorities purchase the land from him and the land passed into public ownership – to the delight of nearby residents.

Surveying the park from Balanced Rock you can see huge red 'Gods' in every direction, near and far, protruding through the sparse landscape. The rocks shine luminescently as the sun hits them. Indeed, the best light conditions are near dusk and dawn, when the light reflections from the rocks have their most ethereal – spiritual – quality.

This really is a stunning drive.

As for the hiking – the only thing putting of non-Americans – and perhaps some Americans too - are the bear warnings. What to do? OK. If confronted by a bear: speak gently and softly to it. If that doesn't work shout at it. If that doesn't work, hit it with ..... whatever you have handy. Carry a stick. Stand near some stones and throw them.

Now you know!

If you are anywhere near Colorado Springs, divert and dive through Garden of the Gods. It is a very worthwhile diversion. To get to Garden of the Gods, take US Highway 24 West off I25 at the Manitou Springs/Garden of the Gods exit. The entrance to Garden of the Gods is ten minutes down this road.

And if you have time to spend a couple of days in the area , it is well worth it: I highly recommend the Two Sister Inn for a warm welcome and the best – 3 course, healthy - breakfast you will have in America. This is located right near the centre of the town of Manitou Springs. This small but lovely town with its 11 health-giving natural carbonated springs in the high street is located just 5 minutes from Garden of the Gods.