Private Colorado Springs Tour: Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak

If you’re thinking about a day trip from Denver to explore Colorado Springs, this private tour offers a comprehensive and personalized way to see some of the area’s most stunning sights. From towering red rock formations at Garden of the Gods to the sweeping views atop Pikes Peak, it promises a well-rounded experience. We’ve looked into this tour based on traveler feedback and the details provided, so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your travel plans.

What stands out about this experience? First, the personalized attention and knowledgeable guides make the journey more engaging and less rushed. Second, the comfortable luxury SUV transport means you’re free to relax and truly enjoy the scenery—no worries about navigating or parking.

One thing to keep in mind is that the entry fees to parks aren’t included, so you’ll need to budget for those if you want to go into specific sites like Pikes Peak. This tour is clearly best suited for those who value a hassle-free, flexible day with a guide who can tailor the experience to your interests. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized adventure with good views and friendly guidance, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with only your group
• Round-trip transportation from Denver for easy travel
• Expert guide providing tailored commentary and making stops
• Stunning views at key landmarks like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak
• Snacks and bottled water included for comfort
• Flexible itinerary with options to explore and shop in Manitou Springs

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

How the Tour Starts — Pickup and Comfort

The tour kicks off with pickup at your Denver hotel, making it a seamless start. The vehicle used is a luxury SUV with leather seats that can comfortably seat six, which means everyone can stretch out and enjoy the trip. The private nature of the tour is a big plus—there are no large crowds or rushing from one group to another, just your group and your guide.

Most travelers find the pickup process smooth and punctual, which sets a good tone for the day. And since snacks and bottled water are included, you’re set for the miles ahead without needing to worry about food or hydration.

First Stop: Garden of the Gods

This is arguably the highlight for many — the gorgeous crimson rock formations that seem to rise straight from the earth. We loved the way the guide walks you through the park, pointing out interesting formations and sharing insight into the area’s geology. The walk allows for some great photo ops and a chance to stretch your legs.

The visit includes a drive through the park and a stop at the Visitor Center, giving you a bit of both perspectives—up close and from afar. Reviewers mention the gorgeous scenery, with one saying, “The Garden of the Gods is gorgeous,” and another noting that even the drive through the park offers breathtaking views.

The Broadmoor Golf Courses and Lunch

After the natural beauty of Garden of the Gods, the tour takes you to the iconic Broadmoor Hotel. While this isn’t just a quick photo stop—it’s a chance to enjoy the grandeur of one of America’s most famous resorts. Many like to grab lunch here, as it’s a convenient and scenic setting to relax for a bit.

The visit to the Broadmoor lasts about 45 minutes and often includes a chance to walk around or snap some photos of the historic estate. The hotel’s architecture and lush surroundings make for a lovely break in the day.

Exploring Manitou Springs and the Incline

Next, you’ll head to Manitou Springs, a charming town with a funky, relaxed vibe. Here, the tour includes a visit to the Manitou Incline—a famous, steep hiking trail (though you won’t climb it on this tour, but you’ll see it). The town itself offers shops, local art, and a chance to walk around and soak in the atmosphere.

You’ll also stop for a cowboy-style lunch in town, giving you a taste of Colorado’s frontier past. Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to shop and explore this quaint area, mentioning how the guide helps tailor the visit to their interests.

The Star Attraction — Pikes Peak

The last major stop is the drive up Pikes Peak, often called “America’s Mountain.” The views here are stunning, with vistas that stretch over the meadows below. You get to experience one of the second most climbed mountain parks in the world, a spot that inspired “America the Beautiful.”

The drive into the park takes about 3 hours total, with stops at various pull-over points for photos and sightseeing. Keep in mind that the entry fee isn’t included, so if you want to venture into the park itself, you’ll need to pay at the gate.

Many reviewers describe Pikes Peak as breathtaking, with one saying, “Even getting to mile 16 (roads closed due to high winds), the views were amazing.” The scenery here really is something you won’t forget.

Value and Pricing — Is it worth it?

At $450 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but considering the private transportation, personalized guide, and inclusive snacks, it offers good value. You’re paying for the convenience, comfort, and insider knowledge that can make a big difference in how much you enjoy the day.

Most travelers agree that the guide’s expertise and friendly demeanor truly enhance the experience. Reviewers repeatedly highlight Brad’s knowledge and patience—“Brad was very knowledgeable and made us all feel special,” one comment says.

What’s Not Included?

Be aware that lunch and park entry fees are extras. You might find that dining at The Broadmoor or paying for Pikes Peak’s park entrance adds to your overall cost. So, plan your budget accordingly.

The Experience — What You Can Expect

Throughout the day, you can expect a relaxed pace, with plenty of time at each stop to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and ask questions. The guides are flexible and attentive, often going out of their way to accommodate special requests or suggest additional stops—like the reviewer who mentioned an extra visit to Red Rocks.

The small group setting (with only your group in a private SUV) means the trip feels intimate, not rushed, and you can truly soak in the surroundings. The commentary is tailored, so if you’re interested in geology, history, or just epic views, your guide will probably include that in the narrative.

How Travelers Have Felt About It

Based on reviews, most say the experience exceeded expectations. Comments like, “Our guide Brad was the best,” and “We had an awesome day,” show how much the personal touch matters. Many visitors also appreciate the comfortable vehicle and how smoothly the entire day runs.

A few mentioned that they might have preferred more time at certain spots or that they didn’t initially realize they’d need extra money for park entries, so packing snacks and cash might be a good idea.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who prefers a relaxed, guided experience and wants to see top sights without the hassle of driving or navigating, this tour is great. It’s perfect for travelers who value comfort and personalized attention and are happy to pay for convenience.

It’s also suited for those who want a full day of sightseeing with an expert guide who can answer questions and adjust the pace. Since the tour is private, it works well for couples, small groups of friends, or small families looking for an intimate adventure.

Final Thoughts

This private Colorado Springs tour offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to experience some of the area’s most famous sights. The combination of stunning scenery, expert guidance, and comfortable transportation makes it a standout option for those wanting a smooth, informative day.

While the cost might seem high at first glance, the personalized approach and included amenities provide a good deal for travelers who want to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tailored experience. Just remember to budget for park entry fees and possibly a nice meal.

If you’re after a flexible, scenic day with someone who knows the area inside and out, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s especially suitable if you appreciate expert commentary, scenic drives, and the comfort of a private vehicle.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off at your Denver hotel, with a slight surcharge if your hotel is over 7 miles from downtown.

What type of transportation is used? The tour takes place in a luxury SUV with leather seats, which can seat six passengers comfortably.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 8.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Are snacks and water provided? Yes, snacks and bottled water are included to keep you comfortable during the day.

Do I need to pay for park entry fees? Yes, entry to parks like Pikes Peak isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay those fees separately if you plan to go into the parks.

Can the itinerary be customized? The guide’s commentary is tailored to your interests, and the stops can be flexible based on your preferences, within the day’s schedule.

Is this suitable for children? The reviews highlight the guide’s friendliness and patience with children, making it a good choice for families as long as the kids are comfortable with a full day of touring.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and personal way to explore Colorado Springs, this private tour hits a lot of the right notes. Just plan ahead for a few extra expenses, and you’ll likely come away with memories that last long after the day is over.