Self Guided Driving and Walking Tour in Garden of the Gods

If you’re considering a visit to Colorado Springs and want a way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Garden of the Gods without joining a guided group, this self-guided tour might catch your eye. Priced at just over $15 for a group of up to four people, it promises an informative journey filled with interesting stories and stunning views. But, like any experience, it comes with its own set of pros and cons that are worth knowing before you hit the trail.

What we like about this tour is how flexible it is—you can go at your own pace, pause whenever you want, and enjoy the scenery without the pressure of a group. The fact that it includes both driving and walking segments means you get variety and can tailor the experience to how you feel that day. Plus, the reviews highlight that the narration is engaging, with many users appreciating the detailed descriptions and the ease of use. However, a potential snag is that it’s not an official entrance ticket, so you’ll need to check park hours and plan accordingly.

This tour is great for anyone who loves natural beauty, doesn’t mind a little tech setup, and prefers to explore independently. If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small family happy to do some driving and walking, you’ll find this a reasonably priced way to deepen your appreciation of one of Colorado’s most iconic landscapes.

Key Points

• Flexible self-guided experience: Start anytime, pause, and explore at your own rhythm.
• Includes both driving and walking segments: Offers variety and tailored exploration.
• Offline maps and audio: No signal required once downloaded, making it reliable even in remote spots.
• Affordable price point: Around $15 for a full year’s access, suitable for multiple visits.
• Good for tech-savvy travelers: Requires downloading an app and setting it up beforehand.
• Not an entrance ticket: Park entry is free, but this tour provides added insights and stories.

What the Tour Offers and How It Works

This self-guided tour is designed to enhance your visit to Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs’ crown jewel of natural beauty. It combines driving routes with walking segments, so you get to see the formations from different angles and enjoy a variety of perspectives. You’ll start at the park’s entrance and follow a route that touches on key landmarks and scenic spots.

Once you book, you’ll receive an email and text with instructions to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action. Because it works offline, you only need to download the content while connected to WiFi or mobile data. This is a plus for those worried about signal issues in more remote areas of the park. The app is straightforward and easy to use, with narration that kicks in automatically when you reach certain points.

The tour includes a variety of stops. Some of the highlights are the impressive Balanced Rock, which seems to defy gravity, and Montezuma Tower. You’ll also learn the story behind formations like the Giant Footprints and the South Gateway Rock, along with some intriguing geology explained in simple terms, making it accessible even if you’re not a science buff.

How the Route Unfolds

The itinerary is quite comprehensive. It starts at the main entrance, where the park’s stunning red spires and formations immediately catch your eye. You’ll loop through points like the Kissing Camels Golf Course, which just adds a bit of local flavor, and the Central Gardens, offering a gentle, scenic walk perfect for stretching your legs after driving.

Next, you’ll encounter Siamese Twins, a pair of striking rocky spires that look almost like a natural sculpture. After that, the iconic Balanced Rock is impossible to miss—it’s a must-see. The narration provides context on how such a massive rock can sit perched on a narrow base, adding an educational twist to your sightseeing.

Further stops include the Giant Footprints, where the tilted strata give the impression of giant footsteps, and the South Gateway Rock, with its pockmarked surface revealing some of the challenges faced by climbers and geologists alike. Each stop is designed to be brief—around 10 minutes—but packed with enough information to make every moment meaningful.

Authentic Experiences and User Feedback

Many users have raved about the ease of use and the accuracy of location-based narration. One review states, “Great information about the area as you drive through. Location is extremely accurate so it is on track with where you are in the tour.” It’s clear that the technology behind this tour enables a smooth experience, which is vital when you’re navigating a busy park.

However, not all reviews are glowing. Some users have encountered issues, like an app that wouldn’t load or difficulties downloading content beforehand. For example, one reviewer mentioned, “I couldn’t use the app. I’ve tried to open the link, but there was no audio or any other information provided,” pointing to the importance of pre-planning. Another pointed out that the tour drains cell phone battery, so carrying a portable charger is a smart move.

Price-wise, many felt that for about $15, this tour offers good value for a personalized, flexible experience—especially considering its year-long validity. Since it’s not an entrance ticket, the cost is purely for the narration and route guidance, which many found to be enriching and well worth the investment.

The Practicalities

The tour typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours, depending on how long you linger at each stop. It’s ideal for those who enjoy self-paced exploration without the constraints of a scheduled group. The tour is designed for most travelers, with most instructions being straightforward; just remember to download everything beforehand.

For those planning to visit with children or in a group, sharing one device and using earbuds can make the experience more social and less chaotic. It’s not specifically designed for families, but nothing prevents kids from enjoying the scenery and listening to stories if they’re interested.

One notable aspect is that this isn’t an entrance ticket. The park’s opening hours are 6:00AM to 9:00PM daily, and you’ll want to plan your visit accordingly. You’ll also want to make sure your device is charged, especially if you plan to take your time or do some extra exploring.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, flexible way to explore Garden of the Gods, this self-guided tour offers a lot of value. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy audio-guided experiences, want to avoid guided tour schedules, and appreciate detailed commentary that enriches the scenery.

The biggest strength is the ability to go at your own pace. You can pause for photos, explore side trails, or just enjoy the views without feeling rushed. The fact that it works offline once downloaded is a major plus, especially in areas where cell service can be spotty.

On the flip side, it’s not a substitute for a park entry ticket—so if you’re expecting a guided tour that includes access and entry, you’ll need to handle that separately. Also, some users have experienced technical hiccups, so preparation before your visit is key.

For those who love scenic drives and outdoor walks, and want a little extra context to make their visit more meaningful, this tour is a good choice. It’s a low-cost, flexible, and informative way to experience one of Colorado’s most iconic landscapes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for independent travelers, couples, or small groups comfortable with using a smartphone app. If you prefer structured guided tours with a guide physically present, this might not be your ideal pick. It’s perfect for those who want to blend driving with short walks, and who enjoy learning about the places they visit through engaging narration.

It’s also a good fit for repeat visitors, thanks to its one-year validity, making it easier to re-explore and deepen your understanding on subsequent trips. If you’re visiting Colorado Springs and have a day to dedicate or want a flexible way to explore the park on your own terms, this tour could be a worthwhile addition.

FAQs

Do I need to pay for park entrance tickets?
No, Garden of the Gods has free entry. This tour does not include entry fees, so you can enjoy the park without additional costs for admission.

How do I access the tour?
After booking, you’ll receive an email and text with instructions to download the separate Action Tour Guide App. You then enter the provided password, which unlocks the tour content. It’s best to do this while connected to WiFi or mobile data.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically designed as a family tour, kids can enjoy the scenery and listening to the stories. Keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and driving, so plan accordingly.

Can I pause and restart the tour?
Yes, the tour is flexible. You can start it at any time, pause whenever needed, and pick up where you left off. It’s ideal for breaks, photos, or exploring side trails.

How long does the tour last?
Typically between 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each stop. You can also take longer if you choose to explore additional areas.

What if I encounter technical issues?
The app is designed to be user-friendly, but if you face problems, technical support is available. Download everything beforehand, and if issues arise, contact support for assistance.

To sum it up, this self-guided driving and walking tour of Garden of the Gods offers a practical, engaging way to explore Colorado’s stunning red rock formations. It’s perfect for travelers who value autonomy, detailed commentary, and flexibility in their outdoor adventures. While technical preparation is key, many users find that the experience enhances their visit significantly, providing insights and stories that bring the landscape to life. Whether you’re revisiting or discovering this natural wonder for the first time, this tour could be a memorable addition to your Colorado Springs trip.