Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver

Exploring the Small Group Tour of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods from Denver

If you’re thinking about taking a trip that blends jaw-dropping scenery with a touch of adventure, this small group tour from Denver might just fit the bill. It promises to take you to two of Colorado’s most iconic sights—Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak—with the added bonus of a charming stop in Manitou Springs. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a pretty solid way to explore without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we really like about this experience is the balance it strikes between guided comfort and free time—allowing you to soak in the views and history without feeling rushed. Plus, the small group size means personal attention from guides, which can make a big difference when you’re navigating mountain roads or trying to catch the perfect photo. One potential consideration? The full-day nature means you’ll want to be prepared for the altitude and some longer travel times. This tour suits outdoor lovers, first-timers to Colorado, or anyone eager to see some of the most photographed spots in the state without the hassle of driving themselves.

Key Points

• Intimate experience with a maximum of 14 guests, ensuring you get personal attention.
• Stunning destinations like Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak, plus time in the quaint town of Manitou Springs.
• All major entrance fees and bottled water included, adding to the convenience.
• Guided drive up Pikes Peak to avoid mountain driving risks, with breathtaking vistas from over 14,000 feet.
• Flexible schedule with free time for lunch, shopping, or exploring in Manitou Springs.
• Highly reviewed guides (Harley, Monica, Zach) known for their knowledge and friendliness.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour is designed to give you a comprehensive day exploring Colorado’s natural beauty, with a focus on comfort and expert guidance. It starts early in Denver, with a pickup at a central location, making it easy to join if you’re staying downtown or nearby.

The Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a comfortable shared bus, limited to just 14 travelers. This smaller group size makes for a more relaxed, conversational atmosphere compared to large tour buses. The journey itself is about 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling hurried. The vehicle’s size and the guides’ focus on personal attention make a notable difference, especially if you’re someone who prefers a friendly, less crowded experience.

The First Stop: Garden of the Gods

The Garden of the Gods is a highlight. Its massive red rock formations are as impressive in person as they seem in photos, and the park’s accessibility makes it easy to explore on foot. Many reviews mention how “majestic” and “beautiful” the landscape is, with one traveler noting they loved the “photo ops everywhere.” You’ll have about an hour here to walk around or take pictures, with no entrance fee, which is a nice perk.

A favorite photo spot is Balanced Rock, where travelers get a quick 15-minute stop. This iconic formation is perfect for snapping that postcard shot. Many guests comment on how awe-inspiring the views are, and guides often share lesser-known facts about the geology, making it more than just a pretty backdrop.

Lunch and Free Time in Manitou Springs

Next is a leisurely lunch break in the charming town of Manitou Springs. The stop lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time for a sit-down meal, grabbing some souvenirs, or just wandering through the local shops. Several reviews praise the town’s quaint vibe and mention that it’s a great spot for a casual, scenic lunch. It’s a good balance—enough time to relax but not so long that your day drags.

Ascending Pikes Peak

The star of the tour is the drive up Pikes Peak via the Pikes Peak Highway. At over 14,000 feet, the summit offers panoramic views that have inspired countless travelers and even the song “ America the Beautiful.” The guides handle the drive, making the ascent safer and more comfortable, especially if you’re not used to mountain roads or altitude.

At the summit, you’ll have about 30 minutes to take in the scenery, snap photos, or simply soak in the sensation of standing at such a lofty point. The drive back down features scenic stops for photos along the way. On some days, like one review mentions, weather can affect accessibility—if the summit is blocked due to snow or storms, your guides will take you as high as possible, ensuring you still get a memorable experience.

Additional Highlights

• Wildlife sightings: Guests have reported seeing elk and snow-capped mountains, adding to the sense of adventure.
• Flexible schedule: The return trip is expected between 5:45 and 6:45 PM, providing daylight to enjoy the scenery.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most, but note that children under 7 aren’t recommended, and high-altitude sickness is a possibility.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Many reviews highlight knowledgeable guides—Harley, Monica, and Zach are praised for their friendliness, humor, and depth of knowledge. For example, one reviewer mentioned how Harley shared lesser-known facts about the area, making the trip educational and entertaining.

Guests also appreciate the value for money. For $179, you get transportation, guided commentary, entrance fees, bottled water, and plenty of time at each stop. Given the cost of independent travel or self-guided tours, this package offers a very convenient way to see Colorado’s highlights with less hassle.

The Price and What It Gets You

At $179 per person, this tour is competitive, especially considering the inclusion of entrance fees and bottled water. Many travelers feel the experience is worth it because of the guided aspect and the hassle-free logistics. That said, some reviews note that the trip involves about two hours of travel each way, which can feel long if you’re eager to spend more time at each site.

The Experience’s Strengths

The small group size and guided nature make it ideal for those who prefer a more personal, engaging experience. Travelers have found the guides to be very knowledgeable—some even mentioning they learned interesting facts they didn’t know before. The scenic drive up Pikes Peak, combined with the chance to walk around the Garden of the Gods, balances active exploration with relaxed sightseeing.

Possible Downsides

One review pointed out that the full-day schedule might feel a bit long, especially if you’re not keen on spending much time in transit. Also, weather can occasionally interfere—if the summit is closed due to snow or storms, you’ll go as high as possible rather than reaching the peak. For families with young children, it’s not recommended under age 7, so this is more suited to older kids, teens, and adults.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits outdoor enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a comfortable, guided introduction to Colorado’s mountain scenery. It’s ideal for those interested in photography, nature, and learning from guides who bring humor and insight to the trip. If you’re comfortable with some altitude and want a well-organized, scenic day trip, this tour could be right up your alley.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a convenient, well-reviewed way to see two of Colorado’s most famous natural attractions, this small group tour delivers. From the stunning red rocks of Garden of the Gods to the breathtaking views at Pikes Peak, you’ll enjoy a day full of natural wonders, guided by passionate, knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of lunch in a cute mountain town and scenic drives makes it a well-rounded experience.

While it’s a long day with some travel time, most reviews suggest it’s worth the effort. Guides like Harley and Monica are frequently praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the journey fun and educational. Just be prepared for the altitude, weather changes, and a schedule that’s packed but manageable.

This tour is best for adventure seekers, photography lovers, and first-time visitors who want a hassle-free way to explore Colorado’s iconic sites. If you’re after a relaxed but comprehensive day of sightseeing with a small group, this could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 7 are not recommended. It’s better suited for older kids, teens, and adults comfortable with some altitude and outdoor walking.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are included, along with bottled water.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 14 travelers, promoting a more personal experience.

Can I expect to see wildlife?
Some guests have reported seeing elk and other wildlife during the drive.

What should I bring?
Bring a warm jacket, comfortable shoes, and possibly sunglasses or sunscreen for the outdoor stops.

Is the summit always accessible?
Not always. Weather, especially snow or storms, can block access to the peak. Guides will take you as high as possible.

How is the guide?
Reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. Harley, Monica, and Zach are noted for making the experience memorable.

What about lunch?
There’s an hour-long lunch stop in Manitou Springs, offering a chance to relax and explore the town.

What is the best time of year to go?
The highway is open year-round, but weather can impact accessibility. Spring and summer tend to have clearer weather, but each season offers something unique.

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Colorado’s dramatic landscapes in a comfortable, guided setting that many travelers find worthwhile.