Garden of the Gods, a natural wonder with towering red rocks older than dinosaurs! Enjoy fun facts, activities, and stories about Colorado’s geological marvel!
THE ULTIMATE PARENT’S GUIDE
Visit the Garden of the Gods: A Family Guide
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Garden of the Gods
- Welcome to Garden of the Gods, where nature’s most amazing rock sculptures touch the Colorado sky!
- WHOA! The park’s rocks are over 300 million years old – even older than T-Rex!
- SUPER COOL! The tallest rocks reach 300 feet high – taller than a 30-story building!
- AMAZING! The park is home to more than 15 different species of butterflies!
- HOLY MOLY! The rocks get their red color from the same mineral that makes rust on old bikes!
- INCREDIBLE! Native Americans thought this place was so special they wouldn’t fight here – it was considered sacred ground!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Garden of the Gods
Balanced Rock Get Ready for the Balanced Rock : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This enormous red rock looks like it’s about to tip over but never does! It’s as tall as seven kids standing on each other’s shoulders and weighs as much as 240 elephants.
INTERESTING FACT! The rock is perfectly balanced on a tiny point, and Native Americans believed it had magical powers to stay in place.
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “Rock Poses” – Have your child try to balance on one foot like Balanced Rock (on a safe, flat surface) and count how long they can hold their pose!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could balance anything in the world, what would it be and why?
DISCUSS: Balanced Rock weighs 700 tons, which is about the same as 350 cars stacked on top of each other!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Balancing isn’t just for rocks – it’s everywhere in nature! Birds balance on tiny branches, mountain goats balance on steep cliffs, and even trees balance their branches to grow straight and tall. The amazing thing about Balanced Rock is that it has stayed balanced for millions of years, through rain, snow, and even earthquakes!
ASK YOUR KIDS: What do you think would happen if we tried to build a tower of blocks as tall as Balanced Rock?
DISCUSS: The base of Balanced Rock is only about 3 feet wide – that’s about the same as your bedroom pillow!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Engineers today use the same principles as Balanced Rock when building tall buildings. They need a strong foundation and perfect balance to stay standing. The Empire State Building, like Balanced Rock, needs to balance perfectly on its foundation. Even your body uses balance – your inner ear helps you stay upright, just like Balanced Rock stays upright on its tiny base!
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different angles where Balanced Rock looks like it’s about to fall over.
HINT: Try looking at it from the front, sides, and back – each view is different!
OBJECTIVE: Look for small rocks around the base that might have fallen from Balanced Rock over time.
HINT: These pieces will be the same reddish color as Balanced Rock.
Siamese Twins Rock Formation Get Ready for the Siamese Twins Rock Formation : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? These twin rocks have a special window between them that perfectly frames Pikes Peak – it’s like nature’s own picture frame!
INTERESTING FACT! The rocks got their name because they look like two towers stuck together, just like twin siblings holding hands.
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “I Spy Through the Window” – Take turns spotting different things through the natural window: clouds, birds, or even Pikes Peak on a clear day.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If these rocks could talk, what stories do you think they would tell about all the animals and people they’ve seen?
DISCUSS: Native American children played near these rocks over 3,000 years ago – that’s older than 100 grandparents put together!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: These rocks have seen everything from dinosaurs to early pioneers. Eagles have nested here, bighorn sheep have climbed here, and countless children like you have gazed through the window. The rocks were formed when ancient sand dunes turned to stone, and over millions of years, wind and rain carved out the window. It’s like nature’s own art project that took longer to make than all the buildings in the world combined!
ASK YOUR KIDS: What shapes can you see in the rocks besides the twins? Do they remind you of anything?
DISCUSS: The rocks change color throughout the day – they can look bright orange in the morning and deep red at sunset, like a giant mood ring!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Just like how we see shapes in clouds, people have been seeing different shapes in these rocks for generations. The red color comes from iron – the same thing that makes your blood red! When it rains, the rocks get darker, just like when you wet a paintbrush. Some rocks in the park look like animals, castles, or even giant cookies standing on edge!
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Try to find the perfect spot to take a family photo where Pikes Peak shows through the window.
HINT: Look for the marked viewing spot on the trail – it’s the best place to see the mountain!
OBJECTIVE: Count how many different colors you can see in the rocks.
HINT: Look closely at the rocks when they’re in sun versus shade.
Trading Post & Visitor Center Get Ready for the Trading Post & Visitor Center : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This is your mission control for adventure! It has fun interactive displays, a cool 3D map you can touch, and even real rocks you can feel.
INTERESTING FACT! The Trading Post has been here for over 100 years – it used to be where Native Americans would trade with settlers.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a rock rubbing using paper and crayons at the texture station, or become a Junior Ranger by completing fun activities!
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could build your own visitor center, what would you put in it to teach people about rocks?
DISCUSS: The center has a model that shows how the giant rocks were pushed up from underground – like squeezing toothpaste from a tube!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The visitor center is like a time machine that shows us how the park formed. Long ago, this area was under an ancient sea! Then, massive forces inside the Earth pushed the rocks up like a giant hand squishing Play-Doh. The rocks we see today were once flat on the ground, but now they stand tall like dominoes. Scientists are still discovering new things about how these rocks formed!
ASK YOUR KIDS: What do you think lived here when dinosaurs roamed around these rocks?
DISCUSS: Scientists found footprints of ancient creatures in the park that walked here before the dinosaurs!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The park was once home to all sorts of amazing creatures. There were huge dragonflies with wings as wide as your arms, tall ferns that looked like trees, and even ancient sea creatures when this was all underwater. Today, we can still find fossils that tell us stories about these ancient animals and plants. It’s like a giant puzzle that scientists are still putting together!
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
High Point Overlook Get Ready for the High Point Overlook : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This is your eagle’s-eye view of the whole park! From here, you can see all the major rock formations and play “I Spy” with the different shapes.
INTERESTING FACT! On a clear day, you can see for over 100 miles from this spot – that’s as far as driving from here to your favorite playground and back 50 times!
COOL ACTIVITY! Play “Rock Shape Detective” – take turns finding rocks that look like everyday objects (like a ship, castle, or sleeping giant).
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you were a bird flying over these rocks, what would be the most exciting thing to see?
DISCUSS: Red-tailed hawks soar over these rocks using warm air currents, and they can spot a tiny mouse from as high as this overlook!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Birds have an amazing view of the park, just like we do from this spot. They use the warm air rising from the rocks to float without flapping their wings – it’s like nature’s elevator! The rocks also create homes for many birds, including owls who nest in the cracks and ravens who build their nests on ledges. From up here, you can see how the rocks make natural highways for animals moving through the park.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think these giant rocks got their different shapes?
DISCUSS: Rain, wind, and ice have been sculpting these rocks for millions of years – like nature’s own art tools!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Think of the rocks as giant pieces of clay that nature has been sculpting. When it rains, tiny bits of rock wash away. When it’s cold, water freezes in cracks and makes them bigger – just like when a popsicle expands in the freezer! The wind carries sand that acts like sandpaper, slowly smoothing the rocks. Each rock tells its own story of how it was shaped by these natural forces.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three rocks that look like different animals and give them silly names.
HINT: Try looking at the rocks from different angles – sometimes they look different depending on where you stand!
OBJECTIVE: Spot the tallest rock formation you can see from the overlook.
HINT: Look for Cathedral Spires – they reach up toward the sky like giant fingers!
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Garden of the Gods
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Garden of the Gods:
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Just 15 minutes away, this amazing mountain zoo lets you feed giraffes by hand and meet native Colorado wildlife up close!
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park: Only 20 minutes from Garden of the Gods, explore fascinating caves with fun guided tours perfect for young explorers. The Discovery Tour is specially designed for families with young children.
Ghost Town Museum: Located just 10 minutes away, this indoor museum lets kids step back in time and experience the Old West with hands-on activities like panning for gold and operating old-time arcade machines.
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- “Rocks and Minerals” (National Geographic Kids Level 2 Reader) – Perfect for introducing basic geology concepts before seeing the real thing!
- “G is for Garden of the Gods” by Maria Morrison – A colorful alphabet book featuring the park’s highlights.
- Download the free Garden of the Gods Kids Activity Book from the official website – it includes fun worksheets and scavenger hunt activities.
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Garden of the Gods
- Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark where dramatic red rock formations tell a 300-million-year-old story.
- WHOA! The park was originally going to be called “Red Rock Corral” before being renamed Garden of the Gods!
- AMAZING! The highest point in the park is 6,400 feet above sea level, and some rocks reach 300 feet into the sky!
- MIND-BLOWN! The park was privately owned but donated to the city in 1909 with the condition that it would always be free to visit!
- INCREDIBLE! The rocks get their red color from iron oxide – the same thing that makes rust red!
- SUPER COOL! Native American tribes have considered this area sacred for over 3,000 years!
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Garden of the Gods
BALANCED ROCK Get Ready for the BALANCED ROCK : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This 35-foot boulder appears to balance precariously on a small pedestal, defying gravity and showcasing the power of erosion and time.
INTERESTING FACT! The rock weighs 700 tons – that’s equivalent to about 350 cars – yet balances on a base that’s much smaller than its top!
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a forced perspective photo where it looks like you’re holding up or pushing over Balanced Rock. Then, use basic physics principles to explain why the rock doesn’t actually fall.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could freeze time and cut through Balanced Rock, what patterns do you think you’d see inside?
DISCUSS: The red color in these rocks comes from iron oxide – the same thing that makes rust red! The stripes you see in the rock are like pages in a history book, each representing different time periods and environments.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: These rocks tell an amazing story of ancient environments. The layers formed when this area was once a beach beside a massive inland sea about 300 million years ago. Scientists can determine the ancient environment by studying the different types of sediments, fossils, and mineral deposits in each layer. Some layers contain fossils of marine creatures, while others show evidence of ancient sand dunes.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think this rock ended up balanced like this? What forces of nature were at work?
DISCUSS: Wind and rain are constantly reshaping this rock, removing about 1 inch of surface every 500 years!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The balancing act we see today is the result of differential erosion, where softer rock erodes faster than harder rock. Think of it like an ice cream cone melting on a hot day – the bottom melts faster than the top. The process that created Balanced Rock took millions of years of wind, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles. The rock’s base is made of softer layers that eroded more quickly, while the top is made of harder sandstone that resisted erosion better.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find and photograph three different colors in the rock layers.
HINT: Look closely at the base versus the top – you might spot subtle variations in the reds and even some whitish or pinkish bands.
OBJECTIVE: Locate the informational plaque and identify what type of rock Balanced Rock is made of.
HINT: Look for words like “sandstone” or “sedimentary” on the sign.
TRADING POST Get Ready for the TRADING POST : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This historic building offers interactive exhibits about local geology and Native American history, plus hands-on demonstrations of rock formation processes.
INTERESTING FACT! The Trading Post was built in 1929 and contains beams from an old railroad bridge that once crossed nearby Camp Creek.
COOL ACTIVITY! Join a rock identification workshop where you can learn to identify different types of rocks found in the park using scientific methods.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Why do you think Native Americans considered this place sacred, and how did they use these rocks differently than we do today?
DISCUSS: The Ute people believed these rocks were supernatural beings that had been frozen in place, and they would leave offerings at their base.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Native Americans used this area for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. The Ute, Cheyenne, Arapaho, and other tribes would gather here for ceremonies and trading. They used the rocks for shelter and as lookout points. Some of the caves and overhangs still contain evidence of their presence, including pottery shards and tool-making sites. The vertical rocks were also used as buffalo drives, where tribes would herd buffalo toward the rocks during hunts.
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could design an experiment to determine how old these rocks are, what would you do?
DISCUSS: Scientists use radioactive dating and fossil evidence to determine that some of these rocks formed during the time of dinosaurs, about 65-250 million years ago.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Geologists are like detectives who use multiple clues to determine rock ages. They look at layers (stratigraphy), fossils (paleontology), and radioactive elements (radiometric dating) to piece together the age puzzle. The rocks at Garden of the Gods were actually formed in several different periods, with some layers being much older than others. The dramatic tilting of the rocks happened much later, during the same mountain-building event that created Pikes Peak.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find three different types of rocks in the educational displays and learn how each was formed.
HINT: Look for the interactive geology exhibit that shows the rock cycle.
OBJECTIVE: Locate evidence of how Native Americans used the trading post area.
HINT: Check the historical photographs and artifacts in the cultural display cases.
SIAMESE TWINS TRAIL Get Ready for the SIAMESE TWINS TRAIL : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This moderate trail offers unique rock formations and provides the perfect vantage point to see both the park’s formations and Pikes Peak in one frame.
INTERESTING FACT! The Siamese Twins formation got its name because it looks like two towers joined together, creating a window that perfectly frames Pikes Peak.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a time-lapse video of clouds moving through the “window” of the Siamese Twins, showing how weather patterns move around Pikes Peak.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think weather and climate change might affect these rocks over the next thousand years?
DISCUSS: The freeze-thaw cycle can crack these rocks apart! Water seeps into tiny cracks, freezes and expands, making the cracks bigger – just like how a frozen water bottle expands.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Climate plays a huge role in shaping these rocks. In summer, temperatures can reach over 90°F, while winter brings temperatures below freezing. This constant expansion and contraction creates stress on the rocks. Additionally, chemical weathering occurs when rainwater, which is slightly acidic, slowly dissolves certain minerals in the rock. Wind carries sand particles that act like sandpaper, slowly sculpting the formations. Scientists estimate that the park’s appearance will be noticeably different in just a few thousand years.
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you were designing a new trail through the park, what factors would you need to consider to protect both the rocks and wildlife?
DISCUSS: The park’s trails are carefully designed to prevent erosion and protect over 130 species of birds, including golden eagles that nest in the rocks!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Trail design is a complex science that considers wildlife corridors, plant life, rock stability, and visitor safety. Engineers use special materials that allow water to drain properly and prevent erosion. They also consider the nesting seasons of various birds and the migration patterns of larger animals. Some trails are temporarily closed during nesting season to protect young birds. The park uses special barriers that keep humans on the trail while allowing small animals to cross freely underneath.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Find and photograph Pikes Peak through the “window” of the Siamese Twins.
HINT: The best view is usually in the morning when the sun illuminates both the formation and the mountain.
OBJECTIVE: Identify three different types of vegetation growing along the trail.
HINT: Look for identification markers near plants, especially in spring and summer.
HIGH POINT OVERLOOK Get Ready for the HIGH POINT OVERLOOK : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This spot offers the most comprehensive view of the park and helps visitors understand how all the formations relate to each other.
INTERESTING FACT! From this vantage point, you can see evidence of a massive geological uplift that occurred millions of years ago, tilting the once-horizontal rock layers nearly vertical.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a panoramic photo series showing the full 360-degree view, then label the major formations and geological features.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: What do you think this landscape looked like 70 million years ago, before these rocks were pushed up?
DISCUSS: These rocks were once lying flat under an ancient sea, home to marine creatures like sharks and giant swimming reptiles!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The dramatic landscape we see today was created through a series of geological events spanning millions of years. First, sediments accumulated in layers under an ancient seaway. Then, powerful forces within the Earth pushed these layers upward during the same event that formed the Rocky Mountains. This process, called orogeny, turned the flat layers on their side. The softer layers eroded away over millions of years, leaving the harder sandstone layers standing as the tall fins we see today. Fossils found in the area include ancient sea creatures, showing how dramatically the environment has changed.
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could design a new rock formation to add to the park, what would it look like and what would you name it?
DISCUSS: Many of the formations were named by early settlers based on what they looked like – for example, “Kissing Camels” and “Cathedral Spires.”
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The naming of rock formations tells us a lot about human imagination and cultural history. Native Americans had their own names for these formations, often tied to their spiritual beliefs. When European settlers arrived, they gave new names based on their own cultural references. Some formations have had multiple names throughout history. The process of naming geographical features is called toponymy, and it often reflects the cultural values and historical context of different time periods.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Create a sketch map of the major formations visible from this point.
HINT: Use the interpretive signs to help identify each formation.
OBJECTIVE: Find evidence of the geological uplift that tilted the rocks.
HINT: Look for the angle of the rock layers – they should be nearly vertical instead of horizontal.
CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL Get Ready for the CENTRAL GARDEN TRAIL : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This paved trail takes you through the heart of the most dramatic formations, offering close-up views of the park’s geological wonders and abundant wildlife.
INTERESTING FACT! The trail follows the same paths that dinosaurs once walked – fossilized dinosaur tracks have been found in the area!
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a digital or hand-drawn field guide of the different rock formations, wildlife, and plants encountered along the trail.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: If these rocks could talk, what stories would they tell about all the changes they’ve seen over millions of years?
DISCUSS: These rocks have witnessed three major extinctions, countless species evolving, and even the rise of mammals after dinosaurs disappeared!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The rocks in Garden of the Gods are like nature’s history books
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think the park balances protecting these natural formations while still allowing millions of visitors each year?
DISCUSS: The park uses special infrared sensors to monitor the stability of major formations and detect any concerning movements before they become dangerous!
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Managing a natural park is like solving a complex puzzle. Rangers use advanced technology to monitor rock stability, wildlife populations, and visitor impact. They study erosion patterns, track wildlife movements with cameras, and use special materials on trails that minimize environmental impact. The park also employs geologists who regularly inspect the formations for any signs of instability. Educational programs help visitors understand why certain rules exist, like staying on marked trails and not climbing on formations without proper permits.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Spot and photograph three different types of wildlife (birds, mammals, or reptiles).
HINT: Early morning or late afternoon are the best times to spot wildlife. Look for mule deer, scrub jays, and rock squirrels.
OBJECTIVE: Find evidence of different geological processes (erosion, weathering, fracturing).
HINT: Look for honeycomb patterns in rocks, smooth surfaces, and cracks in the formations.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Garden of the Gods
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Garden of the Gods:
Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Experience America’s highest cog railway as you climb to 14,115 feet with breathtaking views of Colorado.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park: Explore fascinating cave formations and enjoy thrilling adventure rides just minutes from Garden of the Gods.
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo: Visit America’s only mountain zoo, featuring over 750 animals and an elevated view of Colorado Springs.
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- Geology Underfoot Along Colorado’s Front Range by Lon Abbott – Perfect for understanding the fascinating geological history
- Garden of the Gods: A Natural and Cultural History by Steven Wade Veatch – Provides comprehensive background about the park’s formation and history
- Download the free Garden of the Gods Official App for interactive maps and self-guided tours
- Watch “How the Earth Was Made: Garden of the Gods” documentary (available on streaming platforms)
- Review the Junior Ranger Program materials on the park’s website – great for kids to complete during the visit
Fun Facts
Interesting Things To Know About Garden of the Gods
- Garden of the Gods showcases some of the most dramatic geological formations in the American West, where ancient seas, mountains, and erosion created a natural sculpture garden.
- HOLY ROCKS! The tallest formation reaches 320 feet high – that’s taller than a football field is long!
- MIND BLOWN! The rocks here are actually standing upright due to a massive geological upheaval, though they were originally formed as horizontal layers.
- WHOA! The park was privately owned but donated to the city in 1909 with the condition that it remain free to the public forever.
- EPIC! Some of the rock formations contain marine fossils from an inland sea that covered the area 250 million years ago.
- INCREDIBLE! The park’s name came from two surveyors in 1859 who thought the area would be a perfect place for a “beer garden.”
Must-Visit Spots
Where To Go At Garden of the Gods
BALANCED ROCK Get Ready for the BALANCED ROCK : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This 35-foot sandstone boulder appears to balance precariously on a small pedestal, demonstrating incredible geological forces and erosion patterns.
INTERESTING FACT! The rock weighs 700 tons, equivalent to about 350 cars, yet balances on a base that has been naturally eroded to a fraction of its original size.
COOL ACTIVITY! Use trigonometry to calculate the height of Balanced Rock using the angle of elevation and distance from its base (bring a protractor and measuring tape).
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How do you think this rock has managed to stay balanced for thousands of years, especially during earthquakes and storms?
DISCUSS: The rock’s center of gravity is perfectly aligned with its base, creating a natural counterbalance that has withstood centuries of seismic activity and erosion.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The rock’s stability relates to principles of physics and geology. The sandstone layers were originally deposited horizontally but were tilted vertically during the formation of the Rocky Mountains. Over millions of years, erosion sculpted the softer layers away, leaving behind the more resistant portions. The rock’s composition, featuring iron oxide, gives it its distinctive red color and increased durability.
ASK YOUR KIDS: If you could design a scientific experiment to test the stability of Balanced Rock, what factors would you consider?
DISCUSS: Scientists have used seismic monitoring devices to study how Balanced Rock responds to ground movements, finding that it actually sways slightly during high winds, which helps prevent it from falling.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: This natural phenomenon demonstrates principles of resonance and harmonic motion. Similar to how skyscrapers are designed to sway during earthquakes, Balanced Rock’s slight movement helps dissipate energy that might otherwise cause it to topple. Engineers study such natural formations to improve building designs in earthquake-prone areas.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Locate and photograph evidence of erosion patterns at different heights of the formation.
HINT: Look for honeycomb-like patterns in the rock face and horizontal striations.
OBJECTIVE: Find the best angle to create an optical illusion photo where you appear to be holding up Balanced Rock.
HINT: Position yourself about 20 feet away and experiment with perspective.
HIGH POINT OVERLOOK Get Ready for the HIGH POINT OVERLOOK : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This strategic viewpoint offers a 360-degree panorama of the park, Pikes Peak, and Colorado Springs, perfect for understanding the region’s geological context.
INTERESTING FACT! From this vantage point, you can see evidence of three major geological events that shaped the region: the ancestral Rocky Mountains formation, the modern Rocky Mountain uplift, and the creation of Pikes Peak.
COOL ACTIVITY! Create a time-lapse video of clouds moving over the formations during sunset, capturing the dramatic color changes on the rocks.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: Looking at the different rock layers visible from here, what can you deduce about the environmental conditions when these rocks were formed?
DISCUSS: The red rocks you see were once sand dunes near an ancient sea that covered this area 300 million years ago, similar to modern-day Sahara Desert.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The rock layers tell a fascinating story of environmental change. The lowest layers contain marine fossils, indicating an ancient seabed. Above these are wind-blown sand deposits, suggesting a shift to desert conditions. The dramatic tilting of these layers occurred during the mountain-building period about 70 million years ago. This process, called orogeny, is similar to pushing a rug against a wall – the layers buckle and fold upward.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How might climate change affect these rock formations over the next century?
DISCUSS: The rate of erosion in Garden of the Gods has increased by 2% in the past decade due to more extreme weather patterns and temperature fluctuations.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Climate change impacts rock formations through a process called thermal expansion and contraction. As temperatures fluctuate more extremely, rocks expand and contract, creating micro-fractures. Increased rainfall and freeze-thaw cycles accelerate erosion. Scientists use high-resolution 3D scanning to monitor these changes, creating detailed models that predict future erosion patterns. This same technology is used to study ancient archaeological sites and modern infrastructure.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Identify and photograph three different types of rock formations visible from the overlook.
HINT: Look for the distinct layers of red sandstone, white limestone, and pink granite.
OBJECTIVE: Create a sketch of the geological cross-section visible from this vantage point.
HINT: Focus on the tilted layers and their relationships to each other.
OBJECTIVE:
HINT: Look for areas where water has carved channels or where rocks show signs of weathering.
SIAMESE TWINS ROCK FORMATION Get Ready for the SIAMESE TWINS ROCK FORMATION : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This unique formation features a natural window that perfectly frames Pikes Peak, offering insights into erosional processes and providing an excellent location for discussing geological timeframes.
INTERESTING FACT! The window formation was created by differential erosion, where softer rock eroded more quickly than the surrounding harder rock, demonstrating selective weathering processes.
COOL ACTIVITY! Use the formation for a photography study – capture the same view through the window at different times of day to study how lighting affects landscape photography.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: What geological processes would need to occur to create a natural window like this, and how long might it take?
DISCUSS: The window formation took approximately 200,000 years to form through a combination of chemical weathering, freeze-thaw cycles, and wind erosion.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The formation process involves complex geochemistry. Water seeps into tiny cracks in the rock, then freezes and expands, creating larger fissures. Over time, minerals in the rock dissolve, weakening certain areas. Wind carries abrasive particles that act like natural sandpaper. This process, called mechanical weathering, is similar to how bridges and buildings weather over time, but on a much grander scale. Engineers study these natural processes to develop more durable building materials.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How might Native Americans have used this formation for navigation or seasonal timing?
DISCUSS: The Ute tribe used the window as a solar calendar – during summer solstice, the sun aligns perfectly with specific points of the formation.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Ancient peoples worldwide used natural formations as astronomical markers. The Siamese Twins served as both a practical tool and a spiritual landmark. The alignment with celestial events helped track seasons for hunting and gathering. Similar techniques were used by ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs. Modern astronomers still use natural features to study celestial events, though now with advanced technology like radio telescopes.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Document evidence of ongoing erosion processes around the window formation.
HINT: Look for fresh rock fragments, erosion patterns, and areas where water flows during rain.
OBJECTIVE: Create a time-based photo series showing how shadows move through the window throughout the day.
HINT: Mark your spot and return every hour for consistent framing.
TRADING POST ROCK LEDGE Get Ready for the TRADING POST ROCK LEDGE : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? This site combines archaeological significance with geological features, showcasing Native American history and trading routes while offering challenging hiking opportunities.
INTERESTING FACT! Archaeological excavations have revealed artifacts dating back 3,000 years, including trade items from as far away as the Pacific Coast.
COOL ACTIVITY! Document and analyze different rock strata visible in the ledge, creating a geological timeline with sketches and photos.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: How would ancient peoples have used this natural formation for trade and communication?
DISCUSS: The ledge’s unique acoustics allowed Native Americans to detect approaching traders or potential threats from over a mile away by placing their ears against specific points in the rock.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: The Trading Post’s location was strategic for multiple reasons. The rock formations created natural shelter from weather and provided defensive advantages. The site’s elevation offered clear views of approaching groups. Archaeological evidence shows this was a multicultural trading hub where at least seven different Native American tribes exchanged goods. Similar to modern-day international trade centers, this location facilitated cultural exchange, technological advancement, and economic growth.
ASK YOUR KIDS: What modern technologies could help us discover more about the people who used this trading post?
DISCUSS: Ground-penetrating radar recently revealed previously unknown storage pits and living areas beneath the current surface.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Modern archaeological techniques have revolutionized our understanding of ancient sites. LiDAR technology can create 3D maps of surfaces, revealing hidden features. Chemical analysis of pottery fragments can determine their origin and what they contained. DNA analysis of organic remains provides insights into ancient diets and migration patterns. These same technologies are used in modern forensics and environmental studies.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Locate and document three different types of natural shelters that would have been useful to traders.
HINT: Look for overhangs, natural windbreaks, and water collection points.
OBJECTIVE: Find evidence of modern erosion affecting archaeological preservation.
HINT: Compare protected and exposed areas of the ledge.
NORTH GATEWAY ROCK Get Ready for the NORTH GATEWAY ROCK : Tips, Activities, and Fun Facts!
THINGS TO KNOW
WHY VISIT? One of the park’s tallest formations at 320 feet, this site offers opportunities to study advanced geological formations and observe technical rock climbing.
INTERESTING FACT! The rock face contains visible evidence of ancient sand dunes, preserved in the cross-bedding patterns of the sandstone.
COOL ACTIVITY! Use a clinometer app to measure the angle of the rock face and calculate its true height using trigonometry.
THINGS TO TALK ABOUT
ASK YOUR KIDS: What safety considerations would rock climbers need to account for on different parts of this formation?
DISCUSS: The rock’s surface temperature can vary by up to 40 degrees Fahrenheit between sun and shade, affecting friction and climbing safety.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Rock climbing here requires understanding geology, physics, and meteorology. Climbers must assess rock quality, friction coefficients, and weather conditions. The sandstone’s composition affects its strength and how it handles stress. Similar principles apply in engineering, where material properties and environmental factors influence structural design. Modern climbing equipment uses advanced materials developed for aerospace applications.
ASK YOUR KIDS: How might climate change impact the stability and safety of these climbing routes over time?
DISCUSS: Increased freeze-thaw cycles have caused micro-fracturing in some areas, leading to the closure of certain climbing routes for safety.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: Climate change affects rock stability through various mechanisms. More extreme temperature fluctuations cause thermal stress. Changes in precipitation patterns alter erosion rates. These factors combine to accelerate weathering processes. Scientists monitor these changes using acoustic emissions testing, similar to methods used in structural engineering. Understanding these processes helps in predicting and preventing rock falls.
THINGS TO FIND @ THIS SPOT
OBJECTIVE: Identify and photograph three different climbing routes, noting their difficulty ratings.
HINT: Look for bolt anchors and chalk marks indicating established routes.
OBJECTIVE: Document evidence of ancient sand dune patterns in the rock face.
HINT: Look for diagonal lines crossing through the horizontal layers.
Other Nearby Points of Interest
Other great things to do near Garden of the Gods
BEFORE YOU LEAVE – Make sure to check out more of what this area has to offer! Here are a few nearby spots that we think you’ll love just as much as the Garden of the Gods:
Pikes Peak: Take the cog railway or drive to the summit of America’s most famous 14,000-foot mountain for breathtaking views and high-altitude adventure.
Cave of the Winds Mountain Park: Explore underground caverns formed millions of years ago, featuring stunning geological formations and adventure tours.
Manitou Springs: Visit this historic town known for its natural mineral springs, unique shops, and the challenging Manitou Incline hiking trail.
Read before you go
To make your visit even more exciting, check out these age-appropriate books:
- Watch “The Story of Garden of the Gods” documentary available on the park’s website
- “Geology of the Pikes Peak Region” by Steven Wade Veatch
- “Ancient Colorado: Archaeological Perspectives from the Garden of the Gods” by E. Steve Cassells
LOCATION SUMMARY
Imagine walking through a magical garden where giant red rocks touch the sky and dinosaurs once roamed! Garden of the Gods is nature’s own playground, where massive rocks seem to dance against a bright blue Colorado sky. What if I told you these towering rock formations are older than the dinosaurs themselves, and they hold secrets just waiting for young explorers like you to discover?
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