While you can just drive through Garden of the Gods [1], there are also 15 miles of trails for hiking. The visitors center has maps of designated hiking, biking, and horseback riding areas. It is also the meeting point for the Academy Riding Stable’s (719/633-5667) free guided nature walks (10 a.m. and 2 p.m.). Rock climbing is allowed in the park, but check in at the visitors center first to read over the regulations.
The North Cheyenne Cañon Park is a 1,600-acre park that includes natural waterfalls, wildlife, and birds (especially hummingbirds) and the Starsmore Discovery Center (2120 S. Cheyenne Cañon Rd., 719/385-6086, www.springsgov.com [2]) for kids and adults. Hands-on nature exhibits, a climbing wall, and a gift shop are all at the center. Call ahead for seasonal hours and program offerings. The center is a good place to pick up trail maps and find out more about the park.
Check the city’s website, www.springsgov.com [2], for a complete list of city parks, trails, and open spaces.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/denver/excursions-denver/colorado-springs/sights/garden-the-gods
[2] http://www.springsgov.com