If you’re visiting Denver and looking for a scenic hike (that also doesn’t have to take up your whole day), I highly recommend Garden of the Gods. Stephen and I went there the other week and it was so beautiful! Located about an hour outside of Denver, in Colorado Springs, it has these incredible rock formations and gorgeous views.

The “hike” itself is very easy – think a mix of paved walkways and then areas where you can go off the path and venture up to areas with more panoramic views. While there are some inclines off the paved path, the trail is not difficult so it’s really great for any age and/or if you have people visiting that may be struggling with the altitude and you want to do something less strenuous. So basically whether you’re looking for a more leisurely walk or for more of a hike with views, Garden of the Gods is a great mix of both.

Parking is also relatively easy to find, even on a busy day. We went on a Friday afternoon and had no trouble finding a spot in the adjoining parking lot. And when you arrive, you’ll find bathrooms at the entrance, and then you can enter the main area where you’ll see a map. We just walked around aimlessly, and you don’t have to worry about getting lost since the park is paved, sectioned off, and well-marked.

Ps. If you’re coming from Denver, you’ll have to drive through Centennial to get to Garden of the Gods and I highly recommend stopping at My Neighbor Felix! It’s one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in Denver and the Centennial location is really cool. The food is delicious, the vibe is on point, and the happy hour is great. Plus, it’s conveniently located on the way to the park, making it a perfect stop for lunch or dinner.