Colorado Springs: Garden of the Gods and Foothills Jeep Tour

This guided jeep tour of Colorado Springs offers a window into some of the region’s most iconic sights, from towering red rock formations to waterfalls and mountain vistas. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but with a near-perfect rating of 4.9 out of 5 from over 185 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find it a worthwhile experience.

What we like most? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring the landscape alive with stories and history along the way. Second, the unobstructed views — thanks to the open-air jeeps, every picture you take will be framed perfectly. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the mix of paved and dirt roads, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness.

This tour is best suited for those who love scenic drives, enjoy learning about local history, and want a comfortable, engaging way to see Colorado’s highlights with a small group. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting a half-day adventure that hits the high points without the fuss.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: View the famous red rock formations of Garden of the Gods and panoramic mountain vistas.
• Expert guides: Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, personality, and ability to enhance the experience.
• Diverse stops: From waterfalls in North Cheyenne Canyon to historic Old Colorado City, each stop offers a different perspective.
• Unobstructed photos: Open-air jeeps provide fantastic opportunities for capturing scenery and selfies.
• Value for money: The tour’s combination of sights, guides, and comfort delivers excellent value.
• Year-round operation: Suitable for any season, with appropriate layers and gear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The adventure begins at Adventures Out West, a central meeting point in Colorado Springs, conveniently located next door to Rudy’s Hideaway Restaurant. The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it an ideal half-day activity that balances sightseeing and relaxation. It’s also worth noting that departure times vary, so checking your options will help you plan accordingly.

The Jeep Ride: Comfortable, Open-Air, and Scenic

Traveling in a small group — limited to just 6 participants — ensures a more intimate experience where everyone gets a good view. The jeeps are open-air, meaning you’ll be able to fully enjoy the fresh mountain air and take unobstructed photos. The reviews highlight the comfort of the seats and the provision of blankets and water for chilly days.

Most of the ride (about 70%) is on paved roads, which makes for a smooth experience, while roughly 30% involves dirt roads or off-road sections, adding a sense of adventure. These off-road segments include places like the Gold Camp Road, where the scenery turns rugged and wild, perfect for those craving a bit of off-the-beaten-path exploration.

Stops and Highlights

Garden of the Gods is undoubtedly the star attraction. The towering red rocks, sculpted by nature over millions of years, are mesmerizing and photographically rewarding. Several reviews emphasize its beauty, with one traveler noting, “The scenery was absolutely beautiful. Garden of the Gods is beyond description.” The guides often point out geological features, explaining how these formations came to be, which enriches the visit beyond just admiring the view.

Next, the tour heads into North Cheyenne Canyon, ascending to Helen Hunt Falls. This waterfall offers a peaceful contrast to the dramatic rocks, with reviewers praising the “great photo opportunities” and the “beautiful view” of the falls. You’ll likely hear stories about the area’s history and legends, making a simple stop a storytelling session that adds depth to the scenery.

The journey also follows the historic Shortline Railroad Grade, which leads toward Old Colorado City. This part of the tour offers a glimpse into Colorado’s past, with stories about the old railroads and historic towns. The stops at Old Colorado City and nearby Manitou Springs showcase Colorado Springs’ historic heart, filled with boutiques, cafes, and a vibrant local scene.

Finally, the guide will take you high above the city for unmatched views of Colorado Springs and the surrounding mountains. Many reviews mention how these viewpoints leave a lasting impression, offering perfect photo ops and a chance to appreciate Colorado’s vast, rugged beauty.

Guides and Personal Touch

What consistently stands out in reviews is how knowledgeable and personable the guides are. Whether sharing colorful stories, pointing out hidden details, or offering assistance, guides like Whipper, Clementine, Mustang Sally, and others receive glowing praise. One reviewer even noted, “He provided us with colorful and entertaining stories of the history and legends of the area.”

The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, allowing for questions and personalized attention. Several reviews mention guides taking photos for travelers, which adds a thoughtful touch that many appreciate.

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Practicalities and Comfort

Dressing in layers is advised — Colorado weather can change quickly — and closed-toe shoes are recommended for walks at stops. The tour operates year-round, so whether it’s a snowy winter or a summer day, you’re likely to find a different but equally stunning landscape.

Included amenities like bottled water, sodas, light snacks, and blankets make the experience comfortable, especially during cooler months. The open-air jeep design also enhances the sense of adventure, though it requires some comfort with fresh air and possibly a bit of dust or dirt.

Pricing and Value

While prices are not specified explicitly, the reviews suggest this tour offers excellent value given the scenery, guided storytelling, and small-group intimacy. Many travelers mention that it exceeds expectations, offering more than just a scenic drive. The inclusion of stops, snacks, and photo opportunities makes it a comprehensive package that’s well worth the cost for most.

Booking and Flexibility

Booking is straightforward with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. The “reserve now, pay later” option adds flexibility, perfect for travelers uncertain about their plans. The tour operates with a minimum of 2 participants, so it’s best to plan ahead or check availability if you’re traveling solo.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This jeep tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups who want a manageable and engaging way to see Colorado Springs’ highlights. If you’re someone who values expert guides, stunning scenery, and small group intimacy, you’ll find this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer outdoor experiences but don’t want to hike or drive themselves. The open-air jeeps offer a comfortable and engaging way to take in the sights, making it suitable for a wide age range. Those interested in geology, history, or photography will find plenty to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This tour balances scenery, history, and comfort beautifully. The guides’ stories bring the landscape to life, and the views are truly breathtaking. It’s a great way to spend half a day exploring Colorado Springs’ most famous natural landmarks without the hassle of planning multiple outfits or meals.

While the terrain includes some dirt roads, most of the journey is on smooth pavement, making it accessible for most travelers. The small size of the group ensures personalized attention, and the open-air jeeps make for perfect photo opportunities.

Whether you’re visiting for a quick overview or want a memorable adventure to share with family or friends, this tour delivers genuine value. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate the outdoors, historical anecdotes, and photos that will make your friends jealous.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable in all weather conditions?
Yes, it operates year-round in most weather conditions. Dress in layers, and bring a jacket if it’s cold or rainy.

How long is the tour?
The journey lasts about 2.5 hours, providing a good balance of sightseeing and comfort.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, sunscreen, a jacket, and casual clothes are recommended.

Are snacks and drinks included?
Yes, bottled water, sodas, and light snacks are provided to keep you refreshed during the ride.

What about group size?
The tour is limited to 6 participants, ensuring an intimate, personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility in planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby