Garden of the Gods: Day 4 in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

Day 4 packed in just about everything, from ancient rock formations to a mountaintop more than two miles in the sky.

We kicked things off at Garden of the Gods, starting with a short film on the park’s history and geology and a look through the visitor center exhibits on animal tracking and local wildlife. From there, we set out on a tour with our guide Marty, better known as “Queen,” who pointed out the incredible formations from the bus windows, including the famous Kissing Camels.

A quick lunch stop at Chick-fil-A fueled us up for the U.S. Air Force Academy visitor center, where we got to meet a cadet and his trained falcon. Not something you see every day.

Then came the main event. We boarded the train up Pikes Peak for a scenic climb through aspen groves and evergreens, watching the forest slowly thin out until all that was left was bare rock. The best part of the ride? Spotting marmots poking out the whole way up. At the summit, 14,110 feet above sea level, we took in the views, hung out, and yes, even managed to get a game of hacky sack going at the top of a mountain.

After riding the train back down, we headed into Manitou Springs and split into small groups for dinner to cap off the day.

Two miles up, one unforgettable day. On to the next.