Garden of the Gods: Jeep Tour, Manitou Springs & Waterfalls

Summary

Red rocks, Manitou’s mineral springs, waterfalls and castle stops

You’ll ride through Garden of the Gods in a jeep with a local guide who knows every story behind those wild red rocks. Taste mineral water straight from Manitou Springs’ fountains, snack along the way, wander past castles and waterfalls — and maybe leave with dust on your shoes (and a few new stories yourself).

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tasted water straight from a spring?” our driver asked as we rattled into Manitou Springs. I hadn’t — not unless you count the stuff from plastic bottles. The morning started with us all piling into this bright red jeep (it actually smelled faintly like dust and sunscreen), and right away our guide was cracking jokes about the rock formations in Garden of the Gods. He knew every weird shape by name — “Kissing Camels” is a real thing here, apparently — and he’d just pull over so we could get out, stretch, run our hands along the rough sandstone. There’s something about that orange-red color against the blue sky that just sticks in your brain.

I didn’t expect to stop at a castle — Miramont Castle, tucked behind some trees like it’s hiding from tourists. Our guide told us stories about old gold miners and railroad folks who built half these places. The air smelled sharp and piney after last night’s rain, and honestly, I kept getting distracted by all the chipmunks darting around. We tried some of those natural mineral springs in town; they taste…well, let’s say “interesting.” Li laughed when I tried to pronounce one of them (I butchered it). That’s also where we grabbed snacks — nothing fancy but good enough to keep you going.

The waterfall stop was louder than I thought it’d be — you have to shout a little over the rush if you want anyone to hear your bad jokes. It was cool standing there with spray on my face while our guide pointed out Pikes Peak way off in the distance. We wound back through Colorado Springs’ old downtown streets before heading back toward Garden of the Gods for one last look at those wild rocks in late afternoon light. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck behind my desk.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Garden of the Gods sightseeing tour

• Visit waterfall and local castles
• Drive through Garden of the Gods
• Stop for photos at rock formations
• Explore downtown historic towns
• Taste natural mineral springs
• Learn history and wildlife stories

Top questions

How long does the Garden of the Gods jeep tour take?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but expect several hours including stops at Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, waterfalls, and historic sites.

Is this sightseeing jeep tour suitable for kids or families?

Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for all fitness levels. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Are snacks included on this Garden of the Gods tour?

Yes, snacks are included during the tour.

Does this day trip include pickup or transportation?

The tour is conducted by jeep but hotel pickup is not specifically mentioned; check when booking for details.

What towns or sites are visited besides Garden of the Gods?

You’ll visit Manitou Springs (for mineral springs), Colorado Springs’ historic downtown, local castles like Miramont Castle, and a waterfall stop.

Can I book this as a private tour for my group?

Yes—private tours are available for up to 9 passengers; contact directly or check their website to arrange.

What’s included

Your day covers sightseeing by jeep through Garden of the Gods plus stops at waterfalls, historic castles like Miramont Castle, downtown Colorado Springs and Manitou Springs’ mineral fountains—with snacks included along the way before returning to your starting point.