Explore Garden of the Gods Recreation Area
Rating: 9.2/10

Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

The Garden of the Gods Recreation Area is a surprising area, and it is worth visiting all the points of interest mentioned here. You must be very careful when walking among the rocks, as there are many gaps between them, and there are also roots sticking out of the ground a bit. These 3 trails that we recommend will take you to the best places, and the last one on the list is somewhat long.

Our Trip Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

This is our recommended parking spot. There are many other options, but this is the best spot to explore the top hiking trails.

Parking

We recommend using restrooms before starting activities, specially if you have kids.

Restrooms

The Observation Trail is the shortest of the 3 trails we recommend, and it has the best views and the best access. You must be very careful when moving from one formation to the other.

To Observation

The Indian Point Loop is a mostly level trail, but it has many huge rocks, and it is very enjoyable. It is a loop trail, so just walk in one direction.

To Loop

To get to our third destination, simply follow the trail River to River after the Indian Point Loop. Buzzard's Roost is somewhat far from the parking lot, and it is an area frequently visited by people on horseback. Once you arrive at the spot, you will realize it is well worth it.

To Buzzard's Roost

Always check your destination's weather forecast, & save maps offline.

Gallery Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

Garden of the Gods Recreation Area

Highlights
  • Safe
  • Poor Connectivity
  • No Public Transportation
  • Self-Guided
  • Open Year Round
Activities
  • Hiking
  • Picnics
  • Pet Friendly
  • Camping
Amenities
  • Public Restrooms
  • Picnic Tables
  • Cabins
Nearby Cities
  • Harrisburg
  • Eldorado
  • Golconda
  • Elizabethtown
  • Cave-in-Rock
  • Equality
Today's Forecast
76°F / 61°F

Sunny

10-Day Forecast
4.9

Based on 5360 Google reviews

"I absolutely love this place. Had a great time. Easy hike with amazing views. Many places close by to stay and eat. Loved the drive there also. A..."
— Brian Wilkey
"I came on a cold January day at sunrise so I only saw 2 other people. Given the awesomeness of this place though, I bet it gets pretty busy when the w..."
— Sue Denham
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Address

Herod, IL 62947, USA

Hours
  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours
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