Spring Break at Garden of the Gods: Sunshine, Red Rocks & Room to Breathe
by Melody Monberg, Hike for Life Operations Manager
When our family from Texas visited a few springs ago, we started our morning bundled up for a hike through Garden of the Gods—hats, gloves, the works as we wound between the towering red rock formations. But by lunchtime, we’d stripped down to short sleeves and were soaking up vitamin D on the Trading Post patio, watching Pikes Peak shimmer in the distance. That’s spring at the Garden: a weather adventure packed into a single day, and honestly? It’s my favorite time to show off this place.
While other destinations deal with spring break crowds and high prices, Garden of the Gods is entering its sweet spot—longer days, stunning views, and plenty of room to roam among the red rocks without fighting for parking spots or trailhead space.
Spring Days Keep Getting Better
This year, daylight savings hits on March 8, and that extra hour of evening sunlight is a game-changer for spring break.
You can start your day later (and let’s be real—spring break with teenagers means sleeping in), and still have plenty of time to explore. By mid-spring, we’re enjoying nearly 12 hours of daylight. No need to rush out the door at 7 a.m. to maximize your day.
Here’s what I do: sleep in, then head to Nightingale Bread Bakery before hitting the trails. Fair warning—locals line up outside the door before opening hours because the scones and pastries are that good. While you’re there, grab coffee from Building Three in the same building. Trust me, it’s the perfect fuel-up before exploring the red rocks, and you’ll still catch that golden afternoon light.
The Secret Season
Spring brings what we locals call “the best-kept secret season.”
The trails are accessible, the weather is cooperating more often than not, and you won’t be jockeying for position to photograph the Kissing Camels. You might catch snow one day and wear shorts the next—that’s Colorado for you!
This weather variety actually makes spring break here special: families can build a snowman in the morning and hike in sunshine by afternoon. Is the weather predictable? Not even close. But that’s part of the adventure, and when you come prepared with layers, you can handle whatever Colorado throws at you.
Layer Up (Yes, I’m Saying It Again)
Your guests—and family—might get sick of hearing you say “layer up,” but I’m going to say it anyway because it’s true. Most spring days, I’m in a wool long-sleeve with a down vest. It’s perfect for those mornings when the thermometer says 40 but the sun warms you up like it’s 60.
That morning chill burns off fast, and you’ll be grateful you can peel off layers instead of shivering through your hike or carrying a puffy jacket you don’t need by noon. Spring weather here keeps you on your toes, but dress smart and you’ll be comfortable no matter what the day brings.
Spring Trails
While the main Garden of the Gods loops are always popular, spring is when I love to take visitors on the Susan Bretag Trail. It takes you around the outer edge of the park, and the views of the Garden’s rock formations are absolutely stunning—you get perspectives most people miss.
Want more options? Pulpit Rock is nearby and gorgeous in March. It’s one of those hikes where every turn makes you want to stop and take photos.
Not feeling a hike? The Academy Riding Stables offers horseback tours right through the Garden—imagine exploring these ancient rock formations from the saddle! It’s fantastic for families, especially with kids who might not be up for longer treks.
And don’t skip the Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center. The interactive exhibits are great, the educational programs are top-notch, and that terrace view? Perfect for just soaking it all in. Plus, it’s your backup plan if the weather turns (because, you know… Colorado).
Making the Most of Spring
With longer days and smaller crowds, spring gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Start your mornings watching sunrise light up Cathedral Spires at the Garden, spend your afternoons discovering other local treasures like Cheyenne Mountain Zoo or the quirky shops in Manitou Springs, or simply enjoy having the trails to yourself. (This spring break guide has more Colorado Springs ideas if you’re looking to fill out your itinerary.)
The beauty of spring break here is that you can do it all—hike the red rocks, explore downtown, visit the zoo, tackle the Manitou Incline—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by crowds.
Garden of the Gods remains the crown jewel of any Colorado Springs visit, and spring might just be the best time to experience it. You’ll have more room to roam, better lighting for photos, and that unpredictable Colorado spring weather that—when you’re dressed for it—adds to the adventure rather than detracting from it.
I want you to experience what we get to enjoy—Colorado Springs with room to roam, trails where you can hear your own thoughts, red rocks that feel like your personal discovery.
That’s spring here. And honestly? That’s a Colorado Springs experience worth having.