May in the Garden
by Melody Monberg, Hike for Life Operations Manager
Some Sunday mornings when my kids were in high school, I’d hear the front door close before I even had coffee going. A few friends, a Dutch Bros run, and a plan to catch the sunrise over Garden of the Gods. No big agenda — just the rocks, the light, and that particular quiet a May morning offers. They always came home happy.
That’s May in Garden of the Gods. The birds are back, the trees are full, and the wildflowers are starting to show up along the trails. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to grab a blanket, pack something simple to eat, and actually sit with these views — this is it.
Think Beyond the Main Loop
Most visitors come to see the red rocks — and honestly, that’s the right call. They’re famous for a reason. But if you’re looking for a place to spread out a blanket and actually sit with the view, the Garden has some wonderful spots that go beyond the main trails.
Park in the large gravel overflow lot near Rockledge Ranch and wander through this historic property. Follow the land up past the open fields and you’ll find yourself with stunning views of the formations spread out below you — grab a rock, spread out your blanket, and stay a while. Spots like the Mesa Overlook work the same way.
Perched above the Visitor Center, it’s a natural place to pull out your coffee and watch the morning light move across the rocks. Stop at Nightingale Bread Bakery on your way — just off the Fillmore exit on I-25 — for what I’d argue are the best croissants in Colorado Springs.
There are so many little pockets like this throughout the Garden — you just have to be willing to look for them. And if you want to keep exploring, there are plenty more good spots around Colorado Springs and beyond.
Just Down the Road: Red Rock Canyon Open Space
The Contemplative Trail at Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a short drive from the Garden and worth adding to your list. Hikers only — no bikes — which keeps it genuinely quiet. We love heading over on weeknights with a cool drink in our packs, finding a bench or lookout point, and staying a while. The trail winds between rock formations and there’s no shortage of good spots to sit and settle in.
A Few Tips for Your Picnic
Come at the edges of the day. Sunrise and sunset are when the rocks earn their name. May light is long and golden — even 45 minutes is enough to feel restored.
A Few Tips for Your Picnic
Come at the edges of the day. Sunrise and sunset are when the rocks earn their name. May light is long and golden — even 45 minutes is enough to feel restored.
Layer up. May mornings can start in the 40s and climb fast. A down vest, a good blanket, and something warm to drink covers most scenarios.
Keep the food simple. A croissant, some fruit, good coffee. The view is the main course.
Bring something to sit on. A lightweight blanket with a waterproof backing is ideal on the rocks. You’ll want to stay longer than you planned.
Leave no trace. Whatever you bring in, take out — and that includes fruit peels and cores. These are beautiful places because people take care of them. Let’s keep it that way.
May doesn’t last long, but it’s one of the most generous months we get. The light is long, the trails aren’t yet crowded, and this corner of Colorado Springs has a way of rewarding anyone willing to show up for it. Whether you’re spreading a blanket at the Garden, finding a quiet bench along the Contemplative Trail, or stumbling onto a view you didn’t expect — it’s all here, and it’s all worth it. Pick a day, pack something simple, and let May do the rest.