A
Amazing Colorado
Brian was an amazing tour host. We definitely enjoyed everything. Well worth the price and time.
Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Small Group Tour
+8 photos
At a glance
- Duration
- 8h 30min
- Price from
- $189 / person
- Rating
- 4.9 / 5 · 217 reviews
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 12
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation
- Meeting point
- The meeting point is in front of the Blue Bear sculpture, outside the main entrance of the Colorado Convention Center.
- Confirmation
- Instant
Prices checked on Sep 11, 2026Things to do in Denver
Description
This tour stands out by combining two of Colorado’s most iconic landscapes in one seamless, professionally guided experience. Explore the towering red rock formations of Garden of the Gods and ascend to the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet—all in a single day. With expert storytelling, curated scenic stops, and a comfortable small-group setting, guests experience dramatic elevation changes, panoramic views, and Colorado’s natural beauty without the stress of planning or driving. It’s a memorable, efficient way to experience the best of the Front Range.
Tour Options
Itinerary
The next stop on the itinerary is the majestic view from the top of Pikes Peak. This peak was also known as Sun Mountain by the Ute people and El Capitan by Spanish explorers, but it was later named after the explorer Zebulon Pike. It is also known as America’s Mountain because the magnificent vista at the top inspired the lyrics of “America, the Beautiful.” The mountain stands at 14,115 feet and is the tallest mountain in the southern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. As you stand at the summit, you will have a beautiful view of Colorado Springs and the rest of the Rocky Mountain range. With the right conditions, you will see for miles, enjoying all the natural beauty.
After descending from the mountain, our tour continues in Manitou Springs, a small resort town to the west of Colorado Springs. The town was founded in the late 1800s to be a health spa centered on the eight natural mineral springs in the area. Once you have enjoyed the sights of Manitou Springs, it will be time to head back to Denver. As the sun sets over the western Rockies, your tour of the natural wonders of Colorado will come to a close. When you travel with us, you can trust that it will be a day to remember.
The beauty of these ancient geological formations has amazed people for centuries. On your tour, there will be ample time for you to explore and many photo opportunities as you examine formations with names like Balanced Rock, Cathedral Spires and Steamboat Rock.
In 2020, Colorado Springs ranked #13 on the New York Times 52 Places to Go list and #10 in TripAdvisor's Top 25 Trending Destinations.
Highlights
Park Entry Fees
Water
Lunch
Small Group Tour
Professional Driver/Guide
Transportation
What's included
Included
Park Entry Fees
Water
Lunch
Small Group Tour
Professional Driver/Guide
Transportation
Not included
Gratuities (10%-15% recommended)
Traveller Ratings
4.9
217 reviews
Important Information
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- **LUNCH & LIGHT SNACKS INCLUDED** - This tour comes with a choice of a Turkey + Swiss, Turkey + Pepper Jack, Roast Beef + Provolone, Turkey & Roast Beef (no cheese), Tuna Salad, Gluten-Free Salad, Gluten-Free Bar and Fruit. Please send us a message via Viator/Tripadvisor with your lunch preference for all travelers in your group otherwise if we don't hear from you, a turkey sandwich will be provided..
- **MEETING LOCATION** - Colorado Convention Center, in front of Blue Bear sculpture
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Guests Ages 8+ No children under 8 unless it has been authorized by tour operator.
- Pikes Peak Highway is open year round. In case the summit is not accessible due to weather conditions, constrictions, and other road closures we will drive to the highest point possible.
- Water is provided
- Small Group Tour
- Clothing layers for cooler temperatures and inclement weather.
- For nearby Convention Center Parking visit spothero website and type in the Convention Center address 700 14th St
Frequently asked questions
How long does Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Small Group Tour take?
Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Small Group Tour lasts about 8h 30min. The itinerary has 4 stops.
How much does Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Small Group Tour cost?
Prices start at $189 per person for this Denver experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Small Group Tour for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is The meeting point is in front of the Blue Bear sculpture, outside the main entrance of the Colorado Convention Center.. Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods Small Group Tour offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 12 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Guests Ages 8+ No children under 8 unless it has been authorized by tour operator.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Pikes Peak Highway is open year round. In case the summit is not accessible due to weather conditions, constrictions, and other road closures we will drive to the highest point possible.
Reviews(217)
T
Girls trip!
Brian was very funny and knowledgeable! He took great care of us! It's an experience you won't forget!!!
J
Pikes peak and garden of the gods
Had a great day. This tour is well worth it. Our guide Brian was great
M
An exceptional experience from start to finish
The Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods tour with Explorer Tours was outstanding. The itinerary was smooth, scenic, and perfectly paced. Our guide, Brian, made the entire day exceptional—knowledgeable, funny, attentive, and an incredibly skilled driver on the mountain roads. He shared great insights, kept everyone comfortable at altitude, and created a relaxed, enjoyable experience. This tour is absolutely worth it, and Brian is a standout guide.
H
Fun day out
Brian arranged a great day trip to Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods. He provided intelligent and entertaining commentary throughout the day. I especially liked the drive through Manitou Springs and wished we'd had time to spend a few hours there. We also enjoyed the picnic lunch, and appreciated that there were only eight people in the tour group instead of dozens. Thanks!
R
Pack accordingly…weather...
Pack accordingly…weather and temperatures can change dramatically and bring an umbrella for the unexpected rain
V
Don't hesitate and book now, solo travelers welcomed as well
David is amazing, he gave us a detailed tour regarding the history of Denver, gold mining, air force etc. The ride was safe and I appreciate how kind and patient he is. The bonus for me was the food and water which not everyone provides. Recommend!
Operator response
Hi! Thank you for the wonderful review! We’re so glad David made your experience both informative and comfortable. His knowledge of Denver’s history, gold mining, and Colorado’s military history brings so much to the tour. We’re also happy you appreciated his kindness, safe driving, and the included food and water. We especially love welcoming solo travelers! 🏔️😊
H
Negative
Driver Cancelled the morning of trip & didn’t have opportunity to rebook with another person. Very disappointed!!!! We came day early of planned trip for pikes peak , then did not go due to poor notice from driver.
Operator response
Hi, we’re sorry to hear you were disappointed. We’d like to look into this, as the circumstances described do not match our records or cancellation policy. Explorer Tours does not cancel tours the morning of departure. When a cancellation is necessary, we cancel at least 24 hours in advance and make every effort to provide even more notice whenever possible. We operated our Pikes Peak tours on both August 16 and August 18. If you could please provide your name, we would be happy to look up your booking and confirm whether this was an Explorer Tours reservation. We take situations like this seriously and would appreciate the opportunity to clarify what happened.
R
Garden of the Gods was...
Garden of the Gods was absolutely beautiful. We saw some climbers and wildlife. Pikes Peak Is not for the faint hearted. The drive up is steep and narrow. Our driver was great!! Unfortunately it was very cloudy so there were no views to see. The drive up was beautiful though.
W
Very good experience
The driver robert was very good , very safe and very interesting
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