Garden of the Gods is a stunning, unique, classic Colorado location perfect for an engagement session. The gardens are located in Colorado Springs, about an hour and twenty minutes south from Denver. There are 300 sandstone rock formations you can enjoy against the backdrop of snow-capped Pikes Peak, which inspired “America the Beautiful.”
If you have never been, you may want to go and be wondering how to plan an engagement session at Garden of the Gods.
As a Colorado wedding photographer who has been running her business for over fifteen years, I have some great tips for planning your perfect photo session.
First, let me tell you a little bit about the location.
The park includes 1,367 acres, 22 miles of trails, a scenic drive, massive rock formations you can climb on and hike around, a visitor center, cafe, trading post, and restrooms.
As of 2026, the Park is open daily from 5:00 am – 9:00 pm (Nov 1 – April 30) and 5:00 am – 10:00 pm (May 1 – Oct 31). Weekends and Fridays can be incredibly busy. I recommend planning your photo session for a weekday.
If it will be your first time there, plan to arrive early and drive all the way around the loop to see the grounds. Driving the 2.4-mile Juniper Way Loop takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes without stopping. This one-way, paved scenic drive offers easy access to some of the main central rock formations, with multiple large to small parking lots available for stopping.
You can hike to great spots, but you don’t need to. There are amazing photographic opportunities just steps away from parking lots throughout the park.
I have done some extensive location scouting in the area and some of my favorite spots for photos include: Central Gardens, Three Graces, Balance Rock, Siamese Twins and High Point Overlook. In a one hour session it is possible to choose two to three of these locations to maximize your time and get some great variety.
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Garden of the Gods is beautiful any time of year. It is one of my most recommended winter locations because it does not rely on any greenery or foliage, like many other locations in Colorado. The mountain views and sculptural rock formations look amazing in spring, summer, winter or fall.
Not sure about what to wear? I recommend planning two outfits to add variety to your shoot, one casual and one more dressy. Stick to solid, earthy colors that work well with the natural environment like a cream cable knit sweater, a light blue button down shirt or a flowy blush-colored gown. I have a lot more tips on what to wear for your engagement session here.
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Important notes:
No reservation or permit is needed to visit and the park is free to enter.
Dogs are allowed on a leash throughout the park.
The Garden of the Gods Park is a registered National Natural Landmark in Colorado Springs. Please follow leave no trace park guidelines.
After your session enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant in Colorado Springs or take in a luxurious meal at the iconic Broadmoor, only 15 minutes away.
A little history, “In 1909, Charles Perkins‘ children, knowing their father’s feeling for the Garden of the Gods, conveyed his four-hundred eighty acres to the City of Colorado Springs. It would be known forever as the Garden of the Gods where it shall remain free to the public.”
Check out more photos from a spring engagement session at Garden of the Gods here.
If you love rock formations but want to consider another location, check out Red Rocks, South Valley Park and Roxborough State Park.
Did you know you can also elope or plan a small ceremony at the Gardens? Ask me about more details.
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