How Long to Drive Through?
The roads
The park roads are one-way loops with paved bike lanes. The Garden Drive and Juniper Way loop is “about 6 miles” according to the park rules page, and the speed limit is 20 mph throughout. Six miles at 20 mph is under 20 minutes of driving, so stops, pull-outs and traffic make up the rest of the Visit COS figure. Entry and parking are free, and the park opens at 5 am every day, closing at 9 pm from November 1 to April 30 and at 10 pm from May 1 to October 31.
What stretches the time
Parking, mostly. The Visitor & Nature Center lot has fewer than 200 spaces and often fills in summer and on holidays; an overflow lot across Gateway Road links to the Visitor Center by a pedestrian tunnel. A walk on the paved 1.5-mile Perkins Central Garden Trail adds its own time for those who take it. The park suggests arriving before about 8 am or after about 4 pm for thinner crowds and lower light on the rocks. The parking and shuttle page lists the lots, and the best way to see it covers driving, walking and the free summer shuttle.
Driven by someone else
The luxury jeep tour’s listing gives 2 hours for a drive through Garden of the Gods with photo stops and walking along hiking trails, with water, Gatorade and a snack included. Hotel pickup and drop-off are listed for the private option only.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to drive through Garden of the Gods?
About 20 to 30 minutes without stops, per Visit COS; a typical visit runs 90 minutes to 2 hours. See the one-day plan.
Can you drive through Garden of the Gods for free?
Yes. Entry and parking are free and no ticket is needed. See is it free.
What is the speed limit in Garden of the Gods?
20 mph on the park roads, per the park rules. The getting there page covers the approach roads.