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When in Cripple Creek, you definitely don’t want to miss out on visiting two places nearby that are totally different from each other, but both absolutely beautiful. However, if you are looking for more detailed information on Cripple Creek, take a look at our Cripple Creek Travel Guide. Here are the top things to do near Cripple Creek:
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Garden of the Gods (Free):
Is this a free park? Yes, it is! 😀 When is it open? From 5 am to 9 pm!
Garden of the Gods is only a 30 minute drive from Cripple Creek and very close to Colorado Springs. Therefore, this is also an excellent trip from other cities in the area.
Apart from the awesome fact that the Garden of the Gods is completely free, it is also very accessible. There are plenty of hiking trails and driving paths to choose from. Therefore, there is literally every difficulty level available. So, you can choose which trail fits your level best.
But what is the Garden of the Gods? Garden of the Gods is a National Natural Landmark full of majestic sandstone rock formations with beautiful views of Pikes Peak. Moreover, watch for wildlife! This ranges from small game like rabbits and rodents, to larger animals like deer and mountain lions.
We loved walking through this beautiful park and looking at the incredible rock formations and wildlife. It’s a perfect day trip for everyone, budget travelers especially!
For more information, click here:
Map of Garden of the Gods
Garden of the Gods Visitor Center -
Pikes Peak ($35 per car)
Unfortunately, Pikes Peak is not free. However, you can save money by loading up your car with people, so that you can divide the $35 entrance fee per car. Otherwise, it is $10 for adults and $5 for children.
Pikes Peak is a 1 1/2 hours drive from Cripple Creek and a wonderful day trip to overlook the entire region. With a 14,115 ft summit, Pikes Peak is one of the highest mountains in the United States and the most visited of all of them!
How you visit Pikes Peak is up to you, as you can drive, ride (a bike or train) or even hike! We decided to drive as we really dislike riding a bike uphill, didn’t have the money to pay for the train and the hike was just too long for a day hike (13,5 miles one way). NOTE: The train doesn’t run until 2021 due to maintenance and prices will be announced then!
Fore more information, click here:
Pikes Peak Park Information
Do you know about any other awesome day trips from Cripple Creek? If so, please let us know in the comments 🙂
About the Authors
Ryne Cook and Denise Braun visited Cripple Creek and came back with tips on great things to do, tips on perfect nearby day trips and where to stay while there. Their inside knowledge will help anyone have a wonderful vacation in this old gold mining town.
