"Just an hour and a half south of Denver, Colorado Springs’ Garden of the Gods contrasts central Colorado’s tallest mountains, including the 14,000-foot Pikes Peak, with monstrous red rock formations that slice through the hilled skyline. The park has a number of hiking trails as well as options for biking and rock climbing. For a local’s secret, avoid the tour bus crowds at the center of the park by taking the three-mile Chambers, Bretag, and Palmer loop trail. You’ll get the same stunning vistas with enough room to maintain a casual conversation. Nearby, The Broadmoor resort offers several dining options for lunch and dinner, ranging from a quick service cafe to fine Italian at Ristorante del Lago." - MATADOR_NETWORK