The Garden of the Gods

Cathedral Spires, the primary spot for photo opts at the Garden

From the very start of our westward journey, William made calls to his family and college buddies he'd thoughtfully sprinkled throughout the country. A friend of his recommended we not miss his family's favorite local attraction. The friend and the attraction are located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. So leaving Rocky Mountain National Park we headed south. After a fun & serpentine drive (thank you Waze!) we arrived at The Garden of the Gods.

Reminiscent of Zion National Park

The on-line stuff about the park states it is closed on Thanksgiving - which coincidentally is today - and the entry fee is $8 for adults. There was no entry fee and the site was open so SCORE!

Red, iron stained rocks are so striking

Although the park and it has connects to the building of the Pacific Railroad. It has merited National Landmark status and I wonder if its petite size is why it is not a national park.

A road loops through the park and today it was quite busy. As you circle among the red spires, ever turn on the road shows off  a new inspiring view.

William getting a different angle on things

A beautiful Golden Eagle floated over one corner of the park, though I've no photo to show for it.

I imagine a lot of bird species nest in those convenient cubby holes

Suspect this formation must be named, 'man with a goatee in a beret'

How did they iron out that white rock outcropping? 

landmark 'Balanced Rock' on the left

Last shots in the Garden of the Gods

The Garden of the Gods certainly was truly a worthy side helping on our Thanksgiving Day drive.