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Travel Spot: Garden of the Gods in Colorado

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While on our Returned Missioner Retreat this past weekend, a small group took the vans to a beautiful andmark.  We recommend you check it out!

 
A rusty gateway to the great Rocky Mountains, the Garden of the Gods is a registered National Natural Landmark in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  It is a unique public park boasting beautiful, sandstone formations in a transitional ecosystem against the backdrop of snowy peaks.

The park became official in 1909 when the children of Charles Elliott Perkins, the head of the Burlington Railroad, handed the 240+ acres over to the City of Colorado Spring, dedicating it in Perkins’ spirit of protecting the natural beauty for all to enjoy. (Read more about the history of the park here)

The visitor’s center comprises two floors of gift shops, history and art displays, a cafe, a theater, and an upper deck facing west towards the garden.

Visitors are welcome to hike the paved and unpaved trails in the park, many of which lead to spots to sit, rest or picnic, or to smaller stone formations to climb on.  Rock climbing, horseback riding, biking, and guided walk & van tours are just some of the activities visitors can enjoy.  Frequent parking lots throughout the park allow those unable to hike long distances easy access to the site’s natural wonder.

The best part about it: it’s FREE!

We felt very blessed to have had time reflecting in the natural beauty of Colorado while on our retreat.  God’s creation was an evident gift and impossible to ignore.   His presence was felt in the slight breeze, the light drops of rain, the peeks of sunshine, and in the face of all the wildlife we encountered.  Our group was very moved, and we believe that you will be, too.

We prepare and support lay Catholics for two-year international, one-year domestic and 1-2 week short-term mission service opportunities in solidarity with impoverished and marginalized communities across the globe.

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