Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, Old Stage Road Jeep Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Colorado Springs and want a hassle-free way to see some of the area’s top sights, this small-group Jeep tour offers a fantastic option. With a maximum of eight travelers, it promises a personal, relaxed experience while covering key attractions like Garden of the Gods, the quirky town of Manitou Springs, and the scenic Old Stage Road. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful taste of Colorado’s natural beauty and history.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides keep the journey engaging and informative, adding stories and insights you might miss on your own. Second, the stunning views from multiple viewpoints make every photo opportunity worthwhile. And third, the inclusive touches like snacks and bottled water make the experience more comfortable.

One potential consideration is that, at just around three hours, this tour doesn’t allow for long exploration at each stop. If you prefer to linger longer and dig into every detail, a more extended visit might suit you better. Still, for most travelers, this tour strikes a fine balance between seeing key sights and keeping things light.

This Jeep tour is best suited for those who want an efficient, informative overview of Colorado Springs’ highlights with a touch of adventure—ideal for first-timers, small groups, or anyone seeking hassle-free sightseeing.

Key Points

• Small-group experience for more personalized attention
• Expert guides provide in-depth commentary and share local stories
• Multiple stops at major highlights like Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs
• Scenic Old Stage Road offers a unique Colorado experience
• Snacks and water included for added convenience
• Approximate 3-hour duration makes it a perfect half-day activity

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Garden of the Gods

Starting at one of Colorado Springs’ most recognizable landmarks, the Garden of the Gods is a natural marvel. The tour makes several stops at popular viewpoints, allowing visitors to snap photos and learn fascinating facts about the park’s geology. Reviewers mention that this part is both visually stunning and full of interesting tidbits. Kimberly_A highlights the “great weather and a very knowledgeable guide,” making the experience not just pretty but educational. Since admission is free, the focus is on enjoying the views and learning about the formation of these iconic red rock formations.

Manitou Springs

Next, the tour takes you through the quirky mountain town of Manitou Springs. This town is famous for its natural spring waters, and the group gets a chance to taste some of these at various springs. Shaun_M describes it as a chance to “taste Garden of the Gods all ways,” emphasizing the experience of drinking from the natural springs—something unique to this area. The town itself has a colorful, eclectic vibe that’s worth a quick stroll if time allows, but during the tour, you’ll get a glimpse of its history and folklore from your guide.

Old Stage Road Exploration

While there’s no official listing for Old Stage Road in the itinerary, the tour explores this forested dirt road climbing up Cheyenne Mountain. This scenic drive offers a taste of Colorado’s rugged terrain, with reviewers calling it “absolutely gorgeous,” despite some cloud cover during certain days. It’s a less commercialized, more authentic look at Colorado’s mountain landscapes. Many reviewers love this part for the quiet beauty and the chance to see the mountains from a different perspective.

Garden of the Gods Trading Post

The final stop is a short break at the Garden of the Gods Trading Post—a popular spot to buy souvenirs, local crafts, and enjoy some fudge. With only about 15 minutes here, it’s enough to stretch your legs, grab a snack, and pick up a memento. Reviewers mention it as a nice little break before heading back, and many appreciate the opportunity to purchase local goodies.

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour begins at the designated meeting point on West Colorado Avenue — a convenient central location. From there, the small group boards a comfortable Jeep with a maximum of eight people, ensuring plenty of room for everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery. The drive is slow enough to take in the views, with frequent stops for photographs and commentary.

Guides like James and John receive praise for their extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor. They don’t just point out landmarks—they share stories, facts, and local lore that bring the scenery to life. For example, one reviewer mentions that John is essentially a park historian, giving detailed explanations of landmarks and even suggesting good restaurants in Colorado Springs.

Throughout the ride, expect a lot of visual splendor—vivid red rocks, lush mountain views, and the chance to see wildlife such as coyotes or bighorn sheep, depending on the day. Reviewers frequently mention how they appreciated the personalized experience and the relaxed pace, which allows for taking in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Snacks and bottled water are included, which are especially handy given the outdoor environment and the potential for a warm day. Some reviews say the snacks came in handy, especially after a morning of sightseeing.

Pricing and Value

At $115 per person, this tour is priced competitively considering the personalized nature, included snacks, and multiple top sights covered. When you factor in the guided commentary, convenience, and the chance to see Colorado Springs’ highlights without the hassle of driving yourself, the value becomes clearer.

Most travelers book this tour about 25 days in advance, signaling its popularity. The small-group format ensures a more intimate experience, which many reviewers find adds considerably to the enjoyment. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting an efficient, well-organized introduction to the area.

The Experience of the Guides

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially James and John, for their friendliness and extensive knowledge. James is described as amazing, gracious, and very informed about the parks. Several mention how he goes above and beyond—such as one reviewer who was stuck at their hotel and was picked up by James, adding a level of personal care that elevates the experience.

John, in particular, is described as an outstanding historian, giving detailed descriptions of landmarks and sharing stories that make the scenery come alive. Many guests appreciate that their guides are not just drivers but storytellers, making the trip both fun and educational.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the tour’s strengths is its ability to reveal lesser-known or less-visited parts of the area, like Old Stage Road. Reviewers love that the tour offers a blend of iconic sights and scenic drives that you might not encounter on a self-guided visit. The drive up Cheyenne Mountain offers a different perspective of the landscape, and the stops at springs and trading post add local flavor.

Several reviews mention that the tour provides useful tips and suggestions for exploring Colorado Springs further, including restaurant recommendations and trails for future adventures.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance—Most guests book about 25 days ahead, which suggests spots fill up quickly.
• Dress comfortably and be prepared for weather changes, especially if exploring Old Stage Road, which can be cooler and windier.
• Bring your camera—There are plenty of photo opportunities at each stop.
• Arrive on time at the meeting point to avoid missing out.
• Consider the timing—the 3-hour duration makes it perfect as a half-day activity, leaving plenty of time afterward for other excursions or relaxation.
• Snacks and water are included, but you might want to bring additional if you’re especially hungry or on a special diet.
• Small group size means a more intimate and personalized experience but also means limited spots—early booking is recommended.

This Jeep tour strikes a fine balance between convenience, authenticity, and scenic beauty. It offers an excellent way for first-time visitors or those short on time to experience some of Colorado Springs’ most famous sights with a knowledgeable guide and a small, friendly group. The stops at Garden of the Gods and Manitou Springs are both visually stunning and packed with interesting stories, while the drive along Old Stage Road provides a more rugged, scenic adventure that many reviewers found memorable.

The inclusion of snacks, bottled water, and the opportunity to learn from expert guides makes this tour a great value for those looking for a hassle-free yet immersive experience. Its small-group format ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, making it perfect for travelers who love personal touches and insider knowledge.

If you’re eager to get a well-rounded, scenic introduction to Colorado Springs with a touch of adventure, this Jeep tour is hard to beat. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy stories, stunning vistas, and the comfort of a guided experience, all at a reasonable price.

FAQ

How long is the Jeep tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that allows time for other plans later in the day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 2615 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to be low-impact. Service animals are allowed, which is helpful for those with disabilities.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks and bottled water are included. You’ll also receive live commentary from your guide during the trip.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just dress comfortably and be ready for scenic stops and photo opportunities. Bringing a camera is highly recommended.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled because of rain or snow, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

In summary, this small-group Jeep tour offers a well-balanced, engaging, and scenic introduction to Colorado Springs’ crown jewels. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a comfortable way to see the sights, this experience holds a lot of value—and plenty of photo ops to bring home.