Garden of the Gods

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As you look at this photo, ignore my bike, and that really big mountain in the back? That's Pikes Peak, but don't look at that, either. Focus your attention on the rock formation in the center of the picture. That is part of Garden of the Gods, a park located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Garden of the Gods was created, by a geological upheaval, millions of years ago. It was first used by American Indian tribes as a campground as far back as 1330 BC. In 1879, Charles Elliott Perkins purchased 480 acres of land, much of which was Garden of the Gods. Upon his death, the land was gifted to Colorado Springs, on the provision that it remain a free park. The city eventually purchased more land, bringing the total acreage to 1,364. The park attracts over two million people per year, including hikers, runners, and mountain bikers, all of whom use the park's 15 miles of trail. In addition, cyclists use the park's hilly, paved roads for training purposes. The roads also make up the course for an annual 10 mile footrace (I once did the race in 75 minutes.) And, provided they have a permit, rock climbing is allowed on the park's numerous rock formations. Garden of the Gods has been designated a National Natural Landmark. I've linked to a short video that truly shows off Garden of the Gods' sheer awesomeness. If you plan on visiting the Colorado Springs area, this is a must-visit. (Info verified by Wikipedia)