From Box‑Canyon Waterfalls to Red‑Rock Cathedrals: Seven Falls and Garden of the Gods in One Day

LAKEWOOD HIKING FIELD GUIDE

From Box‑Canyon Waterfalls to Red‑Rock Cathedrals: Seven Falls and Garden of the Gods in One Day

A full‑day, 8‑hour outing that pairs a climb to panoramic views at Seven Falls with a picnic of locally sourced fare and time in the red‑rock amphitheater of Garden of the Gods.

From Box‑Canyon Waterfalls to Red‑Rock Cathedrals: Seven Falls and Garden of the Gods in One Day.

Duration
8 hours
Location
Lakewood
Operator
Scout
Category
Hiking
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Begin your day at Seven Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls nestled in a towering box canyon, then move on to the iconic red‑rock formations of Garden of the Gods for scenic drives or guided hikes—this itinerary blends concentrated natural spectacle with a relaxed, locally sourced picnic lunch.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE WATERFALLS

Seven Falls: a granite box canyon and cascading tiers

Seven Falls delivers a serene canyon experience: observation points at the base, trails to explore, and a climb of 224 steps to panoramic viewpoints above the falls.

THE MEAL

A locally sourced picnic

A well‑appointed picnic lunch from a local deli is provided—fresh sandwiches, wraps, and salads intended for an outdoor meal amid Colorado scenery.

THE RED ROCKS

Garden of the Gods: towering formations and sweeping views

Garden of the Gods offers towering red‑rock formations against the backdrop of Pikes Peak, with options for a scenic drive with photo stops or a guided hike through the park’s dramatic geology.

What the day feels like

What the day feels like

The outing unfolds as a morning at Seven Falls—approaching the base, choosing to ascend the 224 steps to the top, and wandering short trails—followed by a relaxed, locally prepared picnic. The afternoon moves to Garden of the Gods where participants can opt for a scenic drive with picture stops or a guided hike through the red‑rock formations, closing a varied day of concentrated natural landmarks.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this experience suits

1
Active day hikersGood fit for hikers comfortable with a 1.6‑mile round trip and a 224‑step ascent who want concentrated natural landmarks in one day.
2
Small groupsBest for small parties—the experience is limited to a maximum of six travelers, with a recommendation of no more than five adults due to vehicle seating.
3
Sightseers and photographersIdeal for visitors wanting picture‑perfect stops at Garden of the Gods and panoramic views from Seven Falls.
4
Seasonal plannersPlan visits outside winter: Seven Falls is typically closed in winter and usually open from mid‑March through December.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

This is an 8‑hour experience; meeting logistics use your desired pick up location.

What to Expect at Seven Falls

Expect observation points at the base, walking trails, and a 224‑step ascent to the top; the round trip to see Seven Falls is approximately 1.6 miles.

Meals & Dining

A picnic from a local deli is provided; Restaurant 1858 is located at Seven Falls and can be reserved at guests’ request—dining there is at your own expense.

Group size & booking

The operator limits the experience to a maximum of six travelers and recommends no more than five adults due to vehicle seating configuration.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the trip?

The experience lasts approximately 8 hours.

Where do we meet?

Meeting is arranged from your desired pick up location.

How much walking is involved at Seven Falls?

Seeing Seven Falls requires about 1.6 miles of walking total (0.8 miles each way) and includes climbing 224 steps to the top if you choose to ascend.

How many people can join?

The maximum group size is six travelers; the operator recommends no more than five adults because the back row has a middle seat.

Is Seven Falls open year‑round?

Seven Falls is closed in winter and is usually open from mid‑March through December.

Are meals included?

A picnic lunch from a local deli is provided; if you prefer to dine at Restaurant 1858 at Seven Falls, the operator can assist with reservations but dining there is at your own expense.