In 1859 two surveyors from Denver set out to measure an area just west of Colorado Springs. One worker commented that the area would be great for a beer garden. His co-worker countered, It's fit for gods to assemble. The name Garden of the Gods endured.
     Charles Perking, head of Burlington Railroad, purchased 240 acres of this Garden of the Gods area for a summer home, in 1879. Perkins died in 1907, and the heirs conveyed the property, along with additional acreage, to the City of Colorado Springs, in 1909. This National Natural Landmark features hiking paths, impressive rock formations, mountain biking routes, horseback riding trails, rock climbing opportunities and a marvelous view of Pikes peak.