TRAIL GEMS
GEOLOGY TOURS
Where adventure meets science!
Hike with an expert in Colorado's geologic history!
The Pikes Peak region is world renowned for its spectacular geology. Learn the incredible story of ancient mountains, deserts, and seas that led to the fantastic scenery on display today in the Garden of the Gods Park and the surrounding area.
Specializing in fun, educational, high quality tours and hikes!
Garden of the Gods Private Geology Hiking Tours
We offer two different private hiking tours for you to explore the amazing geology on display in the Garden of the Gods National Natural Landmark. Join us to discover the story behind the rocks in this truly incredible park.
Private Geology Tours of the Pikes Peak Region
Our private, small group, full day hiking tours are the perfect way to get immersed in the amazing geology found in the Pikes Peak region.
Have a larger group (up to 25 persons)? Large groups seeking a geology experience can be accommodated at the Garden of the Gods. Please contact us to discuss options.
Your Guide
Investigating metamorphic rocks (metaquartzites) along Diamond Hill, Ireland
Eric Billmeyer
Eric is an award winning instructor of geology and physical geography with over 15 years of teaching experience at the university level. Eric has led field courses throughout Colorado, Utah, and Ireland and is excited to share his knowledge with you as we explore Colorado's amazing geology!
Plaster jacketing dinosaur bone at the Nail Quarry, Como Bluffs, WY
Susan
Sept 29th, 2022
“We booked the Garden of the Gods Full Experience Tour with Eric for September 24th. Based on the ease of booking the tour, directions to the meeting point, and final confirmation of the tour, we had a great experience before the tour even began! We were impressed by Eric’s ability to share his vast geologic knowledge in an organized, logical manner that did not overwhelm. The almost 4-hour tour kept all of us engaged, including our 11yo son. Eric took us on a journey across time that educated us on the formation of the Rocky Mountains, Pike’s Peak, Garden of the Gods, and much more. His ability to explain all this to three (enthusiastic) novices was just extraordinary. We loved learning about the various rock formations and seeing a variety of fossils along the way. We would have missed out on many of these fossil sightings if we had hiked the Garden of the Gods on our own. We highly recommend the Garden of the Gods Full Experience tour with Eric; you will not be disappointed!”
Sean
July 11, 2022
“Trail Gem Geology Tours was fantastic! The Garden of the Gods park is already beautiful, but the geology tour is a definite recommend. From the beginning to the end, it was like walking through millions of years of history over a two hour hike, and let me tell you, it didn’t feel like two hours at all. The structure of the hike going through the different geological time periods, stopping to look at different formations and how and when they were formed, and seeing local minerals and fossils were all highlights. His professorship showed as it felt like a really entertaining geology class wrapped in a scenic hike. The stops along the hike were also well timed to get snacks and water and shade, and also highlighted different minerals, rocks, or formations so the stops were restful, but never boring. I’d do this hike again and again. Very well done.”
Rick
July 3, 2022
We highly recommend taking a guided tour with Trail Gems Geology Tours. Our family loved our geological tour through Garden of the Gods! We were all amazed with not only the beautiful views on our hike but the abundance of information and knowledge shared with us. We would have missed seeing the coolest things if we had walked the trail on our own. I think our favorite part was seeing the fossils. The mid-hike snacks were much appreciated too! Thank you again Eric for a fun, memorable morning during our vacation in Colorado! Wish we could have you in our back pocket on all of our hikes 🙂
Mar 13, 2023
bonsaismiths
Super fun tour!
Tripadvisor review: Ancient Landscapes Private Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods
We REALLY enjoyed this tour! The views were amazing and Eric was super informative and adjusted the tour just for us and our special occasion. He also gave us some great tips and ideas for future outings. Our young teens though Eric was a great geology teacher who peaked their interests and curiosity. It was a great tour for adults and kids alike. I would highly recommend it!
Oct 19, 2022
ricky578
A geological wonderland!
Tripadvisor review: Ancient Landscapes Private Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods
Eric was extremely knowledgeable, patient and enjoyable to be with for several hours of
exploring and learning. The experience was hands on and as if we were in an on-site
classroom.
Oct 17, 2022
22Ctrip
True Garden of the Gods
Tripadvisor review: Ancient Landscapes Private Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods
Great tour. We enjoyed and learned a lot. Had a 4th grade grandchild with us, she learned
and enjoyed as well. Eric made sure we all understood and took extra time with our Grand. It
was a high light of our trip.
Sep 19, 2022
sarahgM8986ZO
This Tour ROCKS!!
Tripadvisor review: Ancient Landscapes Private Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods
Eric was absolutely incredible! He is a professor of geology at one of the local colleges in Colorado Springs, and is truly a wealth of knowledge on the topic. My sister and I are so happy that we came across this tour, it exceeded all of our expectations. Eric took his time on the trails, showed us many examples of different rocks, formations, fossils, and answered all of our questions! He is so kind and passionate about the area, and went above and beyond to ensure we had a great visit. Truly exceptional, thank you Eric!! We would recommend this tour to anyone.
Sep 3, 2022
nicolecD9345DM
5 star tour!!!
Tripadvisor review: Ancient Landscapes Private Geology Hike at Garden of the Gods
Eric is an amazing teacher and an actual professor/expert in geology!!! Our family had a fantastic time visiting Garden of the Gods because of the history we learned of how the land and rocks formed through different periods. We studied the various predominant rocks/minerals in the park like quartz and feldspar and even learned how the rock formations got that rusty, red color...make sure to ask Prof. Eric why!
The walking aspect is definitely manageable and not too difficult for even a moderately active person. Many people will walk in this park and never understand the significance of the place they are visiting. Be the exception. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and make sure to bring water. However, our guide even brought snacks and water in case we needed it. The time flew by and we learned so much. The experience is interactive, so bring your questions and prepare to learn!
ABOUT US
At Trail Gems we specialize in fun, educational, high quality tours and hikes to discover the beauty and rich geologic history on display throughout Colorado. Our experienced guides are very knowledgeable about the regional geology and are passionate educators. Book a trip with us and let us take care of you on an amazing geology adventure!