Visitors pack Garden of the Gods on busiest weekend of the year

It’s no surprise, but Garden of the Gods was slammed with visitors on Friday — workers there say the Fourth of July weekend is the park’s busiest weekend of the year.

Traffic was backed up at the park’s entrance and exit. The parking lots were full, and cars lined the streets. With all the extra people on the trails, some visitors opted to change their plans.

“This is where I proposed to my wife… We were hoping to get up to the spot but unfortunately, I think it’s just a little too crowded,” said Andy Wood, a park visitor.

Others decided to ditch the tires.

“I think we’re gonna head out there, stay on [out] feet and try to avoid driving anywhere, and get around walking because I don’t think we’ll get very far in the car,” said Sonali Shah, visiting from Connecticut.

As if the crowds weren’t enough of a headache, the heat also took its toll on visitors. Park officials urged people who entered Garden of the Gods on Friday to stay hydrated.