Not so quickly now.
Balanced Rock is a famous natural sandstone formation located in the Garden of the Gods park near Colorado Springs, Colorado. It is a massive 700-ton red rock that appears to be precariously balanced on a small base, standing 35 feet tall.
History and Significance
Balanced Rock was formed over millions of years by the uplift of the Rocky Mountains and erosion. In the 1890s, it became a paid tourist attraction when the Goerke family bought the land, fenced it off, and charged visitors 25 cents to view and photograph the iconic rock. This continued until 1932 when the city of Colorado Springs purchased the land from the Goerkes for $25,000 and opened Balanced Rock to the public for free.Balanced Rock is one of the most popular and recognizable attractions in the Garden of the Gods. Visitors often pose for photos appearing to "hold up" or support the precariously balanced boulder. While some concrete has been added to its base to prevent vandalism, the rock is considered stable and unlikely to fall unless a major event like an earthquake occurs.
Mushroom Park and West Garden of the Gods
Mushroom Park was another nearby area that was privately owned and charged admission, containing unique mushroom-shaped rock formations. It was located in the West Garden of the Gods section, just west of the main Garden of the Gods park. Like Balanced Rock, Mushroom Park was eventually purchased by the city of Colorado Springs and incorporated into the public park in the early 20th century.