Located near the middle of Colorado Springs, Palmer Park boasts well over 10 miles of trails. The park gets its name from the founder of Colorado Springs itself. William Palmer, also a Civil War general, engineer, industrialist, and co-founder of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, donated the land for this park in 1902 along with Monument Valley Park and North Cheyenne Cañon Park. His donation returned beautiful places in Colorado Springs to the people to be enjoyed without the intrusion of development, keeping their natural beauty intact for future generations. The Grandview Trail provides excellent views of Pikes Peak and the foothills of the Front Range.
The Grandview Trail is one of the most scenic trails in the park, short enough for a quick day hike or a full day using connections to other trails. The trail starts from the parking lot parallel to the access road, passing through lush forest and verdant grass fed by a nearby stream. Wildflowers and animals of every kind are abundant. Cactus and columbine are a common sight, as well as fox, coyote, lizards, and plentiful birds. As the trail winds its way up the plateau, you’ll pass many scenic rock features that have been carved into gentle, undulating shapes by the forces of nature and passage of time. At the end of the trail, you’re rewarded with the trail's namesake, a grand view of Pikes Peak and a great rest area before you continue exploring the park.
The Colorado Springs area is full of outdoor adventure. Once you're finished with the Grandview Trail, try a nearby adventure on the New Santa Fe Regional Trail, Vindicator Valley, Red Rock Canyon Open Space, or Cheyenne Mountain State Park.
Logistics + Planning
Preferable season(s)
Congestion
Open Year-round
Pros
Cons
Trailhead Elevation
Highest point
Features
Typically multi-day
Suitable for
Permit required
Location
Nearby Adventures
Nearby Lodging + Camping
Unplug and reconnect in the endless beauty of Colorado Springs. Soak up spacious blue skies as you hike refreshing waterfalls, national forests and natural landmarks. From sweeping vistas to rare rock formations, the region is full of reinvigorating experiences.
Trade in screen time for mountain time to discover unforgettable adventures. Ditch your to-do list for your bucket list. Play alongside towering sandstone formations in Garden of the Gods Park. Navigate the twists and turns up Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain and the roaring white waters of the Arkansas River.
With more than 60 inspired things to see and do, the only lines you’ll find here are the ones you cast in a sparkling reservoir. Where the nightlife involves stargazing in the wilderness and turning up means making it to the top of the Manitou Springs Incline.
Escape to the cool Rocky Mountains of Colorado Springs, explorers are always welcome.
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