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Palmer Park: A Natural Oasis in Colorado Springs

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Explore the natural beauty of Colorado Springs at Palmer Park, offering hiking, biking, and stunning views of Pikes Peak.

Palmer Park, a sprawling 730-acre regional park in Colorado Springs, offers a unique blend of wilderness and city views. With over 25 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, it's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quick escape into nature.

A brief summary to Palmer Park

  • Monday 5 am-9 pm
  • Tuesday 5 am-9 pm
  • Wednesday 5 am-9 pm
  • Thursday 5 am-9 pm
  • Friday 5 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 5 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 5 am-9 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Palmer Park.

  • Bring plenty of water, especially during the warmer months, as the trails can be challenging.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking or biking, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
  • Take advantage of the scenic overlooks for stunning views of Pikes Peak and the surrounding landscape.
  • Visit during the week to avoid the larger weekend crowds.
  • Check the park's website for information on trail closures or special events.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the intersection of Maizeland Road and N Academy Blvd, head west on Maizeland Road for approximately 0.25 miles. Turn right onto Paseo Road. Continue on Paseo Road until you reach the main entrances and parking areas for Palmer Park. The walk is relatively short and straightforward, with well-marked paths leading into the park.

  • Public Transport

    Mountain Metro Transit (MMT) provides bus service to the vicinity of Palmer Park. Check the MMT website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. From various points in Colorado Springs, take the appropriate bus route to a stop near N Academy Blvd and Maizeland Road. From there, follow the walking directions to the park entrance. A single bus fare is $1.75.

  • Driving

    From I-25, take Exit 146 for Austin Bluffs Parkway and head east. Continue on Austin Bluffs Parkway to N Academy Blvd, then turn north. Turn west onto Maizeland Road, then right onto Paseo Road. Follow Paseo Road to the park entrances and parking areas. Parking at Palmer Park is free. However, availability may be limited during peak hours.

Discover more about Palmer Park

Palmer Park, located northeast of downtown Colorado Springs, is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving natural spaces. Donated to the city by founder William Jackson Palmer in 1902, the park has become a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. The park's diverse landscape includes geological formations such as hoodoos and cliffs, open fields, and scenic overlooks with views of Pikes Peak.The park boasts over 25 miles of trails suitable for various activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. These trails range from easy to moderate in difficulty, catering to a wide range of fitness levels. Aside from the trails, Palmer Park also offers baseball fields, volleyball courts, a dog park, picnic areas and a playground.Palmer Park's history goes back to Matt France, the earliest recorded owner, who then sold the property to Henry Austin in 1873. Austin used the land for raising sheep, and the area became known as Austin Bluffs. Today, Palmer Park stands as a reminder of the vision of William Jackson Palmer, who understood the importance of preserving open spaces for the benefit of the community.

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