Grandview Trail

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.