Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop

Stimulating, scenic and easy-going, the Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop is a hike that the whole family can enjoy. Admire the beauty and diversity of Colorado’s topographies as you venture through the flatlands while enjoying views of the Front Range summits that line the horizon. Impressively beautiful and accessible, this trek can be enjoyed by the whole family, so the route is often quite busy! If you seek a more secluded experience, consider an early morning hike.

Embark on your excursion around the Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop from the Susan G. Bretag Trailhead. From here, cross over the Juniper Way Loop, hooking onto the Palmer Trail. Hike the undulating path through the meadowlands past the Garden of the Gods Mine. As you wander, enjoy sights of the looming sandstone bluffs and sculptures. Soon you will reach the Scottsman Lookout; keep left here onto the Scottsman Trail.

Eventually, the route will end, and you will have to trek along the Central Garden Trail through the spires and hoodoos before merging onto the Gateway Trail. From here, explorers will be guided north onto the Susan G. Bretag Trail. This path will lead you past the Kissing Camels and Tower of Babel before delivering you back to the trailhead.