Templeton Trail

Explore the scenic urban park by way of the Templeton Trail. Accessible, picturesque, and technical in sections, this trek is packing a punch. A crowd favorite amongst locals and tourists alike, so you will likely be in the company of several like-minded adventures’ as you venture the Templeton Trail.

However, if you seek a more personal, tranquil hike, we suggest an early morning adventure to beat the crowds! Although the park is located near the city center, it does attract wildlife, so be mindful and keep an eye out for snakes, coyotes, and the odd bear! Additionally, the rocky terrain can become dangerously slippery after rainfall, so mind your footing and consider a sturdy pair of footwear to avoid a rolled ankle.

Exposing epic views and unique geological features, there is no shortage of scenery along the Templeton Trail. This invigorating adventure around the perimeter of Palmer Park reveals the best scenery, sculptures and provides the best workout. Though there are a few sections of single-track trails and technical terrain, this trek is manageable by most and can be enjoyed by hikers of most skill levels, including children. In addition, those who venture the Templeton Trail will be astounded by the immense outcroppings that protrude from the city’s landscape and views that sit between the park and demanding vistas of Pikes Peak. This hike is stunning, stimulating, and short and is a must-add to your Colorado hiking itinerary.

Your adventure along the Templeton Trail begins at the North Cañon Trailhead off Paseo Road. Though this circuit hike can be complete from either direction, hiked clockwise for clarity’s sake. Departing from the trailhead, track the Edna Mae Bennett Trail north. At the first intersection, keep left merging onto the Templeton Trail. Follow the Templeton Trail northwest. Follow this path through sandstone outcroppings around the western side of the mesa, which boasts breathtaking panoramas of Pikes Peak and Cheyenne Mountain in the west. Enjoy the epic Front Range views and continue hiking north. This section of the route will guide intrepid explores along the base of looming cliffs and past serrated canyons. Mind your footing here; some loose rocks and boulders may slide off the mesa.

As you wander, you will be granted sights of the city below before the trail diverts east. Navigate the rocky, undulating path through mixed pine shade. Enjoy the break from the sun and admire the unique rock formations that decorate the mesa’s rim. Soon you will have to merge onto the Palmer Park Trail, heading south past the dog park, and through another rock garden, you will be rewarded with sights of sandstone spires. Eventually, you will reach the Yacca Flats Trailhead. Continue west along the Palmer Park Trail, taking a right onto the Edna Mae Bennett Trail at the next intersection. Hike north up the mesa into the tree shade before taking a sharp left turn, connecting with the North Cañon Trail and wandering along this route back to the trailhead.

Trail Highlights

Palmer Park

Palmer Park is a unique urban escape in Colorado Springs. Ridden with interesting sandstone hoodoos, spires, buffs, and diverse flora and fauna, this area has been rewarded with the title of Best Urban Park in 2017 by Elevation Outdoors Magazine. This scenic fresh air escape is interwoven with dozens of single and double-track trails open to hikers, bikers, runners, and equestrians alike. Home to several types of vegetation, including yucca plants, ponderosa pines, and more—this area attracts several species of birds, mule deer, the odd bear, snakes, foxes, and the list goes on. With the diversity of terrain, activity options, and views, Palmer Park is a top destination on the top of many adventurers’ hiking lists.