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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
98 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
4.0 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1-1.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop

Measurement:

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Table of contents

Explore the beauty of Garden of the Gods as you venture the Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop. This amazing trail through the park reveals breathtaking sights of the sculptures, spires, and bluffs that decorate the landscape.

Route Description for 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.

Getting to the Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop Trailhead

The Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop is accessed via the Susan G. Bretag Trailhead off Juniper Way Loop.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground:

    No

  • When to do:

    Year-round

  • Pets allowed:

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    High

  • Route Type:

    Circuit

Susan G. Bretag Trail and Palmer Trail Loop Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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