Palmer Lake and Santa Fe Trail

Officially called Palmer Lake Regional Recreation Area, Palmer Lake is a very popular place for hiking and fishing. It's a beautiful and easily accessible destination near I-25 and Monument, located in the small and charming town of Palmer Lake which has numerous restaurants and shops to discover.

Visitors will also find access to the 15 mile long Santa Fe Regional Trail that runs from Palmer Lake south through the Air Force Academy.  The trail follows an old railroad line and is an easy grade for walking and biking. Trailheads can be found at Palmer Lake, Third Street (Monument), Baptist Road, Highway 105, Northgate Road, Ice Lake, and at the Air Force Academy. Click here for more information.

Directions: The lake can be reached from I-25, exit 161, then northwest on Highway 105 for approximately 5 miles; east at County Line Road to the park entrance.