Palmer Land Conservancy's

Field Guide

to Protected Parks and Open Spaces of the Pikes Peak Region

Discover 20 forever-protected parks you can explore today—from iconic views to peaceful escapes—including many places locals don't know about.

Tired of overcrowded trails? There's a better way to enjoy all that Colorado has to offer.

You love getting outside, but finding new places—especially ones that aren't packed—can be challenging. What if you had insider access to 20 protected parks and open spaces, including hidden gems you've likely never heard of?

Introducing the exclusive Field Guide to Palmer-protected parks and open spaces.

For nearly 50 years, Palmer Land Conservancy has worked with landowners and communities to permanently protect the land and water that make Colorado special. This guide features 20 public parks and open spaces—each one protected forever—including peaceful spots most locals have never discovered.

What's Inside:

  • Overviews of each property
  • Ability ratings and insider tips
  • Activities allowed on each property
  • Connections to other trails and open spaces
  • Brief history of the region and each protected space
  • Exclusive locations you won't find in other guides

I didn't know half of these places existed! Palmer Land Conservancy introduced me to incredible places in our region and inspired me to become part of protecting what makes Colorado special.

- Event Attendee, Palmer Land conservancy
Explore & Discover

Experience more of what southern Colorado has to offer.

We respect your privacy. Palmer Land Conservancy will never share or sell your information. 

Plus, You'll Receive these

Exclusive Bonuses

  • Invitations to exclusive member events and guided hikes
  • Conservation updates on newly protected parks
  • Insider tips on the best times to visit each location
  • Ways to support the protection of more Colorado landscapes

About Palmer Land Conservancy

As a community of people who believe Colorado is a special place and who want to protect it for future generations, Palmer Land Conservancy offers an action-oriented approach to tackling the biggest challenges facing land, water, and the Colorado Good Life.

Proud Protectors of the

Colorado Good Life

Since 1977, Palmer Land Conservancy has worked with individuals, private and public partners, and various communities to protect more than 150,000 acres of land forever, including 20 of your favorite public parks and open spaces, important working farms and ranches, and iconic scenic views. We passionately promote the conservation and enjoyment of our region’s most important natural assets that define why we love Colorado: its natural beauty, locally grown food, and outdoor recreation.

OUR CONSERVATION PRIORITIES

We are committed to protecting land and water for the wellbeing of nature and people.
To achieve our mission, our work is focused on four conservation priorities:

Land for People

Celebrating and connecting people to the land and nature through the conservation of open spaces and public parks, and bringing green spaces to our urban centers. 

Land for Food

Strengthening rural communities and economies by protecting local farms and ranches, and connecting urban dwellers to essential local food systems. 

Land for Nature

Safeguarding the health and resiliency of landscapes that support wildlife, biodiversity, waterways, and wetlands. 

Water for Life

Advancing large-scale water initiatives that balance the competing needs of water in the West and prioritize community needs and goals.