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Section 16 Trailhead

Trip

Hiking – Section 16 Trailhead

Palmer Trail – Section 16 Loop (Dog Friendly); Let's get some exercise and hike the newishly redeveloped loop. Dogs can join, but must be on a leash (and friendly to other dogs, hikers, cyclists)

Contacts

Sara Gordon
Sara Gordon
Primary Leader
  • Wed, Jun 3, 2026
  • Pikes Peak
  • Hiking
  • Adults
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 6.0
  • Elevation Gain: 1,299 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 7,869 ft
  • Pace: 2.0

Please look for an email from the leader the night prior to the trip.  This will go no matter the weather (unless, of course, there are extreme conditions).

We will complete the trail counter-clockwise at a moderate pace. Few stops will be taken; but dogs have their own agenda, and we will be probably taking extra stops for them (be efficient with these surprise dog stops). This hike is for EXERCISE, while hiking with a group.

What to expect:

The first 2.1 miles will mostly be uphill. Scree, uneven surfaces, rocks are to be expected.  We will take a few quick stops during these 2.1 miles to change out gear / grab a sip of water / attend to a fur-companion. After the “steep incline section” we will summit the ridgeline, take in the views and a small snack before continuing down the rest of the trail. Trail does get narrow in places, has steep terrain and (did I mention already?) scree. The last portion is on a long closed off road, before coming to the fishery, and walking up a paved road back to the trailhead.

Meet at the Colorado Springs "Section 16 Trailhead," ready to go, at 8:00am; There's parking at the trailhead, or just a tad past it.  Expected pace is to complete this trip in 3hrs.  

Route/Place

Section 16 Trailhead

Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Bring (for you and your fur companion), water, snacks, wind/weather protection, layers, and (of course) your 10 essentials.  Optional items: gators, foot traction/spikes, hiking poles 

Dogs are welcome to come, but must be on leash.  Please consider nature of trail (narrow or scree in places) and weather conditions. If you decide to bring a dog companion, consider bringing: leash, poop bags, water w/ bowl, and paw covers (i.e. boots, shoes). You know best of your dog's capabilities; but please contact me (NLT a few days before the trip starts) if you have any questions or concerns.

No water access (for dogs or filters) until mile 3.1; and then we'll see water after mile 5 once we get onto High Drive. 

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