Palmer Trail to Three Graces Loop

It looks like warmer and partly sunny weather in Colorado Springs this Wednesday, so we're scheduling the Palmer Trail to Three Graces Loop in Garden of the Gods. It is a relatively easy hike, which can be found on AllTrails at https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/colorado/palmer-upper-loop-and-central-garden-trail-loop. It combines two trails, starting at the Main Parking Lot (P2) and climbing the Palmer Trail along the ridge overlooking Tower of Babel rock formation, then down to and crossing Garden Drive to link with the Scotsman Trail, and back up to the best overlook of the Three Graces rock formation in the park, looping down again through those formations to the Central Garden and back up to the Main Parking Lot (P2). The hike is about 1.6 miles in total, with a 216 ft total elevation gain, and stunning views of both Pikes Peak and the GOG Central Garden. Boots, sunglasses, windbreakers and hats will be needed, and you should plan on bringing water and snacks in a day pack. It is advised to bring poles and/or microspikes if you have them, in case of snow or ice. We will meet at Parking Lot P2 at 9:00 AM, where there are bathrooms available. Directions to the parking lot can be found by clicking on Directions in the AllTrails link above, or at the address Main Parking Lot (P2), 1423-1427 Juniper Way Loop, Colorado Springs, CO 80904. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.