Scotsman Loop, Garden of the Gods

Not long ago, we found ourselves in a conversation with Colorado Springs native Stewart Green, a lifelong outdoor enthusiast whose love for Garden of the Gods has not been diminished by decades of booming popularity.

His secret was no secret at all.

“You go out there in the winter, you have the place to yourself,” Green said. “Especially if you go first thing in the morning or in the evening when the sun is going down.”

So we did recently, after work. We returned to a short loop ideal for a post-work (or pre-work) jaunt — ideal for admiring the Garden’s signature beauty minus the crowds of the central area.

We think the Scotsman Loop fits the bill of a “Classic” entry in this series spotlighting the Pikes Peak region’s trails. It starts from the Scotsman Picnic Area, a small parking lot often full in the summer. Green is right: Go at the right time in the winter, and parking shouldn’t be a problem.

No, we did not have the loop to ourselves. There were visiting families — yes, Scotsman is good for the kiddos — and one of the day’s horse tours from the nearby stables. From the parking lot, we started the loop by going right at the hitches, south through the meadow looking out to Cheyenne Mountain.

At the next split, the loop continues left, uphill through low woods. Continue straight up rather than turn for Buckskin Charlie Trail. (You could incorporate that for a longer tour. Another connection is ahead, the spur to the Central Garden.)

Scotsman Loop follows an upper ridge perfectly situated to view Pikes Peak and the park’s most prominent rocks. You’ll spot the Kissing Camels formation as the path drops back toward the parking lot.

Trip log: 1.1 miles round trip (loop), 138 feet elevation gain

Getting there: Trailhead at Scotsman Picnic Area, the parking lot numbered 13 along the park road.

FYI: Park hours 5 a.m.-10 p.m. No bikes. Dogs on leash.

SETH BOSTER, THE GAZETTE

Views from Scotsman Loop in Garden of the Gods.

The gazette file

Views from Scotsman Loop in Garden of the Gods. Gazette photo

Views from Scotsman Loop in Garden of the Gods. Gazette photo