Meet Bucky the Troll in Palmer Lake, Colorado: A Local's Guide

By Stephanie Lee | Lee & Associates Real Estate | July 2026

If you've spent any time in Palmer Lake recently, you've probably heard about Bucky.

Palmer Lake's newest community attraction now lives beneath the pedestrian bridge at the lake, and locals and visitors alike have been stopping by to meet him.

Built over the course of two years by Monument artist Jodi Bliss, Bucky is a hand-crafted metal troll that has quickly become one of the most talked-about attractions in the Tri-Lakes area.

Andrew has lived in Palmer Lake since 2006, and I've called Palmer Lake home for the past eight years. So when hundreds of people gathered on a Sunday afternoon for Bucky's unveiling, neither of us was surprised.

That's simply what this town does.

If you haven't visited Bucky yet, here's everything you need to know.

Where Is Bucky the Troll in Palmer Lake?

Bucky can be found:

• Beneath the pedestrian bridge connecting downtown Palmer Lake to the lakefront

• Adjacent to the main parking area near the lake

• Just steps from the new pickleball courts

• Completely free to visit

  
  

Weekends can be busy, but that's part of the charm. The troll has a crowd, paddleboards fill the lake, and local restaurants often have a wait.

That's a Palmer Lake summer Saturday.

Things to Do Near the Palmer Lake Troll

One of the best things about Palmer Lake is that you can easily spend an entire day here without ever getting back into your car.

Explore Palmer Lake

Enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, or a round of disc golf on the west side of the lake. The afternoon mountain breezes keep things comfortable, and people regularly make the trip from Colorado Springs, Castle Rock, Larkspur, and even south Denver just to spend a few hours here.

Hike the Reservoir Trail

The Palmer Lake Reservoir Trail is one of our favorite hikes in the Tri-Lakes area.

• 4.1 miles round trip

• Approximately 692 feet of elevation gain

• Beautiful reservoirs and wildflowers during the summer months

  
  

Looking for a shorter adventure?

The lower reservoir is only about 1.2 miles from the trailhead.

Trailhead Location: End of Old Carriage Road

Parking: $5.30 (credit card only)

Please note: Dogs are not permitted.

Where to Eat in Palmer Lake

After visiting Bucky, be sure to check out some of our favorite local businesses:

• Three Farm Girls – Completely gluten-free and a small shop..

• 105 Social House – Famous for burgers (hard to pass up) and a great patio atmosphere.

• O'Malley's Steak Pub – A longtime local favorite known for wings and community gatherings.

• Sundance Pit BBQ – If you love brisket, don't skip this stop.

• Lake & Lantern Cafe - Great food and conversations

• Jo Mama's - Just like eating at your Mama's house

• Rock House Ice Cream – Homemade ice cream conveniently located across from the lake.

• Finders Keepers – A charming boutique featuring locally inspired gifts, books, and unique finds.

  
  

What Bucky Says About Palmer Lake

Communities don't spend two years building a handcrafted metal troll because they're indifferent about where they live.

People choose Palmer Lake intentionally.

Located approximately 24 miles north of Colorado Springs at an elevation of 7,200 feet, Palmer Lake offers walkability, mountain living, outdoor recreation, and a true small-town atmosphere.

As Palmer Lake residents and local real estate agents, we've spent nearly twenty combined years living in this community. We know the neighborhoods, the market, and—perhaps most important, we know the people who thrive here.

Join Us at the Lake on August 9

Lee & Associates Real Estate will be hosting our annual Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway & BBQ at Centennial Park in Palmer Lake.

Sunday, August 9 | Noon - 2:00 PM

Centennial Park – 199 County Line Road, Palmer Lake

Our goal is to provide 100 backpacks filled with school supplies for District 38 students.

A donation of just $30 sponsors one complete backpack.

Supply donation boxes can currently be found at:

• Lee & Associates Real Estate – Monument

• Tri-Lakes YMCA – Monument

• La Casa Fiesta – Monument

• Jarrito Loco – Monument

• 105 Social House – Palmer Lake

• Rock House Ice Cream – Palmer Lake

  
  

You can learn more or donate by visiting our Backpack Giveaway page on our website.

Thinking About Moving to Palmer Lake?

Whether you're considering buying, selling, or simply exploring what life in Palmer Lake looks like, we'd love to talk.

As Palmer Lake residents and local real estate agents, we can help you understand the market, neighborhoods, schools, commute times, and whether this unique mountain community is the right fit for your lifestyle.

Visit homelinkcolorado.com for a free home valuation or contact us anytime.

Lee & Associates Real Estate

Service you deserve, people you trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Bucky the Troll located?

Bucky the Troll is located beneath the pedestrian bridge at Palmer Lake near the main lake parking area.

Is the Palmer Lake troll free to visit?

Yes. Visiting Bucky the Troll is completely free.

What are some things to do in Palmer Lake, Colorado?

Popular activities include visiting Bucky the Troll, paddleboarding on Palmer Lake, hiking the Reservoir Trail, dining at local restaurants, and exploring downtown Palmer Lake.

Is Palmer Lake a good place to live?

Many residents choose Palmer Lake for its small-town atmosphere, outdoor recreation, mountain views, and close proximity to Colorado Springs.

How far is Palmer Lake from Colorado Springs and Denver?

Palmer Lake is located approximately 24 miles north of Colorado Springs and is a popular destination for visitors from Castle Rock, Larkspur, south Denver, and the surrounding Tri-Lakes communities.