Nestled right against the foothills of the Colorado Front Range, Deer Creek Canyon Park offers hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts great views and fun trails in Jefferson County and the Denver metro area.
How to Get to Deer Creek Canyon Park
To get to the park, drive from Denver on west onColorado highway C-470 to the Kipling exit. Drive west, and follow the signs to Deer Creek Canyon. The road will pass by South Valley Park, which is another open space park that is also operated by the Jefferson County Open Space department.
History of Deer Creek Canyon Park
According to park literature, the land consisting of Deer Creek Canyon Park today used to be home to Arapahoe and Ute Indians. The first homesteader was John Williamson in 1872. The area was valued for pasturing, farming, as well as gold and silver. Outlaws such as Jesse James and Horse-thief Thompson were known to have used the area as a hide-out.
Hiking the Meadowlark Trail
The Meadowlark Trail is about one-and-a-half miles long, and is a “hiking only” trail. This means that only pedestrians may use this trail, while other users such as mountain bikers can use other designated, multi-use trails.
Begin hiking at the parking lot, where a sign directs hikers onto the Meadowlark Trail. The trail gradually climbs upwards, and hikers can see the rock formations of South Valley Park beyond. The trail swings behind the ridge, and continues until it intersects the Plymouth Creek Trail, where there is a bride and a trail sign. Turn left to head back to the parking lot.
Along the route it is possible to find different kinds of wildflowers, and also yucca plants, especially if there has been a lot of rain. These and also the views of the plains and foothills make great photographic opportunities.
Facilities at Deer Creek Canyon Park
Deer Creek Canyon Park has facilities for a variety of visitors, including:
- Restroom facilities
- Covered picnic areas with barbecue grills.
- Multi-use trails for mountain bikers and also hikers.
- Information kiosk with brochures and park information.
- Trash cans
Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Deer Creek Canyon Park
When visiting the park, keep these things in mind
- Rattlesnakes are a common occurrence in the summer, so be mindful when hiking, especially when with young children.
- Dogs are permitted, but must be on a leash.
- Park hours are one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.
More Information on Deer Creek Canyon Park
For more information, visit the official Jefferson County Open Space website.
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