Denver Mountain Parks

Kudos to the Team

2011-12-14T17:09:00.005-07:00

It's been a hectic and productive year in the Mountain Park system. Last week the crew was honored with a "Workgroup of the Year" award from the Parks & Recreation Department. Most of us were able to escape downtown long enough to receive the plaque (center, held by DMP Superintendent Dick Gannon) from new Parks & Rec manager Lauri Dannemiller.

The award is based on customer service, teamwork, and attention to sustainability. A few highlights from the nomination that won us this title:

Coordinated more than 5,000 hours of volunteer effort on trails and other projects, including closing social trails and constructing new trail in Red Rocks Park
Worked with Americorps NCCC and Mile High Youth Corps teams for more than 5 months to accomplish project work, including new and restored trails
Improved forest health and mitigated wildfire hazard on more than 300 acres of parklands
Rebuilt Chicago Overlook Trail at Summit Lake Park to improve access and reduce damage to sensitive tundra vegetation; new interpretive signs there will educate visitors

As we move into winter mode, we will be losing our seasonal staff for a few months. Early in 2012, two of our nine full-time team members plan to retire. We expect to continue to find creative ways to get the job done!

Upcoming Firewood Sales

2011-09-08T08:51:00.004-06:00

The recent firewood sale in Fillius Park was deemed a success, and more sales are planned. Call 303-279-9757 or visit CSFS Golden District office, 1504 Quaker Street, Golden CO 80401 to determine availability and arrange for a permit.

Coming this month and next:

September 10, 17, and 24 in Genesee Park
October 1 in Pence Mountain Park

See the firewood flyer for details.

Mountain Parks in the News

2011-09-08T08:31:00.006-06:00

A couple of new stories on the Mountain Parks have appeared at various locations lately.

The Denver Post published Genesee mix of trails, living history by Maria Cote on Saturday, September 3rd.
The Colorado State Forest Service has assisted in managing forests at Denver's Mountain Parks since the late 1970s. They recently published a "success story" about our efforts under a 2010 ARRA (stimulus) grants, led by new Mountain Parks forester Andy Perri.

For an index to other news and magazine articles published this year, see Recent Stories.

In other developments, the new Twitter account for Denver Parks & Rec sometimes offers news about the Mountain Parks. Follow @DenverParksRec to keep up with what's happening in the parks.

Firewood Sales Start Tomorrow

2011-08-11T06:39:00.004-06:00

Permits for firewood collecting in the Denver Mountain Parks will be on sale Friday August 12-Saturday August 13 at the Colorado State Forest Service Golden District office, 1504 Quaker Street, Golden CO 80401. (Phone 303-279-9757.)

A limited number of permits will be sold for specific park sites and weekend dates. Permits will be specific to the date and location – no changes or substitutions will be possible. Future permit sales will depend on the availability of unsold permits.

Please see additional details in the flyer, including permit prices and collecting dates.

Flag Day at Genesee Mountain

2011-06-16T08:06:00.009-06:00

More than 75 participants and guests enjoyed a grand occasion Tuesday at the summit of Genesee Mountain: the 100th anniversary of the first flag raising by the Peace Pipe Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Since June 14, 1911, DAR members have celebrated annually, and this year's centennial recalled the pomp of the early flag-raisings.

The Mile High Fife & Drum Corps led a processional of the Sons of the American Revolution color guard, with General George Washington in attendance. His speech was a highlight, as were remarks from Donald Cluxton, grandson of Grace E. Tarbell, who led the Peace Pipe Chapter at the very first flag-raising.

Dave Wallace, of Making History Come Alive, portrayed an authentic George Washington and stirred the crowd with reminders of the original patriots and the symbolism of the flag.

Charlotte Hubbs (left), Colorado State Regent, with Judy Kriss, Peace Pipe Chapter Regent and organizer of the 2011 event. Judy read a proclamation from Mayor Bill Vidal of Denver commemorating the occasion.

The new flag, presented to Denver Mountain Parks superintendent Dick Gannon, flew over the U.S. Capitol on April 19th, the anniversary of the Battle of Lexington. As the fife and drum played the national anthem, Old Glory rose on its lanyard.

Read more at the Denver Post.

The musketeers offered a colorful 21-gun salute to complete the program, and piper Jeannine Dobbins of Sarah Platt Decker Chapter played as the crowd dispersed.

New Trail Open at Summit Lake

2011-06-13T14:40:00.009-06:00

The new improved version of the Chicago Lakes Overlook Trail is now open and being enjoyed by visitors to this popular spot on Mount Evans. The trail was completed in August 2010, just before the road was closed for the season last fall.

The trail improvement project, along with the new restrooms at Summit Lake Park, was funded by a State Trails Grant and Land & Water Conservation Funds, matched by Denver's share of Mt. Evans fees collected by the Forest Service at the fee station. Installation of new interpretive signs this summer will mark the completion of this project. Future improvements at Summit Lake Park will include revegetation of social trails and the old roadbed.

Innumerable rocks and full-sized boulders were moved, often by hand. This project in the high alpine required a delicate touch, provided by the hands-on expertise of Fort-Collins-based Wildlands Restoration Volunteers. Their dedicated and tough workers endured challenging weather conditions and high altitude to get the job done.

A key part of the project was preventing damage to adjacent areas, and relocating plants that were in the path of new trail. Salvage and revegetation, shown in photo below, were a major emphasis, with plants moved by hand from disturbed areas. Although recovery is slow in alpine tundra, we expect that the trail will soon blend in with the surrounding terrain.

All photos by Matt Brown, taken during construction last summer, July 20, 2010.

New Arrivals at Genesee

2011-05-23T13:00:00.004-06:00

This year there has been a lot of interest in our bison herds, especially the original herd at Genesee Park. An article appeared in the March issue of Colorado Serenity, and the Denver Post discussed our breeding program on March 21^st.

Today we met with Ginger Delgado, of Fox 31, for an on-scene photo shoot of bison babies (we call them calves) at Genesee Park. Marty Homola, bison caretaker at Genesee Park for the last 40 years, was on hand for the interview.

The herd was feisty, thanks to weather changes in the offing and thunder rolling overhead, and the calves got a workout, running in front of the herd.

Because the herd was so active and unsettled, we managed to get some good shots of them running, even in a full gallop at times. Bison can do 35 miles per hour when they want to! Newborn calves almost "hit the ground running"; they are able to keep up within a few hours of birth, an important trait in herd animals that are frequently on the move.

We also got some good closeups, especially after hay was brought to settle their mood a bit. Who can't help being mellow when there's something good to eat at hand?

Update 6/3/11: See Fox 31 Denver for video and story... Thanks, Fox 31!

As of this date (5/23), there are 18 calves at Genesee, with a few more expected. The Daniels Herd has produced 11 calves so far this year. The calves are frisky, and a couple chased each other around the pond a few times for good measure.

And what could be cuter than these little red 50-lb bundles of joy? They considered munching the hay, but most decided it made for really comfy bedding instead. It will be a few months before they get as interested in hay or grass as they are in mom.

More photos follow. All photos here are by Sally White or Matt Brown.

Mountain Parks News

2011-05-11T18:16:00.001-06:00

Although this blog has been dormant since the completion of the Master Plan, there's still a lot going on with Denver's Mountain Parks! We are re-activating the blog to keep in touch and give you an opportunity to provide feedback on our park system. We'll try to keep you posted on some of the developments relevant to park users as they occur in the summer of 2011.

Changes are coming to our main websites as well, so stay tuned!

Posts below were largely related to the 2008 Master Plan and its public outreach efforts.

Civilian Conservation Corps Comes to Colorado

2009-03-30T08:51:00.003-06:00

In October 2009, friends and former members of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) will meet in the Denver area to honor the efforts and accomplishments of the most popular New Deal program. Preliminary information is posted in this notice, which will be updated as details become available.

Tours and field trips will complement discussions and speakers at this annual event. A feature of the meeting will be the annual business meeting of the CCC Legacy organization. Attendees will visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre, the "most celebrated" of their works, according to historian Tom Noel.

Final Master Plan Posted

2009-02-05T12:42:00.002-07:00

The Denver Mountain Parks Master Plan was approved by the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board in September 2008. The final version is now available online at the Master Plan page.

Remembering CCC Contributions

2009-01-11T12:00:00.007-07:00

Denver Mountain Parks is just one of the many agencies that benefited from the New Deal programs of the 1930s. A feature spread in yesterday's Rocky Mountain News is bringing us renewed benefits in contacts with and stories from the families of some of the men who served. We thank reporters Katie Kerwin McCrimmon and Kevin Flynn and photographer Matt McClain for an excellent job presenting the lasting effects of this program and honoring the men of the Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration.

Yesterday, among other emails, we received this photo of Fred Johncox, who enrolled in the CCC in Minnesota in 1934. His son graciously allowed us to share it online. We plan to have more stories and information online at our Mountain Parks History website soon. In the meantime, if you missed yesterday's stories, here are links to the online versions:

The Forgotten Generation

Fruits of the Depression

Historic CCC Camp to Become Museum

Here's another link—this one to an article by historian Tom Noel, aka "Dr. Colorado," in the Denver Post.

Additional Comments on Master Plan

2008-10-31T12:55:00.006-06:00

Besides email comments, survey responses, and other comments from individuals (posted on this blog), we have recently received several letters addressing organization's comments on the Master Plan. These include:

A letter from Inter-neighborhood Cooperation (INC) of Denver.
A letter from the Board of County Commissioners of Jefferson County.
An email from John Litz, of PLAN Jeffco (open space advocacy group), at previous post.

Recently, the Denver Parks and Recreation Department sent a letter to City Council addressing rock climbing in the Mountain Parks. Copies of the letter were sent to Access Fund.

Comments from Open Space Advocate

2008-10-31T12:44:00.004-06:00

From John Litz, PLAN Jeffco*, October 22, 2008:

I have carefully reviewed the Denver Mountain Parks Draft Master Plan and must say that I am impressed. The PLAN Jeffco Board of Directors have not collectively reviewed the plan, but I believe that I can convey the consensus.

The plan is very ambitious, which it must be after more than 50 years of benign neglect. I would put maintenance, restoration, and updated restrooms at the top of the list. Jefferson County Open Space's (JCOS) experience is that vandals are less apt to chose well-maintained facilities. Next I would put upgrading of trails and attempting to close social trails. JCOS has good experience using volunteers and youth work programs. It seems to me that one can find grants for funding work programs for inner-city youth. That also might impact the park use by African-Americans. (It is interesting to note very high use of the parks by those of Hispanic heritage.)

Following are comments relating to specific pages in the draft.

Page 19: The values used for the land values are low. The Open Space Advisory Committee has just approved a $100,000+ per acre purchase adjacent to Elk Meadow Park. I think that $10,000 per acre would be a better average; since much of the acreage in the larger parks is very developable.
Page 35: In discussing revenue items comment is made on sharing Jefferson County sales tax. Note that this tax is not a use tax so it only would apply to items purchased on site. At 0.1% I doubt that the amount collected could have a significant impact on the DMP budget. Additionally the enabling resolution only allows the tax to the shared with cities based on automobile registrations. Red Rocks is neither a city nor has any resident vehicles.
Page 36: I definitely agree on the need for dedicated funding.
Page 64: I would not count on being able to make fixed facilities on the parks profitable. JCOS has found the maintenance of buildings exceeds the potential revenue. An example is the Boettcher Mansion on Lookout. Jefferson County has had to use Conservation Trust Funds as the financing source for necessary maintenance. The income can cover operating costs, but not major maintenance. The Cody [Buffalo Bill] Museum is unique in that it is an international draw.
Page 153: Because the DMPs are integrated into other County park systems, partnerships can be a way of extending the resources of both parties. Unfortunately, without better funding DMP cannot provide much financial resources to the partnerships.

So it all gets down to dedicated funding. PLAN Jeffco has managed two campaigns to obtain voter approval for funding. Our experience is, with a campaign that gets adequate information to the voters, approval is possible. Our two favorable votes were 60% and 74%. I believe that in 2006, 70% of park and open space issues across the country passed. Your resistance will be the Denver City Council not the voters. In 1972 we had no support from city councils, just their staff.

Good luck as you move the Plan forward.

John Litz, PLAN Jeffco Vice-Chair/Treasurer

*PLAN Jeffco is a citizen’s organization who helped start Jefferson County’s Open Space program in 1972 and is still involved in an oversight capacity.

Last Day of Comment Period

2008-10-17T07:44:00.003-06:00

Today marks the end of the official comment period for the Denver Mountain Parks Master Plan. We'll be taking comments through the end of the day and will post them on this blog. A few new comments are posted immediately below this note.

Thank you for your interest in the Master Plan and for providing input to it. In the coming weeks, we'll be revising and finalizing the draft. We'll continue to keep you posted at this site.

A Few More Comments

2008-10-17T07:43:00.001-06:00

Steve from Denver County, October 17, 2008, says:

Please allow rock climbing in the mountain parks. It works in Boulder. Please enforce the dog leash laws in all the parks.

Adam from Boulder County, October 16, 2008, says:

I am a Boulder resident and a graduate student in Physics at the University of Colorado-Boulder. I am doing my Ph.D. research at the National Renewable energy labs in Golden. As an avid climber, I have explored many of the areas around both Boulder and Golden. Of course, climbing requires a certain amount of technical knowledge and safety is always a concern. However, the climbing community in Colorado is a very well-informed and responsible group who understand and accept the risks involved. They are also taxpayers who help support and fund the park systems across the state. Opening the 1,400+ acres in the Denver parks would not interfere with other use of the land and would end an outdated, unnecessarily restrictive policy. I support the position the Access Fund has taken on this issue.

Alec from Gunnison, October 16, 2008, is "Supportive."

Clint from Boulder County, October 16, 2008, says:

I live in Louisville, Co and spend a lot of time in the mountains here in Colorado. I would like to side with the Access fund an their letter sent to you (see attachment). Rockclimbing is an major part of Colorado history past and in modern times. It is exciting that Denver Mountain Parks is considering allowing rockclimbing in it's parks. I want to thank you for that.

Park Maps Update

2008-10-10T08:32:00.006-06:00

Continued work on interim park maps has resulted in a new Park Maps index page on the website at Mountain Parks History (MPH). This page will be updated whenever new maps are available, and will be linked from the MPH homepage shortly. (It is now linked from the Parks Information page, where you'll also find links to new pages on picnicking and park regulations.)

Maps are posted for Dedisse Park, Echo Lake Park, and Genesee Park; more are on the way. Keep in mind that these are basic working maps to enable you to find the Parks more easily and better enjoy the system. We welcome your suggestions for improving them. A new system map has also been posted in three sizes.

Additional Survey Responses from Rock Climbers

2008-09-27T07:20:00.005-06:00

Jason from Denver County, September 30, 2008, is "Unsupportive" and says:

As an avid rock climber, tax payer, and informed voter, I would like to ensure that the parks my money go to are being used by all recreational groups that do not destroy the resource. This largely includes the banning of rock climbing in denver mountain parks.
The banning of rock climbing in denver mountain parks needs to be addressed. The response given by the DMP is weak and outdated at best. The fact that the fine is steeper than an individual being caught with crack cocaine is also absurd. He recommends Opening rock climbing up as a general recreational activity on all areas aside from Red Rocks Amphitheater.

Robert from Jefferson County, September 29, 2008, is “Supportive” and says:

Please acknowledge the Access Funds position letter and recommendations on the proposed management plan. Except in rare circumstances, rock-climbing should be allowed throughout the park system as the impacts can be mitigated in ways other than closure.

Richard from Jefferson County, September 25, 2008, is “Supportive” and says:

I think that you've done a great job of managing these land assets. However, I strongly support a change to the current use restrictions to include the allowance of rock climbing on Denver Park land. This use is consistent with other agencies such as the NFS, BLM, JeffCo Open Space and CO State Parks.

Wilder from Boulder County, September 25, 2008:

I strongly support climbing and bouldering access in Denver Mountain Parks.

This respondent referenced the Access Fund's comment letter, sent to Susan Baird this week.

Carlos from Denver County, September 26, 2008, is “Supportive” and says:

I would love to see climbing opened up in the Denver Parks. I really enjoy living in the urban environment of Denver while being so close to outdoor trails, but right now there aren't too many options for climbing close-in other than Golden. I think climbing in the Denver Parks would make living in Denver even more attractive, and that a good management plan allowing that can be incorporated.

Erik from Boulder County, September 25, 2008, is “Neutral” and says:

The ban on rock climbing does need to be addressed. I understand that the primary reason for the park purchase was primarily for viewshed preservation and therefore does not warrant additional purchase to provide access. However, this would then logically rule out any other public use of the park as well. The main contention is the singular ban on rock climbing, and activity that has very little conflict with other user groups. As can be seen in most Denver metro park systems, rock climbing can very easily coexist with other activities in a manner that preserves both the viewshed and the environment.

He also suggests that Denver should “consider working with locals climbing access groups to develop a climbing management plan” and supports “opening [DMP] to managed rock climbing” as very important in the long term.

Two additional respondents, from Boulder and Weld Counties, supported rock climbing but did not want their comments posted.

Trail Work at Echo Lake: Photo Essay

2008-09-25T09:31:00.024-06:00

Last week (Sept 17-19), crews from Mountain Parks and their counterparts from other Parks & Rec divisions (Forestry, Rivers & Trails, Natural Areas) spent a few days resurfacing trails at Echo Lake Park. How's this for a great place to work? Clear crisp days, at 10,600 feet, and scenic views meant easy recruiting for this special project. (Click on photos to enlarge.)

At this elevation, the sedges around the lake and the willows near the picnic area are already showing signs of fall color. While the crews worked, an artist finished up a pastel painting of Mt. Evans and surrounding scenery. Her cooperative subjects now grace the header of our blog and provided a beautiful background for the trail work.

With 10-20 people on hand each day, a great deal of work was accomplished quickly. Willows were trimmed away from the trail, and fresh crusher fines were spread. The Echo Lake Trail provides fishing access, as well as a comfortable almost-level surface for a pleasant mountain walk. It connects to backcountry hiking trails on adjacent Forest Service lands and into the Mt. Evans Wilderness, including the Chicago Lakes Trail and Bear Track Lakes Trail.

The crew from Forestry brought along special equipment to help remove dead pines and spruces, including a few killed by blue-stain fungus, aka "beetle." Some wood was salvaged for use, but the trees infested by beetles were disposed of. Scouts have volunteered to build rustic barricades of smaller branches to help protect off-trail sensitive areas, especially the fen wetlands at the east end of the lake.

Lunch breaks in the picnic area offered time to get acquainted with people from the other divisions. A.J. Tripp-Addison (right), Mountain Parks superintendent, stopped by to thank several of the workers for their assistance.

Echo Lake Park was acquired by the City of Denver back in 1921. Five years later, the beautiful rustic Echo Lake Lodge was built of local logs and stones at the east end of this natural lake.

In the mid 1920s, this stone picnic shelter was built in the picnic area at the west end of the lake. It still used today; a small concession stand nearby, also built of local stone is no longer in use.

In the afternoon, as clouds gathered over Mt. Evans and the day grew blustery, a local duck came by to check out the new crusher fines on the trail. A somber view of Mt. Evans, with duck, could be seen from inside the Echo Lake Shelter.

Echo Lake Park is 14 miles from Idaho Springs on Highway 103, part of the Mt. Evans Scenic & Historic Byway, and was designated to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. For more on Echo Lake, visit our history pages for more photos, information, and maps of the area.

Survey Response, General

2008-09-20T07:54:00.002-06:00

From Erika, Denver County, September 19, 2008:

Overall, how supportive are you of the Plan's recommendations?
Extremely supportive.

1. Are there any outstanding issues that you don’t think the plan addressed? No.

2. Are there any recommendations that you would like to add?
I am wondering about the long-term use of automobiles in the parks. (I think about Rocky Mountain National Park where, in several areas of the park, automobiles are now restricted. These areas are accessible now only through shuttle busses.) The existing strategic plan balances the need for access to the parks with the goal of preserving them. At some point, if the demands on the parks become too great, perhaps some of the access might have to be limited. In the future, visitors might access the parks though light rail or other public transit options. Somehow the issue of over use of the parks must be addressed and monitored.

3. Are there any statements or recommendations with which you strongly disagree? No.

4. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the short term?
The two issues which I think are most important both in the short and long term are first, securing adequate funding and, second, developing a comprehensive education/marketing strategy to educate the park users. Through the use of signs and exhibits at the parks, and through local media and the internet, park users must be taught about the park's history and significance. Hopefully this will foster an ethic of stewardship and respect for the parks. Ultimately the parks' survival will depend on knowledgeable citizens who will love and care for them.

5. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the long term? See #4.

Other comments:
My great-grandfather, John Brisben Walker, proposed the Denver Mountain Parks system which gives me a special interest in them. Many thanks to Susan Baird and others who have done such a fine job on developing this much-needed plan. Two points that I would like to underscore are: first, the recommendations to preserve the historic buildings as these add a unique flavor to the mountain parks system. Second, protecting and expanding the park's open space is also very critical. As the population increases, demand will also increase to develop these open spaces. The Denver Mountain Parks play a vital role in protecting open space now and for generations to come.

Comment Period Extended to October 17

2008-09-18T15:39:00.010-06:00

We'll be taking comments on the draft Master Plan for three more weeks, until October 17^th. We look forward to hearing from you.

We have received many comments, especially on Rock Climbing, by email and survey form as well as comments on individual posts. Click on the "rock climbing" label in the sidebar to see all posts on that subject. Additional comments will be found at the original post on rock climbing.

Thank you for helping us use this blog to communicate with people interested in the Mountain Parks and for providing feedback on the Plan.

Entry Fees (Comment)

2008-09-18T15:39:00.006-06:00

From Todd, September 15, 2008:

Start charging a entry fee to access these parks. The selling pitch that this will only cost the taxpayer $5 or whatever more per month may seem trivial but it all adds up. Our property taxes have increased over $400/year since moving into our home in 2002. If individuals want to utilize these parks, they should pay the nominal entry fee or a yearly pass just like what is needed to gain entry to a state park or a national park. I live in Denver. We did visit Lookout Mountain on a regular basis but with the increase in fuel prices, we have cut back on these type of excursions and visit the local city parks.

Survey Response: Rock Climbing

2008-09-18T15:39:00.004-06:00

From Joseph, Jefferson County, September 18, 2008:

Overall, how supportive are you of the Plan's recommendations?
Supportive.

1. Are there any outstanding issues that you don’t think the plan addressed?
Rock Climbing - this is mentioned on pgs 54 and 56 (new uses), but the overall tone seems negative. However, rock climbing, when properly managed, can be a valuable addition to a recreational menu. I note that on pg 53 the plan cites heaviest use near water and in shade. Rock climbing would disperse use somewhat. Obviously wildlife (raptor nesting) is a very important concern, but other local areas, such as Boulder Mountain Parks, have effectively dealt with this through seasonal closure. The culture and organization of rock climbing in Colorado has become very advanced in recent years, through educational efforts of organizations like the CMC and the Access Fund. Climbers take their priviledges and responsibilities seriously, and they would be a positive addition to the user base for the Denver Mountain Parks.

2. Are there any recommendations that you would like to add?
Consider opening rock climbing (with seasonal closures to protect raptors) in certain areas. This will expand the use of the parks and the breadth of experience.

3. Are there any statements or recommendations with which you strongly disagree? No response.

4. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the short term? No response.

5. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the long term? No response.

Other comments:
Thanks for all your had work on the plan. I am very happy to have the Denver Mountain Parks as a local resource.

Climbing at Ocelot (Comment)

2008-09-18T15:39:00.001-06:00

From Matthew, September 18, 2008:

I just wanted to comment on the ocelot park project. I would love to see climbing aloud in the park again. We used to climb there years ago and I was shocked to see signs prohibiting it.

Climbers are notorious environmentalists and are famous for leaving an area cleaner than when they found it. Please let us come back into the park to enjoy our sport. Thank you for your consideration.

Survey Response, Rock Climbing (Comment)

2008-09-17T08:48:00.003-06:00

From Angela, Denver County, September 14, 2008

Overall, how supportive are you of the Plan's recommendations?
Unsupportive.

1. Are there any outstanding issues that you don’t think the plan addressed?
I am very disappointed that the plan does not address rock climbers as a legitimate user group. Current policies towards rock climbers criminilize the activity. Yet in reality, climbing has a similar impact to that of hiking and other mountaineering types of activities. And it has much less of an impact or maintenance requirements than mountain biking.

2. Are there any recommendations that you would like to add?
I would first like to see some specific areas open to rock climbing. I would then like to see you work with local climbing groups such as the Denver Climbers' Coalition to provide long-term solutions to this issue.

3. Are there any statements or recommendations with which you strongly disagree?
On the section regarding parks for conservation . . . it seems as though many of these parks have become private havens for adjacent land owners outside of Denver whose taxes are not even supporting these properties. Yes, it is important to have long-term plans for conserving these areas. However, the idea of conversation is to regulate use of land resources so that they are sustainable for future generations. Currently, no generation has access to them. Instead, Denver is setting a precedent to disallow the public from benefiting from these land resources. Also, conservation does not mean that no user groups should be allowed in the area. Instead, Denver should focus on a sustainable plan that opens the areas up for everyone's appreciation and enjoyment while preserving the natural beauty of the area and keeping it in a wilderness like state.

4. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the short term? No response.

5. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the long term?
I do agree that different areas might support different user groups in different ways. I also support your efforts to create long-term sustainable areas for all of the areas residents.

Other comments:
I hope you will contact local climbing groups such as the Denver Climber's Coalition to be a part of future dialouges. You will also find that climbers will provide labor and support for trail maintenance needs and clean-up events. The climbing community is a large potential resource for you if you will tap into us.

Dogs Off Leash (Comment)

2008-09-16T17:26:00.003-06:00

From Wendy, Denver County, September 3, 2008

Thank you for all your time & effort on the DMP Master Plan. I didn't see any specifics regarding Denver Mountain Parks having areas where it's okay to have your dog off leash, so I would like to respectfully request that the subject be considered.

Reply from Susan Baird, Natural Resource Planner:

Thanks for your letter. We know that having a place for dogs to play off-leash is important to so many people and we did discuss it in our planning. What we found is that the Denver Mountain Parks, as a much smaller system than Jefferson County Open Space, National Forests, or other county systems, actually suffers from overuse and conflicts in many places. And, unlike other open space systems, we are not planning future acquisitions at this time.

And our goal for the more remote parks and "backcountry" is to protect those natural resources. We looked at California research that measured impacts to natural open space systems by dogs and hikers going into remoter areas and felt it was important to keep dogs on leash and to protect those limited resources. Consequently, we did not think that there was a space in the current system for a specialized area. We do want to see dog-owners (and dogs!) served and know that Jefferson County Open Space acquired and designated an area just for dogs-off-leash (Elk Meadows area) and that the surrounding National Forests accommodate dogs off leash. Thanks for your understanding (and we hope, your dog's, too).

Maps for the Mountain Parks

2008-09-12T06:55:00.014-06:00

Although maps for the Denver Mountain Parks are scarce and scattered, they are not nonexistent. New maps are being developed, and there are also several maps available in the draft Master Plan.

We've collected map links available on the web here to help you find Mountain Park lands and trails. All links will open in a new window; most go to pdf files that you can zoom.

Basic maps for several parks are available on our Map Page.

Most of the Denver Mountain Parks are in Jefferson County. Thanks to cooperative efforts with Jefferson County Open Space over the last few years, more parks and trails are accessible. Maps available from other sites include:

Red Rocks Park Trails (Denver Theatres & Arenas)
The 1.4 mile Trading Post Trail stays within the park, but also links to the Dakota Ridge Trail (2.2 miles), with a loop return to Matthews-Winters Park (JCOS).

Bergen Peak Park
Although this is a "conservation/wilderness park," it is accessible via the 2.4-mile Too Long Trail to Bergen Peak, from the Meadow Trail in Elk Meadow Park (JCOS).

Dedisse Park Trails
Alderfer-3 Sisters Park map (JCOS) Take a right from Sisters Trail or Hidden Fawn Trail in this park to find Dedisse Trail, which winds through the western edge and northern section of Dedisse Park and connects northward to the Pioneer Trail through Evergreen.

Matthews Winters Park (JCOS)
1.5 miles of trail in Red Rocks Park connect to the Morrison Slide Trail and the Red Rocks Trail in this 2344-acre OS park.

Mt. Falcon Park (JCOS)
Three DMP parcels totaling 160 acres adjoin Mt Falcon. The 1.1 mile Devil’s Elbow loop trail uses the 80-acre DMP parcel.

Flying J Ranch Park (JCOS)
The 2-mile Shadow Pine Loop trail in this park uses small DMP parcels (80 acres) to create access for a longer hike in this new 361-acre OS park.

Survey Response: Outdoor Education

2008-09-12T06:48:00.003-06:00

From Micah, Denver County, Sept 11, 2008

Overall, how supportive are you of the Plan's recommendations?
Extremely Supportive

1. Are there any outstanding issues that you don’t think the plan addressed?
As a Representative of the Wonderful Outdoor World Colorado operating out of the Chief Hosa Campground, I would like to recognize Denver Mountain Parks for their support. Over the past four years we have served over 2,000 urban youth with the opportunity to first time camping experiences and to learn environmental responsibility. Our program targets children from low income areas of Denver to ensure that every child; no matter race, color, creed or socio-economic standing is given an opportunity to experience the wonders of the outdoors. Without the support and space donated by Mountain Parks this program could not serve as many youth as it is able.

We at WOW believe in the plans support of making available and accessible the beauty the parks have to offer. As an organization we look to partner with Mountain Parks in making this happen. As our organization continues to grow we will look for new opportunities to educate youth on the fragile state of the Colorado and global environment. Our youth have acted as ambassadors of Leave No Trace Principals, transforming the Chief Hosa Campground and bringing wildlife back to the area.

2. Are there any recommendations that you would like to add?
We would like to suggest Denver Mountain Parks use this plan to strengthen partnership between itself, Denver Parks and Recreation and Wonderful Outdoor World Colorado as an outlet to serve even more youth (especially at-risk) in the Denver-metro. Over four years and two thousand youth served we have learned how important the advocacy of our youth truly is. They are the stewards of environmental and social change and every one of them capable of success. We are obligated to creating opportunities in the wilderness and beyond so this might be possible. Thank You!

3. Are there any statements or recommendations with which you strongly disagree? No response.

4. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the short term? No response.

5. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the long term? No response.

Other comments: No response.

Conservation/Wilderness Parks

2008-09-11T15:20:00.002-06:00

Some of the most scenic and important open space lands in the Denver Mountain Park system were purchased for their open space value, and were intended never to be developed. The prominent mountaintops, forested ridges, steep slopes of dense mixed evergreen forests, rocky outcrops, and narrow riparian corridors of Denver’s conservation/wilderness parks provide critical wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and dramatic scenic backdrops. Most of the highly visible peaks and ridges along the main routes west, including US 285, Highways 73 and 74 through Evergreen, and US I-70, that are not dotted with houses today are Denver Mountain Parks. They continue to fulfill their original role—to protect the natural and scenic character of the Denver foothills.

Their permanent, protected role in the system was clearly intended. When Denver acquired land for these mountain parks, deed restrictions were included in the transfer from state or private property to city ownership. These included deed restrictions for more than 5,000 acres from USDA Forest Service Lands restricting sale of the land—“that said city and county shall not have the right to sell or convey the land.” Other parks, such as those acquired from private ownership, restricted the land “for park and parkway purposes only.”

The protection of watershed and wildlife habitat is becoming increasingly important as the metropolitan region’s population grows, and open space disappears. The Denver Mountain Parks have land that contributes to the integrity of the region’s watersheds, notably Bear Creek, Clear Creek, and smaller tributaries, all of which eventually reach the Platte River.

Many of the mountain ridges and peaks originally set aside for scenic quality provide important cliff habitat, including Snyder Mountain, Hicks Mountain, Mount Judge, and the southern portion of Deer Creek Park.

Challenges and Opportunities

The conservation/wilderness parks of the Denver Mountain Parks system have continually upheld the values that were essential to the founding of the system in 1912 – to protect scenic resources for recreational, aesthetic, and environmental reasons, both for today and for the future. These parks were originally intended to be undeveloped lands in perpetuity. Their role in resource protection has become more important over the years, and as neighboring communities have grown, their role as a scenic background today is even more valuable.

Some of the recommendations in the draft Master Plan for these parks are:

Preserve the Conservation/Wilderness Parks as undeveloped Denver Mountain Park lands.
Preserve each park in its historic role as a scenic backdrop, as an important natural resource, or as both. Identify and close problematic social trails within the conservation/wilderness parks.
Engage private property owners, where their land abuts Denver’s land, in an informal stewardship role.
Manage Similar or Adjacent Conservation/Wilderness Parks as One Natural Resource Area by creating comprehensive management plans and system-wide policies to preserve and protect the significant natural resources.
Identify those parks that are contiguous to one another and/or that share natural resource issues or attributes such as significant wetlands or rock outcrops.
Develop natural resource management plans for contiguous parcels, and natural resource policies for the Conservation/Wilderness Parks.
Use Conservation Easements, Trail Easements, and Acquisition to Protect The Parks. Work with adjacent property owners to acquire land or to obtain conservation easements for those properties that buffer or protect the open space/wilderness parks from encroaching development.
Clearly Define Park Boundaries to control illegal dumping, social trails, off-road vehicle use, and other unauthorized uses.

Introducing the Picnic Parks

2008-09-11T14:36:00.003-06:00

The following paragraphs are extracted from Section 4 of the draft Master Plan. For more complete information, please review the source document. In the draft Master Plan, Denver's Mountain Parks were classified into four tiers based on similar qualities. See page 121 for more information on "The Picnic Parks". You may use our Survey Form to provide comments on this or other parts of the draft plan.

In the early 1900s Denver began the task of building scenic drives through the foothills to access the mountain peaks and flowing streams just west of the city. The scenic canyon of Bear Creek and Mount Evans were two such places. Known collectively as the picnic parks, these parks are further organized by their specific role and locations as a Bear Creek Picnic Park or as a Gateway Picnic Park.

The Bear Creek Picnic Parks

With the growing popularity of the car in the early 1900s, groups could venture out for the day, making Bear Creek a favorite destination for a picnic outing. Between 1912 and 1917, many of the Bear Creek picnic spots officially became a part of the Denver Mountain Park System. The curving, scenic drive (Highway 74) connects four of the picnic parks, and the tributary creeks of Bell and Cub Creek south of Evergreen connect the other two.

Each Bear Creek Picnic Park offers its own unique natural setting, but they also all share special features such as access to flowing stream waters, rustic shelters, shaded picnic sites, and nearby hiking trails.
- Little Park
- Corwina Park
- O'Fallon Park; Pence Park
- Bell Park
- Cub Creek Park
For a map of trails connecting some of these Bear Creek parks, visit the map page at Denvergov.org.
The Gateway Picnic Parks

One of the more scenic routes was the road through steep mountain terrain to Mount Evans. Before reaching Squaw Pass, the early road extended through wooded hillsides in what would eventually be known as the Town of Evergreen. Another route traveled southwesterly from Denver, turning west to follow North Turkey Creek. Along each of these roads, Denver built a picnic park as a gateway to western scenery.
- Fillius Park
- Bergen Park
- Turkey Creek Park

You can find more on each of these Picnic Parks in Section 4c of the Master Plan.

For an overview of the park tiers described in the draft Master Plan, see Four Tiers of Mountain Parks, posted below.

For a map of the system showing locations of these parks, visit the Mountain Parks map page at Denvergov.org.

Rock Climbing (Comment)

2008-09-11T09:07:00.002-06:00

From Thomas, Sept 11, 2008:

It’s just hard for me to understand why climbing, or any other form of harmless recreation would be prohibited on public land. Especially since Denver is publicly pro rock climbing. It doesn't seem right to advertise rock climbing on the front page of the city's website, http://www.denver.org/) then tell people the can't climb in a public park because "the rock cliffs and faces that have potential for rock climbing were originally purchased to preserve views and the land, and not for recreation." Isn’t it public land maintained out of money raised from the public? Wasn't it purchased with public money? Shouldn’t the public have access to it?

See Susan Baird's responses on Rock Climbing at earlier post. (The City's website is at Denvergov.org.)

Survey Response, Rock Climbing

2008-09-11T08:55:00.005-06:00

From J, Clear Creek County, Sept 10, 2008:

Overall, how supportive are you of the Plan's recommendations?
Neutral

1. Are there any outstanding issues that you don’t think the plan addressed?
Rock climbing on land that has been used for that exact purpose for atleast 20-30 years. For some reason it's a criminal offence as far as I can tell with nearly a thousand dollar fine and 180 days jail time! I can't understand how a non criminal recreational activity can produce such a foul repurcussion. Especially when the victims are usually of a local residence or bordering county. Just good hardworking law abiding tax paying citizens of colorado. It's not like we impact the land anymore then your average user, infact we are usually concious of keeping our sacred cliffs clean. We are a user group that is well known for working with other user groups and organizations to establish boundries and rules, trails, and logistic issues. The crime doesn't fit the punishment if you ask me.If nothing else consider a way to allow limited access especially to locals. I would jump through what ever hoops necessary to climb on the formations in marshdale known as ocelot (in jefferson county) and the snyder mtn tract(clear creek county. I work around ocelot all the time and I live near snyder so it's just a shame to constantly see this beautiful rock but not be allowed to interact with it. The access fund is a great organization for help with all the issues that could arise, there is no reason that this is an illegitimate request.

2. Are there any recommendations that you would like to add?
work with climbers more instead of treating them like criminals. we are a legitimate user group just as hikers and mtn bikers. We aren't fairly represented and we should be as the sport has a long rich history. dating back longer then you have owned the land.

3. Are there any statements or recommendations with which you strongly disagree?
Not allowing climbing with the outragous punishment of jail time and a bigger fine then you get for walking down the street with a joint of weed. You fail your predicessors as many state and national parks allow the activity, even in places with fragile environments like zion for instance. Obviously it's regulated, so it seems your just neglecting us and being lazy.

4. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the short term?
incorperating climbers as a more legitimate user group and working with them to allow climbing in areas that have previously been used for exactly that.

5. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the long term?
Same as above.

Other comments:
That about sums it up, Please contact the access fund and get the ball rolling, it will be the constitutional thing to do in consideration of the pursuit of happiness.

See Susan Baird's responses on Rock Climbing at earlier post.

Rock Climbing (Comment)

2008-09-10T10:40:00.001-06:00

From Ryan, Sept 9, 2008

As a member of the climbing community, I am very curious about why an effort has not been made to work with climbers to create a mutually benificial relationship. Throughout the master plan, the need to encourage more users is a common theme, as is creating working relationships with user groups. Eldorado canyon, Lumpy ridge and North Table Mountain(Golden cliffs) are examples of places where climbers commonly organize trail work and cleanup days.

See Susan Baird's responses on Rock Climbing at earlier post.

Survey Response, Rock Climbing

2008-09-10T10:32:00.003-06:00

From Rick, Denver County, Sept 9, 2008:

Overall, how supportive are you of the Plan's recommendations?
Neutral.

1. Are there any outstanding issues that you don’t think the plan addressed?
I think climbing is not well addressed in these plans. Climbing is an activity that is often associated with mountains even by non-climbers, kind of like expecting to see surfers at the beach in LA county. Climbing is also a subset of mountaineering. Other mountaineering activities could be hiking/walking, scrambling, snowshoeing, skiing. Those activities are not explicitly prohibited. If I am hiking and I get on steeper terrain, I may have to put my hands on the rock for balance, am I doing a prohibited activity that can result in jail time? What if the trail gets so steep that I must use my hands to pull myself up?

2. Are there any recommendations that you would like to add?
Denver's policy on no climbing in Mountain Parks is at odds with a City that promotes its vicinity to the mountains and the activities inherently associated with the mountains. This policy has closed down many decades old climbing areas which is not a positive image for our neighbors in surrounding counties or visitors.

3. Are there any statements or recommendations with which you strongly disagree?
Under "Accessibility and New Uses" I would like to strongly object to grouping rock climbing with camping, dogs off leash and mountain biking. Since climbing is a subset of the mountaineering similar to hiking, it should be viewed in the same context. These other activities place a much higher demand on the environment than responsible rock climbing or hiking for that matter. One of the ways "Leave no Trace" ethics recommend travelers to minimize their impact is by traveling on rock. Rock climbing can be done without chalk marks and using "clean anchoring" systems which leave no visual impact.

4. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the short term?
Trail maintenance and evaluating new areas for climbing.

5. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the long term?
Same as above.

Other comments:
I would suggest that DMP examine climbing policies of the National Parks Service, Boulder, Jefferson County open space and the city of Colorado Springs. All of these places have various policies which allow rock climbing.

See Susan Baird's responses on Rock Climbing at earlier post.

Survey Response, General

2008-09-10T10:28:00.004-06:00

From Sarah, Denver County, August 24, 2008:

Overall, how supportive are you of the Plan's recommendations?
Extremely Supportive

1. Are there any outstanding issues that you don’t think the plan addressed?
Not really, but I would like to emphasize the need to keep our parks affordable to all our citizens.

2. Are there any recommendations that you would like to add?
Much as we may need corporate help I feel we must encourage those entities to keep their names off anything like renaming parks or the like. Corporations come and go - and not always with their heads held high. Maybe small logos on any t shirts, touristy things like at the Echo Lake Lodge.

3. Are there any statements or recommendations with which you strongly disagree?
No. I do admit to some confusion about Balarat. Having taken students there way back in the early '70s when there were no buildings, but we camped, I am familiar with its importance to our district children. I thought the land was a donation from a private person, at first refused, but later accepted and appreciated. Where do the Mountain Parks come into this?

4. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the short term?
The need for the Mountain Parks to have a dedicated funding source. How can you make long term plans without some idea of the future.

5. Which recommendations do you consider most important in the long term?
Working to increase the general knowledge of these wonderful assets beyond just being places for special events. If we are to have a citizenry that appreciates our beautiful outdoors and wants to get out there they need to be well aware of it. Those school trips certainly could help.

Other comments:
I am delighted that our parks are getting the appreciation and attention they need.

Two More Weeks to Comment

2008-09-04T08:55:00.004-06:00

Comments on the draft Master Plan for Denver's Mountain Park system are due by September 19th. Download files at the Master Plan website. We look forward to your feedback!

The website offers a variety of ways to comment—here on the blog, by email or phone, or in a written letter if you prefer. You can even take our automated Comment Survey. All comments become part of the record, and will be posted here on the blog unless you object.

It's our first Master Plan in more than 90 years! Please let us hear from you...

p.s. When you comment, please record your county and/or zip code. Thanks!

Introducing the Hearts

2008-08-27T07:34:00.027-06:00

The following paragraphs are extracted from Section 4 of the draft Master Plan. For more complete information, please review the source document. In the draft Master Plan, Denver's Mountain Parks were classified into four tiers based on similar qualities. See page 101 for more information on "The Hearts". You may use our Survey Form to provide comments on this or other parts of the draft plan.

The Hearts of the Denver Mountain Parks system are large special parks that exhibit their own individualistic characteristics and provide unique settings with special experiences. The Hearts are the core of the Mountain Park system. Each Heart has its own distinct natural setting, from forested hillsides and open mountain meadows to the high plains prairie where bison related to the Yellowstone herds of the late 19th century still graze. Beautiful, rustic buildings and shelters are integral to each of the Hearts.

Genesee Park: At more than 2,400 acres, Genesee Park is the largest mountain park, offering the greatest diversity of experiences in the system. Families can hold a reunion and picnic at the large CCC historic shelter and picnic area near the summit. Visitors can camp overnight at Chief Hosa Campground; kids get an introduction to the woods in special programs.

At Chief Hosa Lodge, visitors experience major life events such as weddings or other celebrations. Travelers stop and enjoy viewing the bison herd along I-70, or venture to the top of Genesee Mountain where the panoramic view connecting mountain and plains is spectacular. Genesee Park is the gateway to the Denver Mountain Parks system. Its size and location close to the center of the system, proximity to Denver, and its direct access to the region’s largest highway give Genesee Park a special prominence.
Dedisse Park: Denver acquired Dedisse Ranch in 1919. By 1928, the city had transformed the western valley into the 18-hole Evergreen Golf Course, complete with its Keys on the Greens clubhouse, and built a dam to create a lake... The beauty of Evergreen Lake with its perfect reflection of the surrounding mountains was touted as enriching quaint downtown Evergreen.

Dedisse Park’s 420 acres are bisected by Upper Bear Creek road. Most of the acreage consists of forested ridges and open meadows in the foothills vegetation and habitat zone. The park is rich in ecological diversity and is dominated by mixed ponderosa pine forests with open grassy clearings and shrub lands on south-facing slopes.
Newton Park: Originally the Newton family ranch, [this park] has three distinct valleys where large shelters, potable water, electricity, restrooms, and informal fields of grasses offer private group retreats with spectacular views to the south. Rolling hills separate the valleys, and the northernmost hill rises to a craggy, unnamed peak on the park’s northwestern edge that is highly visible from U.S. 285. Each valley is a separate picnic site, popular for family and company gatherings, and for special events, especially on warm weekends in the spring, summer, and fall. Sites are available by permit only; call 720.913.0700 for reservations.
Daniels Park: The only Denver Mountain Park in Douglas County, 1000-acre Daniels Park is characterized by its unique sandstone rim rock setting, historic ranch, bison herd, and spectacular view. A trip along Daniels Park Road affords one of the most significant views of the Colorado Front Range Mountains and the foothill valleys available in our area. The broad 100-mile view extends from Pike’s Peak to the Mummy Range near the Wyoming border and, to the north, to downtown Denver. [Near the] southern entrance is a prominently placed stone shelter that overlooks the mesa landscape....

Daniels Park is an important landscape within a larger regional open space system of 11,000 acres that protects the unique rim rock landscape that stretches from Sedalia to C470 in Highlands Ranch. The Park is split into two parcels by Daniels Park Road and the mesa rim: a dramatic landscape of canyons, low mesas, and hills covered with dense Gambel's oak, ponderosa pine, and an understory of grasses and forbs [below the rim]; and on the mesa top, a rolling mixed prairie grassland.

You can find more on each of these Hearts in Section 4c of the Master Plan.

For an overview of the park tiers described in the draft Master Plan, see Four Tiers of Mountain Parks, posted below.

Introducing the Stars

2008-08-26T06:59:00.008-06:00

When asked what they know about the Mountain Parks, people were clueless. Twelve out of 13 people said they had never "heard of them." But when shown a map, everyone came alive. Stories of Red Rocks on a Saturday morning, fishing at Echo Lake, or just a hike. What did the group recommend? "Let people know they exist."

—Master Plan, Section 3, page 40

Many of Colorado’s most significant landscapes are within the Denver Mountain Parks system. The uplifting sandstone ridges of Red Rocks Park, the steep world-class powder slopes of Winter Park, the resting place of Buffalo Bill, and the high mountain lakes of Mount Evans are icons of the American West, and all are part of the Denver Mountain Park system. These iconic landscapes draw more than one million visitors to Denver and the region each year...

The Stars are those parks within the system that attract the largest crowds, offer the most stunning experiences, suffer the greatest impacts to their natural and cultural resources, and generate the most income.

Red Rocks Park: Just minutes from downtown Denver, colossal rock outcrops rise dramatically from the rolling high plains prairie. These tilted red sandstone formations are Red Rocks Park, the most famous of the Denver Mountain Parks. Created eons ago by the deposition of material and the upheaval of earth, Red Rocks Park is a special place of geologic, historic, cultural, and scenic value. The Park’s best known feature is the world famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre that lies in the naturally formed bowl between Creation and Ship Rocks.... Red Rocks Park’s iconic natural setting offers an outdoor experience that is without parallel. The spectacular rock formations and world famous Amphitheatre attract local, state-wide, national and international visitors. Most visit the Amphitheatre, some travel to the Trading Post, and a few picnic and hike.
Lookout Mountain Park: [This park] has it all—a panoramic view stretching from the Continental Divide to downtown Denver, acres of wooded foothills, the grave and historic collection of Buffalo Bill—(a Western legend), mountain meadows, architecturally significant stone and log structures, a twisting scenic mountain road, and the Beaver Brook Trail. The area is divided into a picnic area to the west below the summit and the Buffalo Bill “campus” to the east with Pahaska Tepee and Buffalo Bill Museum.
Echo Lake Park: When Denver began building the Squaw Pass Road in 1918, they envisioned connecting to a ‘skyline drive to the summit of Mount Evans.’... Denver acquired the lands for Echo Lake Park in what they envisioned to be a ‘scenic wonderland without peer, (standing) as the gateway to national parks of the nation.' ... The centerpiece of Echo Lake Park is the lake itself. It is a wide and long natural lake, situated in a valley at the base of Goliath Mountain, immediately adjacent to State Highway 103. Echo Lake Park is the only mountain park within the subalpine zone.
Summit Lake Park: At 12,830 feet in elevation, Summit Lake Park is the highest of the mountain parks and one of the most scenic. It is nestled at the bottom of a high alpine cirque, located about one half mile north and 1,300 feet below the summit of Mount Evans, and is the only Denver Mountain Park in the alpine zone. Summit Lake Park supports a rare array of alpine vegetation that survives the extreme conditions and short growing season. Rocky soils are interspersed with alpine tundra—a diverse mix of low-lying grasses, perennial sedges, wildflowers, and mosses.... Summit Lake Park is only accessible from late spring until early autumn, along the Mount Evans Road that begins at Echo Lake. The park is entirely surrounded by Arapaho National Forest lands.
Winter Park: As a world-class ski resort attracting visitors from around the world, Winter Park Ski Resort is probably the most unique Denver Mountain Park. Set at the base of the Continental Divide in the Frasier Valley in Grand County, Winter Park has a vast terrain across three inter-connected mountains and an alpine bowl. The ski area offers more than 134 designated runs on 2,886 acres, and runs the important National Sports Center for the Disabled. Winter Park Ski Resort is on city-owned land purchased by Denver in 1939-1940, and is managed through a long-term lease (through 2078) between the City & County of Denver and IntraWest Corporation.

You can find more on each of these Stars in Section 4c of the Master Plan.

For an overview of the park tiers described in the draft Master Plan, see Four Tiers of Mountain Parks, posted below.

Cultural Resource Recommendations

2008-08-26T06:31:00.004-06:00

The following paragraphs are extracted from Section 4 of the draft Master Plan. For more complete information, please review the source document. See page 60 for background; page 63 for detailed recommendations. You may use our Survey Form to provide comments on this or other parts of the draft plan.

Cultural resources are the important features in the Denver Mountain Parks created by people or associated with history. Ranging from early roads built on original Native American trails to the Red Rocks Amphitheatre, they are key to the parks’ character, design appeal, and ability to convey the history and story of Denver and the West.

A major challenge for Denver is to adequately maintain, enhance, and market these historic assets both for Denver residents and tourists. It requires consistent reinvestment over time. The return to the City is in the experiences they provide to residents, as well as the economic benefit from the growing sector of heritage tourism.

Preserve historic features and structures including original roads, trails, structures, and buildings.
Complete a system-wide assessment and plan of potential uses and roles for all of the major historic lodges and structures, including sites that currently have no public access such as the Morrison CCC Camp, the Patrick House, and the Daniels Park ranch buildings.
Rehabilitate the architecturally significant structures for their highest and best uses.
Rehabilitate the park stone houses and their settings for continued use as park shelters and picnic sites.
Assure that new construction and enhancements of existing features do not diminish the design integrity and legacy of the system.

Recreation Recommendations

2008-08-25T09:59:00.007-06:00

The following paragraphs are extracted from Section 4 of the draft Master Plan. For more complete information, please review the source document. See page 48 for background; page 56 for detailed recommendations. You may use our Survey Form to provide comments on this or other parts of the draft plan.

The goal for Denver Mountain Parks is to provide the amenities and programs that take advantage of but do not diminish the valuable natural and cultural resources and that meet today’s recreation needs and desire to connect kids with nature.

Upgrade the System’s Physical Infrastructure to better connect residents and tourists (especially families) with nature, and to provide basic amenities and an improved recreational experience.
Connect Kids with Nature by creating additional facilities for youth camps, overnight programs, and leadership programs at those parks that can best accommodate these needs.
Provide Recreational Experiences that complement Denver’s urban park experiences and are compatible with the character of Denver Mountain Parks, that meet the needs of Denver residents and visitors, and that contribute to the regional recreational and open space system of the Denver Front Range.
Provide Regional Trail Connections to adjacent open space lands by adding new multiple-use trails. Work with adjacent agencies and organizations to implement the regional trail system.
Create a Wayfinding System for the Denver Mountain Parks to clearly identify parks and park facilities and to provide direction on access points, associated facilities, and rules and regulations. Provide a comprehensive system that includes signs, brochures, trail and park maps, and web site information.
Provide a World Class Experience for visitors and expand tourism opportunities by rehabilitating the historic park shelters, lodges, and well houses to continue offering an authentic mountain park setting.

Recreation Evaluation Criteria

Is the type of use, level of activity, and location consistent with the mission and goals? Are there any land restrictions or legalities that restrict or prohibit the use?
Is there a demonstrated demand for the use within Denver Mountain Parks?
Is the use compatible with the system and the park’s existing recreation experiences?
Are there additional or elevated safety concerns? Are staffing and management levels adequate to meet the maintenance and operations for the type of use, level of activity, or location?
Does the type of use, level of activity, or location have significant impact on the natural resources, cultural/historic resources, or character of the park?

Four Tiers of Mountain Parks

2008-08-24T08:03:00.004-06:00

From the Master Plan:

Each of Denver's Mountain Parks has its own distinct character, however it shares similarities with other parks—in audience, uses, geography, and historic integrity. These similarities offer a means of categorizing the parks for purposes of discussion and recommendations, as well as better understanding the role that each park plays in the larger system.

The four broad tiers of the Denver Mountain Parks, and the parks considered part of each, are:

The Stars:

Red Rocks Park
Lookout Mountain Park, with Buffalo Bill's Museum and Gravesite
Echo Lake Park
Summit Lake Park
Winter Park

The Hearts:

Genesee Park
Dedisse Park
Newton Park
Daniels Park

The Picnic Parks:

Bear Creek Picnic Parks
- Little Park
- Corwina Park
- O'Fallon Park
- Pence Park
- Bell Park
- Cub Creek Park
Gateway Picnic Parks
- Fillius Park
- Bergen Park
- Turkey Creek Park

The Conservation/Wilderness Parks:

21 undeveloped parks, set aside for their resource values, including views, watershed, and wildlife habitat

Through the week, we'll offer summaries here on the blog of recommendations for parks in each tier, but please look for more details in the Master Plan. You may leave comments here, or try our new Comment Survey.

Reply on Conservation/Wilderness Parks

2008-08-23T08:04:00.000-06:00

We appreciate recent comments about the conservation/ wilderness parcels in the Mountain Park System from Zane and Knoxy.

Some Denver Mountain Park parcels acquired primarily for conservation or view (e.g., Hicks Mountain and Mt. Judge) have potential for passive recreation and a rich cultural history to protect and share. Clearly some of these conservation areas, especially cliff faces or other important wildlife habitat, will be conserved as they are. Many have little or no public access, or the only nearby road is a small, residential mountain road that's insufficient (or inappropriate) to accommodate the public.

We think it is important to respect quiet residential neighborhoods and private property, and do not encourage public access that is intrusive or illegal. Neighbors of these remote Denver Mountain Parks have had informal access to these parcels and, in many cases, have provided a level of helpful stewardship and extra "eyes" on these parks.

The Master Plan does not recommend restricting access for those adjacent to remote parks, or those who have permission from adjoining landowners to access the land, unless access routes are destructive or unsustainable. We do expect that all activity on parklands will conform to established park rules and will protect the resource. [The Master Plan suggests only that we should “identify and close problematic social trails” in these parks.]

Your comments have triggered discussion. There are parcels that might benefit from better safety and maintenance access by DMP staff, but limited budgets preclude new acquisition to provide access or recreational development. However, when appropriate opportunities do arise, we hope to take them. We are continuing discussions with Clear Creek, Douglas, and Jefferson Counties, as well as other land management agencies, about joint projects, possible trails, and conservation easements. New Clear Creek County Open Space and Forest Service lands adjacent to remote DMP parcels may allow us to plan for some public access where it wasn't possible before.

We are interested in any information on history you can share about the Mountain Parks and look forward to hearing more from you.

Thanks.

Susan Baird, Natural Resources Planner

Conservation/Wilderness Parks (Comment)

2008-08-21T10:23:00.006-06:00

From Knoxy, Jefferson County, August 17, 2008:

I am a resident of the Evergreen area near Hicks and Witter Gulch. Parks like Forsberg and Hicks hide anecdotal history that should be noted and preserved. For instance, I'd bet that the Foundation Board Members don't realize that on Hicks there is the ruins of what appears to be a significant hunting lodge. About 4 hand-built log cabins.

The mining history on Hicks and in Forsberg is worth mentioning. The area was once well known for semi-precious stones and minerals like smokey quartz, garnet, and mica (mined by Coors).

These areas are outdoor museums for those of us that are willing to walk through the forest. I would consider a moratorium on construction in the area before I would consider closing parks like Hicks and Forsberg. I fully respect the rights of landowners around Witter Gulch and Hicks and will continue as I would expect the same. But I will not respect the restrictions to DMP sites like Hicks and Forsberg.

For reply to this comment, see Reply on Conservation/Wilderness Parks.

Pine Beetle in Mountain Parks (Comment)

2008-08-21T10:14:00.006-06:00

From Kay, August 19, 2008

I have spent almost my entire summer driving around and sightseeing in Colorado. I've spent lots of time in our national parks and believe with all my heart that we live in the most beautiful State in the U.S.

I was, of course, troubled to see whole forests that have been wiped out by the pine beetle disease and while looking at all that vast acreage, I was wondering why those whole areas couldn't be cleared, new planting be done and why we couldn't build wind generators in the cleared areas. I don't find them unsightly; and I actually think wind generators would be less unsightly then all the rust colored trees we currently see. I think it would be a great multi-use project and would in no way detract from the thousands (millions?) of acres of beautiful forest land we enjoy.

I hope the plan will include projects such as wind generating and/or other ideas that will benefit all Americans and encourage healthy use of our natural resources.

From Susan Baird, Natural Resources Planner:

Thank you for writing. We, too, are concerned about the spread of pine beetle and don’t know yet what that impact will be to the 14,000 acres of Denver Mountain Parks, primarily in Jefferson County. Fire, erosion, and impact on wildlife and water quality are some of the problems resulting from such widespread deforestation. We also are committed to making our park system more sustainable and are working with Denver’s overall Greenprint initiative. We’ll look into your suggestion (the feasibility and impacts of wind turbines in a mountainous area) in the event that we are faced with such decisions.

Mountain Parks Signage (Comment)

2008-08-21T10:05:00.007-06:00

From Anne, Denver County, August 19, 2008:

We try to use some of the mountain parks with our grandchildren. The signage is totally inadequate. We get lost; we can't find an area we are looking for; we don't understand what is park (where we are welcome) or what is private, etc. The websites are adequate, but once we get there, we feel lost, etc.

Thanks for asking.

From Susan Baird, Natural Resources Planner:

Thank you so much for taking the time to send us these comments. We agree with you, and we know that years of inadequate funding have left Denver Mountain Parks without maps, good signage, clear boundary markers, and other amenities. The recently completed Draft Master Plan strongly recommends improving these important amenities for visitors, and we hope to have maps and better signage within the next year or so.

Bear Creek Trail from Lair o' the Bear (Comment)

2008-08-12T10:40:00.003-06:00

From Ann, Jefferson Co., August 12, 2008:

I would like information on the appropriate procedure to petition Denver Mountain Parks for an equestrian trail from the "multi-use" Bear Creek Trail to access a luncheon destination at the Bear Creek Tavern. I recently tried that, but I was on a "Hiker only" trail and was turned back.
If the westernmost "Hiker" only trail (Western Ridge/Picnic) could be designated as a "Hiker/Horse" only trail that would help many of us [who] once enjoyed access to the Bear Creek Tavern in Kittredge for lunch. The restaurant has a tie rail in their back yard and they are horse friendly!

There are so many bikers now enjoying the Bear Creek trail from Lair of the Bear to Pence Park, that it can be very frustrating for equestrians and hikers. There are few areas on this trail to safely step off the trail for bikers. Pence Park is not a destination for equestrians since access requires crossing a highway.

Jefferson County Open Space has trails in their system designated as "Hiker/Horse" only or on alternate days from bikers. (Horses and Hikers are allowed on those trails, but bikers are allowed only on an "alternate day" rotation. Conflicts on the trails are 95% between all other user groups and bikers.)

We very much appreciate when Denver Mountain Parks allows horses on its trails. Thank you.

From Susan, Natural Resources Planner:

Thanks for the recommendation—we’re in the midst of finalizing the trail plan for the Master Plan (primarily where we’re going to make multi-use trail connections) and want to sit down and discuss all this. We’re certainly open to tweaks and changes and look forward to talking to you. I’ll try to set up a meeting.

Kids in the Parks (Comment)

2008-08-06T14:36:00.007-06:00

From Judith, Denver Co., August 5, 2008:

One simple comment – I think a priority must be to get Denver Kids to the mountain parks. So many field trips and expeditions think they need to go into the “wilderness” when it’s at their back door.

I also believe that if the kids use the parks they will be the next generation of voters to want to keep this treasure. If they don’t know about it they won’t keep funding it in the future. I think this should be a high priority in the master plan.

I don’t know if DPS can make a request that each class must visit one of the mountain parks each semester. Who knows maybe there could be an incentive program to get them there to perform a civic duty and get a discount to water world or some other partnership.

Reply from Susan Baird, planner:

Thank you for your comment---it very much reaffirms the priorities stated and shared for the Denver Mountain Parks. Currently, DPS third graders (in a program with the Denver Museum of Nature and Science) can visit Genesee Park for a half day. And for some kids, we know that is their only experience out of the city. In our brainstorming, we’ve discussed whether DPS could establish an Outdoor Lab in the Denver Mountain Parks for elementary school kids and then devote their more remote site in Boulder County (Balarat) to older kids. How can we get more kids and families connected to nature, to the outdoors, starting in their own backyards!
If you’d like to be involved in any future discussions about programs and strategies to expand those opportunities for Denver kids, please let us know. Thanks.

Rock Climbing (Comment)

2008-08-06T14:29:00.006-06:00

From Thomas, July 28, 2008:

I was reviewing the master plan that is posted on the Internet. I'm curious. Rock Climbing isn't really mentioned too much as far as I can find. From what I understand, this is an activity that is frowned upon in any Denver Mountain Park. Am I correct in my understanding of that? If so, why is that the case. It seems like a popular activity in Denver.

Reply from Susan Baird, planner:

Thank you for your letter. We’ll share it with the Master Plan community Advisory Group for discussion, post it for others to read, and keep it on record.
Not many specific activities or sports (rock climbing, dogs off leash, etc.) were discussed in length in the plan. However, using the criteria on page 58, we evaluated each mountain park and parcel against its original intent and character (public access or not, passive use or not, quality of natural resources, etc.) to recommend any new use. Some places take further study (such as raptor studies) which is noted in the plan. What we found overall, especially in the context of other adjacent open space systems that are larger and better funded, was that primarily how Denver Mountain Parks are used today fits their size, their purpose, protection of their resources, and complements other systems. For example, we know that hikers wishing to avoid mountain bicyclists visit the Denver Mountain Parks while Jefferson County Open Space parks accommodate the bicyclists. The Advisory Group and team reaffirmed that the priority for the system is preservation of the natural and cultural resources, with a balance of primarily passive recreation.
In terms of rock climbing, for example, the rock cliffs and faces that have potential for rock climbing were originally purchased to preserve views and the land, and not for recreation. That is why most of them are surrounded by private property and do not provide public access. We do not encourage trespass across private land to reach a Denver Mountain Park conservation area and have no plans to purchase any access to these conservation sites.
Rock climbing is a growing sport with enthusiastic participants. The Plan notes that Denver has a controlled property, Newton Park, just off of Highway 285 near Conifer with the potential for permitted rock climbing for the public which we will explore. And we felt that Stanton State Park, opening in the near future, will accommodate rock climbing demand. In essence, the Master Plan team believes that their small size, the lack of access, and their primary purpose as protection eliminate the DMP rock faces for climbing. We would love to work with the climbing community on rock climbing at Newton Park and any future studies. Thank you.

Daniels Park; Signage (Comment)

2008-08-06T14:23:00.003-06:00

From Barb, Douglas Co., July 23, 2008:

WOW!!!! A lot of research, information, and planning. It will take me to Sept to fully grasp it. Susan, I am on the Citizen's Advisory Committee for Daniels Park and met you at several of the meetings. I did not see Daniels Park listed in the Appendix C - Cost Estimates. Did it just get omitted? Will Denver be paving the remainder of the road north of the shelter house? What about upgrades to the picnic areas and signage?

One of the residents on our committee is has worked very heavily with Dinosaur Ridge in getting corporate donations for signage and story boards. He has suggested something similar for Daniels Park and it might be an alternative source of funding that we can pursue. I also have an idea for a stagecoach structure for kids to climb on - and who better to fund that than Wells Fargo. Please let me know about appendix C and if you'd like to discuss the signage sponsorship in more detail, please feel free to contact me. Congratulations on a great master plan.

Reply from Susan Baird, planner:

Thanks---good to hear from you. The Plan mainly reaffirms the Daniels Park Master Plan but we probably should include in Appendix C—thanks for the tip. There’s still a lot of thinking, fund raising to do for Daniels Park, especially in terms of internal trail, access to the historic buildings, etc. I’d be happy to follow up with you on the potential funding for signage and other projects. Let me call you in September and find a time to meet.

Conservation/Wilderness Parks (Comment)

2008-08-06T13:58:00.003-06:00

From Zane, in Clear Creek County; July 23, 2008

My family lives in Clear Creek County at the foot of Hick’s Mountain and we have often enjoyed this amenity and support the idea of preserving the natural beauty of this area. However, the Master Plan offers the following recommendations for the Hick’s Mountain park land (by way of its categorization as a Conservation/ Wilderness Park):

• Considers its primary role as scenic backdrop or a natural resource only.

• Proposes to identify and close social trails into the park and recommends that any trails be obliterated.

In other words, the stated goal of the Master Plan is to eliminate human activity in the Hick’s Mountain Park.

Page 2 of the Master Plan states, “What an unforgivable irony, civic leaders noted, it would be to lose the priceless beauty of the mountains to development or be denied recreational access.” I cannot see how the drafters of the Master Plan can reconcile their position on human access to the Conservation/Wilderness Parks with the above mission statement.

In my area, access to Hick’s Mountain is being actively prevented by surrounding private land owners, not as stewards of the public land, but as part of the formation of enclaves for gated communities that “wall off” the rest of the public from what is supposed to be a public resource. The Master Plan recommendations as currently drafted only assist them in this effort.

I would ask the City and County of Denver to consider public land (all of it) as just that and encourage rather than block public access. The best watchdogs for the preservation and protection of the remote or less accessible properties will be the people that will make the effort to explore these areas (if access is blocked, who will be watching?). The Master Plan should promote public easements into the Conservation/Wilderness Parks rather than actively prevent access.

For reply to this comment, see Reply on Conservation/Wilderness Parks.

Draft Master Plan Review

2008-07-22T14:36:00.005-06:00

The draft Master Plan for Denver's Mountain Park system is now available. Download files at the Master Plan website. Comments are due by September 19th, 2008.

The goals of the Master Plan are to:

establish how often Denver residents use Denver Mountain Parks and whether they consider them important to their quality of life
create a solid plan of stewardship—funding, communications, and regional partnerships
chart ten years of improvements, such as new trails and programs for kids

Here are a few questions to get you started:

Are there any outstanding issues you don’t think the plan addressed?
Are there any recommendations that you would like to add?
Are there any statements or recommendations with which you strongly disagree?

It's our first Master Plan in more than 90 years! Please let us hear from you...

p.s. When you comment, please record your county and/or zip code. Thanks!

Need for Trails Maps (Comment)

2008-06-03T14:52:00.005-06:00

On June 1, we received a comment from Robert on a previous post to the effect that "there are almost no maps of the 14,000 acres under [Denver's] care! Denver has developed these parks for almost a century but has exactly one map (of Corwina, O'Fallon, Pence Park trails) available! ... Denver has failed completely to communicate this fundamentally important information to potential visitors."

In response, Susan Baird, Natural Resources Planner, provides this summary of plans for Mountain Parks maps.

The Master Plan currently being completed for the Denver Mountain Parks absolutely reinforces your concern and the need for maps, signage, and other marketing for the system. The partially good news is that we're working on at least a system-wide map and brochure. A design firm is donating their time to design the map but we still need to find funding for it. The next priority will be maps of each individual park.

The primary reason that Denver does not have current materials like this is lack of funding. Jefferson County, Douglas County, Boulder County, and the City of Boulder all have at least one dedicated funding source (ballot issues) for their open space and mountain park systems and can dedicate up to $200+/acre for maintenance, maps, and staffing. Denver Mountain Parks, like the other counties, had a dedicated mill levy just for them, but it was retired in 1956.

Today, Denver Mountain Parks is one district within the overall Denver Parks and Recreation system and budget and competes with city parks for its operating funds. And those funds have decreased over the past six years for all of the parks. Denver Mountain Parks have approximately $70/acre in operating funds. Our team is hoping to increase city, private, and partnership funds for the Denver Mountain Parks so that we can have good maps, rangers, and quality facilities.

Thank you for your concern.

Visitor Behavior in Parks (Comment)

2008-06-03T14:26:00.003-06:00

We recently had an email letter from a Kittredge resident near our parks in Bear Creek Canyon. She allowed us to share her concerns with the public on this blog. Her letter reads:

In light of the upcoming update of the Master Plan for the Denver Mountain Parks, I am writing to voice my opinion. I live in an area near several Denver Mountain Parks. In fact, one boundary of my property is mountain parks land. My concern stems from my first hand encounters with several folks who have walked up from O'Fallon and Corwina Parks onto the Jefferson County Bear Creek trail. On two occasions I have been riding my bike on the Bear Creek Trail and been asked for directions by people who have said they were lost. The people have been smoking cigarettes while walking along, and both groups have said they were parked below at Denver Mountain Parks.

Here's my request in a nut-shell. As a landowner whose property and life would be affected by a forest fire in the Kittredge area, I am requesting that Denver Mountain Parks institute a policy that makes it illegal to smoke in the park areas that are beyond the reach of local fire-trucks. I realize that enforcement is difficult, but signage at each trail head would at a minimum deter most people from smoking on their hikes.

As a resident of Jefferson County for nearly 20 years I have been hiking and biking all of the foothills parks. Seldom have I seen anyone smoking while hiking or riding bikes or in the parking lots at trail heads. But perhaps because the Denver Mountain Parks serve largely as a day-long destination for families, that just happen to go for a hike, the perception is that there are rangers who will take care of any mishap. There are many who don't realize that these are natural areas with generally dry grass and pine needles that could burn pretty easily and that there is no ranger at the park who can run to the rescue with a fire extinguisher.

I am interested in determining if my request will be put before the planners who are working on the current Master Plan. Please let me know in what way I can make sure my concerns are discussed.

Susan Baird, Natural Resources Planner, replied to this letter as follows:

[Your letter] addresses two concerns that are important to us, too. Many natural resource issues (fire, beetle kill, etc.) pay no attention to property lines and we need to collaborate with our neighbors on this. Plus some people who are new to the mountains may need help with understanding the proper behavior to keep the parks safe and in good shape--smoking, litter, etc. We appreciate you writing us and I'll let you know when a copy of the Master Plan is on the web. Thanks.

Coming Soon: Master Plan Review

2008-04-30T12:29:00.005-06:00

In early summer, a draft of the Denver Mountain Parks Master Plan will be posted on the website at DenverMountainParks.org for public review and comment. Check back here for further updates.

Conversations of civic leaders from the turn of the 19th-20th century led to a vision and, in 1914, a plan for Denver's mountain parks. Changes of the last 90 years—in funding mechanisms, recreational uses, urban growth, new open space systems, and access—call for a new look at the Denver Mountain Parks. How are they used and valued by Denver residents? How can they best serve Denver residents as a recreational, cultural, and natural resource? How can Denver residents and newer partners fund this legacy for its survival into the future? This Master Plan will chart the way for the Denver Mountain Parks for their centennial and beyond.

The Master Plan has two primary sections. The first provides historical background and research on the economic, environmental, and recreational benefits of the mountain parks to Denver citizens, to the City as a whole, and to the region. These chapters identify the gaps between perception and reality; the political and funding realities; and the communication/marketing problems the Mountain Parks system faces as it approaches its second century. The second part of the Master Plan will set out a plan of action for the next ten years and specific recommendations for the system as a whole as well as individual parks and parcels.

Open House at CCC Camp April 12th

2008-03-31T08:23:00.005-06:00

Join us in April as the Denver Mountain Parks system celebrates Denver's 150th Anniversary and the 75th Anniversary of the New Deal with Doors Open Denver tours of special examples of early parks architecture.

A self-guided auto tour highlights two great periods in park history: the City Beautiful Era (1912-1924) as the park system was built and promoted, and the New Deal Era (1933-1941) influenced by the National Park Service and the Civilian Conservation Corps. On Saturday April 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., two buildings at the Civilian Conservation Corps camp in Morrison and the Chief Hosa Lodge in Genesee Park will be open to the public by special arrangement.

Go to our Special Event pages to download maps and detailed tour information. Except for the CCC Camp at Morrison and Chief Hosa Lodge, which are only open April 12th, you can do the tour anytime you like.

Visit the Doors Open Denver pages at City of Denver website for more event information.

Visit New Deal 75 for more information on the national celebration.

New Book Features Mountain Parks

2007-11-26T13:56:00.000-07:00

The new coffee table book, Portraits of Preservation, tells the stories of lands protected by Denver Mountain Parks and other land preservation organizations in the Jefferson County area. Written and photographed by Mike Strunk, the book is available at many area bookstores.

A book-signing event will be held at the Tattered Cover (LoDo, at 16th & Wynkoop) on December 7th.

More details at: New Book features Mountain Parks
or at Sagebrush Photography

Plans for Summit Lake Park

2007-10-16T08:11:00.000-06:00

This fall, Denver Parks & Recreation plans to submit a State Trails Grant request for improvements at Summit Lake Park. The project proposes to

restore and rebuild the trailhead area

improve the parking lot

close and restore several existing social trails

improve accessibility of the Chicago Lakes Overlook Trail

add interpretive signs

Summit Lake Park, a 162-acre park at 12,840 ft, has been part of the City and County of Denver Mountain Parks System since 1924. The park is designated as a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service because of its significant alpine plant communities. Approximately 100,000 local, national, or international visitors stop at Summit Lake Park each summer.

As shown in this view of the project area, the existing, inadequate parking lot is an eroded, informal area. The existing park trail to the overlook site is on an unstable slope, and erosion is damaging adjacent tundra vegetation and soils. Social trails have heavily impacted the sensitive tundra plants between the parking area and lake.

The USDA Forest Service, whose staff manages visitor services and daily maintenance at Summit Lake Park, is a key partner in this project. They will provide funds for new restroom facilities at the Park as their contribution to this project.

This long overdue project will create more sustainable visitor access and protect alpine tundra environments at the park by improving the parking area and associated trailhead amenities and trails, while educating and managing visitors. Parking and trailhead improvements are scheduled for construction during the summer season of 2008 and overlook trail improvements are planned for the 2009 season.

We would appreciate any comments you have on these plans. Please mention your county of residence or provide a zip code when you comment.

View of Summit Lake Park, with Chicago Lakes Overlook Trail at left. Showing social trails from shelter house down to the lake. Click on photo to enlarge.

Summit Lake Park

2007-10-05T15:53:00.000-06:00

Several people have commented on the fees for accessing Mt. Evans recreational areas. It’s true that one can drive on state highway 5 for free, but those who use the amenities—including Mountain Park facilities at Summit Lake—need to pay a recreation use fee.

Denver’s share of the fee that's collected supports maintenance, operations, and capital improvement at Summit Lake Park. We now have enough funding from our fee share to use as match for a large construction grant application through the State Trails program. We are intending to apply for a grant that is due November 1, 2007, which, if successful, will greatly enhance trail and trailhead amenities at Summit Lake Park.

More on Summit Lake Park.

Parks Forum at Red Rocks October 13th!

2007-09-23T16:28:00.000-06:00

Denver Mountain Parks and Jefferson County Open Space will jointly host a Parks Forum at the Upper Terrace at the Red Rocks Visitor Center, October 13th from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

There'll be free music and refreshments-- come learn more about the Master Plans currently under development.

Additional information is available at the Denver Mountain Parks Foundation website under Master Plan. This will be a great chance to provide input on the development of these park and open space Master Plans.

Welcome Fall in the Mountain Parks

2007-09-23T12:35:00.000-06:00

Today's Denver Post has an article reviewing several Mountain Parks to visit this fall and find fall color close to home.

Responses on Daniels Park Survey

2007-08-31T20:24:00.000-06:00

At last week's Daniels Park meeting, 21 of the attendees (30%) filled out a quick informal survey. Results are below.

Daniels Park adds to the quality of life in Douglas Co.
All but one of the respondents strongly agreed, for an average rank of 4.8 for this statement. The other strongly disagreed (rank of 1).

It makes sense for Douglas Co. and its residents to help Denver maintain and improve Daniels Park:
Respondents generally agreed with this statement. With an average rank of 4.2 out of 5, agreement was not as strong as the first, and some thought the level of expense the county was recommending was too high.

Daniels Park would add more to the quality of life in Douglas Co. if only: (respondents most often expressed the following comments)

Do the basics (more grading, dust control): 20%

Leave as is, don’t pave: 33%

Maintain the serenity; keep rustic/rural character: 25%

Keep speed limits down (no speeding trucks, etc): 25%

Reduce traffic, introduce traffic calming: 15%

Expand interpretation: 15%

Other suggestions included: Adding a bike path, pedestrian access, or play areas for children; Improving park upkeep; Protecting wildlife, plants, ecology; Making the park available to all.

General Comments:

“I like the rustic nature of the park as it is.”

“Do not want to see Daniels Park Rd. as a thoroughfare; love the current state and bucolic nature.”

“It is a natural beauty that should not look or feel commercial.”

“very misdirected effort destroys rural, rustic park, makes it more urban.”

“Plan looks nice—we love to walk and bike, this would make it safer.”

“Very impressed with the concepts presented in this meeting.”

What's Next for Mountain Parks?

2007-08-26T10:41:00.000-06:00

An editorial in the Denver Post reviews the issues Denver Parks & Recreation is exploring for the Mountain Parks system in the Master Plan currently under development.

Daniels Park Public Meeting and Survey

2007-08-24T07:09:00.000-06:00

More than 70 people attended an open house jointly hosted by Douglas County and Denver Parks & Recreation Dept. Wednesday night. Participants registered comments on a quick survey with these questions:

Denver Mountain Parks contribute to the quality of life in my county. Agree disagree scale
The Denver Mountain Parks system would contribute more to the quality of life in my county if only:
I think that it makes sense for my county and/or park neighbors to help Denver fund improvements (trails, picnic areas, etc.) that are important to me at Denver Mountain Parks. Agree disagree scale
I think that it makes sense for my county and/or park neighbors to help Denver fund on-going maintenance and security at Denver Mountain Parks. Agree disagree scale
How much would you be willing to contribute for improvements that were important to you? $2/month to $10/month scale

I am from ________ County. (Please tell us which in your comments.)

Take the survey-- add your responses by clicking on "comments" below.

Before this meeting, the Denver Post reviewed the plans: Douglas aims to spruce up Denver Park. The Douglas Co. News-Press also ran an article, Daniels Park slated to get improvements.

We'll update links to add any articles published after this event as soon as we hear of them.

Kids in the Woods

2007-08-15T11:30:00.001-06:00

What is the Mountain Parks system's role in getting kids into the woods? This topic generated lively discussion at the Advisory Group's first meeting and at the Recreation Roundtable in July.

Denver already supports active efforts to give Denver's children a mountain experience through Parks & Recreation Department special programming at Genesee Park. We'll have more up on that soon.

The Balarat Outdoor Education Center offers excursions to mountain parks for 3rd grade classes and longer overnight programs (to state parks) for 5th graders. Their programs are closely tied to the curriculum at Denver Public Schools. Learn more about Balarat's programs at the Balarat website.

Our Master Plan Advisory Group will be reading The Last Child in the Woods, by Richard Louv. This important book is generating lots of buzz—even a new bill in Congress. Have you read it yet?

Some Advisory Group members felt that Denver's young people had little or no opportunity to visit the mountains. Tell us what you think: Should Denver do more to bring children to the Mountain Parks?

Share specific thoughts on this issue by clicking on "comments" below this post.

Upcoming Public Meetings

2007-08-15T10:48:00.000-06:00

August 22: Douglas Co., preliminary Master Plan for Daniels Park; 7 p.m. at Timbertrail Elementary School Details
September 12: Advisory Group meeting
October 13: at Red Rocks, joint meeting with Jefferson Co. Open Space (details coming soon)

The Master Plan will be asking about what we should be doing (if money were no object), and what we can actually accomplish. These meetings are a chance for you to make your opinion known.

Events—and minutes of Advisory Group meetings--are also posted on the Master Plan website Meetings page.

Introductions and Commenting

2007-08-15T10:43:00.000-06:00

To create a dialogue here, we’re hoping you’ll use the comments feature below each post whenever you’re inspired. For those who haven’t been tracking blogs before, it needn’t be intimidating! To prevent spam comments, we’ve activated “word verification.” (At the end of your comment, just type the letters you see in the image Blogger displays.) Comments will be checked by a blog administrator to ensure basic standards of language before they’re posted.

Be assured comments won’t be screened just because they’re negative or critical, but we do ask that you keep the discussion reasonable and respectful, even if (when!) differences of opinion occur. We’ll try to respond to your comments whenever possible.

We ask that you “sign” your comments with a name—doesn’t even have to be a real name—so that we can generate a continuous dialogue here at the DMP blog. That is, if you comment more than once, we’d like to have your comments connected to one identity, so please keep track of “who” you are. If you’re not already a blogger, use “Other” to sign in with any identity you like. If you want to be on our mailing list for future information, you’re welcome to use a real name and provide an email address.

In fairness, then, we thought we’d best introduce your Blog Team. I’m Sally, signed in as SLW, and working with Susan (SB) and A.J. (aj). All three of us are employees of the City &County of Denver Parks and Recreation Dept. working on developing a new Master Plan. Joining us will be Bart (WBB), who is director and founder of the Denver Mountain Parks Foundation. We hope other team members and our Advisory Group will also become regular contributors.

Another way to comment, if you prefer, is to email Susan directly. She’s the leader of the Master Plan effort, and looks forward to hearing from you.

That takes care of housekeeping—let’s get on with the discussion!

The Conversation Begins...

2007-08-14T07:05:00.000-06:00

Yesterday's article about the Mountain Parks in the Denver Post is already stimulating a lot of comment. Check it out, then join the discussion-- here or there!

Note: Link above is correct, but only seems to work about half the time. Please try it again if it doesn't work at first!

A Master Plan for Mountain Parks!

2007-08-08T11:46:00.000-06:00

More than 90 years ago, Denver's Mountain Parks system was created to make the mountains of the Colorado Front Range accessible to all: local and regional citizens, as well as visitors to the Denver metropolitan area. Now it's time to review that original concept to ensure that this unique park system continues to serve citizens and visitors today and in the future in the best way possible.

The primary purpose of the mountain park master plan is to bring the 1912 vision that created the Denver Mountain Parks into the 21st century, balancing recreation needs with preservation of natural and historic resources.

Denver's Mountain Parks include 14,000 acres of land located in four counties. This system is unique in the nation. No other city has a park system that includes an alpine lake (Summit Lake, near Mt. Evans), a world-class concert venue (Red Rocks amphitheatre), a ski resort (Winter Park), two bison herds (Genesee Park, Daniels Park), and Buffalo Bill's grave (Lookout Mountain Park). The entire system of scenic parks and roads is registered on the National Register of Historic Places.

The master plan process will involve partners from four other counties, federal and state agencies, and residents in five counties (Denver, Jefferson, Clear Creek, Douglas, Grand) here in Colorado. If you use and enjoy the Denver Mountain Parks-- for hikes, picnics, bike rides, scenery, or more-- or even if you don't, please let us hear from you. Check here regularly for new discussions.

For more information on the Mountain Parks and the Master Plan, see our websites at:

Denver Mountain Parks Foundation

Mountain Parks Master Plan

Mountain Parks History
Denver Parks & Recreation