Embark on South Metro Denver Excursions
Exploring the Best Parks, Trails, & Reservoirs
Cherry Creek State Park & Reservoir
Cherry Creek State Park
4201 S Parker Rd
cpw.state.co.us | (303) 690-1166
Welcome to Denver’s expansive natural playground at Cherry Creek State Park. Centered around an 880-acre reservoir, the park offers a beautiful prairie environment with gently rolling hills and a full range of outdoor recreation facilities. Enjoy camping, picnicking, and facilities for group events. Fishing is allowed with a license, and the park accommodates paddle boards, kayaks, boats, and jet skis during the boating season, starting April 1.
The High Line Canal
highlinecanal.org
Built in the late 19th century for irrigation, is now a 71-mile recreational trail running through the Denver metropolitan area. Managed by Denver Water and supported by the High Line Canal Conservancy, it offers scenic walking, biking, and wildlife observation. While maintaining historical water rights, its main role today is enhancing community life and preserving natural habitats. Ongoing restoration efforts aim to improve ecological health and trail accessibility, ensuring its legacy endures.
Built in the late 19th century for irrigation, is now a 71-mile recreational trail running through the Denver metropolitan area. Managed by Denver Water and supported by the High Line Canal Conservancy, it offers scenic walking, biking, and wildlife observation. While maintaining historical water rights, its main role today is enhancing community life and preserving natural habitats. Ongoing restoration efforts aim to improve ecological health and trail accessibility, ensuring its legacy endures.
South Suburban Parks and Recreation
ssprd.org | (303) 798-5131
A governmental organization serving six communities and three counties in southern Denver. Manages 125 parks, over 100 miles of trails, 5 recreation centers, 7 swimming pools, and 4 golf courses. Committed to enhancing quality of life, it promotes health, wellness, and community engagement through diverse recreational activities and programs.
Parks In Centennial
Centennial Center Park
13050 E Peakview Ave, Centennial
centennialco.gov | (303) 325-8000
A local favorite, featuring a kids' water playground, beautiful nature areas, an amphitheater, and amenities like picnic tables, BBQ grills, and restrooms. This dog-friendly park is perfect for family gatherings and fun.
Cherry Knolls Park
7077 S Elizabeth St, Centennial
centennialco.gov | (303) 953-7625
A beloved local spot featuring playgrounds, sports fields, a tennis court, a basketball court, and a grassy hill for winter sledding. Enjoy the soothing presence of Big Dry Creek, a charming pond, benches, a covered shelter, and a grill for picnics.
deKoevend Park
6301 S University Blvd, Centennial
centennialco.gov | (303) 953-7625
A vast outdoor haven and community favorite, boasting a lighted baseball field, pavilions, tennis courts, a sprawling playground, a 1.2-mile scenic trail loop, and open spaces near the Highline Canal Trail. Ideal for leisurely strolls, sports, and family outings.
Dove Valley Regional Park
7900 S Potomac St Rd, Centennial
auroragov.org | (303) 739-7160
A 52-acre local gem, offers a variety of recreational activities including a playground, volleyball courts, soccer fields, and a baseball field. With picnic tables and swings, it’s perfect for family outings and sports enthusiasts.
Willow Creek Park
8000 E Phillips Cir, Centennial
ssprd.org | (303) 798-5131
A neighborhood favorite, it offers walking trails, picnic facilities, BBQ grills, athletic fields, a baseball field, a tennis court, swings, slides, picnic tables, and public restrooms. It's the perfect spot for family outings and sports activities.
Willow Spring Open Space
7100 S Holly St, Centennial
ssprd.org | (303) 798-5131
A tranquil 158-acre sanctuary featuring picnic areas, trails, and prime wildlife viewing, this verdant retreat is ideal for nature lovers. Enjoy running, walking, biking, and winter sledding, and don't miss the stunning sunset views in this serene haven.
Parks in Cherry Hills Village
John Meade Park
120 Meade Ln, Cherry Hills Village
cherryhillsvillage.com | (303) 789-2541
Discover family-friendly fun featuring a fishing pier, picnic shelter, playground, tree climber, saucer swing, and observation tower. Located on the High Line Canal, it's accessible by bike, foot, or car with ample parking. Explore ponds, wetlands boardwalk, trails, and enjoy shade from 125 trees.
Three Pond Park
S Colorado Blvd at High Line Canal, Cherry Hills Village
cherryhillsvillage.com | (303) 783-2733
Immerse yourself in tranquility by enjoying panoramic Front Range views, shaded paths lined with cottonwood trees, and open fields. Equestrians frequent the area, so please yield to horses. The park offers horse ridding areas, wildlife viewing, natural open space, and parking.
Woodie Hollow Park
N W of S University Blvd & East Belleview Ave, Cherry Hills Village
cherryhillsvillage.com | (303) 783-2744
This serene park features horse ridding areas, natural open space, wildlife viewing, parking, and a shelter for picnics or gatherings, with reservations accepted. Perfect for relaxation and nature exploration.
Parks in Greenwood Village
Greenwood Pines Park
5289 S Franklin Cir, Greenwood Village
greenwoodvillage.com | (303) 797-1779
A 6.6-acre greenbelt ideal for picnics, kite flying, and Frisbee, this park offers shade trees, blossoming flowers, and access to the premier High Line Canal trail. A peaceful retreat open from dawn to dusk.
Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve
4200 E Belleview Ave, Greenwood Village
greenwoodvillage.com | (303) 486-5773
A 59-acre hidden gem. Surrounded by the High Line Canal trail network, it offers a sanctuary for nature lovers, artists, and photographers, providing endless opportunities to capture natural landscapes and wildlife. Experience serenity and inspiration at this pristine preserve.
Rollin D. Barnard Equestrian Park
1001 E Orchard Road, Greenwood Village
greenwoodvillage.com | (303) 773-0252
Spans 13 acres and caters to the equestrian community with a cross-country jump course, outdoor arena, and natural area. It preserves the natural environment and wildlife habitats along Big Dry Creek, making it perfect for equestrian recreation and nature conservation.
Silo Park
9300 E Orchard Road, Greenwood Village
greenwoodvillage.com | (303) 773-0252
11.81-acre oasis with amenities including a large shelter, restrooms, two charcoal grills, a playground, demonstration gardens, an amphitheater, a multi-use playing field, and a natural area with an interpretive wetland trail.
Westlands Park
5701 S Quebec St, Greenwood Village
greenwoodvillage.com | (303) 773-0252
25-acre city park, is a top destination featuring dynamic playgrounds, ball fields, trails, and a pavilion. Enjoy multi-use playing fields, musical instruments, an interactive water feature, and scenic trails. Sports enthusiasts will love the pickleball and basketball courts.
William McKinley Carson Park & Skate Park
6000 S Quebec St, Greenwood Village
greenwoodvillage.com | (303) 773-0252
6.29-acre park offers a skate park, fishing pond, portable restrooms, and a hike/bike trail. Enjoy wildlife viewing from the boardwalk, visit the Mayors' Memorial Garden, and explore the skate park's ramps, bowls, and rails. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and skaters of all skill levels.
Parks in Englewood
Belleview Park
5001 S Inca Dr, Englewood
englewoodco.gov | (303) 762-2680
A beloved family favorite, offering a host of attractions and amenities. From its charming miniature train and delightful petting zoo to expansive playgrounds and inviting picnic areas, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Nestled along the South Platte River, the park's serene ambiance and scenic creek provide a beautiful backdrop for recreation and relaxation.
Centennial Park
4630 S Decatur St, Englewood
englewoodco.gov | (303) 762-2680
Offers a range of amenities including a large pond, walking trails, a playground, and picnic shelters. It's an excellent place for fishing, walking, and enjoying nature. The park's well-maintained facilities and scenic views make it a popular destination for both residents and visitors.
Cushing Park
700 W Dartmouth Ave, Englewood
englewoodco.gov | (303) 762-2680
Known for its beautiful open spaces and recreational facilities. It includes a playground, tennis courts, basketball courts, and a large grassy area perfect for picnics and casual sports. The park's serene environment makes it a great spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Park in South Denver
Harvard Gulch Park
550 E Iliff Ave, Denver
denvergov.org | (720) 913-1311
A vibrant destination blending natural beauty with recreational facilities. Explore grassy areas, winding trails, a swimming pool, and athletic fields for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls.
Mamie D Eisenhower Park
4300 E Dartmouth Ave, Denver
denvergov.org | (720) 913-1311
Offers expansive green space with amenities including a pool, playground, athletic fields, picnic areas, and a recreation center, providing endless opportunities for outdoor fun and relaxation.
Observatory Park
2930 E Warren Ave, Denver
denvergov.org | (720) 913-1311
A serene escape in South Denver with open green spaces, walking paths, and picnic areas. Renowned for stargazing and night sky views, it offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and astronomy exploration.
Platt Park
1500 S Grant St, Denver
denvergov.org | (720) 913-1311
An urban oasis blending historic charm with modern amenities. Enjoy lush greenery, shaded paths, and open spaces perfect for picnics and strolls. Conveniently located near local shops and eateries, it's a beloved retreat for relaxation.