Cherry Creek State Park
One of the crown jewels of Denver area reservoirs, Cherry Creek is famed among birders in the state both as a rarity magnet and an all-round good birding location. The reservoir typically ices over for a short time typically between December through the end of March. There are a number of good locations to observe birds around the reservoir from various viewpoints onto the lake; as a general rule, the southern parts of the lake are better for shorebird species (especially when the water is low), while areas closer to the dam tend to have more diving ducks. Gulls congregate around the marina and swim beach during colder months, and birds like loons and grebes are most often seen in the middle of the reservoir. In summer months, the extensive cottonwood forest along Cherry Creek is home to breeding species such as Yellow-breasted Chat and Yellow Warbler. Check for raptors, sparrows, flocks of Horned Lark, and the occasional longspur in the open prairie habitats on the western part of the park. A State Parks pass is required for entry.
Restrictions: Please obey all rules and regulations
County: Arapahoe
Attractions: Horseback riding, model airfield, shooting sports, dog off leash area.
Directions: Cherry Creek has three entrances, the Main Entrance, or East Entrance, the South Entrance, and the West Entrance. East Entrance: take Parker Rd. (exit 4) south from I-225 for almost 2 miles to Lehigh Ave. Go east on Lehigh Ave. to the entrance station. South Entrance: Follow directions for East Entrance but continue driving south to E. Orchard Road. Turn west and then turn right into the south entrance. This takes you to the Dog Off Lease Area and the Horse Stables. West Entrance: take Yosemite St. south from I-225 (exit 1) for half a mile to Union Ave. Take Union Avenue east for less than 1/2 mile to Dayton St. Turn right then an immediate left into the western entrance to the park.
Dates of Access: Open year round
Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Ownership: Colorado Parks and Wildlife
Admission or Fees: State Parks Pass. Additional fee for camping and dog off leash area.
Parking: Varied
Lodging: Camping in the park,hotels in Aurora or nearby suburbs of Denver
Handicapped: Yes
Handicapped Access: Handicap access to some trails and most facilities
Latitude: 39.639917
Longitude: -104.831765
Visit the Website for Cherry Creek State Park »
Additional Resources
Learn more about birds reported at this location at eBird:
https://ebird.org/hotspot/L140473