Bear Creek Lake Park
Though overshadowed by Chatfield just to the south, Bear Creek Lake is worth visiting in its own right, especially during migration. Just about any species of waterfowl could show up, and there are usually a few loons present during the fall, along with gulls of various stripes. The best viewing tends to be from Pelican Point. The park also has abundant riparian habitat with a good system of trails along Bear Creek and Turkey Creek; they are most productive during migration, but even in the summer can be worth exploring, with species like Yellow-breasted Chat, Cooper’s Hawk, and even Yellow-billed Cuckoo breeding here. Finally, in winter or during spring snowstorms, the open country of the park is the best place to look for raptors, sparrows, larks, and the occasional longspur or Mountain Bluebird. Note: there is an entrance fee for this property.
Restrictions: Obey local rules and regulations
County: Jefferson
Directions: From C-470: exit at CO 8/Morrison Rd. and go east for approximately 0.25 miles. Head south on Kumpfmiller Dr.; it will curve to the east to the entrance station for Bear Creek Lake Park.
Alternate Directions: From C-470: exit at CO 8/Morrison Rd. and go east for approximately 0.25 miles. Head south on Kumpfmiller Dr.; it will curve to the east to the entrance station for Bear Creek Lake Park.
Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: hours vary (check the website for current hours)
Ownership: Municipal
Admission or Fees: $7 entrance fee
Parking: Varied
Lodging: Camping in the park or hotels in nearby Littleton
Handicapped: Yes
Handicapped Access: Some ADA accessible facilities, trails, and views of the lake
Latitude: 39.652696
Longitude: -105.174866