· Red Rocks

Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve

One of the nearest locations to Denver offering extensive ponderosa woodland, Lookout Mountain is an easy morning trip from the metro area that can add a lot of variety to your list on a visit to the city. And the park is worth a visit for its expansive views of the Denver area alone! All the typical ponderosa birds are possible, including Williamson’s Sapsucker, Pygmy Nuthatch, Western Bluebird, Cassin’s Finch, the occasional Evening Grosbeak, and (with a good deal of luck) Dusky Grouse. For the latter, look around the parking lot in the early spring. American Three-toed Woodpecker has even been seen here, though it is uncommon at best. Several mammal species not typically present this close to Denver could be seen, including bighorn sheep and elk. Be sure to stop in the Nature Center for a schedule of educational programs and more! Be aware dogs are not allowed at the Preserve.

County: Jefferson

Directions: From I-70: take exit 256/Lookout Mountain and go north to US 40. Head west on US 40 for 1/4 mile to Lookout Mountain Rd. Go north on Lookout Mountain Rd. to Colorow Rd. and continue north to the parking lot.

Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Nature Center - Closed Mondays; Tuesday – Friday: 12 PM – 4 PM; Saturday & Sunday: 11 AM - 4 PM; Nature Preserve - 8:00 AM to dusk
Ownership: Municipal
Admission: Free

Restrictions: No dogs allowed on the Preserve. Obey local rules and regulations

Parking: Paved parking areas
Lodging: Hotels in Golden and Wheat Ridge

Handicapped: Yes
Handicapped Access: Facilities and some trails are ADA accessible

Latitude: 39.730777
Longitude: -105.248491

» Visit the website for Lookout Mountain Nature Center and Preserve