· Red Rocks

South Valley Park

Not far from the famed Red Rocks, the topography at this foothills park is very reminiscent of its more well-known neighbor. Numerous rock outcroppings, tons of thick foothills scrub, and some good riparian habitat along Deer Creek offer a good variety of species to look for most of the year. Keep an eye out especially for White-throated Swift, Canyon and Rock Wrens, Golden Eagle, and Prairie Falcon nesting on the cliffs; Spotted and Green-tailed Towhees in the scrub; and migrants in the riparian habitat. American Dipper can sometimes be found along Deer Creek, best searched for in early spring and fall through winter. In general, the colder months tend to be quiet, though flocks of sparrows may be hiding in the scrub. Visit Jefferson County Open Space’s website if you’d like to stop by one of the other parks they manage in this area.

County: Jefferson

Directions: From C-470: exit at Ken Caryl Ave and go west. At South Valley Rd., head south for just under a mile to the parking area, on the east.

Dates of Access: Open all year
Hours: Daylight hours
Ownership: Municipal
Admission: Free

Restrictions: Obey local rules and regulations

Parking: Gravel parking area
Lodging: Hotels in Littleton, camping at Chatfield State Park

Handicapped Access: Limited

Latitude: 39.566257
Longitude: -105.153558

» Visit the website for South Valley Park