Cherry Creek State Park | Denver

Cherry Creek State Park is a 882-acre state park located in Arapahoe County, Colorado, southeast of Denver. It features a large reservoir and diverse recreational opportunities.

Visual Characteristics

The park's landscape is characterized by the 880-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir, a body of water with a shoreline of varying textures, from sandy beaches to rocky areas. Surrounding the reservoir are rolling hills covered in native grasses and scattered cottonwood trees. The terrain is generally open with some wooded sections along the creek and reservoir edges. The elevation ranges from approximately 5,400 to 5,600 feet above sea level.

Location & Access Logistics

Cherry Creek State Park is situated approximately 10 miles southeast of downtown Denver. Access is primarily via South Yosemite Street, which connects to East Cherry Creek Road, the main park thoroughfare. The park entrance fee is $10 per vehicle for a daily pass. Ample parking is available at various points around the reservoir, including designated beach parking, marina parking, and trailheads. Public transportation options are limited; the nearest RTD bus route stops several miles from the park entrance, requiring a significant walk or alternative transport.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was established in 1950. The Cherry Creek Dam, completed in 1950 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, created the reservoir. Its original purpose was flood control for the Cherry Creek watershed and Denver, as well as water supply. Ecologically, the area is part of the High Plains region, supporting shortgrass prairie vegetation adapted to arid conditions, with riparian zones along the creek supporting cottonwood galleries.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include boating (motorized and non-motorized), swimming at designated beaches, fishing in the reservoir and creek, and camping in developed campgrounds. Hiking and biking are permitted on over 35 miles of trails, including paved multi-use paths and unpaved natural surface trails. Wildlife viewing is common, with opportunities to observe deer, coyotes, and various bird species. A dedicated off-leash dog area is also available.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at multiple locations throughout the park, including near the beaches, marina, and campgrounds. Shaded picnic areas with tables and grills are provided. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the park. Food vendors are present at the marina during peak season, and convenience stores are located outside the park entrances.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer favorable lighting conditions due to the angle of the sun. The best months for outdoor recreation are typically May through September, when temperatures are warmer and water activities are most popular. Water levels in the reservoir can fluctuate based on snowmelt and precipitation, impacting shoreline access and boating conditions.

Facts & Legends

A significant historical event occurred in 1938 when a flash flood inundated the area before the dam's construction, causing substantial damage to Denver. The park's reservoir serves as a critical component of the Denver metropolitan area's water supply system. A specific tip for visitors is to check the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for current water quality advisories before swimming.

Nearby Landmarks

• Denver Tech Center (3km Northwest)
• DTC Ponds (2km West)
• South Suburban Parks and Recreation District Facilities (1km Southwest)
• Four Mile Historic Park (8km Northwest)
• Cherry Creek Shopping Center (4km Northwest)