With Colorado’s stay at home order officially in full swing, it looked like it was time to get into the habit of exploring locally. With the ski resorts shutting down and mountain towns asking we keep ourselves out for now, the last two hikes I did were also less than thirty minutes door to trailhead. But with with my little germ magnet in tow, I thought it best we stick to in our hood for our outdoor escapes from here on out.
This was my second time hiking at Chatfield State Park this year with the first being for hike 11 at Gravel Ponds. Chatfield is a state park, so right now all picnic areas, camping facilities and playgrounds are closed but the park itself (including parking lots) remains open for use. The website notes that restrooms remain open, but given the current state of things and our minimal shame in peeing outdoors, we did not attempt to use them, so I’m not certain if that’s the case. Also, the website notes the dog park is also still open! I have yet to check it out, but everyone I’ve talked to absolutely loves it. As always in the time of Corona, things rapidly evolve so please make sure to check park websites prior to heading out.
Chatfield is really, really cool but admittedly not my favorite place for hiking. It’s a great place to run, walk your dogs, play with your water toys, kayak, have a beach day and hammock. Seriously, I‘d have to say it’s my favorite non-mountain hammock spot so far. The scenery is great and my little mermaid heart loves the resevoir and ponds. But, unfortunately, there’s little to no incline for those of us who are crazy enough to enjoy it. This makes for some pretty easy hiking.
That said, no incline makes for one happy five year old and the hike ended up being pretty perfect for our much needed, close to home outdoor time needs. When we arrived, I drove the the park for a bit and parked at the wilife viewing area. We were the first car to park, which was great and pretty typical of this area of Chatfield from past experience. There are maybe 7 spaces here and when we left there was one other car parked.
After the wildlife viewing center pavilon you follow a paved path for a bit and can head out to the viewing area. We stopped there, quite naturally had to go back to the car for something, then veered off onto the actual trail. We rambled around for 2.5 miles and it was easy going the whole way.
Chatfield is so cool because the park has a lot of diversity. One minute you’re on a dusty trail and the next you‘re being lead through a wetland area out into a beach. I think this is one is the reasons I really enjoy exploring this place even with the lack of incline. There’s a lot to take in and each part of the park has something unique to offer if you’re willing to seek it out.
Little man had an absolute blast with the snow, per usual. But also loved playing along the beach area. I could have probably done without stumbling upon the dead fish one of my dogs tried to eat, but you know, that’s life 🤷🏼♀️.
If you live near Littleton and are looking for true social isolation in nature without having to trek very far, there are many areas in Chatfield that can give you just that. We didn’t cross paths with many people and the ones we did were extremely respectful and mindful of the six foot rule. Be safe out there everybody and a huge thank you to those of you playing by the rules right now. Until next time, happy hiking!
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