The Wheat Ridge Greenbelt runs through the center of Wheat Ridge. The 300 acres of open space in Wheat Ridge are primarily made up of the Greenbelt along Clear Creek. It is home to many native plants and wildlife and offers a variety of recreational opportunities. This provides a clear starting point for planning: nature, water and history can each be explored at specific places in Wheat Ridge.
Green Spaces and Trails
At the western end of the Clear Creek Trail are four small lakes formed from reclaimed gravel pits. A 1.5-mile trail with a fine gravel surface runs through the designated nature preserve along Clear Creek. Bicycles are not allowed there, except for bicycles used as ADA mobility aids. The length, surface and usage rules can all be taken into account when planning. As restrictions may change, it is advisable to check the current usage guidelines before your visit.
Wheat Ridge’s designated nature preserve is home to the Ute Ladies’ Tresses Orchid, a plant species listed as threatened nationwide. This connection to the nature preserve adds a specific ecological topic to the Greenbelt’s recreational opportunities.
Birdlife and Lakeshores
The 550-foot-long Bass Lake Boardwalk has viewing platforms and a birdwatching blind; all facilities are accessible. At Crown Hill Park, a suburban setting offers abundant birdlife and lakeside recreation. The wetlands around Kestrel Pond are a wildlife refuge and are home to migratory waterfowl. The highlights differ: Bass Lake has designated observation facilities, while Kestrel Pond is distinguished by its wetlands, protected status and migratory birds.
The Crown Hill Trail in Wheat Ridge follows the shore of Crown Hill Lake. The lakeshore is therefore another specific point of reference for exploring the local natural attractions.
Historic Buildings and Stories
Wheat Ridge Historical Park includes seven significant historic buildings. The Baugh House tells the story of one of the earliest surviving examples of agricultural settlement in the Front Range region. The Soddy is a National Historic Site and is considered the oldest house built of tall prairie grass this close to the mountains.
The former Red Brick House is a Sears-Roebuck kit home. Bert White built it for his wife, Etta, with the help of his sons Leonard and Frank. The historic themes range from early agricultural settlement and a distinctive building method to a specific family and construction story.
Seasonal Recreational Activities
Anderson Pool is a seasonal outdoor pool in Wheat Ridge, operated by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. Its amenities include a 180-foot water slide. As seasonal hours may change, check the current schedule before your visit.
The Wheat Ridge Recreation Center offers a variety of programs and facilities for people of all ages and abilities. Programs and facilities may change, so check the current offerings when planning a visit. The two recreational venues have different focuses: Anderson Pool is a seasonal outdoor pool, while the Recreation Center focuses on programs and facilities for different age groups and abilities.
Discover more destinations: Edgewater, Lakewood, Coal Creek, Arvada, Golden, Evergreen
Return to the main travel overview: Jefferson.
