May 1, 2024

Accessing the Remarkable Network of Trails in Parker and Beyond

Parker, Colorado, nestled just southeast of Denver, is a hidden gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town offers a wealth of trails and open space, perfect for those looking to experience the great outdoors without venturing too far. The trails around Parker offer picturesque landscapes and convenient regional trail connections for the community. Over the years, the region has seen significant growth in the number of trails and open spaces, making it a hub for hiking, biking, and equestrian activities.

One of the defining features of the trail system in Looking Glass is its emphasis on regional trail connections. Parker is home to a vast network of trails that spans multiple parks, open spaces, and neighborhoods, providing endless opportunities for exploration. The Looking Glass community is situated right alongside Lemon Gulch and Crowfoot Valley Road, where adventurers will find a connected network of accessible, scenic trails.

Cherry Creek Regional Trail

The Cherry Creek Regional Trail is a prime example of Parker’s commitment to regional connectivity. More than 40 miles long, the trail begins in Denver at the convergence of the East and West Cherry Creeks and passes through Parker before continuing on to Franktown and Castlewood Canyon State Park. The trail offers stunning views of the Cherry Creek Reservoir and provides easy access to a variety of recreational activities.

Soon, the wide, paved Lemon Gulch Trail along Crowfoot Valley Road will be connected to Stroh Soccer Park and the Cherry Creek Regional Trail, offering endless options for short and long urban treks directly from Looking Glass.

Throughout Parker’s Open Space corridor, the Parker Equestrian Trail runs roughly parallel to the Cherry Creek Trail, allowing another valuable opportunity for those on horseback.

East/West Regional Trail

The East/West Regional Trail is another noteworthy trail that runs through Parker. This 28-mile trail connects the eastern and western parts of the county, passing through parks, open spaces, and scenic vistas. The landscape of oak bluffs and grasslands, along with the comfortable concrete surface, make the trail a popular choice for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Preservation Park and Trail

While short, the half-mile trail at Preservation Park in the northern part of Parker, CO, certainly delivers on scenic beauty. The 4-acre park surrounding the trail offers plenty of off-trail spaces to explore, with excellent views of the mountains.

Baldwin Gulch Trail

Another great trail to check out when you find yourself in the northern part of Parker, CO, is the Baldwin Gulch Trail. Just under 1.5 miles, this paved trail follows the waterway of Baldwin Gulch from Lincoln Avenue to Pine Lane. The Baldwin Gulch Trail also connects with the Cherry Creek Trail.

Prairie Voice Loop

In the southeastern part of Parker, you’ll find the Prairie Voice Loop, a 1.8-mile natural surface trail that explores open space in the Idyllwilde area.

This Parker trail is particularly popular because of its serene grassland environs, views of the Front Range, and opportunities for year-round recreation, including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter months. The Prairie Voice Loop can be accessed via the Cleveland Drive endpoint of the paved Tallman Gulch Trail. You can also park at the Tallman Meadow Park parking lot and walk .8 miles on the Tallman Gulch Trail to reach the Prairie Voice Loop.

Explore the Trails of Parker from the Comfort of Looking Glass

The regional trail network in Parker provides residents with a safe and accessible way to enjoy the outdoors, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. These outdoor recreation spaces also foster a sense of community by bringing people together through shared experiences. The Parker Trail Ambassadors program, a group of dedicated volunteers that monitor the health and maintenance of the town’s trail system, is a prime example of this community connectivity.

Access to these resources makes Looking Glass a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a blend of adventure and tranquility. Nature is calling, and the extensive Parker trail system makes it easy for you to answer. Find your new home in Looking Glass and make these trails a part of your daily routine.