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The 'trails' and tribulations of Waterton Canyon
Why this wild retreat next to the city is such a great attraction — and why we’ve so often had to close its gates.
With the school year almost at its end and warmer days approaching, Coloradans and out-of-state visitors will begin hitting the trails.
But before you plan your hike in Waterton Canyon, it's important to check for closures as our crews have to ensure the safety of our trails and continued operations.
The first closure of 2024 will take place on weekdays from Monday, April 29, through Friday, May 10, for Denver Water’s annual dust mitigation project. Neither the parking lot at the canyon's entrance nor the canyon will be accessible during this time. Waterton Canyon will remain open on Saturday, May 4, and Sunday, May 5, for weekend recreation.
During this time, recreationists will only be able to access the trail on the weekend while construction crews prepare the trail for summertime recreation use.
With more than 100,000 visitors a year, it’s no secret that Waterton Canyon is one of the most popular outdoor recreation amenities for Coloradans and tourists alike. But as a key Denver Water operational facility, the attributes that make this canyon so great can also lead to unexpected closures.
Let’s take a look at some of the ups and downs of this special place.
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Why it’s great: Well-maintained trail for hikers, bikers and horseback riders.
The road for Denver Water employees to access the canyon facilities and Strontia Springs Reservoir doubles as the canyon trail for recreationists.
Because this is a vital road for our operational crews, it’s always well maintained, providing optimal conditions for a family-friendly hiking and biking experience.
Challenge: As a working facility, there are times when infrastructure and maintenance projects create unsafe conditions for the public, prompting us to close trail access.
Why it’s great: A scenic mountain experience without having to venture far from the city.
Within minutes of starting the 6.5-mile hike up the canyon, visitors are engulfed in nature, losing sight of the Denver suburbs that are right around the corner. And as the South Platte River cascades along the canyon path, the echoes of the flows bounce off the valley walls, providing an escape from the everyday din of the city.
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Challenge: Environmental conditions can change quickly in the canyon.
During dry times, forest fires can spark in the area. When it floods, the beautiful winding river trail turns into a hazard, as high waters ascend the river banks. In either extreme, one thing is certain: the canyon gates will be locked.
Why it’s great: The wildlife experience.
The canyon is home to rattlesnakes, bighorn sheep, bears and more than 40 species of birds.
Challenge: The wildlife is a highlight for visitors, but the animals are exactly that — wild.
As we learned from bear situations in previous years, there are times when it’s necessary to keep the public out of nature’s way.
We love Waterton as much as you — for its natural beauty as well as its vitality to delivering our customers water.
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When the construction crews move out and it’s safe for hikers and bikers to rush back in, we’ll reopen the canyon for weekday use.
But there will come a time when we’ll have to close it again. So when we do, know that it’s done to maintain a safe environment for the recreational users and workers who share the canyon.
Looking to branch out during the closure and find other recreational opportunities? See what some other Denver Water facilities have to offer:
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