Peak View Park

Park Overview

Nestled in Lakewood, Colorado, Peak View Park is a breath of fresh air in the suburban landscape. This 60-acre open space, formerly the "Taylor Estate," was acquired by the City of Lakewood in 2018 with help from Jefferson County Open Space. And true to its name, the views are impressive. From here, you can see Pikes Peak, Red Rocks, and the Front Range mountains that characterize Colorado's landscape.

Features and Amenities

As a passive-use open space, Peak View Park offers a wonderful escape without overwhelming you with facilities. The park features a network of hard and natural surface trails that cater to walkers, runners, and cyclists alike.

You can find three different trail types winding through the property - cement, gravel, and dirt paths - so you can choose whatever feels right under your feet. Don't worry about difficult terrain; the paths are generally flat without challenging inclines or rocky sections, making them accessible for most visitors.

Across the park, you'll discover thoughtfully placed benches and scenic overlooks - perfect spots to catch your breath while soaking in those panoramic mountain views. If you're a photography enthusiast or just appreciate natural beauty, sunrise or sunset offers particularly good lighting for viewing the mountains.

Access is straightforward with a trailhead and parking lot at the intersection of South Wadsworth Boulevard and Morrison Road. Currently, the parking area is gravel but offers plenty of spaces.

Portable restrooms are available on-site, with permanent facilities planned for future development phases.

History and Name

"Peak View" wasn't just a random choice - local residents selected this fitting name to honor the park's clear sightlines to Pikes Peak. This community involvement speaks to how the park has been embraced by Lakewood residents from the start.

The property has an interesting past, once being part of a 1920s mansion estate. When the city purchased the land, the mansion and guest cottage were sold separately, preserving the natural space for public enjoyment.

Wildlife and Nature

The park is a natural habitat within the suburban setting, providing home to local wildlife. Note that coyotes are active in the area - something to keep in mind if you're bringing your four-legged friends along.

One thing to remember: the open landscape means limited shade. On hot Colorado days, you might want to bring sun protection or plan your visit for cooler morning or evening hours.

Dog-Friendly Environment

Good news for dog owners: Peak View Park is dog-friendly, making it a popular destination for local pups and their people. Just remember to keep your dog leashed at all times and clean up after them to help maintain this beautiful space for everyone.

Future Developments

Though Peak View Park only officially opened on July 7, 2023, it's already becoming a local favorite. As of 2024, improvements are underway at the South Wadsworth Boulevard and Morrison Road intersection to make getting to the park even easier.

The future looks bright with Phase 2 plans including shade structures (which will be welcome on sunny days), a paved parking lot, and permanent restrooms. There are also plans to add picnic areas and potentially extend the trail system, giving you even more reasons to return to this scenic site.