Walker Branch Park

Location and Ownership

Tucked between two Colorado cities, Walker Branch Park spans 14 acres of community space jointly owned by Lakewood and Edgewater. This unique park actually straddles the municipal border, creating a shared green space that brings diverse neighborhoods together.

You'll come across it in Lakewood's Ward 2, stretching roughly from W 18th Avenue and the Edgewater Civic Center down to W 16th Avenue, nestled between Harlan and Fenton Streets. The Edgewater Library sits right next to the park, making this whole area something of a community hub where paths and purposes intersect.

Recreational Amenities

Walker Branch Park offers a variety of recreational options. Skaters flock to the popular skatepark with its challenging ramps and stairs, while nearby you'll find three separate play areas, volleyball courts, open field space, and shelters well-suited for catching some shade or hosting small gatherings.

The park rounds out its offerings with a ball field, picnic spots, a basketball court, and even horseshoe pits for those looking to test their aim. We appreciate how the designers thoughtfully separated the courts and playgrounds from the skate park area, creating distinct zones where different activities can happen simultaneously without interference.

Playground Areas

Kids have their pick of three distinct playsets, each with its own personality. The first one comes equipped with a ramp bridge, an exciting zip line, slides, ladders, and baby swings. Just a short walk away, the second playset offers slides, stairs, and some much-needed shaded areas for those hot Colorado days.

If you head closer to the library, you can find the third playset with balance beams and ladders that challenge developing motor skills. With this variety, it's no wonder families with children of different ages make this park a regular destination.

Trails and Open Space

The park features smooth, well-maintained walkways that connect seamlessly with the paths around the adjacent library. This network of sidewalks creates an ideal setting for walking, jogging, biking, or roller skating. You'll often spot locals taking their daily constitutional through the park - many make it part of their routine several times a week.

The generous open grassy areas provide plenty of room to toss a frisbee or kick a ball around. And when winter blankets the natural hills with snow, they transform into popular sledding spots where laughter and the swoosh of sleds fill the crisp air.

Picnic Facilities

For meals, the park provides numerous picnic tables, gazebos, and a pavilion with garbage cans nearby. These areas can be reserved for family gatherings and small events, with dedicated picnic spaces in both the north and south sections of the park.

Restroom Facilities

The park offers seasonal outhouses that typically disappear during the winter months. If you're caught short during the colder season, you can use the facilities at the nearby Edgewater Library and Recreation Center during their operating hours. You should note that the north picnic area has fewer restroom options compared to the south section.

Future Development

Exciting changes may be coming. The City of Lakewood, the City of Edgewater, and Livable Cities Studio have been working together on a master plan to breathe new life into Walker Branch Park. Their goal is to enhance the park's role as a special gathering place adjacent to the Edgewater Civic Center.

The park's unique position spanning two municipalities creates a special opportunity to address the varied recreation needs of these connected communities. The park already offers various amenities for outdoor activities and gatherings, and the planned improvements aim to build upon these existing features.