Wheat Ridge: Nature, History and Trails along Clear Creek

Wheat Ridge combines expansive natural areas, historic landmarks and a wide range of recreational opportunities. The Wheat Ridge Greenbelt is particularly prominent; it runs through the center of the town and is part of the landscape along Clear Creek. When planning a trip, you can combine active days, nature observation and cultural and historical discoveries here.

Nature Experiences at the Greenbelt and Clear Creek

The approximately 300 acres of open space in Wheat Ridge include, above all, the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt along Clear Creek. There you will find numerous native plants and wildlife, as well as a variety of recreational opportunities. At the western end of the Clear Creek Trail are four small lakes that were created from reclaimed gravel pits. This landscape combines the history of its former use with a present-day natural area.

In the designated nature preserve along Clear Creek, a 1.5-mile path with a fine gravel surface runs through the area. Bicycles are not permitted there; the exception is bicycles used as ADA mobility aids. This rule is just as important as the trail length when planning your day. The Ute Ladies’ Tresses Orchid also grows in this area; it is classified as a federally threatened plant species.

Crown Hill Park also offers a diverse bird population and recreational opportunities by the lake in a suburban setting. The wetlands around Kestrel Pond are a wildlife refuge and provide a habitat for migrating waterfowl. Anyone who enjoys spending time by the water can include the Crown Hill Trail in their plans; it follows the shore of Crown Hill Lake. The 550-foot Bass Lake Boardwalk adds viewing platforms and a bird-watching station to the selection; all facilities there are accessible to people with disabilities.

History and Recreation for Different Vacation Days

Wheat Ridge Historical Park comprises seven significant historic structures. The Baugh House conveys the history 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 made from tall prairie grass in this proximity to the mountains. Another historic detail is the former Red Brick House: It is a Sears-Roebuck kit house that Bert White built for his wife Etta with the help of his sons Leonard and Frank.

Anderson Pool is a seasonal outdoor pool in Wheat Ridge and is operated by the city’s parks and recreation department. Its facilities include a 180-foot-long water slide. Wheat Ridge Recreation Center offers a wide range of programs and facilities for people of all ages and with different abilities. When planning, you can therefore alternate between nature trails, historical topics, water-based activities and offerings for different interests.

Wheat Ridge as a Place to Look for Accommodation

When looking for a vacation rental or vacation home in Wheat Ridge, it helps to first determine the focus you want for your trip. Choose your accommodation based on whether you want to combine nature, history and recreational opportunities in a balanced daily itinerary or place greater emphasis on one of these areas.

For orientation, the Crown Hill Garland Trailhead is located at 9357 West 26th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033. Other visitor attractions in Wheat Ridge include Wheat Ridge Historical Park, Parks & Open Space, Anderson Pool and Wheat Ridge Recreation Center.

More Destinations for Orientation

If you would like to compare Wheat Ridge with additional destinations, you can find Golden, Edgewater, Arvada, Coal Creek, Evergreen and Lakewood here.

For the higher-level travel overview: Jefferson.