Colorado’s Chatfield State Park Spring, Summer Then
When fall arrives, and winter comes rolling in after, there are most definitely locations out there you do not want to miss. While some love sunbathing and ninety-degree temperatures on a beach, one state is awarded the highest praise by outdoor enthusiasts who wish to lose themselves in stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes and having fun while skiing, camping, seeing sites, and, believe it or not, enjoying a cavalcade of chocolate!
Colorado is inarguably one of the most beautiful America has to offer. And, there just happens to be a place very close to that bustling city of Denver that once visitors get to see, immediately upon returning to their daily work, get on their computers and start making reservations to get back there as soon as possible. That place? Chatfield State Park.
Colorado’s Chatfield State Parks Unique History
History buffs will be enthralled by Chatfield simply because of the unique background this place has to offer. During that monumental Gold Rush, where everyone wanted a piece of the 24-karat action, some of the very first pioneers settled in the area to claim their wealth. Over a hundred years later, the State Parks of Colorado took over and opened this 5,600-acre recreation area to visitors, and it’s been thriving ever since.
When going to Chatfield State Park, there is nothing you won’t see. Easy to find that perfect individual or group camping niche; even the family dog will love exploring the 69 acres made just for them. Here, in this entirely fenced-off location where no leashes are needed, you and your dog can explore the ponds while enjoying walks on paved and unpaved trails available to you both.
Model Airplane Field and Trail Rides
One of the coolest and most unique places to see at the Park is the Model Airplane Field. For all the aviation “geeks” out there, Chatfield has set up paved runways, frequency posts, and field regulations for radio-controlled aircraft, so make sure to mark this as a “must-do, must-see” when setting up your list of activities.
Wish to head out into that Colorado wilderness just like the pioneers did? Not a problem. Chatfield State Park has stables and corrals; just check in with this horseback riding concessionaire, and the stables will provide trail rides, riding camps, and even allow you and yours to celebrate birthdays in style.
Choosing from the series of over 26 miles of trails that wind through the Chatfield area can be difficult, so make sure to set aside as much time as possible, so you don’t miss a moment of it. The wildlife is stunning. Large areas of open spaces show you the true diversity of habitats and will bring you close to the abundant wildlife that has been smart enough to call this place home. You’ll likely bring home a menu of pictures that will include a Whitetail, an elk, the Bald eagle flying above you, a Red fox; heck, even the prairie dogs and bears, might make an appearance.
At about 3 miles up the trail opportunities for Big Horn Sheep encounters increase. Remember these are Wild Animals
Chatfield Reservoir and Attractions, Chocolate You Ask?
Anglers are most definitely attracted to Chatfield’s Reservoir for both warm- and cold-water fishing opportunities. Popular species include walleye, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, green and blue sunfish, and blue and channel catfish.
And when it comes to exploration. The local attractions make Chatfield State Park the perfect “home base” from which to see it all. Take scenic drives to Aspen. Go along those amazing highways with jagged cliffs that take you over high-alpine passes to reach this glorious location. Only forty minutes west of Chatfield, you can make plans for day trips to Idaho Springs, Georgetown, and Central City to see and learn all about gold rush lore and, quite literally, jump on a classic train in order to experience your very own railroad adventure.
So…where’s the chocolate, you ask? Well, let us just say that Hershey, Pennsylvania is not the only glorious place filled with scrumptious goodies. The Colorado sweet shops have their own rave reviews and are set all around the area, so you don’t miss one single bite.
Colorado Trail Chatfield’s Wilderness Area
Chatfield State Park is one of Colorado’s gems among the many the state has to offer. Chatfield use to sit on the outskirts of Denver, but is now being slowing or quick consumed by the city. I have hiked and fished the South Platte River. This is also the Trailhead for the Colorado Trail. I must confess that I have made 3 trips to Chatfield State Park and have never been on the reservoir or any other parts of the park other that the canyon and beyond to section two of the Colorado Trail. At 3 miles in opportunities happen to encounter bighorn sheep on the trail. Just keep in mind these are wild animal. They are use to people, this trail is well used. Get hiking it’s only 500 miles to Durango. Or the Rocky Mountain States offer a plethora of adventure destinations.
Fly Fish Montana on a Guided Trip
Montana is a mecca for fly fishing, offering up some the finest water in the world. Image a fall walk and wade in Yellowstone park as the Aspens putting on gowns of gold. Elk bugling in the distance as your wading the Gibbon River, Yellowstone or Madison Rivers. If technique is more your style, as casting small dries to finicky rising trout Depuy’s Spring Creek maybe for you. Drifting nymphs from a raft on the Madison River is a great idea. Or hiking and fly fishing the Gallatin River on a golden frosty fall morning. Here at Get Lost In America we are guides and outdoor enthusiasts, our passion lies out there…
Out There Alaska, Italy, Summit Kilimanjaro
Out there adventure is lurking calling you down a trail or a tailing fish on a distant flats. Feel the tug as you listen to the singing of your reel. The silence of dawn in all its brilliance from a mountains peak. Spend a few days on the Island of Sardinia in Italy or a trip into the Italian Alps for Marbled Trout with some rest and relaxation. Live. Adventure Starts Here.
Book A Stay
Now is the time, and Chatfield State Park is calling. Go enjoy those Colorado landscapes under a Rocky Mountain sky. Head to https://www.colorado.com/state-parks/chatfield-state-park today and get your very own visitors guide in order to make those reservations for this perfect vacation.
