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Genesee Park: Denver's Mountain Escape

Discover Denver's largest mountain park: scenic trails, historic sites, and a thriving bison herd just a short drive from the city.

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Genesee Park, the largest in Denver's Mountain Parks system, offers a stunning natural retreat just 20 miles west of the city. Established in the early 20th century, the park boasts diverse terrain, historic structures, and a thriving bison herd, providing a unique blend of recreation and conservation.

A brief summary to Genesee Park

  • Monday 6 am-10 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-10 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-10 pm
  • Friday 6 am-10 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-10 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-10 pm

Local tips

  • Visit the Bison Overlook along I-70 for a convenient and scenic view of the park's iconic bison herd.
  • Hike the Beaver Brook Trail for a challenging backcountry experience connecting Genesee Park to Lookout Mountain Park.
  • Explore the Braille Nature Trail, designed for visually impaired hikers, with interpretive signs in Braille and guide ropes.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Denver, take I-70 west to Exit 254 for the most direct access to Genesee Park. This exit provides access to scenic overlooks for viewing the bison herd. Alternatively, take Exit 253 for access to the Chief Hosa Lodge and the Beaver Brook Trail. Parking is free at Genesee Park.

  • Public Transport

    While there is a Park-n-Ride at Genesee Park , public transportation directly to the park is limited. Consider taking public transportation to a closer location like Golden, and then using a ride-sharing service or taxi to complete the journey to Genesee Park. RTD offers bus and rail service to Golden. A one-way bus fare is typically $3.00.

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Discover more about Genesee Park

Genesee Park, a sprawling 2,413-acre mountain park in Jefferson County, Colorado, stands as a testament to early conservation efforts and the enduring appeal of the American West. Just a short drive from Denver, the park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a diverse landscape, from rolling meadows and thick pine forests to the peaks of Genesee and Bald Mountains. Established in the early 1900s, Genesee Park was envisioned as a recreational haven and a sanctuary for wildlife. The park's history is intertwined with the story of the American bison, which were brought here from Yellowstone National Park in 1914 as part of a conservation initiative to protect the species from near extinction. Today, visitors can observe these majestic animals grazing in their natural habitat from overlooks along I-70. Beyond the bison, Genesee Park offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails wind through the park's varied terrain, providing access to scenic vistas and historic landmarks. The Beaver Brook Trail, completed in 1918, is a particularly noteworthy path, connecting Genesee Park to Lookout Mountain Park and offering a rugged backcountry experience. For those seeking a more accessible experience, the Braille Nature Trail provides interpretive signage in Braille and waist-high guide wires for visually impaired hikers. The park also features several structures of historical significance, including the Chief Hosa Lodge, a rustic stone and log building constructed in 1918. Designed by Denver architect Jules Jacques Benedict, the lodge is named after Chief Hosa, a Southern Arapahoe leader. Other notable structures include a picnic shelter built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) between 1937 and 1941. Whether you're interested in wildlife viewing, hiking, or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountain foothills, Genesee Park offers a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

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