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Lair o' the Bear Park: A Foothills Escape

Explore scenic trails, enjoy fishing, and discover a natural escape in the foothills of Idledale at Lair o' the Bear Park.

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Lair o' the Bear Park, nestled in Idledale, Colorado, offers a refreshing natural escape with hiking trails, fishing in Bear Creek, and scenic picnic spots. Originally a cattle ranch in the late 1800s, it's now a cherished park where visitors can immerse themselves in Colorado's beauty and history.

A brief summary to Lair o’ the Bear Park

  • Monday 6 am-7:30 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 6 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot fills up quickly.
  • Bring appropriate footwear for hiking, as trails can be rocky or uneven.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many tables near Bear Creek.
  • Be aware of mountain bikers on shared trails.
  • Check for alerts and closures before visiting, as seasonal wildlife closures or trail maintenance may affect access.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Denver, take C-470 to the Morrison Road exit. Head west on Highway 74 through the town of Morrison and continue through Idledale. The park entrance is on the left, approximately 5 miles from Morrison. Parking is free, but the lot fills quickly, especially on weekends. Additional parking can be found at Little Park, just east of Lair o' the Bear. Be aware that parking along Bear Creek Road is prohibited when the lot is full.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Lair o' the Bear Park, you can take a bus or light rail to a location in Morrison and then use a ride-sharing service to complete the journey to the park. A ride-sharing trip from central Morrison to the park entrance will cost approximately $15-$25. Check ride-sharing apps for current pricing and availability.

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Discover more about Lair o’ the Bear Park

Lair o' the Bear Park, a popular Jefferson County Open Space park in Idledale, Colorado, provides a delightful retreat into nature. The park's history dates back to the late 19th century when it served as a cattle ranch. In the early 1900s, Swedish settlers John and Mathilda Johnson grew produce on the land. Known as Mountain Nook Ranch, the family sold fresh produce in Evergreen and Denver. The Mountain Air Corporation sold the property to Jefferson County Open Space in 1987, who named it Lair o' the Bear Park after the University of California Berkeley student union. Today, Lair o' the Bear Park is known for its scenic trails and access to Bear Creek. The Bear Creek Trail, a 12.6-mile round trip, is a popular option for hikers seeking a longer, more challenging experience, passing through three adjoining Denver Mountain Parks. Other trails include the Bruin Bluff Trail, offering elevated views, and the Creekside Loop, a shorter, family-friendly option. Fishing is a favorite activity, with anglers casting their lines into Bear Creek. The park also features numerous picnic tables, making it ideal for family outings. Notably, a mile west along the Bear Creek trail is Dunafon Castle, adding a fairytale element to the area. Constructed between 1929 and 1941, the castle is now a wedding and event venue. Keep in mind that the park is open from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. When the parking lot is full, do not park along Bear Creek Road.

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