Background

Elk Meadow Park: Evergreen's Natural Escape

Discover scenic trails, diverse landscapes, and frequent elk sightings in this accessible mountain park near Evergreen, Colorado.

4.7
A question is required

Elk Meadow Park, near Evergreen, Colorado, offers over 13 miles of trails through meadows and forests, with stunning views and frequent elk sightings. It's a perfect spot for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature close to Denver.

A brief summary to Elk Meadow Park

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

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowded parking lots, especially at the Lewis Ridge Trailhead.
  • Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing, especially for spotting elk in the meadows.
  • Check the Jefferson County Open Space website for trail closures and updates before your visit.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-70, take exit 252 (if coming from Denver) or 247 (if coming from the west). Continue towards downtown Evergreen on CO-74/Evergreen Parkway for about 5 miles. Turn right onto Bergen Peak Dr; the park entrance is shortly after. Parking is free at the Lewis Ridge and Stagecoach trailheads. Parking can be challenging on weekends. Consider parking at the Stagecoach Trailhead for a less crowded option. Limited EV charging stations are available.

  • Public Transport

    From Denver, take the Regional Transportation District (RTD) bus from Broadway & W 13th Ave to Evergreen PnR {1302}. From the Evergreen Park and Ride, you can use the Evergreen Call-n-Ride service to get closer to the park. Call 303-674-2843 to schedule a ride within the Evergreen Metro District. RTD bus fare is approximately $3. Call-n-Ride costs vary by zone.

Unlock the Best of Elk Meadow Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Elk Meadow Park

Elk Meadow Park, a gem in Jefferson County's Open Space system, is a haven of natural beauty near Evergreen, Colorado. Spanning 1,140 acres, the park boasts diverse landscapes, from open meadows and aspen groves to the slopes of Bergen Peak. Established in 1977, the park's land was acquired to create an extensive protected area, expanded further by adjacent public lands. True to its name, Elk Meadow Park is the most likely place in the area to spot herds of elk. The park features over 13 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, with options ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. The 4.7-mile hike to the 9,708-foot summit of Bergen Peak is a popular, more difficult option. Shorter, easier loops combine the Meadow View, Elk Ridge, and Sleepy "S" trails. Historically, the area was visited by Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne tribes, who hunted and harvested lodgepole pine. Later, it was homesteaded and used for ranching. Today, visitors can explore the landscape and enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing in the winter. The park is also dog-friendly, though dogs must be leashed. Note that the off-leash dog park is currently closed.

Popular Experiences near Elk Meadow Park

Popular Hotels near Elk Meadow Park

Select Currency