Genesee Park: Denver's Mountain Escape

4.7 (1824)

Explore Denver's Genesee Park: Hike scenic trails, witness the bison herd, and discover historic landmarks in this mountain escape.

Genesee Park, Denver's largest mountain park, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Established in 1912, the 2,413-acre park is home to a bison herd, hiking trails, and the iconic Chief Hosa Lodge. It's a perfect spot for a quick nature escape from the city.

A brief summary to Genesee Park

26771 Genesee Ln, Golden, Colorado, 80401, US
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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

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Genesee Park.

Visit the Buffalo Herd Overlook on I-70 for a quick and easy way to view the bison.
Hike the Beaver Brook Trail for a scenic and challenging backcountry experience.
Explore the historic Chief Hosa Lodge, designed by Jules Jacques Benedict.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the park's scenic picnic areas and shelters.

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Getting There

Driving

Genesee Park is easily accessible from Denver via I-70 west. Take Exit 253 for the main park area and Chief Hosa Lodge, or Exit 254 for the Buffalo Herd Overlook. Parking is free throughout the park. Be aware that I-70 bisects the park, so plan your route accordingly. Limited parking may be available near Chief Hosa Lodge.
Public Transport

While there is public transportation to the Genesee Park & Ride , accessing the park's attractions via public transport can be challenging. From the Park & Ride, you would likely need to walk or bike along the I-70 bike path to reach different areas of the park. Check the Regional Transportation District (RTD) website for bus schedules and routes. A single ride fare is $3.00 [https://www.rtd-denver.com/fares-passes/fare-information].

Discover more about Genesee Park

Genesee Park, the first park acquired in Denver's Mountain Parks system, is a sprawling 2,413-acre mountain retreat located just a short drive west of the city. The park's diverse landscape ranges from Clear Creek Canyon to the 8,284-foot summit of Genesee Mountain, offering visitors a variety of outdoor experiences.Established in the early 20th century, Genesee Park was envisioned as a way to preserve mountain views and provide recreational opportunities for Denver residents. Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. played a key role in the park's development. In 1914, the park became home to a bison herd, acquired from Yellowstone National Park, as part of a conservation effort. Today, the bison remain a popular attraction, offering a glimpse into the American West.The park features a number of hiking trails, including the historic Beaver Brook Trail, which connects to Lookout Mountain Park, and the Braille Nature Trail, designed with interpretive signage for the visually impaired. The Genesee Mountain Trail leads to the summit, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The rustic Chief Hosa Lodge, built in 1918, is another notable landmark within the park. Designed by architect Jules Jacques Benedict, the lodge hosts events and serves as a reminder of the park's early history.Visitors can also explore the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) picnic shelter, constructed in the late 1930s, and learn about the CCC's contributions to the park's development. Genesee Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities, making it a worthwhile destination for anyone seeking a mountain escape near Denver.