Pine Valley Ranch Park, Northern Colorado Travel Guide

Pine Valley Ranch Park, a jewel of Jefferson County Open Space, offers a refreshing escape into nature less than an hour from Denver. Acquired by the county in 1987, the park encompasses 883 acres of diverse terrain, from pine-covered hillsides to the tranquil Pine Lake and the North Fork of the South Platte River.The park's history is as captivating as its scenery. In 1927, William Baehr, a Chicago businessman, built Baehrden Lodge as his summer retreat. Designed in the 'Rocky Mountain Rustic' style by Denver architect J.J.B. Benedict, the 27-room lodge was constructed in a remarkable 90 days using local timber and stone. The Baehr family enjoyed the ranch until 1956, after which it served as a private fishing lodge and conference center. Today, the Baehrden Lodge is undergoing restoration, with limited openings for historical groups and descendants of the Baehr and Johnson families.Visitors can explore nearly six miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Narrow Gauge Trail follows the path of the historic Denver, South Park & Pacific Narrow Gauge Railroad, while the Park View Trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding Pike National Forest. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line in Pine Lake or the Platte River, known for its world-class fly fishing. In winter, Pine Lake transforms into a picturesque ice-skating and ice-fishing destination.Don't miss the charming gazebo on a man-made island in the Platte River, accessible by a footbridge. This unique structure, built in 1939, was once a picnic shelter where Mrs. Baehr hosted tea parties. Pine Valley Ranch Park provides a beautiful setting for picnics, with two large pavilions and numerous tables available. The park also hosts astronomy programs at the observatory, offering visitors a chance to explore the night sky.