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Pine Valley Ranch Park: A Mountain Escape

Discover scenic trails, tranquil waters, and historic charm at Pine Valley Ranch Park, a natural escape near Denver.

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Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains near Pine, Colorado, Pine Valley Ranch Park offers a diverse landscape of hiking trails, a serene lake, and historical landmarks. Once a private ranch, the park now welcomes visitors to explore its natural beauty and discover its rich history.

A brief summary to Pine Valley Ranch Park

  • Monday 7 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-8 pm
  • Friday 7 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays or during non-peak hours on weekends to avoid crowds.
  • Check the Jefferson County Open Space website for information on ice conditions for winter activities.
  • Bring a map and be aware of trail intersections, especially when hiking longer loops.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife, including birds, deer, and possibly bears or mountain lions.
  • Leash your dogs and clean up after them to help preserve the park's natural environment.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Pine Junction (US 285 and CO 126), head south on Pine Valley Road (CO 126) for approximately 5.9 miles. Turn right onto Crystal Lake Road and continue for 0.6 miles to the park entrance. Follow the road to the upper or lower parking lots. Parking is free. There are three large parking lots. The first is furthest from the trails. All lots can accommodate large vehicles. Limited parking is available, so arrive early on weekends. Parking at the upper lot is recommended for observatory access.

Unlock the Best of Pine Valley Ranch Park

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Discover more about Pine Valley Ranch Park

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.

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