Part of getting out into nature means, well, being in nature. But all that human use can disturb both habitats and animals. To preserve the lovely habits of Jefferson County, Jeffco Open Space will soon close some trails and park areas to protect species at sensitive times in their life cycles.
Many of these closures begin on Monday. With nice weather in the forecast for the weekend, now is the time to take that hike.
Jeffco Open Space parks and trails closing Feb. 1
Centennial Cone Park
Elk Range Trail at Centennial Cone Park, including the park’s interior, is closed from Feb. 1 through mid-June to protect elk during their calving season. All other trails are open.
Clear Creek Canyon Park
Portions of Clear Creek Canyon Park near Mile Marker 270 are closed to all public use uphill of US Highway 6 from Feb. 1 through July 31 to protect raptor nesting territory. This closure includes the following rock climbing sites: Bumbling Stock, Stumbling Block, Skinny Legs, Blonde Formation, and Ghost Crag. The Fault Caves are also included in this closure.
Portions of Clear Creek Canyon Park, near Tunnel 2, are closed to all public use uphill of US Highway 6 from Feb. 1 through July 31 to protect nesting eagles. This closure includes the following rock climbing sites: Highlander, Evil Area, and Tetanus Garden.
Deer Creek Canyon Park/Hildebrand Ranch Park
The entirety of Black Bear Trail, which connects Deer Creek Canyon Park and Hildebrand Ranch Park, is closed from Feb. 1 through July 31 to protect nesting birds of prey.
North Table Mountain Park
Rim Rock Trail at North Table Mountain Park is closed from Feb. 1 through July 31 to protect ground-nesting bird habitat and nesting birds of prey.
South Table Mountain Park
Lava Loop Trail at South Table Mountain Park is closed from Feb. 1 through July 31 to protect ground-nesting bird habitat and nesting eagles.
Jeffco Open Space parks and trails closing March 1
Crown Hill Park
The Crown Hill Park Wildlife Sanctuary will be closed through Jun. 30 to protect nesting and brooding waterfowl.
Cathedral Spires Park
The entirety of Cathedral Spires Park will be closed through July 31 to protect nesting birds of prey.
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