SOUTH PLATTE RIVER AND PONDS FROM THE AUDUBON CENTER

Join Blaine, Jan and Cal for this fall Walk into Wellness. The start of this walk will take us to the east side of the cattailed-rimmed ponds where we should get great sunset views looking back over the ponds to foothills. The flat dirt pea-gravel trail is mostly shaded in the riparian Cottonwood zone along the river.  It is upstream of the now-higher reservoir fluctuations allowed in Chatfield Reservoir.  Deer, herons, hawks, ducks and songbirds are often seen.  There are nice river views and Audubon’s cattailed-rimmed ponds offer great reflections of trees, clouds, the foothills and sunset reflections.

Where: The parking lot for the “Audubon Center at Chatfield State Park” is 4.1 miles south of C470 on Wadsworth Blvd. (3 miles past the traffic light for the entrance to the State Park The Aubudon Center abuts the south end of the park and its trails connect to the park’s trails.  This access allows us avoid the park’s fees and access the river trails to the south of Chatfield Reservoir.

Entrance fees:  No.  The Audubon Center parking lot is outside Chatfield State Park but the trails connect with the Park’s trails

Distance: 2-5 miles depending on the group’s interests and capabilities. For those using a wheelchair or those wanting a short outing, we can start with a nice loop around the Center and to the platforms overlooking the beautiful cattail-rimmed pond that is held at a constant level. We’ll then continue downstream along the river where the trail is wider and smoother than the single-track going upstream.

Elevation gain: Negligible – the trail is along the river and adjacent ponds – it’s very flat

Dogs allowed: TBD – allowed on leash in the Audubon’s Center’s grounds and the park, but trail is fairly narrow and can be busy during popular times

Toilets at the trailhead: Yes

 Be sure to bring:  Water, sunscreen, hat and desire to get out an enjoy nature

Hike Leader Number:  720-392-3421 – Blaine’s cell ---  Please call or text if you need to cancel last minute or if you are running late.

Plus Code:  FWV5+M4G  

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