Cherry Creek State Park
A sprawling state park centered around a reservoir, offering diverse outdoor activities from swimming and fishing to hiking and camping.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Cherry Creek State Park
Best Time
Cooler temps, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling state park centered around a reservoir, offering diverse outdoor activities from swimming and fishing to hiking and camping.
"This is my go-to place when I want to relax and take my dog out."
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike In Free
Skip the vehicle fee by walking or biking into the park.
🐶 Doggy Paradise
The off-leash dog area is a highlight for pet owners!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cherry Creek Reservoir Swim Beach
East side of the reservoir
A refreshing spot for swimming and water activities, perfect for a sunny day escape.

Dog Off-Leash Area
Designated area within the park
A fantastic, spacious area for your furry friends to run and play freely.

Paved Bike & Walking Trails
Throughout the park
Enjoy well-maintained, paved paths ideal for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.

Cherry Creek Valley Ecological Park
500 S Jasper Ct, Centennial
A hidden gem with a 15-minute walk to a beautiful creek area, perfect for exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Entry & Fees
Best Times for Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike In Free
Skip the vehicle fee by walking or biking into the park.
🐶 Doggy Paradise
The off-leash dog area is a highlight for pet owners!
☕ Coffee & Views
Grab coffee and enjoy views from Restoration Hardware's patio.
🚗 Keep Colorado Wild Pass
Get free access with this pass on your car registration.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike In Free
Skip the vehicle fee by walking or biking into the park.
🐶 Doggy Paradise
The off-leash dog area is a highlight for pet owners!
☕ Coffee & Views
Grab coffee and enjoy views from Restoration Hardware's patio.
🚗 Keep Colorado Wild Pass
Get free access with this pass on your car registration.
♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep the park clean by taking your trash with you.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cherry Creek State Park for its beautiful reservoir, clean facilities, and well-maintained trails, making it ideal for fishing, hiking, and water activities. While the park is generally well-kept, some visitors note occasional issues with littering by other park-goers.
"I love this lake to fish It's so clean and so many trees and vegetation and animals I've seen dear many times. I also saw big toad. This is my go-to place when I want to relax take my dog out."
Kathy P Julian
"I went yesterday, July 29, 2025, with my husband. The place is beautiful for hiking and camping, although some young people don't believe in cleanliness and throw trash everywhere, even though the reserve provides them with all the necessary places and trash containers. Nevertheless, the romantic reserve is beautiful, sunny days are available, and water is always available near all the seating areas, and the bathrooms are clean."
Safa Abu
"Great views for a morning run! The attendant at the East entrance was very helpful. Gave me a map and gave perfect instructions on how to get to Dixon for the trail. I ended my run by the lake. So peaceful. I’m going back tomorrow for my 8 mile run down Cherry Creek Dam."
Conoshia Odum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cherry Creek State Park is located in Aurora, Colorado. It's easily accessible by car via I-225 and Yosemite Street. For those looking to save on fees, walking or biking into the park is a free alternative.
While direct public transportation to the park entrance is limited, you can take RTD buses to nearby areas and then walk or bike the rest of the way.
The park has well-maintained paved trails perfect for biking and walking. Maps are often available at the entrance stations to help you find specific areas like the swim beach or dog park.
Yes, ample parking is available throughout the park, especially near popular areas like the reservoir and trailheads. A daily vehicle pass is required.
Yes, you can walk or bike to the Cherry Creek Valley Ecological Park. It's about a 15-minute walk from the parking area to the creek.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A daily vehicle pass costs $11. If you plan to visit multiple Colorado State Parks throughout the year, consider the $83 State Parks Annual Pass. Walking or biking in is free.
Yes, you can enter Cherry Creek State Park for free if you walk or bike in. Additionally, if your vehicle has the 'Keep Colorado Wild Pass' from your car registration, entry is covered.
Cherry Creek State Park is open daily from 5 am to 10 pm.
Reservations are generally not required for day-use entry into Cherry Creek State Park, but it's always a good idea to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for any special event closures or advisories.
The 'Keep Colorado Wild Pass,' included with vehicle registration, provides free access to all Colorado State Parks, including Cherry Creek.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy swimming at the reservoir's swim beach, fishing, boating, hiking, biking on paved trails, camping, and visiting the dog off-leash area.
Absolutely! Cherry Creek State Park features a large and popular dog off-leash area, making it a favorite spot for pet owners.
Yes, the park has a designated 'Swim Beach' on the east side of the reservoir, offering a refreshing place to cool off.
Visitors have reported seeing deer, toads, and various other wildlife, adding to the park's natural beauty.
Yes, there are many bathrooms located along the trails and near popular activity areas, ensuring convenience for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Cherry Creek State Park. However, you can find numerous dining options in the surrounding Aurora and Denver areas.
Yes, the park offers many seating areas and is ideal for picnics. Remember to bring your own food and drinks.
Typically, there are no concessions inside the park. It's best to bring all your food and beverages with you.
The nearby Cherry Creek neighborhood in Denver offers a wide array of upscale dining, casual eateries, and cafes.
While specific grilling facilities might be limited, picnicking is encouraged. Check park regulations for any designated grilling areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The reservoir at sunrise or sunset offers beautiful light. The trails provide scenic backdrops, and the dog park can offer fun candid shots. The Cherry Creek Valley Ecological Park also has unique natural scenery.
Yes, with its reservoir, diverse trails, and natural landscapes, Cherry Creek State Park offers many picturesque opportunities for photographers.
Early mornings and late afternoons, known as the 'golden hours,' provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Colorado State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the latest regulations before flying.
The view of the reservoir, especially from the dam or the swim beach area, is a popular spot. The unique architecture of Restoration Hardware nearby also offers interesting photographic contrast.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Pet Owners
🚴♀️ Cyclists & Runners
🏕️ Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For those seeking a more natural experience, the park also offers unpaved trails that wind through diverse ecological areas. The Cherry Creek Valley Ecological Park is a prime example, offering a 15-minute walk to a beautiful creek area that feels like a hidden gem. These trails provide opportunities to observe local flora and fauna, making them ideal for nature walks and birdwatching. Remember to wear appropriate footwear for unpaved surfaces and stay aware of your surroundings.
Water Activities at the Reservoir
Beyond swimming, the reservoir is also used for boating and fishing. While specific regulations for boating access and fishing licenses should be checked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the presence of a large body of water suggests ample opportunities for these activities. The clean water and surrounding vegetation create an appealing environment for anglers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Dog-Friendly Adventures
When visiting the dog park, remember to bring water for your pet and be mindful of other dogs. While the off-leash area is a major draw, dogs are generally permitted on leash throughout the rest of the park, allowing them to accompany you on hikes and walks, provided you adhere to park rules.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit