
Ketner Lake Open Space
A serene open space with well-maintained trails, offering beautiful Front Range views and abundant wildlife for running, walking, and fishing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, abundant wildlife

Ketner Lake Open Space
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, abundant wildlife

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene open space with well-maintained trails, offering beautiful Front Range views and abundant wildlife for running, walking, and fishing.
"Beautiful space to enjoy the outdoors with plenty of wildlife and well-maintained paths."

🐾 Keep Dogs Leashed
Coyotes are present; always keep dogs on a leash. Water is not safe for swimming.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained gravel and concrete, ideal for running or walking.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Loop Trail
Around Ketner Lake
A scenic 1.1-mile loop offering picturesque views of the Front Range and abundant wildlife. Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk jog.

Wildlife Spotting
Throughout the open space
Keep an eye out for rabbits, diverse bird species, insects, great blue herons, cranes, and turtles. A true nature lover's paradise.

Fishing Opportunities
Ketner Lake
Cast a line and try your luck! Anglers have reported success catching trout, making it a rewarding spot for a day of fishing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Leash Up for Wildlife Encounters
Trail Etiquette & Maintenance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Keep Dogs Leashed
Coyotes are present; always keep dogs on a leash. Water is not safe for swimming.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained gravel and concrete, ideal for running or walking.
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The lake is known for trout fishing, with some visitors reporting good catches.
📸 Capture the Views
Enjoy picturesque views of the Front Range, especially from the western side of the lake.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Keep Dogs Leashed
Coyotes are present; always keep dogs on a leash. Water is not safe for swimming.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Trails are well-maintained gravel and concrete, ideal for running or walking.
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The lake is known for trout fishing, with some visitors reporting good catches.
📸 Capture the Views
Enjoy picturesque views of the Front Range, especially from the western side of the lake.
🐦 Bird Watching Hotspot
Abundant birdlife makes this a great spot for birdwatchers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Ketner Lake Open Space for its beautiful scenery, well-maintained trails, and abundant wildlife. It's a highly recommended spot for running, dog walking, and enjoying nature. Some caution is advised regarding coyotes and lake water safety for pets.
"What a beautiful space to enjoy the outdoors! I went for a lovely four mile run here on my stay in town. There are plenty of entrances and exits to the open space. The path is very well maintained with both hard packed gravel and concrete. The views are beautiful. There’s wildlife. I saw a few rabbits, plenty of birds and a number of insects. Highly recommend. My only complaint is the CBD ad by some local vendor…I’m not into it."
Arthur Jameson
"A 1.1 mile loop around the lake with connecting trails to the neighboring communities. Great for dog walking, jogging, fishing, and bird watching. I saw a great blue heron here recently! Picturesque view of the front range from the western side of the lake.
Be on the lookout for coyotes, especially in winter, and make sure your dog is leashed at all times because of their presence.
The water has been known to harbor dangerous bacteria, so I would not recommend letting your dog swim here."
D G
"Such a beautiful place to walk! You may be lucky to spot a good sunset or some amazing wildlife, like cranes and turtles. Dog owners beware though- I've spotted a coyote on more than one occasion, too."
Sara Hajalie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ketner Lake Open Space has multiple entrances, making it easily accessible. Check local maps for the closest entry point to your starting location. Parking is available at various access points.
Yes, parking is available at several entrances to the open space. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as spots can fill up.
Information on public transportation routes to Ketner Lake Open Space can vary. It's recommended to check local transit schedules and routes for the most up-to-date information.
Ketner Lake Open Space is generally free to enter and explore. Enjoy the natural beauty without an admission fee.
While primarily known for walking and running, some trails may be suitable for cycling. However, always be mindful of other users and posted trail regulations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ketner Lake Open Space is typically open from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to confirm specific hours with local park authorities if you plan a visit outside of standard daylight hours.
No, there are no tickets required to enter Ketner Lake Open Space. It is a public space for everyone to enjoy.
A valid fishing license is typically required to fish in Ketner Lake. Regulations and license requirements can be checked with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Ketner Lake Open Space does not typically offer reserved picnic areas. Visitors can usually find open spots for picnicking on a first-come, first-served basis.
There is no entrance fee to access Ketner Lake Open Space, making it an accessible destination for outdoor recreation.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The trails are well-maintained, featuring both hard-packed gravel and concrete surfaces, making them suitable for running, walking, and dog walking.
Absolutely! Ketner Lake Open Space is a fantastic spot for bird watching, with visitors frequently spotting various species of birds.
Yes, dogs are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash at all times due to the presence of wildlife like coyotes.
It is not recommended for dogs to swim in Ketner Lake as the water has been known to harbor dangerous bacteria.
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including rabbits, birds, insects, great blue herons, cranes, turtles, and potentially coyotes, especially in winter.
🍽️ 🎣 Food & Dining
There are no restaurants or cafes located directly within Ketner Lake Open Space. It's advisable to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic.
Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Ketner Lake Open Space. There are many scenic spots to enjoy a meal outdoors.
You may find food vendors in the surrounding areas or nearby towns. It's best to research local options before your visit if you plan to purchase food.
Alcohol policies can vary by location. It's recommended to check local regulations regarding alcohol consumption in public open spaces.
Grocery stores are typically located in the nearby towns and cities. Plan your shopping trip before heading to the open space if you need to stock up on picnic supplies.
📸 📸 Photography
The western side of the lake offers picturesque views of the Front Range, ideal for landscape photography. The lake itself and its surrounding natural beauty are also great subjects.
Yes, late afternoons and evenings can offer beautiful lighting for photography, with potential for stunning sunsets over the landscape.
Certainly! The abundance of wildlife, from birds to rabbits, provides excellent opportunities for nature photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Drone usage policies can vary and are often restricted in open spaces and near wildlife. It's crucial to check with local authorities for current regulations before flying a drone.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light, which is generally more flattering for photography. These times also often coincide with increased wildlife activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While dogs are welcome, remember to keep them leashed at all times due to potential wildlife encounters. The lake itself is not safe for swimming, so supervise children closely near the water. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no concessions on-site, and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by nature.
🐶 Dog Owners
By adhering to leash laws and keeping your dog away from the water, you ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for your pet, other visitors, and the local wildlife. The open space provides ample room for your leashed companion to stretch their legs and enjoy the outdoors.
🏃♀️ Runners & Joggers
Enjoy the beautiful views of the Front Range as you get your miles in. The open space is generally less crowded during weekdays and early mornings, offering a more peaceful running experience. Remember to stay hydrated and be aware of other trail users.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
When exploring, remember that while the trails are generally easy to navigate, it's always wise to wear appropriate footwear. The consistent surfaces make it accessible for most fitness levels. Pay attention to trail markers, especially if venturing onto less-trafficked connecting paths. The well-kept nature of the trails is frequently praised by visitors, contributing to a pleasant outdoor experience.
For those looking to extend their exploration, the connecting trails offer opportunities to discover more of the local landscape. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially regarding wildlife. The open space is designed to be enjoyed by all, so practicing trail etiquette, such as yielding to others and keeping the area clean, enhances the experience for everyone.
Encountering Local Wildlife
However, visitors should be aware of the presence of coyotes, particularly during the winter months. This is why it is crucial to keep dogs leashed at all times to ensure their safety and to respect the natural habitat of these animals. While the lake is a focal point, it's important to note that the water can harbor bacteria, making it unsafe for dogs to swim.
Observing wildlife from a distance is key to a positive and safe experience. Remember that these are wild animals in their natural environment. By being mindful and following guidelines, such as keeping pets leashed and not feeding wildlife, you contribute to the preservation of this beautiful ecosystem for both animals and future visitors.
Fishing at Ketner Lake
To fish in Ketner Lake, ensure you have a valid Colorado fishing license. Regulations and licensing requirements can be verified with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. While some visitors have had great success, remember that fishing outcomes can vary, and patience is often key.
Even if the catch isn't bountiful every time, the peaceful setting of Ketner Lake Open Space provides a pleasant backdrop for a day of fishing. It's an opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit