Cherry Creek State Park - the sun shines brightly over the water and land
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Cherry Creek State Park

4.6
·9k reviews·Aurora, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cooler temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Cherry Creek State Park - the sun shines brightly over the water and land

Cherry Creek State Park

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cooler temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(9k reviews)

"This is my go-to place when I want to relax and take my dog out."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cherry Creek Reservoir Swim Beach

Cherry Creek Reservoir Swim Beach

East side of the reservoir

A refreshing spot for swimming and water activities, perfect for a sunny day escape.

Instagram
Dog Off-Leash Area

Dog Off-Leash Area

Designated area within the park

A fantastic, spacious area for your furry friends to run and play freely.

Instagram
Paved Bike & Walking Trails

Paved Bike & Walking Trails

Throughout the park

Enjoy well-maintained, paved paths ideal for biking, running, or a leisurely stroll.

Instagram
Cherry Creek Valley Ecological Park

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.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Park Entry & Fees

A daily vehicle pass is required for Cherry Creek State Park, costing $11. Consider the $83 State Parks Annual Pass for frequent visits. Walking or biking in is free, a great tip for budget travelers! InstagramReddit

Best Times for Activities

Summer offers great swimming and water sports at the reservoir's swim beach. For peaceful hikes and runs, aim for early mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less busy for hiking
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Sunset views, cooler air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Where is this spot & should you let your kids play here?! Yes!! —it’s one of our favorite places to explore: Cherry Creek Valley Ecological Park in Centennial 📍7500 S Jasper Ct We love this hidden gem! It’s such a fun adventure spot! You can’t see the creek area from the parking lot, but if you follow the trail, it’s about a 15-minute walk—and totally worth it! A perfect place to sit back while t...
@days.in.denver
11K likes • 244.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike In Free

Skip the vehicle fee by walking or biking into the park. Reddit+1

🐶 Doggy Paradise

The off-leash dog area is a highlight for pet owners! Instagram

Pro-Tip for Cherry Creek 🤯 #LivinginDenver #MovingtoDenver #DenverColorado #CherryCreek #cherrycreekdenver
@torreydrake1
6.2K likes • 140.4K views
🐾 One of my favorite spots around Denver to take my pup is the dog off-leash area at Cherry Creek State Park. Whether you just moved here or are looking for new places to enjoy with your dog, this is a total hidden gem and so much fun in the summertime! Pro tip: get the Keep Colorado Wild Pass with your car registration and enjoy free access to the park all year! Follow along for more of the b...
homebymelaniee
0 likes • 797 views

☕ Coffee & Views

Grab coffee and enjoy views from Restoration Hardware's patio. TikTok

🚗 Keep Colorado Wild Pass

Get free access with this pass on your car registration. InstagramReddit

CHERRY CREEK STATE PARK- A quick motor home getaway. This park has well maintained bike/walking trails
tcaudillphotography
35 likes • 341 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk or Bike In Free

Skip the vehicle fee by walking or biking into the park. Reddit+1

🐶 Doggy Paradise

The off-leash dog area is a highlight for pet owners! Instagram

☕ Coffee & Views

Grab coffee and enjoy views from Restoration Hardware's patio. TikTok

🚗 Keep Colorado Wild Pass

Get free access with this pass on your car registration. InstagramReddit

♻️ Pack It In, Pack It Out

Help keep the park clean by taking your trash with you. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(9k reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Beautiful reservoir and lake
Clean and well-maintained trails
Spacious campsites

What People Dislike

Occasional littering

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Yes, ample parking is available throughout the park, especially near popular areas like the reservoir and trailheads. A daily vehicle pass is required. Instagram

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

Cherry Creek State Park is open daily from 5 am to 10 pm. Instagram

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. Instagram

The 'Keep Colorado Wild Pass,' included with vehicle registration, provides free access to all Colorado State Parks, including Cherry Creek. InstagramReddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. Instagram+2

Absolutely! Cherry Creek State Park features a large and popular dog off-leash area, making it a favorite spot for pet owners. Instagram

Yes, the park has a designated 'Swim Beach' on the east side of the reservoir, offering a refreshing place to cool off. Instagram

Visitors have reported seeing deer, toads, and various other wildlife, adding to the park's natural beauty. Reddit

Yes, there are many bathrooms located along the trails and near popular activity areas, ensuring convenience for visitors. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTok

Yes, the park offers many seating areas and is ideal for picnics. Remember to bring your own food and drinks. Reddit

Typically, there are no concessions inside the park. It's best to bring all your food and beverages with you. Reddit

The nearby Cherry Creek neighborhood in Denver offers a wide array of upscale dining, casual eateries, and cafes. TikTok

While specific grilling facilities might be limited, picnicking is encouraged. Check park regulations for any designated grilling areas. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

Yes, with its reservoir, diverse trails, and natural landscapes, Cherry Creek State Park offers many picturesque opportunities for photographers. Instagram

Early mornings and late afternoons, known as the 'golden hours,' provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in Colorado State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the latest regulations before flying. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cherry Creek State Park offers a fantastic day out for families. The swim beach is a huge hit with kids during the summer, providing a safe and fun place to splash around. Instagram The paved trails are perfect for family bike rides or walks, and the Cherry Creek Valley Ecological Park offers a sense of adventure with its creek access. TikTok Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds. Reddit

🐶 Pet Owners

This park is a dream for dog owners! The dog off-leash area is a major highlight, allowing your furry friends to run and play to their heart's content. Instagram Dogs are also welcome on leash throughout the park, so they can join you on hikes and explorations. Remember to always clean up after your pet and ensure they are under control. Instagram

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists & Runners

With its well-maintained paved trails, Cherry Creek State Park is an excellent destination for cyclists and runners. You can enjoy long, smooth rides or runs with beautiful views of the reservoir. Instagram The park offers a great escape for a morning workout or a leisurely cycling tour. Reddit

🏕️ Campers

For those looking to extend their visit, Cherry Creek State Park offers campsites. Reviews suggest the sites are spacious, well-equipped with pavement and concrete pads, and spread out, providing a sense of privacy. Reddit It's a great option for a weekend getaway immersed in nature. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

Cherry Creek State Park boasts an extensive network of trails, catering to various activities. The paved trails are a major draw, perfect for road biking, jogging, or a leisurely walk, offering smooth surfaces and scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape. Instagram Many visitors appreciate the accessibility and ease of these paths, noting their well-maintained condition. Reddit

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. TikTok 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. Reddit

Water Activities at the Reservoir

The Cherry Creek Reservoir is the heart of the park, offering a variety of water-based recreation. The Swim Beach, located on the east side, is a popular destination during warmer months, providing a designated area for swimming and sunbathing. Instagram Visitors often describe it as a refreshing escape, especially after a hike or bike ride. Reddit

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. Reddit

Dog-Friendly Adventures

Cherry Creek State Park is a haven for dog owners, primarily due to its expansive dog off-leash area. This dedicated space allows canine companions to roam freely, play, and socialize in a safe and controlled environment. Instagram Many visitors rave about the size and quality of this area, making it a top reason to visit the park with pets. Instagram

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. Instagram

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