"A great getaway!"
-- Christine Alexander, Evergreen

Perhaps the most striking characteristic of this park is its diverse terrain.  Wander through gentle meadows, picnic at streamside, camp in secluded Idylease campground or hike in the more rugged upper elevations to discover panoramic vistas.  The varied terrain also allows for diversity of wildlife including mule deer, elk, wild turkey, black bear and blue grouse.

History
Reynolds Park is named in memory of John A. Reynolds whose family gave a substantial portion of the park to Jefferson County. This area was one of the first settled in Colorado's pioneer era. The Reynolds ranch house (now the park manager's residence) once served as a stop for pack trains traveling between Denver and Leadville. The now-vanished Piano Meadows Mormon settlement was also located in this area.

Between 1913 and 1942 the park was operated as a dude ranch known as "Idylease". Teachers and ministers from as far away as the East Coast would spend their summers at the ranch to enjoy fishing, horseback riding, tennis, hiking, and croquet. At one time there were 14 cabins on the ranch for housing guests. The Reynolds' family home served as the  main lodge where hearty meals were served to guests and family alike.

Today
Present day visitors to Reynolds Park can still enjoy many of the pleasures which drew those early outdoor enthusiasts. The park visitor may prepare his own hearty meals at the picnic area adjacent to the parking area.

The most striking characteristic of this park is its diversity of terrain. Park users with various interests and degrees of stamina may explore the gentle valley trails and Elkhorn Interpretive Trail or accept the more rugged challenge of the upper elevations of the park where broad panoramas reward one's exertions. Sources of potable drinking water are scarce in the upper elevations, so hikers and horseback riders are advised to carry a sufficient supply with them.

Natural Resources
The diversity of terrain supports a diversity of plant and animal life as well. Ponderosa pine, blue spruce, Douglas-fir, and juniper, interspersed with aspen, scrub oak, and Rocky Mountain maple, dominate the landscape. Many species of wildflowers abound in the meadows scattered through the park. Wild turkey, black bear, and grouse are major wildlife species found in the park, which is also a major wintering area for elk and deer. Though hunting is not permitted in the park, the visitor will enjoy seeing these wild animals in their natural habitat. Fishing is permitted on the park, subject to the provisions of Colorado law. Camping permits are free and can be obtained at the Open Space Office.

Getting There
From U.S. Highway 285 and Foxton Road, drive south 5.5 miles to the parking area on the south side of the road.  There is also a parking lot near the north end of the park off County Road 97.

It is your responsibility to know and obey Open Space rules and regulations.  Users assume liability for all risks associated with visiting this Open Space area.  Responsible use protects this resource for all citizens of Jefferson County.

Last Modified: Mar 28, 2009 10:16 PM