Directions: From Denver take either I-70, I-25, or Santa Fe Blvd (85) to C-470 and exit on Wadsworth Blvd heading south. Proceed south on Wadsworth passing the various entrances to Chatfield State Park on the left. Just before the entrance to the Lockheed Martin facility, turn left and then a quick left into the Audubon Discover Center Parking Lot. Alternatively, you can park in the Waterton Canyon Parking Lot and pick up the trail located in the back of the parking area.
The Audubon Nature Trail is a short an easy hike through Chatfield State Park's colorful southern section. The hike starts at the Audubon Discovery Center and follows a self guided tour with numbered markers explaining the local ecology. The hike is terrific for kids and makes for a nice easy stroll through fall colors in mid-late October.
The hike explores the prairie desert scrub, Cottonwood groves, and circles a scenic pond with a wildlife viewing platform. You can make this hike longer by following the unofficial social trail system and the official trails as described in the hike descriptions for the longer Audubon Discovery Loop or the Platte and Ponds hikes. Please note that as of 10-19-2018 construction is currently taking place in the park so some trails may be closed or re-routed. This portion of Chatfield State Park is easily accessed and enjoyed by the whole family making this a fairly easy way to enjoy some magnificent fall foliage. |
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Audubon Nature Trail
Chatfield State Park
Date Hiked: October 19, 2018
Distance: 1 mi (RT)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Elevation: 5,500 ft
Managing Agency: CO Department of Parks and Wildlife
Fee: None