Date Hiked: October 14, 2017

Distance: 1.7 mi (RT)

Elevation Gain: Minimal

Elevation Min/Max: 5,231 ft

Trailhead Lat/Long: 39º 55' 32" N; 104º 57' 19" W

Managing Agency: City of Thornton

Fee: None

Directions: 

The main parking area for Eastlake #3 is on the west side of the lake.  From I-25 in Thornton, exit on 120th Ave and head east to Washington Street. Turn north on Washington and make a right (east) onto 128th Ave. Heading east on 128th, turn right onto Columbine Street to the parking area and trailhead.

Hike Description:

Eastlake #3 Nature Preserve is a very pretty open space park in the heart of Thornton.  The park mainly consists of a level dirt trail that circles Eastlake #3.  The park has a very natural feel and is stunning in the fall when the cottonwood trees that line the lake are blazing yellow and orange.  

There is not much needed as far as hiking directions go, the trail loops around the lake, pretty simple.  On the east shore of the lake, there is a turn off for a short detour on a boardwalk that takes you over the wetlands; this is a particularly scenic part of the trail and should not be skipped.  Additionally, there are some smaller trails that take you down to the lakeshore for closer access to the wetlands and the lake itself.  

Most neighborhoods in the Denver Metro Area have their local parks and lakes, but Eastlake #3 is particularly nice, if you don’t live in the Thornton area but are looking for a hike or walk while passing through, Eastlake #3 is certainly worthy of your time.