Date Hiked: January 28, 2014
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Distance: 1 mi (RT)
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Elevation Max: 5,332ft
Managing Agency:  Aurora Parks, Recreation & Open Space 
Fee: None

Directions: 

Exit I-70 at Peoria and head south on Peoria.  Turn east on Fitzsimmons Pkwy and the trailhead and parking lot will be on your left.

Hike Description:

This small, pleasant open space park has special meaning for me.  It is roughly 1 mi from Children's Hospital and when my little guy spent 2 weeks there having major surgery, this park was a nice way to get outside and breathe.

The park has a mix of paved and soft surface trails that parallel and cross Sand Creek.  It is part of the larger Sand Creek Greenway, recently designated as a National Recreation Trail.  There are numerous ponds, groves of cottonwoods, and multiple creek crossings.   Considering it is surrounded by development, busy streets, and I70, the park offers an oasis and a peaceful retreat from the surrounding stress.