Date Hiked: September 9, 2011

Distance: 2 mi (RT)

Elevation Gain: 135 ft

Elevation: 5,600 ft

Managing Agency: S. Suburban Recreation District

Fee: None

Directions: From Denver, take I-25 south and exit onto Arapaho Road heading west. Turn right (north) on S. Holly Street. After about 1/2 mile the trailhead will be on your right.

Hike Description: Willow Springs Open Space is a small natural area nestled in the suburbs of Centennial. Mostly used by neighborhood residents out for a quick stroll or a dog walk, the park consists of a loop trail that encircles and crosses Willow Spring. The northern section of trail crosses an earthen dam but unless you are visiting during an unusually wet period, the dam is only holding back a narrow creek. Willow Springs is an easy walk and pleasant for quick return to nature.