Rocky Mountain News
January 2006

 

A couple of weeks ago you vowed to get off the couch and exercise. You say this every year, but clothes still hang off your treadmill. The only word that comes to mind when you think of the concrete trails near your house is “boring.” That mountain bike you bought a couple of years ago still hangs in your garage. You have no chance at keeping that resolution again this year, right?

That’s what I thought, too.

Last weekend, I dusted off the mountain bike. Instead of fighting the crowds on the paved paths in the neighborhood, I headed for Waterton Canyon, a tremendous place to hike, bike or fish your way back into shape.

There is very little to hate about the trail up Waterton Canyon. You start in a large, gravel parking lot. The “trail” is actually a very nice dirt road hugging the South Platte River. Do not worry -- it is closed to cars and it gradually rises for 6.5 miles into the canyon, ending at the base of the Strontia Springs Dam, rising 243 feet above the South Platte River. Fly fishermen (and fisherwomen) stand knee-deep in the South Platte River, testing their skill against wily trout. Bring your camera and binoculars -- Bighorn Sheep often perch on the rock ledges on the other side of the road. In late afternoon, mule deer wander down to the river for a drink. Numerous picnic tables sit beside the river and nice, clean restrooms are near the road. There are several sheltered table stands, too. You can hike or bike all or part of the canyon, or if you are more experienced, continue past the dam on the Colorado Trail.

The only things that you will find disappointing is that Waterton Canyon can get crowded on weekends, and dogs are not allowed in the canyon; this is a Bighorn Sheep habitat.

If you are finally ready to get some exercise and want to spend a beautiful afternoon in the mountains on a good beginner hike, choose Waterton Canyon. You will be glad you did.

Getting There

Waterton Canyon is just south of Chatfield State Park. Take C-470 to Wadsworth. Turn south and drive past Chatfield. Turn left onto W. Waterton Road. A couple hundred yards down the road, signs will direct you into the parking lot on the left. The canyon is on your right.

Hot Tip

Beat the crowds. Visit Waterton Canyon on weekdays.

Caution

Hike on a calm day. If there is a strong west wind blowing down from the foothills, Waterton Canyon can be no fun.