Beyond Rocky Flats Wildlife Refuge: The Outdoors Surrounding Candelas

The most notable fixture of the Candelas scenery is the Rocky Flats Wildlife Refuge. Over 300 species of animals called this six-thousand-acre sanctuary home. Currently several miles of trails are being created to connect to existing hiking and biking paths. Soon enough residents will be able to enjoy a run or a bike ride in the fresh air while watching all sorts of fascinating creatures frolic through the grass and trees. Thankfully, there are plenty of other open parks in or near by Candelas for its homeowners to explore before Rocky Flats opens.

Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge         Photo: US Department of Energy

Coal Creek Canyon Park houses plenty of wildlife habitats for elk, bobcats and plenty of other animals. Residents can even feed bears in designated areas around the park. Campers will gravitate towards White Ranch Park. Along with camp grounds, the park offers 20 miles of hiking trails, lots of open fields and rolling foothills. Finally, for those who feel most at home on the water, there’s Standley Lake Regional Park. Here, one can enjoy boat rides and fishing on the lake, camp out on the shores, or take in some wildlife watching with the park’s various critters.

Standley Lake         Photo: colorado-hiking.net

For the most dedicated outdoorsmen, Candelas can be your gateway to a whole other span of awe-inspiring natural space. Plans are in place for a trail to run from Candelas into the Rocky Mountain National Park. Residents will enjoy access to some of the most majestic mountain scenery in the entire nation. In nearby Arvada, animal lovers of all ages can take in the trails and wetlands of the Majestic View Nature Center and Community Park.

Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park         Photo: Wikipedia

Finally, we would be remiss to not mention the activities available at Denver, the heart of a sprawling metropolitan area of which Candelas is a part. Fishermen can enjoy excellent fly fishing not far from the city’s center. Chatfied State Recreation Area has attractions for the whole family, from horseback rides and biking to swimming and sailing and everything in between. For those who just want to take a peaceful stroll through nature, look no further than the Castlewood Canyon State Park.

Castlewood Canyon State Park                      Photo: Examiner.com

Even beyond the Rocky Flats Wildlife Reserve, residents of Candelas enjoy some of the richest natural amenities in the country. What are your favorite things to do outside?

You can learn more about the Rocky Flats Wildlife Refuge wildlife and vegitation on the Candelas Rocky Flats Tumblr.