Monument Valley Park in Colorado Springs

Monument Valley Park, Colorado Springs

Monument Valley Park is near the heart of downtown. But it's easy to miss this secluded park below Colorado College and the Fine Arts Center. Old trees tower over lush, grassy areas along Monument Creek. Stroll through the gardens and along the creekside path.

Location:

• Monument Valley Park sits off Cascade Avenue between Cache La Poudre on the north and Bijou Street on the south. Drive down Cascade Avenue and go west on Cache La Poudre Street, then turn onto Mesa Road. The parking lot is across Monument Creek on the south side of Mesa. [Address: 170 W. Cache La Poudre Street] MAP to Monument Valley Park
  

Highlights:

• Kids love the prime freight train viewing
• See the ducks in the demonstration garden (across Mesa Road from the parking lot) and in the main lake with fountains
• Six big kid swings and two baby swings split between 2 swing sets
• An old-fashioned metal spinner from our own childhood days
• Gorgeous setting and wide expanses
• I love to take the jogger on a loop past the lake, across the bridge, and back to the parking lot

Be Aware:

• Be watchful around the lakes and creek - possible water hazard for non-swimmers
• Perfect park to visit with a friend - it can feel quite isolated if you come alone during the week
• Bold squirrels and crows - so watch where you leave your snacks
• Kids won't mind, but parents might not like the constant rumble from Interstate 25

Checklist:

• Approximately 40 parking spaces in lot with surrounding street parking
• Sand play surface
• Restrooms available near the playground, but quite rustic with stalls missing doors and toilets without seats
• Lots of shade from surrounding trees
• Three benches provide viewing areas for parents
• Two large picnic pavilions, complete with barbecues and trash receptacles available by reservation only.
• Grassy area near parking lot does not require reservations
• Dogs must remain on-leash