by Jessica Hughes | May 22, 2023 | General Featured
by Jessica Hughes
FACE FOUNDRIE offers a relaxing and modern atmosphere for your best self-care needs. Photo by Kalen Jesse Photography
The Teddi B Workout focuses on fitness for women over 40 and is one of the latest fitness concepts to find a home in Cherry Creek North. Image credit: Teddi B Workout Facebook page
Summer is almost here and with it often comes a renewed focus on health and wellness and Cherry Creek North is just the place to reset and rejuvenate. With the highest concentration of local retail anywhere in Colorado, Cherry Creek North is often thought of as a retail and restaurant destination in Denver, but with its recent influx of wellness and fitness concepts, CCN is quickly becoming THE tourist destination.
“Cherry Creek North has long been viewed as Denver’s primary retail destination,” says Nick LeMasters, President & CEO at Cherry Creek North Business Improvement District. “There was a time in the mid ‘80s business owners were concerned about the new mall. But now, it’s fair to say that the mall became a catalyst for success as one of Denver’s most important tourist destinations.”
In addition to its retail and dining accolades, Cherry Creek North is also known for its numerous spas, nail bars, and lash studios, but in the last month several new wellness studios have found a home in the popular shopping district, making it Denver’s newest hub for all things health and beauty.
“The area is evolving on a couple of different levels,” says LeMasters. “While we are still known for tremendous dining and retail options, wellness is clearly the growing trend in the district.”
Joining other fitness studios such as Orange Theory and Barry’s Bootcamp, The Teddi B Workout is one of the latest fitness concepts to make its way to CCN. An OG in the fitness industry, Teddi Bryant — owner and fitness instructor at the Teddi B Workout — caters to women over 40 with her signature workouts. Her high-energy classes incorporate low-to-zero impact cardio, strength, posture, and balance components, plus Pilates.
Having just opened in March 2023, Bryant says, “We are killing it!” “I think the ease of being able to walk to a class, hit your favorite restaurant, and go shopping is the lifestyle that people want, and Cherry Creek is perfect for it.”
For a good summer workout, Bryant suggests her bootcamp which focuses on women’s bodies, and getting serious results in a short period of time. The bootcamps are held monthly and by reservation only through theteddibbootcamp.com.
Cherry Creek North is a top travel destination with its retail and dining options, plus its latest influx of health and wellness concepts. Image credit: Cherry Creek North
Treat yourself after your workout with a visit to FACE FOUNDRIÉ — an all-inclusive facial bar that specializes in facials, lashes, brows, and skincare. Opening in February 2023, FACE FOUNDRIÉ is one of the latest self-care and beauty concepts in CCN.
“We experienced that the pandemic left people wanting self-care and service-based businesses more than ever before,” says Cheyanne Thurston, VP of Marketing at FACE FOUNDRIÉ. “There was a general realization that self-care was important to the consumer after having limited access over the last few years.”
For summer treatments, Thurston suggests the Royal Treatment — a power-packed service that includes hydra dermabrasion, radiofrequency, ultrasound, oxygen infusion, and more! And while this is her number one recommendation, she emphasizes you can’t go wrong with any of their treatments.
If you’re feeling like a little pick me up is in order, get hooked with Prime IV Hydration & Wellness — a vitamin IV therapy using a proprietary blend of vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids. The concoction hits the bloodstream directly, as opposed to oral supplements that can have a 20% absorption rate, giving cells rapid access to nutrients required for healing or performance.
“COVID had an enormous impact on how many of us viewed healthcare and evaluated how we can better care for ourselves,” says Rob Dahlager, owner of Prime IV Hydration & Wellness. “We find that people are more interested than ever in preventing illnesses and finding alternative solutions to traditional western medicine practices.”
Whether you’re traveling a lot this summer or planning some much-needed time in the sun, there is an IV formula for any lifestyle.
“We have IVs that are made for many activities in the summer,” says Dahlager. “Including our Glow and Skinny Drip for skin health and increased metabolism. Or if you enjoy the sun and fun just a bit too much, the Afterburn soothes sunburned skin and inflammation to relieve the sting. And for the jetsetter the Immunity Armor is necessary.”
As the area’s fastest growing business concepts, the wellness component helps to round out your day in Cherry Creek — where you can pair a morning of wellness and self-care with an afternoon of brunch or lunch, some retail therapy, and dinner and drinks at one of its renowned restaurants and bars for the ideal day-cation.
For a full list of businesses, visit cherrycreeknorth.com.
by Jessica Hughes | Apr 21, 2023 | General Featured
by Jessica Hughes
Cycle instructor, Allissa Benson, wins ClassPass’ Best Instructor 2022 Award.
Instructor Allissa Benson leads her students through a 45-minute energetic workout.
Local Denver indoor-cycling studio, High Ride Cycle, pedals its way to two national Best of ClassPass awards as the fitness craze of indoor cycling makes its way to the Mile High City.
ClassPass, a monthly membership platform providing access to thousands of studios, gyms, spas, and salons, recently announced their Best of ClassPass Awards and High Ride Cycle was among the winners. Despite such a competitive fitness market, High Ride Cycle beat out studios across the country with cities like L.A. and NYC that dominate this sector of the fitness world.
The “Best of” Awards recognize and honor the top five nominations across multiple categories including Best Wellness Business, Best Fitness Studio, and Best Instructor. This year, Denver’s High Ride Cycle is the only studio to bring home two awards: Best Fitness Studio and Best Instructor.
“It is incredible that we were selected among thousands of studios, and I am humbled to receive best instructor in the nation.,” says Allissa Benson, winner of ClassPass’ Best Instructor 2022 Award and VP of Marketing at High Ride Cycle. “It feels great to be recognized on this level.”
Known by the community for her tenacity, contagious passion, and enthusiasm, Benson’s 45-minute class is often waitlisted and defined by riders as an inspiring and intense experience.
“Winning this award means the world to me,” said Benson. “I pour my life and soul into what I do, and it validates my sense of purpose, affirms that I’m in the right place, at the right time. It is breathtaking to know that the people that inspire me every single day, are also inspired by me.”
Classes at High Ride Cycle are rhythm-based cardio incorporating weights and resistance for a full-body workout. The fitness experience combines choreography, music, lights, and a whole lot of personality for a 45-minute workout that is approachable for all levels. “It’s like a dance
High Ride Cycle wins ClassPass’ Best Fitness Studio Award 2022.
party on a bike,” says Benson. “The room is dark with a wild lighting system and loud music. It’s so immersive you forget how hard you are working.”
But Benson explains that what sets them apart from other cycle studios is their community. “There is a welcoming energy as soon as you arrive at the studio,” says Benson. The studio also doesn’t talk numbers. There is no scoreboard keeping track of calories or heartrate, which Benson also says separates them from other cycle studios.
“We don’t talk about output or measurement. There is no leader board,” says Benson. “This creates an environment that makes everyone feel welcome.”
For newcomers, don’t be intimidated. Benson says a lot of what they teach in every class is for first timers. “We make our new riders feel welcomed and supported,” says Benson. “We are constantly focused on the newcomers and creating the best experience for them.”
She also explains it takes about three to five classes to get into the groove. And says their new rider special supports that with five classes for $25. “That’s how long it takes to get used to our lingo.”
When High Ride Cycle opened its first location in Sloan’s Lake, founders Megan and Scott Hanson committed themselves to teaching a one class format with hopes of being well received. Today, the Hanson’s have surpassed their expectations with 5 “Best of ClassPass” awards under their belt, two thriving studio locations, nearly 30 energetic instructors, and plans to open a third location in Denver University’s neighborhood this spring.
For more information about High Ride Cycle, please visit highridecycle.com.
High Ride Cycle Locations:
High Ride Cycle, Sloan’s Lake
1711 Sheridan Boulevard A
Edgewater, CO 80214
High Ride Cycle, Northglenn
2145 E. 120th Ave. H
Northglenn, CO 80233
High Ride Cycle, University
(coming soon)
1316 E. Evans Ave. 150
Denver, CO 80210
Photos provided by High Ride Cycle
by Mark Smiley | Mar 21, 2023 | General Featured
by Mark Smiley
Changing Of The Guard: The City of Glendale transitions from outgoing, retiring City Manager Linda Cassady, to incoming, Council appointed City Manager Chuck Line.
Outgoing City Manager: Linda Cassaday started her career with the city in 2003 and has been City Manager since 2019. She retired from the City, effective March 31, 2023.
After Glendale City Manager Linda Cassaday announced her retirement, the Glendale City Council appointed longtime city executive Chuck Line to succeed her. Line came to the city in 1999 where he served as the Community Development Director until 2004. He then assumed the role of Deputy City Manager in August 2004, a title he has kept until now.
Chuck Line has worked under four city managers during his tenure. Veggo Larsen, Cliff Dodge, Jerry Peters, and Linda Cassaday have been instrumental in Line’s career. “Veggo Larsen taught me if I knew where I was going to die, I would never go there, and he also taught me what not to do as a city manager,” said Line, incoming City Manager, City of Glendale. “Cliff Dodge taught me a lot about the inner workings, especially of the state and the legislature, because he had spent so much time in the legislature, and understanding how the impacts of the different legislation comes down.”
“Jerry [Peters] taught me about interpersonal relationships with different people. He was probably one of the most intuitive people that I’ve known on understanding people and having empathy and understanding people’s motivations and thoughts. And then, Linda [Cassaday] has taught me how to manage the inner workings of the city and how to properly manage projects and to implement them. I would say I have some really good examples. And also, all of those city managers, outside of Veggo, had good relationships with the city council.”
Chuck Line assumes the position of City Manager during a time of stability and growth. For example, the 4 Mile District, a 10-acre entertainment district, located in the heart of downtown Glendale, which has been envisioned for over 20 years, is expected to be completed on his watch.
“I am making this transition with a Mayor [Mayor Mike Dunafon] that has been around a long time, who has the same policy objectives as staff, and the rest of the council,” said Line. “Everyone gets along and we have a very stable council and Mayor during this whole time period.”
Linda Cassaday, outgoing City Manager of Glendale, gives a glowing endorsement for Mr. Line. “Chuck is incredibly bright and has been at the city longer than I have,” said Cassaday. “Chuck and I have worked really closely, especially over the last four years. This is a natural progression and it is going to be great for the city.”
Cassaday started her career with the City of Glendale as a consultant in November 2003. Previously, she was a CPA and in public accounting, mostly on the audit side of things. She specialized in governments, non-profits, and low-income housing tax credits. She became Finance Director in May 2004. Cassaday escalated to Deputy City Manager, and has been City Manager since 2019. Her last day with the city was March 31, 2023.
New City Manager: Chuck Line has been with the City of Glendale since 1999. He became City Manager on April 1, 2023.
Cassaday had a hand in many projects in her nearly 20 years at the City of Glendale. What is she proud of the most? “The whole transformation of the city with the building of Infinity Park,” said Cassaday. “It wasn’t my vision . . . but it was fun to be part of the team who built the stadium, event center, and sports center. All of that has transformed Glendale.”
The most challenging time during her tenure was when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. “I would say that 2020 was the most challenging timeframe because the new rules were coming out so quickly and unfortunately the Governor’s office did not involve the municipalities with communication,” said Cassaday. “Often we would find things out from our businesses and residents first. That was challenging.”
“The biggest thing during COVID was we wanted to be a resource for our businesses,” said Line. “It is hands down the hardest external thing that businesses ever had to deal with. They were burdened and we didn’t want to create additional burdens on them. We wanted to be that bridge between all of the different agencies that were putting out requirements.”
Cassaday will have an adjustment as she moves to the warmer climate of Florida. Cassaday was born in Denver and has never lived outside of Colorado. She has lived in Colorado Springs, Greeley, and Denver. “It is a little daunting to move from Colorado to some place different,” said Cassaday. “I can’t imagine a Christmas at 75 degrees but it will be a fun new adventure. It is going to be a huge adjustment. I am used to getting up early in the morning. It will be nice to wake up when I wake up.”
“Linda is probably one of the hardest workers I have ever known,” said Line. “She intimately understands not only the finances of the city but also has a really good sense of how to diplomatically talk to the different department heads about the interactions that they have with the inner workings of the city.”
Chuck Line grew up in Nebraska, and graduated from the University of Nebraska Omaha in May 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. He then received a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska in 1996. He graduated from the University of Denver School of Law in 2004 while working at the City of Glendale.
Cassaday admits that the team she has been surrounded by has helped her achieve, “In terms of what I can take away, it is just all of the people that I have worked with,” said Cassaday. “We have such a great team in Glendale. It is unusual in city government to find staff that cares as much as they do and works as well together as they do. It has truly been an honor to work there.”
Part of that team is Public Works Director Josh Bertrand who started at the city in 2007. He will now serve as Deputy City Manager under Line. “Josh has been great,” said Cassaday. “He came to us as the first turf manager when we built the stadium. He was involved in what kind of grass we needed to plant and what kind of maintenance and equipment we needed. Josh has been an integral part of this since he started in 2007. He has been a great team player not just in public works. Josh has always felt that he was a part of the bigger circle of people in the city. That is what made him an ideal choice as Deputy City Manager.”
Also promoted is Kieran Nelson, who will now serve as Director of Infinity Park Operations. Line looks forward to working with his new team. “It is my opportunity to create those same relationships with Keiran [Nelson], Josh Bertrand, Ken Lecrone [Finance Director], Chief Haskins [Chief of Police], and to have that same type of interaction where we can bounce things off of each other,” said Line. “We can make decisions as a group. All of these people are incredibly talented and they are knowledgeable and they make good decisions and it is important for me to utilize them.”
“All of these pieces are covered,” said Cassaday. “Infinity Park is a huge part of the city’s operations between the stadium, the events center, and the sports center. And Kieran takes on all of the facilities. It is a really good team that has worked together for the last several years.”
“The metropolitan area is undergoing challenging times,” said Mayor Mike Dunafon. “We have a great team in Glendale to meet those challenges and prosper.”
by Jessica Hughes | Feb 22, 2023 | General Featured
by Jessica Hughes
Virga by Patrick Marold. Photo by Rudi Cerri
Infinite Span by Michael Buckley. Photo provided by denverpublicart.org
With more than 400 pieces in the Denver Public Art Collection and more than $40 million funding into new public art commissions, the City and County of Denver is dedicated to its public art program.
The collection includes traditional art forms such as sculpture and painting, but also includes sound art, projection and light-based works, interactive new media pieces, temporary fiber-based works, and performance-based works.
The program was established in 1988 as an Executive Order under Mayor Federico Peña. The order states that 1% of any capital improvement project over $1 million undertaken by the City, be set aside for public art. Additional funding comes from the Urban Arts Fund, a graffiti prevention and youth development program, focusing on community-building and social change.
Over the past 30 years these commissioned artworks, along with historic and donated works, make up Denver’s Public Art Collection.
As we spring forward into war
Cottonwood Critters by Chainsaw Mama. Photo by JLH in DESIGN
mer days, it’s a great time to discover some of Denver’s public art that can be found along its most popular trails. So, hit the trail and immerse yourself in nature and the arts with these notable stops.
Cherry Creek Trail
From Confluence Park to Cherry Creek Reservoir, use the Cherry Creek Trail Tour to find these and other artful stops along the 11 mile stretch of Cherry Creek in Denver.
A favorite piece along the trail is the Virga by artist Patrick Marold. The piece sits atop the Delgany St. Bridge over the trail. Made of over 300 stainless steel tubes, suspended in the structural steel, the architectural sculpture was inspired by the cycle of water in Colorado and is intended to eventually support the growing vines on the west end of the bridge. Blending art with nature, the installation may become a living canopy over the bridge.
Located at Confluence Park at Shoemaker Plaza, Sing and Glide by artist Jeanne Quinn, is a mosaic sculpture using the colors of the sea to mimic the flow of the river that cuts through the urban park. “Confluence Park brings together two rivers, the South Platte and Cherry Creek. It is also an urban park, a place where nature and city life are married,” the artist, Jeanne Quinn said in a statement about her work.
We Are Future Strata by Michael Buckley. Photo provided by High Line Canal Conservancy
Created by artist John King, Talk to the Birds, is a 16’ mild steel kinetic sculpture. Located in the Hampden neighborhood, the artwork is installed in a grassy section formed by the junction of the Cherry Creek Trail and the spur trails from South Havana Street. The goal of this artwork is to celebrate the community, uniqueness, and diversity of the students at the Joe Shoemaker School.
High Line Canal
From Waterton Canyon to Green Valley Ranch, just south of Denver International Airport, the High Line Canal runs 71 miles long, divided into two main areas — the northern and southern half. “In general, the northern half of the canal trail is paved and it’s where people will find more public art pieces,” says Suzanna Fry Jones, Senior Director of Programs and Partnerships at the High Line Canal Conservancy.
“A focus for us is to see how we can enhance the trail but not interfere with the natural scenery around it,” says Jones. A perfect example of that is the artwork found at the corner of Hampden and Colorado (mile 37). Titled, We Are Future Strata, the cluster of three 50,000-pound granite boulders are painted with brightly colored stripes meant to depict strata. Local artist, Michael Buckley, wanted to convey a post-human future where the man-made environment has become strata stone.
The art found along the trail system is a mix of commissioned pieces by the Denver Public Art program and community artists adding to public spaces. “In fact, much of the art pieces found along the trail happened organically from the locals in the community,” says Jones.
Some of these pieces include Ceramic Birds, artist unknown, located in Centennial near mile 29. Other pieces include unique wood carvings by Loveland artist known as Chainsaw Mama. There are two at Bible Park, near mile 41 and 42, plus the third sculpture, Cottonwood Critters, a bench near I-25 and mile 39.
To learn more about the High Line Canal Trail and what to see use their online guidebook.
South Platte River Trail
With the improvements made over the years along the South Platte River Trail, public art has been added in a few spots to help with its beautification. One piece of note is Infinite Span, by artist Michael Buckley.
Located at the Grant-Frontier Park, in the Overland neighborhood, the piece is a mirror-polished stainless-steel diamond suspended by stainless steel cables. Floating over Grant Frontier Park, the artwork is meant to represent the infinite nature of time and the fleeting present moment.
To build your own Denver Public Art Tour visit them at DenverPublicArt.org or use one of theirs highlighting certain areas and themes. They also host guided tours with the summer schedule coming out soon.
by Regan Bervar | Jan 19, 2023 | General Featured
“Inspiring hope in a cynical world might be the most radical thing you can possibly do.”
by Luke Schmaltz
Every once in a while, a childhood dream matures into an inspirational, sustainable, ongoing pursuit.
In the face of an increasingly apathetic world, Demi Merrit and company have managed to do exactly this — harnessing compassion, empathy, and charity to improve the lives of Denver’s less fortunate, four-legged residents.
Demi’s Animal Rescue Thrift Store and Cat Lodge is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization located at the Denver/Aurora border near East Evans and Holly intersection. Their website states that the five-person staff is focused on, “…solving pet homelessness through adoption, spay/neuter, and pet retention. We do not discriminate against any animal that is in need and open our door to all regardless of their breed, age, or special care required. We strive to see the day that pet homelessness is eliminated worldwide.”
True Grassroots
All animals adopted through Demi’s have passed an examination by a licensed veterinarian. Photo: Demi’s Animal Rescue
Demi’s Animal Rescue (DAR) was founded in 2010 in Merrit’s basement when she was still in high school. She discovered her passion for animal advocacy while volunteering, doing fundraisers, and fighting to end breed specific legislation. She eventually began helping people in the community with emergency vet bills and then, with the blessing of her parents, she began fostering animals in “cat rooms” built by her family. From these humble beginnings, DAR was grown into what it is today — a place where animals can grow, improve, rehabilitate, and find homes.
Adoption Is Easy
Meanwhile, DAR’s Development & Operations Manager, Jessica Roeger, encourages anyone interested in pet ownership to work with shelters and rescues. She offers insight into the ease of the adoption process. “We try to make adopting from a rescue an enjoyable experience,” she begins. “We have a short application that is required to be submitted if you are interested in adopting. From there, it is typically reviewed within 48 hours, and we can schedule a meet and greet with the animal(s) you are interested in. If there are concerns on the application, we like to educate people in hopes that we can approve the application after that discussion. An amazing home can’t always be chosen based on a questionnaire which is why we like to engage in conversation to get a real idea of who they are.”
Demi’s Animal Rescue is operated by five staffers and numerous volunteers.
DAR’s current facility was opened in 2021 and features a few unique distinctions. The premises, “…provide two free-roaming adoption rooms for cats that have helped to increase the number of lives we can save,” Roeger says. “The Cat Lodge also provides a space for some of the most at-risk cats including FIV+, bonded pairs, seniors, and shy cats. Since being founded in 2010, we have grown every year in terms of adoptions, fosters, lives saved, and funds raised.”
A Thrifty Twist
Cherry enjoys a treat at Demi’s Animal Rescue. Photo: Demi’s Animal Rescue
Roeger explains how the thrift store aspect of the organization fits into the overall operation. “We wanted to get creative in providing income to the rescue so we can continue to grow, which brought the idea of a thrift store for sales to help support the rescue. It took a lot of planning and a lot of rejection before we finally found a landlord willing to rent out space to a non-profit, but our determination paid off.”
Roeger continues, “All sales from the thrift store help support the daily operations of the rescue. The extra income allows us to save more lives and to take on more complicated cases, such as an animal with medical needs or behavioral issues. Having the thrift store and adoption center has also helped get our name out more into the community, which has increased interest in adopting, volunteering, and donating.”
An Endearing Mission
Demi’s Animal Rescue Thrift Store features high-end clothing, accessories, household items, and more.
In addition to adoption services, DAR also helps with pet retention for struggling animal owners. Roeger encourages people to reach out to local organizations for help before giving up. “If you are struggling with food, supplies, basic veterinary care, or training, there are places dedicated to helping with some of this or rescues willing to assist, including us,” she says.
“We place a large focus on helping animals that are the most in need, which is why you may not see as many animals come through our rescues as others,” Roeger continues. “We ensure that every animal is healthy (veterinarian approved) prior to adoption. We address behavioral issues so that we can ensure success for both an adopter and an animal. When you adopt from us, or support us in another way, you can ensure that the extra mile is being taken for all animals and that we will provide support in any way possible.”
DAR welcomes donations of clothing, household items, books and DVDs. Demi’s Animal Rescue Thrift Store features plenty of the above as well as high-end boutique items, name brand clothing, and more. Shoppers are welcome Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m.
by Jessica Hughes | Dec 16, 2022 | General Featured
by Jessica Hughes
Bird walk leaders at Bluff Lake Nature Center. Pictured from left to right: Jason Bidgood, George Ho, Steve Hebert, and Lisa Pera.
Thousands of snow geese flock to the reservoirs and farmland of the Eastern Plains. Photo by Jessica Hughes
Colorado is home to over 400 species of birds that either live here year-round or pass through during seasonal migrations. But when is the best time to see them? While most think of birding during warm-weather months, birdwatching is a year-round activity, with winter being one of the best times for viewing.
“Colorado winters are full of sunny, mild days which allow birders to enjoy the outdoors. Plus, the lack of leaves on the trees allows for better viewing of the birds,” says George Ho, Bluff Lake Nature Center Bird Volunteer/Monthly Bird Walk Leader. “Winter is great for birding.”
“There are plenty of ducks, geese, and raptors that migrate south to our parks and lakes to spend the winter in our (relatively) warm climate,” says Ben Jacques, Bluff Lake Nature Center Outdoor Explorers Program Coordinator. Also, since they must keep their bodies warm, they spend a lot of time moving around searching for food. This makes them easier to spot and hear through the bare foliage.”
“Plus, with shorter sunlight hours, good winter birding doesn’t require a 4 a.m. alarm,” says Jacques.
So, what should you expect to see? From the admired bald eagle to song sparrows, there is a variety of winter fowl to catch your eye. “Bald eagles are more plentiful in the winter here in Colorado because they come south to us from the north. Waterfowls like ducks are abundant in winter as well,” says Ho. “Winter sparrows are also popular to see. These include the white-crown sparrows and the juncos as well as the year-round song sparrows.”
He also says birds of prey are abundant, including owls like the great horned owls, hawks like the ferruginous, and the year-round red-tailed hawks, plus falcons like the prairie falcons and the American kestrels.
The best part is you don’t have to travel too far to see these beautiful birds in flight. Below are a few places close to home that make a great afternoon outing or a fun family day trip.
Bluff Lake Nature Center
Within Denver’s city limits, Bluff Lake Nature
A Red Tail Hawk swooping in on its prey. Photo by George Ho at Bluff Lake Nature Center
Center is one of the best places for birdwatching in Denver. The 123-acre nature preserve has spotted 226 different species of birds according to their active community of birders who record their encounters.
For the beginners and families, the center offers bird walks throughout the year. Led by an expert guide, discover how and where to spot certain birds and learn about the different species you can find in Colorado. The walks are free, but you need to sign up in advance on their website. Download their printable birds of Bluff Lake checklist and keep track of what you spot.
Visit their birding page to learn more at www.blufflake.org/birdwatching
Cherry Creek State Park
Cherry Creek State Park is one of Colorado’s most popular parks due to its plethora of summer activities, but most may not think of it as a top birding spot. There are plenty of birds you can see year-round but in winter, soaring bald eagles perch high in cottonwood trees, while gulls meet around the marina and swim beach area. The reservoir eco-system also attracts raptors species including golden eagle, red-tailed hawk, northern harrier, and ferruginous hawk. Because the reservoir typically remains un-frozen throughout the winter, waterfowl and shorebirds are popular to see as well.
Barr Lake State Park
With more than 350 species of birds spotted, Barr Lake State Park is the metro area’s premier birding lake. About 30 miles northeast of Denver, Barr Lake offers one of the best set-ups for winter birdwatching. Walk the 8.8-mile trail that circles the lake, with several wildlife viewing stations and the wildlife refuge at the southern end of the lake. The lake’s large number of bald eagles, including a pair that nests there every year, are what draw in the birding crowds, both amateurs and experts.
Eastern Plains
Beyond Denver and the Front Range, the Eastern Plains create the ideal environment for bird watching in Colorado. The High Prairie and surrounding areas welcome over 40
The Red-winged Blackbird is just one of many birds to spot this winter. Photo by Lisa Pera
0 species of birds including warblers, snow geese, grosbeaks, mountain plovers, and buntings. They make their homes amongst the grasslands, craggy outcrops, isolated ponds and reservoirs, plus rivers lined with cottonwoods and willows. There are 20 birding trails on the Eastern Plains featuring a variety of sites where you can view wildlife.
One of the most significant annual migrations in the state is the Snow Goose migration. Every winter, in January and February, the wind-swept plains and open-water reservoirs near Lamar, Colo., turn white, not with snow, but a swirl of 200,000+ snow geese descending upon the High Plains of Colorado. By way of the Western Central Flyway, the annual migration lasts up to two weeks and can be seen within state wildlife areas, local reservoirs, and area farms where they stop to feed.
High Plains Snow Goose Festival
In celebration of this migration, Lamar County hosts the annual High Plains Snow Goose Festival, taking place Feb. 3-5, 2023. As one of the largest birding festivals in Colorado, the event hosts a variety of programs, tours, and seminars that highlight the area’s landscape and unique birding heritage. Sign up for birding tours, shop the local craft fair, and listen to lectures to learn more about the migration and other local fowl. The event is free but tours and lectures require an advanced purchased ticket. For more information visit highplains snowgoose.com.
Birding Tips
The bird walk leaders at Bluff Lake Nature center say the best time to see birds is when they are most active, at dawn and dusk, when they are feeding. Patience and a good pair of binoculars are essential to get the most out of bird watching. “Plan your bird watching around a bird’s basic survival needs (food, water, and shelter) and you’re bound to get some birds in your binoculars,” says Jacques.
Jacques also suggests if you are new to birdwatching there are many beginner-friendly groups around Denver to join. The Denver Field Ornithologists, Denver Audubon, Bluff Lake Nature Center, Tuesday Birders, and multiple bird feeding stores run free bird walks in the area. Or download the free Merlin bird ID app by Cornell Lab for a great field guide on your phone.
