Cherry Creek Reservoir

Gazing across the shimmering expanse of Cherry Creek Reservoir, can you imagine this tranquil oasis was once a dry prairie? Cherry Creek Reservoir, nestled just southeast of Denver, has a captivating story to tell. This 880-acre reservoir, surrounded by the rolling hills of Cherry Creek State Park, has become a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its history, however, is rooted in the unpredictable nature of Cherry Creek itself. Long before the reservoir existed, Denver’s early settlers, drawn by the gold rush, ignored warnings from Native American tribes about the creek’s tendency to flood. They established their camps near the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, in what is now downtown Denver. Between 1864 and 1939, a cycle of floods and failed dam projects plagued the area. Finally, in 1941, the Flood Control Act authorized funds for the Cherry Creek Project. Construction of the dam began in 1946 and was completed in 1950 by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. This earthen dam, an impressive 141 feet high and 14,300 feet long, tamed Cherry Creek and created the reservoir we see today. The reservoir’s creation not only provided flood control but also birthed a recreational paradise. In 1959, a 25-year lease with the Army Corps of Engineers established the Cherry Creek State Recreation Area. This marked the first of its kind in Colorado. Just imagine, that first year, 168,700 visitors experienced the newfound beauty of Cherry Creek State Park. Over time, the park evolved, adding amenities and becoming a popular destination for activities like boating, fishing, and hiking. In 1993, Cherry Creek State Park hosted a monumental event: a papal mass with Pope John Paul II during World Youth Day, drawing over 375,000 people. Today, Cherry Creek Reservoir and the surrounding state park continue to thrive. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from biking the 35 miles of trails to exploring the wetlands teeming with diverse bird species. Whether you’re here to cast a line for trout and bass or simply relax by the water, Cherry Creek Reservoir offers a welcome escape from the city, while whispering tales of its dramatic past.