Tell Us What You Think

In 2006-07, Parks & Recreation Department consultants conducted a survey of visitors in the parks. We hope the selected survey results provided here will give you some ideas about park visitors: where they come from, what parks they go to, and how they use the parks.

More than 800 people answered our questionnaire, but we'd like to know what YOU think. Check out our blog at DenverMountainParks.blogspot.com, join the discussion, and give us your own comments.

What are Mountain Parks for?

The Mountain Parks system was formed in 1910-1920 to provide the citizens of Denver access to Colorado's mountains, and, as private development occurred, to keep scenic areas and picnic grounds available to the public. The roads built to reach the parks also served as driving routes, so people could enjoy the "freedom of the open road," back when automobiles were a new thrill for everyone.

These same activities are available in mountain parks today. Some of the most popular are picnicking, hiking, fishing, nature study-- see if you agree with the survey's top twelve favorite activities.

In addition to these recreational uses, the parks also serve as scenic viewsheds and wildlife habitat, help protect biodiversity, and provide watershed protection.

What parks are most popular?

What are your THREE favorite parks? When our surveyors asked that question, these twelve parks accounted for 92% of the answers!

How do we learn about Mountain Parks?

In our survey, 38% of visitors said they found out about the parks from a friend or family member. In fact, some visitors have been picnicking at the same park for several generations! Check out the rest of the results for learning about the parks.

One of the issues the Master Plan will discuss is how we can communicate better with visitors and potential visitors. We appreciate your ideas on getting the word out. What kind of information do YOU need?

Leave your comments at DenverMountainParks.blogspot.com -- we look forward to hearing from you!