Genesee Park (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Genesee Park
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Herd of American Bison at Genesee Park, I-70 in the distance
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 Location in Colorado
Location in the United States
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| Nearest city | Golden, Colorado |
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| Built | 1913 |
| Architect | Olmsted Brothers; Jacques Benedict; Civilian Conservation Corps |
| Architectural style | Rustic |
| MPS | Denver Mountain Parks MPS |
| NRHP reference No. | 90001710 |
| Added to NRHP | November 15, 1990 |
Genesee Park is a really big park in Jefferson County, Colorado. It's the largest park in the Denver Mountain Parks system. This amazing park covers about 2,413 acres! The land for Genesee Park was first bought in 1912. Most of the park was finished by 1926.
Contents
Exploring Genesee Park's Nature
Genesee Park is home to two cool mountains. One is Genesee Mountain, which is about 8,284 feet (2,525 meters) above sea level. The other is Bald Mountain, standing at about 7,988 feet (2,435 meters) high.
Forests and Wildlife
The park has beautiful forests filled with different kinds of trees. You can see tall ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, and lodgepole pine trees. These forests are home to many animals.
The Famous Bison Herd
One of the most exciting things about Genesee Park is its herd of American Bison. The City and County of Denver owns these magnificent animals. Some of the first bison came from Yellowstone National Park way back in 1914!
You can often spot the bison from Interstate 70. This highway goes right through the park. There are special viewing spots on I-70, near exits 252 and 254. These spots are part of the Lariat Loop Scenic & Historic Byway. The bison live in large pastures on both sides of the highway.
Special Trails
Genesee Park also has a unique "Braille trail" area. This trail has special signs and guide ropes. It helps people who are visually impaired enjoy nature safely.
Historic Buildings and Fun Spots
Genesee Park has some interesting old buildings that are still used today.
Chief Hosa Lodge
The Chief Hosa Lodge was built in 1918. A famous architect named Jacques Benedict designed it. It's located near what is now Exit 253 on I-70. Today, this historic lodge is a popular place for events.
Chief Hosa Campground
Near the lodge, you'll find the Chief Hosa Campground. Many travelers come here to camp. It's open every year from May through September. It's a great spot to enjoy the outdoors.
Picnic Shelter
There's also a large stone picnic shelter in the park. It's close to Genesee Mountain. This shelter was built in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The Civilian Conservation Corps was a group that helped build many parks and public works during the Great Depression.
