Search Parker Magazine September 2025

SEPTEMBER 2025
SEARCH
PARKER
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Better Health
Better Life
Now Accepting New Patients
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT
We are pleased to be able to serve Parker as both an urgent care and family medicine
clinic. We provide a myriad of services to get you well and keep you healthy.
Open Every Day / No Appointment Needed
www.20mileurgentcare.com
720-974-7210
Dr. Steve Morrison
Voted Best in Parker 12 years in a row!
2 SEARCHPARKER

SAVE ON WAXING
ALL YEAR,
ALL OVER.
Call to book
303-841-2807
waxingthecity.com
17051 Lincoln Avenue
Parker, CO 80134
Next to King Soopers
SEPTEMBER 2025 3

CONTENTS
12
Athletes to Watch
A season-long feature highlighting some of the best high
school athletes in the area.
BY SEARCH PARKER STAFF
6 | CALENDAR - Coming Events
8 | ICYMI - Around Town
10 | RECREATION - 101 Things To Do
15 | cuisine - The Guide
ON THE COVER
Roxborough State Park
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SEARCH
Search Parker is published by
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17 | cuisine - Chronicles: Black+Haus
20 | RECREATION - Mountain Getaways
NO . 273 | SEPTEMBER 2025
Search Parker ©2025 is published by Tueller Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in any form without prior written permission is strictly prohibited.
Search Parker is mailed monthly to households and businesses in the greater
Parker area free of charge.

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303-805-9455
SEPTEMBER 2025 5

COMING EVENTS
PHOTOS: TOWN OF PARKER
Mayor's Day Of Service
September 6 | 8830 Apache Plume Drive | 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Service volunteers will begin at Cottonwood Park West doing basic
tree wrapping to stop excessive beaver damage, fire mitigation,
and trash clean up along Cherry Creek Trail. Kick off rally from Mayor
Joshua Rivero before getting to work! Afterwards, look for a pop-up
canopy to receive further direction and pick up bags to collect trash.
Active Development Tour Map
A new Shake Shack! Are Parker Garage and Vehicle Vault being sold?
Know what's happening all over Parker! The Active Development
Tour Map has been updated. Visit ParkerCO.gov/Development and
ParkerCO.gov/CIPUpdate to find the latest information about projects
under review, and active developments within the Town of Parker.
Parker Proud Showcase
September 20 | 10795 Victorian Dr | 4:00 pm
Bring the whole family to this hands-on, all-ages community experience
with interactive booths and family-friendly activities! Meet the
hardworking teams from each department serving the town as well
as your elected officials and members of various town boards and
commissions. Come learn about and celebrate our amazing community.
Fall Fest
September 27 | 10795 Victorian Dr | 4:00 - 7:00 pm
The annual event for all ages includes a live band, carnival games
with prizes, inflatable corn maze, face painters, street hockey, axe
throwing, an interactive drone activity where kids (13+) can fly a
drone and learn how drone shows are programmed, and more! The
event concludes with a drone show above the park.
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6 SEARCHPARKER

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SEPTEMBER 2025 7

AROUND TOWN
PHOTOS: TOWN OF PARKER
Parker History
The Parker Area Historical Society has a new name and a new logo.
Parker History (formerly Parker Area Historical Society), is a volunteer
historical society dedicated to making Parker's history available to
its residents. Since its inception, the society has shared local history
and culture with the community and preserved as much of the
material remains of Parker's past as possible.
Civic Academy Underway
There was a packed room at The Schoolhouse for the start of
the Parker Civic Academy experience! Opening Civics Seminar
featured nearly 50 citizens interested in doing a deep dive into
how Parker’s government works, why it matters, and how they
can get involved as informed community members. Mayor
Joshua Rivero provided a welcome message to the group.
Sierra Middle School
Sierra Middle School celebrated 50 years. Whether you knew
it as Sierra Middle School, Parker Vista Middle School, or Parker
Junior High, it has been part of Parker's history. Additions and
rennovations have also been announced. The project includes
two additions: an entry canopy, as well as site improvements to
accommodate the addition of a sixth grade to the school.
AMC Theater Closing
After two decades of bringing Hollywood magic, AMC CLASSIC
Twenty Mile 10 will close its doors. The theatre was originally
operated by Colorado Cinemas, opening on November 22, 2002.
It was soon updated to feature high back rocker stadium seating,
digital sound and projection, and playing first run attractions. It was
taken over by AMC in July 2011.
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8 SEARCHPARKER

HOT TUB
[noun] \ hät-tǝb \
A regular tub, but with me in it.
Locally Owned and Operated
303-841-7646 | www.spasofparker.com | spasofparkerco@gmail.com
19555 E Parker Square Drive/Ste 103, Parker - Behind NATURAL GROCERS
Meet me at
RORY’S
Fresh, homemade food in a family friendly environment.
Welcome Home
Finally, a safe place to be your authentic self.
SUNDAYS 9 AM & 11 AM
720-708-2889 • therorysdiner.com
11020 S. Pikes Peak Drive, Ste 140
SEPTEMBER 2025 9

101
THINGS TO DO
In and around Douglas County
Turns out there’s only so much Netflix you can watch.
We've compiled a list for whenever you need some inspiration, motivation,
or just a little guidance when it comes to deciding on something to do.
We guarantee there’s something for everyone on this list.
1- Chatfield State Park
2- Castlewood Canyon
3- The EDGE Ziplines & Adventures
4- Roxborough State Park
5- Cherokee Ranch & Castle
6- East/West Regional Trail
7- Cherry Creek Trail
8- The Homestead
9- Rock Park
10- Theatre of Dreams
11- DCF Guns Shooting Range
12- Vehicle Vault
13- PACE Center
14- Rueter-Hess Reservoir
15- Discovery Park
16- Parker Days
17- DC Fair & Rodeo
18- K1 Speed Indoor Go Karts
19- Highlands Ranch Mansion
20- The Ice Ranch
21- South Suburban Sports Complex
22- Sagebrush Stables
23- DC Library
24- Colorado Renaissance Festival
25- Outlets at Castle Rock
26- Miller Activity Complex
27- Mini Incline CR
28- Festival Park CR
29- The Barn Antiques CR
30- Parker Fieldhouse
31- Pollywog Station Lavender Farm
32- Parker Rec Center
33- Rueter-Hess Incline
34- The Red Farm House
35- Lone Creek Farms
36- Rocky Mountain Freedom Festival
37- CR Historical Society and Museum
38- The Emporium CR
39- H2O’Brien Pool
40- Parker Symphony Orchestra
41- FAF Air Soft
42- Echo Park Stadium
43- Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
44- Bingham Lake
45- Four Mile H istoric Park
46- Bayou Gulch Regional Park
47- Bluffs Regional Park and Trail
48- Challenger Regional Park
49- Fairgrounds Regional Park
50- Highland Heritage Regional Park
51- Cherry Creek Regional Trail
52- East West Regional Trail
53- High Line Canal Regional Trail
54- Pinery Loop Trail
55- Colorado Front Range Trail
56- Dawson Butte Ranch Open Space
57- Lincoln Mountain Open Space
58- Hidden Mesa Open Space
59- Spruce Meadows Open Space
60- Castle Pines Golf Club
10 SEARCHPARKER

61- Colorado Golf Club
62- The Club at Ravenna
63- Golf Club At Bear Dance
64- Red Hawk Ridge
65- Sanctuary Golf Club
66- Perry Park Country Club
67- The Club At Pradera
68- Sandbox VR
69- Civic Green Park
70- Taste of Highlands Ranch
71- LEGO Americana Roadshow
72- iFLY Indoor Skydiving
73- Park Meadows Mall
74- Lone Tree Arts Center
75- Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center
76- Big Horn Stables
77- Tiny Town & Railroad
78- Shredder: Indoor Ski & Snowboard
79- Play Street Museum
80- Wings Over The Rockies
81- Colorado Railroad Museum
82- Climb a 14er
83- Plains Conservation Center
84- Lariat Loop National Scenic Byway
85- Devil’s Head Lookout Trail
86- Manitou Incline
87- Dinosaur Ridge
88- The Inverness Hotel and Spa
89- Cook Creek Pool
90- Westridge Recreation Center
91- Farmers Market
92- Lone Tree Arts Center
93- Studio At Mainstreet
94- Lone Creek Farms
95- iFly
96- Uncorked Kitchen
97- Colorado Motorcycle Adventure
98- Lone Tree Pedestrian Bridge
99- Cherry Creek State Park
100- Aurora Reservoir
101- Bowlero
SEPTEMBER 2025 11

ATHLETES
to
WATCH
Douglas County has some of the best athletes in the country.
Many enter their senior seasons with multiple D1 offers to some of the best
universities. During this school year we will highlight some of those athletes,
their accomplishments, and their promising futures.
Reese Betschart
Class of 2026
Campbell Trombley
Class of 2028
Gerik Ashford
Class of 2026
12 SEARCHPARKER

GERIK ASHFORD
CHAPARRAL WOLVERINES
FOOTBALL
The 5'11", 191-pound junior returned from an injury his sophmore
season to compile 831 all-purpose yards including, 161 carries for
769 yards and 3 touchdowns. Gerik won offensive MVP honors
and was also selected to Second Team All-Conference. Ashford
could very well go for over 1000 yards this season. Currently, Gerik
is undecided which college he will commit to.
Reese Betschart
LEGEND TITANS
VOLLEYBALL
Reese is a four-year starter on the Legend Varsity team. She has
been selected to academic All-State first team three times, was
a 2024 first team All-Conference and All-State selection, was the
2024-25 female athlete of the year, and recently committed to
play D1 volleyball at Eastern Washington.
CAMPBELL TROMBLEY
PONDEROSA MUSTANGS
SOFTBALL
As a freshman, Campbell led Pondo with a .526BA, 29RBIs, 5HRs,
and a .952F%. She was the team MVP, 1st Team All-Conference, and
Honorable Mention All-State. She is ranked #15 in the country as, "Hot
100 Player Ranking Class of 2028" and ranked #8 in the county as,
"Class of 2028 Catcher Position Rankings" - by Line Drive Media. She
has garnered interest from universities such as NC State, Ohio State,
Rutgers, LA Tech, Towson, and Wichita, to name a few.
AUGUST 2025 13

H2 OHH
POOL / HOT TUB
SUPPLIES
• Spas • Chemicals • Filters • Billiards • Traeger Pellets • BBQ Accessories • Bull Grills
Locally Owned and Operated
| 303-841-7646
| www.spasofparker.com
| spasofparkerco@gmail.com
Exceptional Service
elegant results
50+ years experience
serving homeowners,
builders & remodelers
call for a free estimate
720-810-1160
www.petersenglass.com
10226 Progress Lane • Parker
14 SEARCHPARKER

THE GUIDE
THE BEST PLACES TO DINE IN DOUGLAS COUNTY
In the interest of providing
the 50 best dining options
in Douglas County, we
must be able to personally
recommend each listing.
The guide is subject to
change. If you have a
suggestion for inclusion
on the list, email us at
contribute@tuellers.com.
KEY
Based on a typical dinner
for one person, excluding
drinks, tax or tip.
$ ............................ Under $20
$$ ............................. $20-$30
$$$ ......................... Over $35
(EC) Editors Choice
(N) New
Asian fusion
FOGO DE CHÃO
Located in the Park Meadows Mall, off a beautiful outdoor courtyard setting. This Brazilian
steakhouse is more than a restaurant; it’s an experience. Try the full churrasco (shoo-hah-sko)
to enjoy delicious meat cuts brought right to your table! And don’t forget the guarana!
DANCING NOODLE
A small, family owned, dinein
and take-out restaurant
that serves authentic
homestyle Thai food.
10841 S. Crossroads Dr.,
Suite 10, Parker
303-805-3880 $$
INDOCHINE
A local go-to for quality
home-style cuisine. This
Parker fixture is known for a
fresh, creative menu.
19751 E Mainstreet, Parker
720-851-8559 $$
ITO SUSHI ASIAN BISTRO
Asian fusion restaurant
known for quality ingredients
and fresh fish daily.
2240 Mercantile St #100,
Castle Rock
720-749-6777 $$ (N)
JOHN HOLLY’S
Chinese and Thai dishes
that are nothing less than
the culinary equivalent of an
exotic adventure.
9232 Park Meadows Dr,
Lone Tree
303-768-9088 $$
JUNZ
A favorite sushi place in
town with a unique blend of
Japanese and French at its
very best.
11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd.,
Parker
720-851-1005 $$
BAKERY/DESSERTs
LA PETITE CREPERIE
The locals favorite spot to
grab made-to-order crepes.
Sweet or savory, you can’t go
wrong. Proudly serving farm
to table fresh.
19751 Mainstreet,
Parker
720-638-9722 $ (EC)
PARIS BAGUETTE
Popular Korean chain that
brings expertly crafted
baked goods through a
warm and welcoming
bakery cafe' experience that
delivers joy to everyone.
18374 Cottonwood Dr.,
Parker
720-500-5555 $ (N)
POULETTE BAKESHOP
New artisan bakers taking
Parker by storm. Order early,
they sell out every day!
19585 Hess Road, Parker
303-955-5647 $ (N)
BARBEQUE
BIG JIMS
Don’t be fooled by this being
a food truck; if you like
southern BBQ, this is your
place. 10685 S Parker Rd,
Parker $$$
GQUE BBQ
Award-winning food. Try the
wood-smoked ribs, brisket,
pork, or garlic potatoes.
8433 Park Meadows Center
Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree
303-729-2506 $$
HICKORY HOUSE
The Parker tradition. Known
for their baby back ribs, but
don’t miss the pulled pork
and barbeque chicken.
10335 S Parker Rd, Parker
303-805-9742 $$
OLD WEST BBQ
A hidden gem with familyfriendly
pricing. Don’t miss
out on their breakfast
burritos. 107 Wolfensberger
Rd., Castle Rock
303-660-6340 $
BREW PUB
20 MILE TAP HOUSE
Best known for their burgers
and wings. Make sure to
catch Trivia Tuesdays.
12543 N Hwy 83, Parker
303-841-6782 $$
GREAT DIVIDE BREWERY
& ROADHOUSE
Destination locale with an
informal ambiance offering
hearty comfort classics
215 Wilcox St Suite G,
Castle Rock
303-955-5788 $$ - $$$ (N)
ROCKYARD BREWING CO.
Douglas County’s longest
running brew pub. Steaks,
burgers, pizza and soup!
880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock
303-814-9273 $$
SEPTEMBER 2025 15

TAILGATE TAVERN
& GRILL
Your neighborhood tavern
for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Sports bar with live music
not to miss on the weekends.
19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker
303-841-7179 $$
THE LIBRARY CO.
BAR & KITCHEN
Offering great food &
amazing drinks in a relaxed
and warm atmosphere. Clear
and simple menu options.
3911 Ambrosia St.,
Suite 101, Castle Rock
720-389-5986 $$
ITalian
CRANELLI’S
Comfort Italian food in a
rustic, cozy, casual familyoriented
format.
10047 Park Meadows Dr.,
Lone Tree
303-799-3661 $$
DANIELLE’S
SCRATCH KITCHEN
Stylish, energetic eatery
offering elevated Italian fare
with an emphasis on great
customer service.
872 Happy Canyon Rd.
Suite 100, Castle Rock
303-524-9788 $$$
PORTOFINO
Authentic Italian eatery
featuring pizza, pasta,
calzones and heros. The local
“go-to” for fresh Italian.
10920 S Parker Rd, Parker
303-841-9900 $$
SCILEPPI’S
A modern Italian restaurant
focused on family recipes
and premium ingredients.
210 Third St., Castle Rock
303-688-9000 $$
VIA BACI
Neapolitan pizzas join
modern Italian fare at this
casual eatery featuring a full
bar & patio. 10005 Commons
St, Lone Tree
303-790-0828 $$
MEXICAN
ADRIANNA’S
Intimate Mexican eatery for
authentic cuisine in a relaxed
ambiance. Great for parties.
7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown
303-663-7800 $$
CASA MARIACHI
Unassuming local joint
serving up straight-forward
Mexican plates.
9771 S Parker Rd, Parker
720-842-5105 $$
LA LOMA
Upscale-rustic atmosphere
known for traditional Mexican
meals.
6361 Promenade Pkw,
Castle Rock
303-632-9900 $$ (N)
LAS POTRANCES
Casual Mexican restaurant
full of real Mexican culture,
Mexican Food, Fresh Drinks,
and Friendly Hospitality.
19600 Solar Cir, Parker
303-840-0325 $$ (N)
LOS DOS POTRILLOS
Elegant family-owned eatery.
There’s a combo dish to
please everyone.
6370 Promenade Pkwy.,
Castle Rock
720-769-5474 $$
LOS VOLCANES
Don’t miss the Carnitas! And
bring your appetite for the
large portions.
10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker
303-841-0160 $$
new american
CASTLE CAFE
Set in a former 1890s hotel.
Plating hearty American
fare like pan-fried chicken &
burgers.
403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock
303-814-2233 $$
VALERIE'S BREWHOUSE
Uniquely fun sports bar with
a creative menu of brats and
dogs.
971 Park St., Castle Rock
303-660-2399 $
CRAVE
A favorite gourmet burger
joint. Imaginative menu with
amazing handcrafted shakes.
3982 Limelight Ave,
Castle Rock
303-814-2829 $$
DOUG'S DAY DINER
American breakfast cafe
where everything is made
from scratch.
18595 Mainstreet,
Parker
720-476-7162 $$
MANNA
A casual sit-down destination
with a menu that reflects
Colorado’s growing season.
2350 Meadows Blvd.,
Castle Rock
720-455-3664 $
PARKER GARAGE
The Parker landmark located
right downtown offers a
locally-sourced menu. Great
service and large portions.
19420 Mainstreet, Parker
720-389-8105 $$ (EC)
PEGASUS
A local favorite for breakfast
or lunch. American, Greek or
Mexican dishes.
313 Jerry St., Castle Rock
303-688-6746 $$
RORY’S
Comfort food and baked
goods at their finest.
Don’t see it on the menu?
Ask for it!
11020 S Pikes Peak Dr.,
Parker
720-708-2889 $$
SIERRA
High-end, wood-fired
kitchen with a warm
ambiance, preparing
select American dishes.
10680 Cabela Dr.,
Lone Tree
303-662-8800 $$
TRIBE AT RIVERWALK
Upscale, yet casual dining
experience with a one-of-akind
menu. Don't miss the
brunch.
115 Wilcox Street,
Castle Rock
303-362-0904 $$$ (N)
WEST MAIN TAPROOM
A modern and open venue
that boasts thoughtful and
honest cuisine. A haven for
the gluten-free crowd.
18595 Mainstreet, Parker
720-826-3689 $$
PIZZA
ANTONIO’S
A traditional family-style
Italian pizza restaurant with
a Brooklyn flair.
12947 S Parker Rd., Parker
720-851-5300 $
ARTISAN
Delicious Neapolitan-style
pizza that makes each dish
an individual work of art! And
don’t forget dessert.
12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker
303-840-0518 $
COLORADOUGH
A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch
pizza. So fresh
they don’t even have a
freezer! 17860 Cottonwood
Dr., Parker
303-386-3333 $$
LIL’ RICCI’S
New York pizzas & other red
sauce staples in a low-key
setting. Can’t miss the garlic
knots. 16526 Keystone Blvd,
Parker
303-220-7422 $$
PARRY’S
NY-style pizza, wings, &
casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly
quarters.
5650 Allen Way,
Castle Rock
303-814-8686 $$
16 SEARCHPARKER

Culinary Chronicles
PHOTO FROM BLACK+HAUS
Black+Haus Tavern | 19501 Mainstreet
STEAKHOUSE
DUKE’S
Rustic restaurant featuring
beef & seafood dishes, plus
a sports tavern with an Irish
vibe.
363 Village Square Lane,
Castle Pines
303-814-2487 $$$
FOGO DE CHAO
Upscale Brasilian steakhouse
with all-you-can-eat meat
carved tableside. Guaraná is
a must, and try the Creme de
Papaya. 8419 Park Meadows
Center Dr., Lone Tree
303-481-4001 $$$ (EC)
PERRY’S
Chops, seafood, wine, &
cocktails served in an upscale
setting with a lounge & live
jazz. 8433 Park Meadows
Center Dr., Lone Tree
303-792-2571 $$$
TEXAS ROADHOUSE
Texas-themed steakhouse
with a great menu and
wonderful atmosphere.
11205 S. Parker Rd,
Parker
303-805-5848 $$
TRAPPER’S
CHOP HOUSE
Upscale hideaway local
favorite featuring their
signature Volcanic Hot Rock
sear-it-yourself experience.
19308 Cottonwood Dr.,
Parker
303-248-2132 $$$
UNIQUE
VISTAVINO MODERN
Quaint Tuscan grill made
fresh from local fare. Every
dish is a winner!
611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock
303-814-2487 $$
Our neighbors invited us to join them on a Saturday
night at Black+Haus Tavern. It was just me and my
older son this time, as our youngest wasn’t feeling
well. We had been wanting to try this spot for a
while, and I am so glad that we did!
The location is right on the corner of Mainstreet,
across from O’Brien Park. It was a busy Saturday
night, but luckily our wonderful neighbors had
grabbed a reservation in advance. The ambiance
was classic with a modern twist, which I found very
inviting. It felt like the perfect blend of upscale
dining and neighborhood comfort.
They have a decent selection of cocktails, wine,
and beer. I was happy with my chilled glass of
Chardonnay while my son opted for a lemonade.
For entrées, I chose the salmon, which arrived with
a beautifully crisp exterior, a delicate and flaky
interior, and was expertly seasoned.
My son has been on a steak and potatoes kick. I
wanted to encourage this new culinary exploration,
so we ordered him the ribeye! It was also perfectly
cooked, and we shared some with our neighbors
since the portion was generous. The steak was high
quality and melted in your mouth.
Throughout our meal, the service was friendly and
prompt, adding to our overall enjoyment. I made
note that they do have a kids' menu, so we can
go back again with our youngest! If you are looking
for modern eating in a clean, crisp atmosphere, I
recommend you give Black+Haus
Tavern a try. I am glad to have
found this culinary gem in our
community.
Denise Woods is a
freelance writer.
SEPTEMBER 2025 17

Life on
the lake
Cool off this summer at one of the
Front Range's great swimming holes
Prospect Lake
This 58-acre lake is part of 194-acre Memorial Park in
Colorado Springs. In a convenient location, it is just
east of downtown with beautiful Pikes Peak in the
background. The Family Center YMCA is built next door
with many options for recreation. The city-center park is a
great spot for families to gather and enjoy the outdoors.
For more information, see coloradosprings.gov under
Community Parks then Memorial Park.
18 SEARCHPARKER

Aurora Reservoir
The reservoir, with 800 acres of surface area, is located in the
southeastern corner of Aurora. It provides drinking water to the
city and also serves as a versatile recreation area. A unique
SCUBA beach is reserved for diving on the northeastern edge
and is a place for open-water certifications. A small airplane
was deliberately sunk to become a diving attraction. Find more
information at www.auroragov.org/things_to_do/reservoirs.
Cherry Creek Reservoir
Just southeast of downtown Denver is the Cherry Creek State
Park. The 880-acre surface area of water is a beautiful setting for
recreation. The park is set in a natural prairie with rolling hills and
affords many ways to enjoy it. Camping, water sports, trails and
outdoor facilities are popular in this convenient spot. See
cpw.state.co.us for more information.
Bear Creek Lake Park
In Lakewood, Bear Creek Lake Park sits on 2,624 acres of space
provided for outdoor leisure. The park includes three lakes: Bear
Creek Lake (110 acres of surface area) is open to motorized
boating. Big Soda Lake is similar in size and limited to non-motorized
boats. Little Soda Lake is only open to Water Ski School’s private
boats. The park sits against the mountains and close to the Red
Rocks amphitheater. Find out details at lakewood.org.
Chatfield Reservoir
Chatfield State Park straddles Douglas County and Jefferson
County and is settled near the base of the Front Range mountains.
In the park, Chatfield Reservoir offers 1,423 acres of surface water.
This beautiful, man-made lake offers a huge variety of outdoor
recreation! Among the less unique activities provided at Chatfield
are hot air ballooning and model air plane flying in a specialized
field. See cpw.state.co.us for more information.
Bingham Lake
This beautiful neighborhood lake is a convenient spot to fish or
enjoy the view around the lake trail. Bingham Lake is a 30-acre
lake in the Pinery subdivision in Parker. Bingham Lake is privately
owned by the Pinery Water & Wastewater District. This allows for
fishing on the lake without the need for a fishing license. There
is also a playground in the neighboring greenspace. See www.
pinery.org/bingham-lake for more information.
SEPTEMBER 2025 19

Mountain
W E E K E N D G E T A W A Y S
20 SEARCHPARKER

Estes Park
After just a couple hours of driving, you can be
exploring Rocky Mountain National Park and the
quaint town of Estes Park. From a small town growing
through ranching and farming, Estes soon became
a place of tourism for many to come and visit this
Switzerland-like landscape. It is known for its wildlife
and beauty with surrounding peaks ranging from
8,500 to 14,000 feet high. Elk can often be seen all over
town, even congregating on the baseball diamond.
Elkhorn Avenue, the main street in town, offers a
huge variety of locally-owned shops and stops and
places to grab a bite. The Riverwalk runs along the
Big Thompson River and Fall River and is a peaceful
way to enjoy downtown. Enjoy hiking, rock climbing,
river rafting, fishing, archery and more. Try paddle
boarding on Lake Estes or riding the Aerial Tramway to
the top of Prospect Mountain. Estes Park is a majestic
place where you will experience the great outdoors.
Steamboat Springs
Breckenridge
For a varied mountain getaway experience, try
Steamboat Springs. This unique town is just over 3
hours from Douglas County. Instead of luxury condos
and designer shopping, this special place has a
casual, western feel, focused on local artisans, down
home cooking, and relaxing. Famous authentic
Mexican tacos are served on 9th street, perfect for a
break from skiing. And check out the historic western
store established in 1905. A huge variety of winter
activities await, from snow skiing and snow shoeing to
ice hockey and ice fishing. And of course, a popular
activity is soaking in the natural hot water. Hot springs
are located both downtown and 40 minutes outside
of town. During other times of the year, experience
biking, visiting one of the surrounding lakes, botanic
gardens, horseback riding, or the hot air baloon
festival. Free buses also make it convenient to go
from downtown to local attractions with routes every
ten minutes. Enjoy this different kind of ski town.
Skiing at “Breck” is hugely popular, with the highest chair lift on the continent, at 12,840 feet high, (the Imperial
Express SuperChair). It is internationally known for its snow-covered slopes. At only two hours away, this makes for
a convenient weekend getaway. Aside from skiing, Breckenridge offers sledding, ice skating, sleigh rides, and
snowmobiling, among many other winter activities. With snow into May, winter through spring is when the town
shines. But warmer weather also brings hiking, biking, or floating the Arkansas River. Take a tour through the town’s
history or sign up to tour the gold mine. You can even meet the Siberian Huskies who pull for the dog sled team
adventure. The charming and historic main street offers a variety of shopping, fun, and food, with pork rinds and
truffle fritters being some of the favorites. For a high-end experience, try a Breckenridge vacation.
SEPTEMBER 2025 21

Safety and Security
in the Douglas County School District
By Erin Kane, Superintendent
The safety and security of our 61,000 students is our top priority. We're excited to partner with our community to ensure
a safe and secure school experience for everyone.
Meet Our Director of Safety and Security
Meet Jonny Grusing, our Director of Safety and Security - he
has served DCSD in this role since 2021! Jonny brings incredible
expertise from his time as an FBI Special Agent, with a national
reputation for successfully resolving complex criminal cases.
His background in behavioral analysis, threat assessments,
and his passion for safety (fueled by his family of educators!)
make him an invaluable asset to our district. We're incredibly
fortunate to have him overseeing our schools' safety and
collaborating closely with local law enforcement and our
School Resource Officers and Campus Security Specialists.
Fun fact: you can find interviews with Jonny on some episodes
of television shows such as 20/20!
DCSD’s Approach to Safety
Our school district’s approach to safety is comprehensive,
focusing on prevention, partnerships with local law
enforcement and mental health experts, hardening our
facilities, community education, and effective response. We utilize strategies like regular drills, the "Locked Door"
safety protocol, visitor sign-in procedures with Raptor, and the widely adopted Standard Response Protocol (SRP).
Your Role in Safety
Your role in safety is crucial! Parents/guardians - please make sure you’re signed up for DCSD emergency
communications to stay informed. Report any suspicious activity to your school or via Safe2Tell. Let's work together
to keep our school zones safe by being vigilant drivers, especially around children walking or biking. Remember to
always follow bus stop sign laws and ensure your children are safely buckled in your vehicle. Your partnership makes
a world of difference!
Here’s to an incredible (and safe) school year!
Erin Kane
Superintendent
Douglas County School District
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