Bear Creek Lake Park is built around three lakes (Bear Creek Lake, Big Soda Lake, and Little Soda Lake) in the foothills between Lakewood and Morrison. It has 15 miles of multi-use dirt trails, a swim beach at Big Soda Lake, kayak and paddleboard rentals from Soda Lakes Marina, fishing, camping and yurts, an archery range, and mountain biking, all in a setting backed by the same foothills ridgeline that frames Red Rocks. The park is also excellent for wildlife, particularly birds: the wetland and riparian corridor along Bear Creek hosts herons, kingfishers, osprey, and shorebirds depending on the season. Tip: For a quick visit, the trail system along Bear Creek's south shore is easy, shaded, and genuinely beautiful. Pic: Rattler Racing