In The Economic Benefits of Denver’s Park and Recreation System, the Trust for Public Land states that much data has been collected which correlates proximity to a park with increased return on investment, especially with trends showing that consumers are progressively putting a higher value on interaction with the environment. At the same time, Denver Parks saved area residents $804,187 in 2008 due to reduced stormwater management costs.
Of course the recreational and educational benefits of Littleton’s parks can’t be understated. According to the city’s website it’s home to nearly 40 open spaces and trails that boast botanical gardens, water sports, dog parks, hiking and biking trails and so much more. Here are some of the highlights of this vast park system:
- Chatfield State Park has 70 acres of natural wonders. It includes an off-leash dog area, boating in the Chatfield Reservoir, a dam trail, an equestrian loop, a campground, 26 miles of bike trails, fishing, jet skiing, model airplane flying, and educational programs run in part by the Audubon Society of Greater Denver.
- Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms has events like harvest-themed Pumpkin Festival and Corn Maze and the distinctly rural Trail of Lights to a growing commitment to food access through the Gardens’ Urban Food Initiatives.
- Hikers and bikers who want to forego traditional commutes can take the South Platte River Trail all the way to the Denver metro.
- The Hudson Botanical Gardens offer beekeeping classes, yoga in the gardens, a community drum circle, herb and vegetable gardening instruction, kid’s nature hunts, and 5 event venues for weddings, reunions, and parties.
Contact me today to learn more about the neighborhoods near Littleton’s vibrant parks and for local expertise on the benefits of investing your own “green” on home ownership in Littleton.
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