Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park Parking Lot

For dog owners across Colorado, the dream of an expansive, open space where their canine companions can truly run free and explore is often at the top of their wish list. In Westminster, that dream becomes a breathtaking reality at the Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park. This isn't just a dog park; it's a vast natural landscape encompassing 440 acres dedicated to off-leash canine adventure, offering unparalleled peace and unparalleled views of the Colorado Front Range, including Denver, Boulder, and even the majestic Rocky Mountains.

For over a decade, this incredible open space has been a beloved daily destination for countless local dog owners, serving as a sanctuary for both human and hound. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life, immerse yourself in nature, and watch your dog revel in the sheer joy of boundless freedom. Whether you're seeking a serene walk, an invigorating run, or just a place for your dog to socialize and expend energy, Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park provides an experience unlike any other in the Denver metro area.

Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park is strategically located, making it a convenient and sought-after destination for dog lovers from across the region. The primary parking lot, serving as a key access point, is located at:

Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail, 10499 Simms St, Westminster, CO 80005, USA

This location positions the park ideally for residents of Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, and even further afield, drawing visitors eager to experience its vastness. The park benefits from its connection to the Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail system, providing additional access points and opportunities for longer walks or bike rides with your leashed dog leading up to the off-leash area. There are also reported to be two parking lots: one off Simms Street and 105th Drive, and another off W. 100th Ave, west of Simms Street, which helps manage traffic, especially on busy weekends. While the parking lots themselves may not be enormous, the ample space within the park easily accommodates the large number of visitors. The park is generally open from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week, providing flexibility for early morning adventures or evening strolls.

Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park, due to its designation as an open space, prioritizes the natural environment while still offering essential services for a comfortable visit:

• Expansive Off-Leash Area: The core service is the monumental 440 acres of designated off-leash space. This allows dogs of all sizes and energy levels to run, play, and explore without restriction, fostering natural behaviors and providing exceptional exercise.
• Extensive Trail System: While an open field, the park is crisscrossed with numerous clear paths and trails. These trails are perfect for walking, running, or even mountain biking with your dogs, providing varied terrain and different routes to explore the vast landscape.
• Waste Stations (Limited): While the park encourages responsible pet ownership and provides some complimentary poop bags, visitors are strongly advised to bring their own as supplies can run out. The emphasis is on packing out all waste, no matter how far from the trailhead you are, to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
• Dog Drinking Water: Some areas of the park reportedly provide dog drinking water, which is a great amenity. However, given the vastness of the area and potential for seasonal shut-offs, bringing your own water is always a wise precaution, especially for longer excursions.
• Picnic Tables and Benches: Scattered throughout the open space, particularly in shaded areas, you'll find benches and picnic tables. These offer convenient spots for owners to rest, enjoy the scenery, and observe their dogs at play.
• Restroom Facilities (Portable): For human convenience, portable restroom facilities are available on-site.

Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park stands out as a premier Colorado dog park due to its unique and impressive features:

• Unrivaled Size: With 440 acres, it is one of the largest, if not the largest, off-leash dog parks in the Denver metropolitan area. This sheer size guarantees plenty of room for dogs to roam without feeling confined.
• Stunning Panoramic Views: A major draw for both locals and visitors is the breathtaking scenery. From various points within the park, you can enjoy expansive views of the Denver and Boulder skylines, as well as the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains. This makes every walk a scenic experience.
• Natural Prairie Environment: The park consists of rolling hills and natural prairie, providing a diverse and stimulating environment for dogs. This natural setting offers varying terrains and scents, keeping dogs engaged and excited.
• Partially Fenced (Emphasis on Voice Control): While the park is designated off-leash, it is described as "partially fenced at best" with "no gate at the entryway." This means that excellent voice control is paramount for dogs visiting this park. It's a true open space experience where dogs must be reliably under command.
• Wildlife Sightings: As an open space, the park is home to various indigenous wildlife, including coyotes and rattlesnakes. This natural element adds to the wild beauty but also necessitates careful observation and awareness from owners.
• Seasonal Pond for Swimming: The park includes a pond suitable for dog swimming, which is a fantastic feature for water-loving pups. However, this is typically open seasonally, so it's best to check ahead or be prepared for it to be dry during certain times of the year.
• Rocky Mountain Greenway Access: Its direct access to the regional Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail system provides additional opportunities for leashed walks and bike rides beyond the off-leash area.

As a public open space managed by the City of Westminster, Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park does not typically offer commercial promotions or discounts. Access to this expansive park is free for all visitors. However, the park is supported by a community group called the "Westy Dog Park Guardians," who organize various events and initiatives. These might include:

• Park Clean-Up Events (PUP Parties): The Guardians frequently organize "PUP Parties" (Pick Up Poop) and other clean-up days, inviting volunteers to help maintain the park's pristine condition. While not a "promotion," participating is a great way to give back to the community and enjoy the park.
• Community Gatherings: The Guardians and the City of Westminster may host special events at the park, such as "Paws-giving" (a pet food and supply drive) or other dog-centric gatherings, fostering community spirit.

Local Westminster pet businesses might occasionally have promotions related to park visits, but these would be independent of the park itself. For information on upcoming events or volunteer opportunities, local residents are encouraged to visit the Westy Dog Park Guardians website or the City of Westminster Parks and Recreation website.

For inquiries regarding Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park, including rules, regulations, and facility information, you can contact the City of Westminster Parks, Recreation and Libraries Department:

Address: Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail, 10499 Simms St, Westminster, CO 80005, USA

Phone: (303) 658-2400 (This is a general number for the City of Westminster's parks and recreation, as confirmed by various sources).

For Colorado residents, especially those in the northern Denver metro area, Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park is more than just a dog park; it's a vital part of the outdoor lifestyle we cherish. Its sheer size – a monumental 440 acres – offers an unparalleled opportunity for dogs to experience true freedom, engage in extensive exercise, and explore a natural landscape in a way few other urban parks can provide. This aligns perfectly with the active, outdoor-oriented ethos of Coloradoans who seek vast spaces for recreation.

The stunning panoramic views of Denver, Boulder, and the Rocky Mountains transform a simple dog walk into a truly invigorating experience, offering a sense of peace and connection to nature that many locals seek to incorporate into their daily lives. While the "partially fenced" nature means reliable voice control is a must, this feature encourages responsible dog ownership, a value highly regarded within our community. It's a park that asks owners to be engaged and attentive, fostering a safer and more harmonious environment for everyone.

The presence of trails allows for varied activities beyond just off-leash running, catering to owners who enjoy hiking or biking with their dogs. And while amenities like waste bags or water might require a bit of personal preparation, this self-sufficiency is a hallmark of the Colorado spirit. The ongoing commitment from community groups like the Westy Dog Park Guardians to preserve and protect this space further cements its suitability, demonstrating a shared local investment in keeping this natural treasure pristine for generations of dogs and their human companions. Westminster Hills Open Space Dog Park truly embodies the adventurous, community-minded, and nature-loving spirit of Colorado, making it an irreplaceable local resource.