Sloan's Lake Park

Located in the Highland neighborhood (Northwest side) of Denver, Sloan's Lake Park is an urban oasis, with the enormous Sloan Lake taking center stage.

The true history of the creation of Sloan Lake may never be officially known, but during the settlement of the Denver area in the mid to late 19th century, the lake did not exist.

In December 1866, under the newly enacted Southern Homestead Act, Thomas M. Sloan received a patent for the land from US President Andrew Johnson to use the land for agricultural purposes, farming, and cattle-raising. A commonly accepted legend states that Sloan dug a well on the land, inadvertently tapping into an underground aquifer, and that when he awoke the next morning, part of his farm land was covered in water.

Things To Do

Sloan's Lake Park is opened year-round, from 5 am – 11 pm. Enjoy the 2.6-mile loop trail around the lake, generally considered an easy route. This is a very popular trail for birding, road biking, and running, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. In the summer, keep an eye out for water skiers zooming across the lake, framed by a stunning view of the Denver skyline. It’s the perfect spot for a day of canoeing with [Wilderness Inquiry](https://www.wildernessinquiry.org/itinerary/denver-co/)!

Sloan's Lake Park hosts the annual Colorado Dragon Boat Festival, a celebration of Asian American culture and tradition featuring a host of ornate dragon boats filling the lake.

The lake is home to a variety of birds, fish and other wildlife. The lake’s muddy flats and shallower waters provide habitat for wading birds and muskrats. You may even see fox and coyote wandering among the cottonwood trees.

Bring some food to grill and spread out a picnic blanket or two — there's plenty of room at this 177-acre park.

Facilities: Drinking Fountain, Picnic Tables, Picnic Shelter, Playground, Pump Track, Restroom, Basketball Court, Bike/Pedestrian Path, Football Field, Soccer Field, Baseball / Softball Field, Tennis Court, Lake, Boating, Flower Beds, Picnic Area

Sloan's Lake Park Foundation

The Sloan’s Lake Foundation ensures the environmental health, sustainability and beauty of one of Denver’s top urban natural assets. Their focus is on water quality that supports the lake ecosystem as well as a variety of recreational uses. The result will be the preservation of Sloan’s Lake for generations to come.

Your donation to the Sloan's Lake Park Foundation will help funding efforts to promote: clean water and sustainability; safe, livable and welcoming spaces; and programming and activation for all.

For more information on how to visit Sloan's Lake Park, visit Denver Parks and Recreation.