White Ranch Park
The largest park in the Jeffco Open Space system, White Ranch Park has 20-plus miles of multi-use trails over both gentle and rugged terrain. Natural-surface trails criss-cross the property with the exception of two Sensitive Areas, including Ralston Buttes, which can be accessed only by permit. White Ranch Park offers great views with varying trail levels of difficulty and lengths making it an ideal place for wildlife watching, hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
History
Nomadic Ute and Arapaho tribes camped and hunted on this land. In 1865, Welsh immigrants James Bond and his wife, Mary, settled on this land. Their home still stands within the park. By 1913, Paul and Anna Lee White purchased a portion of the land. The family operated a commercial Hereford cattle ranch until 1969. The park was acquired through a substantial gift from Anna Lee White and by Jeffco Open Space purchase.
Camping
White Ranch Park is one of two Jeffco Open Space parks that allows for permitted camping. Sawmill and Sourdough Springs Campgrounds offer semi-primitive, tent-only, walk-in camping in designated sites is available by online permit. Required camping permits must be obtained at least 24 hours in advance. Permits are $12 per campsite, per night and valid for up to three consecutive nights. Camping is limited to a total of six nights within a 30 day period.
Directions
White Ranch East Trailhead
21827 West 56th Avenue
Golden CO, 80403
White Ranch West Trailhead
25373 Belcher Hill Road
Golden CO, 80403
Interested in volunteering?
Jeffco Open Space has been the natural choice for volunteering since 1972. Ever since a grassroots campaign resulted in the creation of our agency, volunteers have been pitching in for their parks – from helping to preserve natural resources and educating visitors to blazing new trails.
Find the most current position description for ongoing volunteer programs here. Volunteer recruitment fairs and applications are open for all positions in February – March of each year. Some positions may be open to apply longer. For the most up to date information and applications, click the large, blue APPLY NOW button at the link above. For additional information about volunteer programs or projects, contact one of our team members by emailing us or calling Jeffco Open Space at (303) 271-5925.