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McGraw Memorial Park - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

Outdoors - Other
Parks
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About McGraw Memorial Park

McGraw Memorial Park is a beautiful park located in Park County, Colorado. The park features a variety of amenities, including a playground, picnic tables, and a fishing pond. McGraw Memorial Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels. Visitors to the park can enjoy a variety of activities, such as hiking, biking, and bird watching. In addition, the park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Address : 39 Wellington Lake Rd, Bailey, CO 80421, USA

Things to Do at McGraw Memorial Park

The  park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. There are several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels, allowing everyone from casual hikers to experienced adventurers to find a route that suits their ability. For those looking for a more leisurely experience, the park also features a scenic lake where visitors can go for a swim or simply relax on the shore. picnicking is also popular at McGraw Memorial Park, and there are several picnic areas located throughout the park. In addition, the park is home to a playground and a number of sports fields, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. 


Top Activities Near McGraw Memorial Park

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History of McGraw Memorial Park

McGraw Memorial Park is located in Park County, Colorado and was named after former State Senator Edward McGraw. The park was established in 1882 and is one of the oldest state parks in the country. The park is situated on a scenic spot overlooking the South Platte River Valley and offers beautiful views of the Rocky Mountains. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and eagles. In addition to its natural beauty, McGraw Memorial Park also offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and picnicking. The park is a popular destination for both locals and visitors and provides a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.


Best Time to Visit McGraw Memorial Park

The best time to visit McGraw Memorial Park for birdwatching is in the springtime, when the birds are actively nesting and raising their young. Spring is also a great time to see other wildlife in the park, such as deer, elk, and bighorn sheep.

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Tips for Visiting McGraw Memorial Park

  1. Bring along a map of the park, as it can be easy to get lost amongst the trees and remember to pack bug spray, as there can be a lot of mosquitoes in the summer months.
  2. Follow all posted signs and rules, as they are there for your safety and the safety of others.
  3. Be aware of your surroundings. McGraw Memorial Park is home to many different types of wildlife, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  4. Take a hike on one of the park's many trails. With over 20 miles of trails, there's something for everyone, whether you're looking for an easy walk or a challenging hike.
  5.  Fish in one of the park's four lakes. A valid Colorado fishing license is required, and you can get one at any Colorado Division of Wildlife office or online at www.wildlife.state.co.us.
  6. Go birdwatching in the park. Over 200 species of birds have been spotted in McGraw Memorial Park, so bring your binoculars and see how many you can spot!
  7. Take a scenic drive on Park County Road 12 through the park. This winding mountain road is closed to commercial traffic, so it's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely drive and take in the stunning scenery.
     

Interesting Facts and Trivias About McGraw Memorial Park

  1.  McGraw Memorial Park covers an area of ​​more than 100 acres and the park includes a variety of vegetation, including towering Douglas fir trees and fragrant ponderosa pines.
  2. McGraw Memorial Park also has a number of historical landmarks, such as the old Park County Courthouse and the Cripple Creek Jailhouse Museum.
  3. McGraw Memorial Park was established in 1879 and is one of the oldest parks in Colorado.
  4. Attend one of the park's special events. Throughout the year, McGraw Memorial Park hosts special events like concerts, ranger-led programs, and more. Check out the calendar of events on the park website to see what's coming up during your visit.
  5. In addition to its natural beauty, McGraw Memorial Park is also known for its dark sky views—it was designated as a Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association in 2017.

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at McGraw Memorial Park

It  is recommended that visitors allocate at least half a day to explore the park. However, those who are short on time can still enjoy a pleasant experience by picking one or two specific areas of interest to explore in depth. 


How to Reach McGraw Memorial Park

To reach the park, take Highway 285 south from Denver for about 60 miles. The park is situated on the east side of the highway, just north of the town of Fairplay.


Entrance Fee of McGraw Memorial Park

The entrance fee of McGraw Memorial Park is $5 for a single person or $10 for a family.


Opening Hours of McGraw Memorial Park

McGraw Memorial Park is open from sunrise to sunset, 365 days a year.  However, the hours may be shortened during the winter months due to the shorter daylight hours. During the summer months, the park is open until 10:00 PM.


Attractions Near McGraw Memorial Park

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Mount BaileyMount Bailey is a mountain in Park County. The summit of the mountain is 12,943 feet above sea level and is the highest point in Park County. The mountain is located in the Mosquito Range, a subrange of the Rocky Mountains. The mountain is home to several hiking trails, as well as the remnants of an old mining town. The town, which was abandoned in the early 1900s, is now a popular destination for visitors to the mountain. Mount Bailey is a popular destination for both hikers and climbers.
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Windy PeakWindy Peak is a mountain in Park County, Colorado. The peak is located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, and it has an elevation of 11,929 feet. The mountain is named for its windy summit, which is often buffeted by strong winds. Windy Peak is a popular destination for hikers and climbers, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The peak can be reached via a moderate hike of about 4 miles (6 kilometers), and there are several camping sites along the trail.
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Mason Creek Trail Mason Creek Trail is mostly smooth doubletrack with very moderate grades. About a half mile into the trail, you'll hike through a stunning aspen grove, which is worth the trip in and of itself. Soon the trail narrows, becomes rocky, and begins to follow a creek. The final few miles are relatively unremarkable doubletrack that terminates in the parking lot.
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Staunton State ParkStaunton is Colorado's newest state park, offering breathtaking views, rich Colorado history, diverse plant and wildlife, rock climbing and several miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. It includes dramatic rock outcroppings, several streams and a waterfall. Staunton State Park's varied geology, soils, water features, and climate support rare and unexpected plant communities and a rich diversity of wildlife.
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Staunton State ParkStaunton State Park is a majestic 3,828-acre state park, which features towering cliffs, lush meadows, and a variety of wildlife, making it a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. The park is also home to a number of historical sites, including an old mining town and a stagecoach stop. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including camping, picnicking, fishing, and bird watching. With its abundance of natural beauty and recreation opportunities.
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Lost Creek WildernessThis is a beautiful and popular spot in Park County. It's known for its scenic hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and crystal-clear lakes. The area is also popular with backpackers and campers, who come to enjoy the solitude and tranquility of the wilderness. While the Lost Creek Wilderness is a great place to explore, it's important to be prepared before heading into the backcountry. Be sure to bring plenty of food and water, a map and compass, and appropriate clothing for the weather.

Discover More Attractions in Park County, Home of McGraw Memorial Park


Location of McGraw Memorial Park


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