The 700-acre Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms is best known as a native plant refuge and working farm located along the banks of Deer Creek in southern Jefferson County. This expansive site includes historic Hildebrand Ranch and its restored 1918 dairy barn. The aromatic lavender garden showcases 14 species, while the unique flower-filled butterfly house is habitat to native species of these “painted ladies.”
Here’s a quick video overview of what you’ll find.
Facilities include the Earl J. Sinnamon Visitor Center, the historical Hildebrand Ranch, a restored 1918 dairy barn and silo, the 1874 Deer Creek Schoolhouse, 2.5 miles of nature trails, the Deer Creek Discovery children’s play area and numerous wildflower gardens.
Bring your binoculars and wander the many trails. The area is known for exceptional bird watching.
The Natural Dye Study Group of the Rocky Mountain Weavers Guild approached the Gardens to establish a habitat for plants used in dyeing. The result is the Janice Ford Dye Garden, one of the few such gardens in the country. The entire complex is a bucolic refuge near the city and its fast-growing suburbs.
Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, 8500 W. Deer Creek Canyon Rd., Littleton, 720-865-4346
Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield
Hours
Open Daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Last admission is at 4:30 p.m.)
Admission Prices
$5 per vehicle
$8 per van (6 to 15 passengers)
Members: Free
