McGraw Memorial Park - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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. 

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.

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.

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.
    

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.

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. 

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.

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

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.