Fall leaves, Sun, and Snow in the Park

Denver City Park Lake

When we found our little Denver bungalow on AirBnB, we knew that it was close to Denver's City Park, but we really had no idea what a great park it is and how much we would enjoy being able to walk there. Crisscrossed by bike paths and walking trails, it also includes the Zoo and the Science & Nature Museum

For us, one of the nicer features is the large lake--about a mile and half around and always a great walk, with the water providing an ever changing view and atmosphere. 

Sue walking in the Snow

Last week after a string of wonderful mild and bright autumn days, we woke to a lovely, light snowfall.  By 10:00 am the sun had once again come out, making it a perfect morning for a walk in the park.  We practically had the park to ourselves--except for the myriad Canada geese who call the Park home.

The Canada Geese are seemingly everywhere

Although they are fun to watch, especially when they take off or land on the lake, they also present a huge problem for park users--their prolific guano is everywhere, and you have to watch every step.

We recently met a park employee whose job is to make the park less enticing for the geese.  He releases his bright orange, radio controlled "gooseinator" on the various lakes and ponds. The geese really don't like the little creature-like machine and take flight whenever it approaches, although they return quickly once the gooseinator is out of the water. Our informant claims that the program is working though--last year they found more than 250 eggs in various nests around the park--this year hardly any.

Snow clinging to the colored leaves

Still on this lovely October morning with much of the ground covered in a light dusting of snow, we didn't worry too much about the goose guano.  We felt tremendously invigorated and peaceful at the same time, after our hour long walk. The air was cold and crisp and the scenery delightful!

MLK Memorial

Not long ago on one of our strolls, we came upon a wonderful tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King and the Civil Rights Movement. We now make a point of passing by it almost every time we walk in the area. It consists of a large statue of Dr. King, surrounded by smaller statues of Frederick Douglas, Sojourner Truth, Rosa Parks, and Mahatma Gandhi.  The history of the Movement and many quotes from Dr.King surround the central sculpture at the end of star-like points. We find it much more moving and approachable than the MLK memorial in DC.

Charlie the Climber

Of course, we can't help sharing this lovely park with Charlie.  The geese, the lake, the statues, and even the playground are not nearly as interesting or fun as climbing on every available rock and wall!

If anyone visits us in Denver, a trip to our favorite sites in City Park will definitely be on the agenda.  Go West Young Man and come west young at heart folks of any gender or age!!