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From the nomadic Ute and Arapaho tribes who camped and hunted on this land to the ranching family of Paula and Anna Lee White, residents of Jefferson County continue to appreciate the natural resources of White Ranch.  White Ranch is home to abundant wildlife and encompasses open meadows, forested foothills, a pristine canyon, buttes, rock formations and Van Bibber Creek along the southern border.

This Open Space park located in the foothills northwest of Golden, is noted for a variety of wildlife including deer, bear, mountain lion, bobcat, elk and wild turkey. About 18 miles of multi-use trails are located on White Ranch. The park, with both gentle and rugged terrain, is dedicated to the memory of Paul R. White. His family homesteaded a portion of the land in the early 1900's and operated it as a cattle ranch. From several vantage points in the park, visitors will see a sweeping view of the Plains and Denver. Open Space worked with a landowner to develop access to the east side of the park. Because of the nature of activities adjacent to this site, park users are asked to respect fences and stay on Belcher Hill Trail for their protection. Since this trail traverses a steep, exposed slope, park users would be well advised to carry drinking water.

History
Nomadic Ute and Arapaho tribes camped and hunted on this land.  In 1865, Welch immigrant James Bond and his wife Mary were headed to California.  They settled on this land after their young son was killed under the wheels of their wagon.  Their home still stands within the park.  By 1913, Paul and Anna Lee White purchased a portion of the land.  Through the years and with additional acquisitions of land, the family operated a commercial Hereford cattle ranch until 1969.  The park was acquired through a substantial gift by Anna Lee White and by Open Space purchase.  White Ranch was dedicated to the memory of Paul White in 1975.

Camping
White Ranch has two camping areas, Sawmill Hiker Camp and Sourdough Springs Equestrian Camp, both with restroom and water facilities. Bear-proof food storage is available at both areas. Camping permits (Advance or On-site) are free, valid for a maximum stay of up to three consecutive nights.  Campground stays are limited to no more than a total of  12 nights within a 30-day period.  Campers are asked to use the west parking area.

Getting There
East Access -- take Colorado Highway 93 north from Golden 1.7 miles to west 56th Avenue.  Turn left (west) on Pine Ridge Road and travel about 1 mile to the east parking lot.

West Access -- take Colorado Highway 93 north from Golden approximately 1 mile to Golden Gate Canyon Road.  Travel west approximately 4.1 miles to Crawford Gulch Road (Highway 57).  Follow the signs to White Ranch Park.

It is your responsibility to know and obey Open Space rules and regulations.  Users assume liability for all risks associated with visiting this Open Space area.  Responsible use protects this resource for all citizens of Jefferson County

Last Modified: Jul 10, 2009 04:27 PM