From a disastrous flood to a recreation hot spot, it is entrenched in our local story. BY
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CASTLEWOOD CANYON TRAIL MAP
A comprehensive map of the trails, facilities, and infrastructure of the state park. BY SEARCH CASTLE ROCK STAFF IF YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW
Colorado particulars that locals know and you’ll come to experience soon enough BY SEARCH CASTLE ROCK STAFF
The local gem for hikers, climbers, and photographers has a notorious history.
Evidence of early human activity can be seen in Castlewood Canyon. Findings from Native American winter camps and small group sites can be found that date back to the 1700s. Logging brought new settlers in the 1860s and they began to homestead in the area. Patrick and Margaret Lucas soon settled among them, hoping for irrigation water from the Castlewood Canyon Dam, which was built in 1890 across Cherry Creek, 40 miles southeast of Denver, Colorado. The masonry and rock-fill structure, built from local materials, was around 600 feet long with a height of 75 feet measured from the reservoir floor, 8 feet wide at the crest, and 50 feet wide at the base.
The 5,300 acre-feet of storage was used for irrigating fertile Douglas County farmland, dotted with dairy farms, potato fields, and orchards.
The dam was controversial from the beginning. Just after construction, Castlewood Dam showed signs of settlement, with cracks and seepage visible on the face of the dam. Safety was questioned by downstream citizens and a committee of engineers determined that improvements to the dam were necessary. All the while, Denver Water Storage Company, owner of the dam, and the dam’s designers, argued that the dam was safe. In 1897, a section of the dam washed out prompting multiple repairs. Following the repairs, leakage remained visible, but to a lesser degree. The back and forth continued between the citizens and owner, prompting the chief engineer to issue a foretelling letter.
Location: Colorado, USA
Year Constructed: 1889-1890
Drainage Area: 175 sq. mi.
Height: 75 ft.
Primary Purpose: Irrigation
Date of Flood: August 3, 1933
Evacuation: Yes
Fatalities: 2
Property Damage: $1M (1933 dollars) ~$20M (2018 dollars)
“The Castlewood Dam will never, in the life of any person now living, or in generations to come break to any extent that will do any great damage either to itself or others from the volume of water impounded, and never in all time to the city of Denver.” – A.M. Welles, Chief Engineer
At around 11:15 p.m. on the evening of August 2nd 1933, the reservoir level behind Castlewood was about 6 feet below the spillway crest. By midnight, the water level had risen to the crest of the dam, and only 15 minutes later, water was overtopping the dam crest by approximately one foot. It is estimated that approximately one hour later, around 1:20 a.m. on August 3rd, 1933, Castlewood Canyon dam was breached. There was a “terrific battering of cloudbursts,” sending a wave of water down the canyon towards Denver, 32 miles to the north.
The flood wave first passed through rural farmland and washed out county bridges. It reached the outskirts of Denver between 5 and 6 a.m. There were two flood waves reported, an initial wave probably caused by water spilling from and overtopping the dam, and then a larger, more destructive wave approaching 15 feet high. By 7 a.m., six hours after the breach, the flood wave made it to downtown Denver, flooding businesses and homes.
Hugh Pain, the dam tender, lived at the site with his wife and heard the roar of water going over the dam. He was the only known witness to the failure event. After first unsuccessfully trying to phone, Paine drove 12 miles to call the Denver Police and the local
One of the only known construction photos (1890). Looking toward the right abutment. Stiff-legged derricks used to move large stone into position
telephone operator. This would prove to be a key factor to saving lives during the flood. The warning was sent out over telephone line and radio. The telephone operator on duty that night was Nettie Driskill. Later regarded as a hero, Nettie called residents along Cherry Creek, issuing a detailed and concise warning, telling them to “hurry to higher ground.” It is estimated that around 5,000 people fled the lowlands in time to avoid the deadly rush of water.
The Denver Post quoted the Denver Board of Water Commissioners, "Approximately one and one-half billion gallons of water passed through Denver in six hours during and immediately after the flood. This water, heavily laden with dirt, deposited a residue of silt within Denver’s city limits which would weigh, at the very least, 20, 000 tons.” Two people were killed in the flood: an 83-year-old man and 24-year-old woman. To clean up after the flood and mud, a team of 2,500 men worked. Men and women through the city used pumps, mops, and buckets to remove water from flooded streets, buildings, and basements. Destroyed bridges also needed to be rebuilt. Power and phone lines were downed and damaged. Ruins from the collapsed dam can still be seen along the trail.
Generations continued to live and farm on the land. An 1894 homestead site can still be seen today, with cement walls from a 1920s house on the property. In 1961, Lawrence P. Brown deeded 87 acres of the land, located north of the Castlewood Dam ruins, to the state, receiving a payment of $10. The area officially became Castlewood Canyon State Park in 1964 and expanded in the 1970s by purchasing more than 792 additional acres, making the park almost 900 acres. Trails, facilities, and educational sites began in the 1980s. In 2002, the remainder of the Lucas Homestead site was purchased to add to the acreage, along with other purchases.
The state park now spans 2,303 acres and is a unique and popular destination for recreation. It maintains over 13 miles of trail, ranging from less than a quarter mile to 4-mile-long trails, and they range in elevation from 6,300 to 6,600 feet.
In the interest of providing the 50 best dining options in Douglas County, we must be able to personally recommend each listing. The guide is subject to change. If you have a suggestion for inclusion on the list, email us at contribute@tuellers.com.
Based on a typical dinner for one person, excluding drinks, tax or tip.
$ ............................. Under $15 $$ ............................... $15-$25
$$$ ......................... Over $25 (EC) Editors Choice (N) New
Offering a Chinese and Vietnamese-centric menu in a relaxed atmosphere. 17001 Lincoln Ave, #A, Parker 303-840-7338 $$
A small, family owned, dinein and take-out restaurant that serves authentic homestyle Thai food.
10841 S. Crossroads Dr., Suite 10, Parker 303-805-3880 $$
A local go-to for quality home-style cuisine. This Parker fixture is known for a fresh, creative menu.
19751 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-851-8559 $$
JOHN HOLLY’S Chinese and Thai dishes that are nothing less than the culinary equivalent of an exotic adventure.
9232 Park Meadows Dr, Lone Tree 303-768-9088 $$
A local favorite for breakfast and lunch, Pegasus has something for everyone. They have served an ecletic menu in a comfortable setting for the past 31 years. While you're there, go see the giant riverboat roulette wheel behind the bar!
A favorite sushi place in town with a unique blend of Japanese and French at its very best.
11211 S. Dransfeldt Rd., Parker 720-851-1005 $$
The locals favorite spot to grab made-to-order crepes. Sweet or savory, you can’t go wrong. Proudly serving farm to table fresh.
19751 Mainstreet, Parker 720-638-9722 $ (EC)
Popular Korean chain that brings expertly crafted baked goods through a warm and welcoming bakery cafe' experience that delivers joy to everyone. 18374 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 720-500-5555 $ (N)
New artisan bakers taking Parker by storm. Order early, they sell out every day! 19585 Hess Road, Parker 303-955-5647 $ (N)
Don’t be fooled by this being a food truck; if you like southern BBQ, this is your place. Corner of Parker Rd and Longs Way, Parker $$$
GQUE BBQ
Award-winning food. Try the wood-smoked ribs, brisket, pork, or garlic potatoes. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Suite 143B, Lone Tree 303-729-2506 $$
HICKORY HOUSE
The Parker tradition. Known for their baby back ribs, but don’t miss the pulled pork and barbeque chicken. 10335 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-9742 $$
OLD WEST BBQ
A hidden gem with familyfriendly pricing. Don’t miss out on their breakfast burritos. 107 Wolfensberger Rd., Castle Rock 303-660-6340 $
20 MILE TAP HOUSE
Best known for their burgers and wings. Make sure to catch Trivia Tuesdays. 12543 N Hwy 83, Parker 303-841-6782 $$
GREAT DIVIDE BREWERY & ROADHOUSE
Destination locale with an informal ambiance offering hearty comfort classics 215 Wilcox St Suite G, Castle Rock 303-955-5788 $$ - $$$ (N)
ROCKYARD BREWING CO.
Douglas County’s longest running brew pub. Steaks, burgers, pizza and soup! 880 Castleton Rd, Castle Rock 303-814-9273 $$
TAILGATE TAVERN & GRILL
Your neighborhood tavern for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Sports bar with live music not to miss on the weekends.
19552 E. Mainstreet, Parker 303-841-7179 $$
THE LIBRARY CO. BAR & KITCHEN
Offering great food & amazing drinks in a relaxed and warm atmosphere. Clear and simple menu options. 3911 Ambrosia St., Suite 101, Castle Rock 720-389-5986 $$
CRANELLI’S
Comfort Italian food in a rustic, cozy, casual familyoriented format.
10047 Park Meadows Dr., Lone Tree 303-799-3661 $$
DANIELLE’S SCRATCH KITCHEN
Stylish, energetic eatery offering elevated Italian fare with an emphasis on great customer service.
872 Happy Canyon Rd. Suite 100, Castle Rock 303-524-9788 $$$
Authentic Italian eatery featuring pizza, pasta, calzones and heros. The local “go-to” for fresh Italian. 10920 S Parker Rd, Parker 303-841-9900 $$
SCILEPPI’S
A modern Italian restaurant focused on family recipes and premium ingredients. 210 Third St., Castle Rock 303-688-9000 $$
VIA BACI
Neapolitan pizzas join modern Italian fare at this casual eatery featuring a full bar & patio. 10005 Commons St, Lone Tree 303-790-0828 $$
ADRIANNA’S
Intimate Mexican eatery for authentic cuisine in a relaxed ambiance. Great for parties. 7272 E Hwy 86, Franktown 303-663-7800 $$
Unassuming local joint serving up straight-forward Mexican plates.
9771 S Parker Rd, Parker 720-842-5105 $$
LA CASITA
Vibrant, cantina-style eatery offering Mexican cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.
18951 E Mainstreet, Parker 720-842-5181 $$
Bare-bones, family-owned local Tex-Mex eats for breakfast, lunch & dinner. 19553 E Mainstreet, Parker
303-840-0325 $$
LOS
Elegant family-owned eatery. There’s a combo dish to please everyone.
19340 Cottonwood Dr., Parker
303-840-6574 $$
LOS VOLCANES
Don’t miss the Carnitas! And bring your appetite for the large portions.
10471 S. Parker Rd., Parker 303-841-0160 $$
Set in a former 1890s hotel. Plating hearty American fare like pan-fried chicken & burgers.
403 Wilcox St, Castle Rock 303-814-2233 $$
VALERIE'S
Uniquely fun sports bar with a creative menu of brats and dogs.
971 Park St., Castle Rock 303-660-2399 $
A favorite gourmet burger joint. Imaginative menu with amazing handcrafted shakes.
3982 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock 303-814-2829 $$
DOUG'S DAY DINER
American breakfast cafe where everything is made from scratch.
18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-476-7162 $$
A casual sit-down destination with a menu that reflects Colorado’s growing season. 2350 Meadows Blvd., Castle Rock 720-455-3664 $
The Parker landmark located right downtown offers a locally-sourced menu. Great service and large portions. 19420 Mainstreet, Parker 720-389-8105 $$ (EC)
PEGASUS
A local favorite for breakfast or lunch. American, Greek or Mexican dishes.
313 Jerry St., Castle Rock 303-688-6746 $$
Comfort food and baked goods at their finest. Don’t see it on the menu? Ask for it! Downtown gem. 11020 S Pikes Peak Dr., Parker 720-708-2889 $$
High-end, wood-fired kitchen with a warm ambiance, preparing select American dishes. 10680 Cabela Dr., Lone Tree 303-662-8800 $$
Upscale, yet casual dining experience with a one-of-akind menu. Don't miss the brunch.
115 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock 303-362-0904 $$$ (N)
A modern and open venue that boasts thoughtful and honest cuisine. A haven for the gluten-free crowd. 18595 Mainstreet, Parker 720-826-3689 $$
A traditional family-style Italian pizza restaurant with a Brooklyn flair. 12947 S Parker Rd., Parker 720-851-5300 $
Delicious Neapolitan-style pizza that makes each dish an individual work of art! And don’t forget dessert. 12311 Pine Bluffs Way, Parker 303-840-0518 $
A refreshing take on madefrom-scratch pizza. So fresh they don’t even have a freezer! 17860 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-386-3333 $$
LIL’ RICCI’S
New York pizzas & other red sauce staples in a low-key setting. Can’t miss the garlic knots. 16526 Keystone Blvd, Parker 303-220-7422 $$
NY-style pizza, wings, & casual Italian eats, in kidfriendly quarters. 5650 Allen Way, Castle Rock 303-814-8686 $$
DUKE’S
Rustic restaurant featuring beef & seafood dishes, plus a sports tavern with an Irish vibe.
363 Village Square Lane, Castle Pines
303-814-2487 $$$
FOGO DE CHAO
Upscale Brasilian steakhouse with all-you-can-eat meat carved tableside. Guaraná is a must, and try the Creme de Papaya. 8419 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree 303-481-4001 $$$ (EC)
PERRY’S
Chops, seafood, wine, & cocktails served in an upscale setting with a lounge & live jazz. 8433 Park Meadows Center Dr., Lone Tree
303-792-2571 $$$
The kitchen table is a well-used space. Through the day and week, it serves many purposes. In our home it is a place where homework is done, papers are sorted, projects are created, groceries are unloaded, games are played, and books are read.
But at the end of each day it becomes a treasured place – a place to gather, a place where people come together. For a few moments a day, it is a place to stop. Sitting around the table enjoying a meal, conversation, and laughter, is a blessed event. It is a necessary ritual that binds us together and fills our bodies and spirits. Our time together celebrates everything the table represents: food, family, fun, and home.
Texas-themed steakhouse with a great menu and wonderful atmosphere. 11205 S. Parker Rd, Parker 303-805-5848 $$
Upscale hideaway local favorite featuring their signature Volcanic Hot Rock sear-it-yourself experience. 19308 Cottonwood Dr., Parker 303-248-2132 $$$
Quaint Tuscan grill made fresh from local fare. Every dish is a winner!
611 Wilcox St., Castle Rock 303-814-2487 $$
The table is also a place to share with neighbors, friends, and loved ones. The pineapple, with its stately shape and happy colors, is a symbol of welcome and hospitality. It is a delicious addition to any meal. To echo the sentiment of friendship and warmth, we want to share a special recipe: grilled pineapple. This unique and scrumptious treat is a family favorite. We hope you enjoy it! From our table and home to yours.
One whole pineapple ½ cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon gallon-size zip baggie
Cut the top and skin off the outside of pineapple. Stand pineapple upright and cut down to create long, thick spears; discard center core. Place pineapple spears, brown sugar, and cinnamon in baggie and shake/rub until pineapple is coated. Place in a baking dish and let marinate for 1 hour. Grill on BBQ until grill lines appear and it is warmed through.
With fall in the air, it is the perfect time to enjoy the colors and beautiful outdoors. Castlewood Canyon is the ideal place to do this! The local gem is a Colorado state park and offers a variety of activities. So many know it as a hiking destination. There is also a special horseback riding trail as well as multiple picnicking spots. With sweeping scenes of the canyon and surrounding plains, it is an excellent spot for photography and peace and quiet. Another popular activity is rock climbing, with multiple available climbs along the 60-foot canyon walls. Wildlife viewing and birding are popular. The canyon is home to turkey vultures, canyon wrens, bluebirds, bobcats, black bears, elk, deer, and rattle snakes. The park also provides educational programs and venues for events. We shared here some beautiful photos from some of our readers. We hope these will inspire you to go enjoy the canyon for yourself!
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