Wheat Ridge residents now have a new way to experience the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt, one of the city’s most beloved areas.
The City of Wheat Ridge celebrated the completion of the Tabor Lake Trail on June 4, marking the opening of a new accessible trail that allows visitors to safely walk, exercise, and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Tabor Lake.
The project involved partners from every level of government to transform what was once an informal and unstable shoreline route into a dedicated trail designed to improve access, recreation, and connectivity within the park.
“For many residents, Tabor Lake is a place to walk, fish, enjoy nature, and spend time with family and friends,” said Mayor Korey Stites. “This project makes it easier for more people to enjoy the lake while helping preserve it for future generations.”
The idea for the trail originated with the Wheat Ridge Parks and Recreation Commission in 2021, when commissioners identified an opportunity to create a safer and more accessible path around the lake. Colorado School of Mines engineering students later developed preliminary plans for the project, which ultimately led to nearly $900,000 in grant funding from Jefferson County Open Space’s Trails Partnership Program and the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) on behalf of the National Park Service.
Trail construction was completed in April 2026, with a few final improvements expected later this summer.
“The Tabor Lake Trail is a great example of the goals outlined in the Jeffco Trails Plan coming to life through strong local partnerships,” said Jeffco Parks and Open Space Trails and Access Program Manager Emily Guffin. “We’re excited to work with the City of Wheat Ridge to enhance connections to the Clear Creek Trail, a key regional corridor, and create more opportunities for people to safely and conveniently access trails, open spaces, and the outdoors.”
The project also includes an important investment in the long-term health of Tabor Lake itself. In addition to the trail improvements, the city has recently completed a major water quality enhancement project at Tabor Lake.
Over the last several years, rising temperatures have contributed to declining water quality, creating conditions that can lead to algae blooms and occasional fish kills. To address those challenges, the city secured additional funding through CPW’s Fishing is Fun program to install a new aeration system that helps circulate water and increase oxygen levels throughout the lake.
The system became operational earlier this spring and is expected to improve water quality and support a healthier environment for fish and other aquatic life.
“CPW is proud to support the City of Wheat Ridge by leveraging both the LWCF and Fishing is Fun programs to deliver a project that enhances both trail access and aquatic health at Tabor Lake”, said CPW Assistant Director for Outdoor Recreation and Lands, Fletcher Jacobs.
“Residents told us they value parks, trails, and natural spaces,” said Parks and Recreation Director Karen O’Donnell. “This project delivers on those priorities by creating a better experience for park users today while protecting the lake’s health for years to come.”
The Tabor Lake Trail is now open to the public and provides another opportunity for residents to get outdoors, stay active, and enjoy one of Wheat Ridge’s signature community spaces.
For more information about Wheat Ridge parks, trails, and recreation opportunities, visit RootedInFun.com
