“Genesee” is a Native American term for “shining valley”.   This accurate description most likely comes from the 260 degree views of Mount Vernon Canyon from Genesee Mountain’s 8,284 foot summit. 

 

One of the Denver Park System’s largest mountain parks, 2402 acre Genesee Park is on the National Register of Historic Places.  Historic status gives all of its plant and wildlife protection under U.S. Preservation Guidelines.

The Denver Park System was created in 1911 by Mayor Robert Speer and Genesee Park was its first  purchase in 1912.

 

 

In 1914, 160 acres of the park was enclosed to protect 23 Elk and 7 Bison that were brought to Genesee Park from Yellowstone National Park. 

In the early 1970s when I-70 came through their pasture, the herd grounds were expanded by 500 acres and a tunnel underneath I-70 was constructed for the wildlife’s safe passage.

The Bison and Elk have thrived and now inhabit nearly 700 acres of the park.  The herds have been protected and cared for by Denver Park employee, Marty Homola, “Caretaker” for the past 38 years.  The Genesee Bison Herd number is kept at about 23 adult cows and two bulls.  Each spring, residents and tourists are delighted to see a dozen plus calves born to the herd.   Although they sleep most of the time, when they play—it’ can be  quite entertaining.

Nature Lovers are in for a treat while hiking the trails or enjoying a picnic (tables provided), when Deer, Elk, or fox wander by . 

Genesee Park is home to many year round birds.  But during the summer, the skies come alive with the constant buzz of three types of Hummingbirds, Broad-tailed; Allens’s and Rufus.

Maintained by the City of Denver,  The Park offers three trails (nearly 12 miles) for easy hiking .  The Park also has several picnic areas for the public to enjoy.