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Sandstone rock showing underlying Geology of Willow Spring Open Space

Geology of Willow Spring Open Space

Denver

The Geology of the Willow Spring Open Space forms the foundation of the area. It provides the clay used to build the Englewood Dam and drives the soil type for the plants and animals there.

Geology of Willow Spring Open Space Read More »

lake at Englewood dam after a heavy rain

Englewood Dam – Flood Control along with Great Views

The Englewood Dam in Centennial, Colorado is both a flood control structure and also a great place to walk enjoy the mountain and Willow Spring Open Space views.

Englewood Dam – Flood Control along with Great Views Read More »

Plains Cottonwood tree

Majestic Plains Cottonwood Trees

Denver, Native Plants, Riparian, Willow Spring Open Space, Year-round

The Plains Cottonwood tree is a large, dominant tree found along stream and river beds where more moisture is available than in the grasslands of the Plains.

Majestic Plains Cottonwood Trees Read More »

group of trees in early fall

Many Species of Trees at Willow Spring Open Space

Riparian, Trees, Year-round

There are many trees at Willow Spring Open Space. Learn about both native and non-native tree species.

Many Species of Trees at Willow Spring Open Space Read More »

sign in ground that says Willow Spring Open Space

Willow Spring Open Space: A Wonderful Natural Area

Prairie, Riparian

Willow Spring Open space is a large space in Colorado filled with trails, bicycle paths, and sledding in winter.

Willow Spring Open Space: A Wonderful Natural Area Read More »

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willow creek

Thanks for visiting Naturalist Perspective! I’m Sharon, and I hope you find the information here makes going outside in Colorado more enjoyable. Read more ->

Naturalist Newsletter

  • Small town in valley between mountains
    The View at 9,000 feet – Fall 2024
    Fall at 9,000 feet elevation in the Colorado mountains is a beautiful time to see golden Aspen trees, a few remaining flowers and watch the birds.
  • icy creek with beaver dam across it on a gray day
    Signs of Life in Willow Spring Open Space – December, 2023
    Even in the cold winter, predator birds and mammals are out at Willow Spring Open Space.
  • 3 prairie dogs on the alert
    Willow Spring Open Space – September, 2021 – Signs of Fall, and checking in on the Prairie Dogs
    During a pleasant early fall visit to the Willow Spring Open Space in mid-September 2021, plants were starting to show signs of fall, and the Prairie Dogs were active.
  • black-crowned night heron on dam
    Willow Spring Open Space – Late June Birds and Heavy Rains
    The Willow Spring Open Space in late June 2021 was a birder's delight!
  • Yucca in bloom
    Willow Spring Open Space June 2021 – Lush green grass and blooms!
    The Willow Spring Open Space in June had many kinds of flowering plants and lush grasses.

Recent Posts

  • Roxborough Park
  • The View at 9,000 feet – Fall 2024
  • Signs of Life in Willow Spring Open Space – December, 2023
  • Yellow Blooms on the Colorado Plains
  • Wise and Wonderful Great Horned Owls
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