Platte Canyon

Platte Canyon is a gorge that runs along the South Platte River through the Rocky Mountains, with steep walls rising roughly 300 meters above the riverbed. The site offers multiple entrances across Douglas and Jefferson Counties for different types of outdoor activities.

The Denver, South Park and Pacific Railroad built the first rail line through the canyon in the 1870s, linking South Park to Leadville. This connection helped open up and integrate communities across the region.

The canyon functions as a natural corridor linking mountain communities, shaping transportation and development patterns in central Colorado.

The canyon is accessible from several locations and suits hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Visitors should note that access conditions can change with the season and weather.

Within the canyon sits the Strontia Springs Reservoir, created in 1983 as part of the Foothills Project for regional water supply. This water storage feature now shapes the appearance of the site and plays an important role in local water management.

Location: Douglas County

Location: Jefferson County

Elevation above the sea: 1,679 m

GPS coordinates: 39.48500,-105.10600

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:03