What’s Happening in Cherry Hills Village?
In this suburban enclave south of Denver, you’ll feel far removed from the frenetic pace of the city. With a dense urban canopy of mature trees, miles of unpaved trails and virtually no commercial enterprises, Cherry Hills Village feels more like “country” and is a perfect location to escape the crowds and enjoy nature close to home.
Despite its rural feel and small size, there is always something going on in the Village. Whether it involves programs involving Cherry Hills Village Elementary or fundraisers for the Cherry Hills Land Preserve or just a leisurely walk along the Highland Canal, residents and visitors have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities.
Enjoy the Trails
The Village has a unique program to help get you acquainted with the network of trails that crisscross the six square miles that define the town. The Trail Passport Program helps introduce residents and visitors to the many trails that help make Cherry Hills truly spectacular. While most people are familiar with the High Line Canal, few are aware of the bridle paths that not only intersect with the Canal but also serve as connectors from one neighborhood to the next. Take a look at the new parks and trails map to help navigate you through the village.
Explore as many trails as you can — running, walking, cycling or riding your horse — they all count and win prizes in the process. Your passport includes a trail map, compass and list of activities to enjoy while enjoying nature and the outdoors.
The “granddaddy” of trails, the High Line Canal, snakes its way through the Village from Hampden and Monroe, to Belleview and Birch. This four-mile stretch winds through residentials areas as well as the huge expanse at Kent Denver and Blackmer Common, where the towering cottonwoods along the Canal as well as the picturesque views of the Rocky Mountains are awe-inspiring. The High Line Canal Conservancy is active in protecting and enhancing the 71-mile High Line Canal that travels through four counties and six cities/villages. Check out their website to find out about their efforts to preserve this remarkable resource in the Denver metro area.
Photo Courtesy of High Line Canal Conservancy
Cherry Hills Land Preserve
This organization is active in preserving open space in the Village and promoting land conservation through education and partnerships. They offer a number of events and activities throughout the year, with their crowning benefit being the Barn Party in September. This year’s party features great food, live music, a silent auction with the region’s best artists and western-inspired vendors. It’s a great opportunity to support open space in the community.
Quincy Farm
One of the newest and most exciting developments in the area involves the Quincy Farm. This 17.5 acre parcel of land is located in the heart of Cherry Hills and is found on both sides of the High Line Canal near Quincy and Bellaire Circle. The Farm is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the well-preserved buildings and pastures are a picturesque part of the region’s past. Quincy Farm was generously gifted to the City of Cherry Hills Village by its previous owner, Catherine (“Cat”) H. Anderson, with the intention that it become an amenity for the whole community.
A variety of improvements are being made on the grounds, and an open house is being planned in late summer of 2018. Some of the proposals for the area include turning the main residence into an educational center/information resource for land conservation, nature and local history. A nature trail through the existing pastures is under consideration and expect to see a variety of additions that foster appreciation of nature and the outdoors.
Cherry Hills Art
One of the most wonderful, and least known, aspects of the Village is the art that can be found in the community. Since 2011, the Cherry Hills Village Art Commission has solicited loans of sculptures from artists to display in various locations in the village. Numerous sculptures and paintings have been donated or outright purchased by Cherry Hills, and these pieces can be found in various locations, inside and outside. Currently, the village is working to lease James Surls ‘Big Bronze Walking Eye Flower.’
Cherry Hills also offers a number of events throughout the year including a spring cleanup day, exotic car show, summer movies, winter celebration and Christmas tree recycling. Check the city calendar for more information.
