Conifer & Aspen Park

Just south of Morrison, with its famous sandstone Red Rocks natural amphitheater, Turkey Creek has cut a canyon through the foothills and U.S. Highway 285 follows this route into the mountains toward CONIFER.

Conifer is the hub of a number of communities located along U.S. Highway 285 west of Denver.  It was originally settled during the late 1800’s as a ranching community and stage and freight stop for people moving on to the high country gold fields.  Today people are still attracted to the area by its abundant natural beauty away from the urban environment of the city.

The unincorporated CONIFER/ASPEN PARK area located about 25 miles from downtown Denver, is less developed than its neighbor, Evergreen, 9 miles to the north.  Residents here prefer larger lots with plenty of privacy.  Population density is deceptive.  The outstanding forests of aspen, spruce, fir and pine which cover the hillsides and provide a magnificent setting for the many fine homes found here, create a sense of seclusion and a country atmosphere.  Yet residents enjoy an easy commute along Highway 285 to almost anywhere in the Denver area.  Driving time is approximately 35-45 minutes.  The Bailey area is about ten minutes further west.

Pike and Arapaho National Forests surround the 285 Corridor.  Numerous trails provide access for hiking, cross country skiing, camping and picnicking.  The nearby South Platte River has excellent trout fishing, along with good kayaking and canoeing opportunities.  Elk are often seen grazing in mountain meadows and even in backyards, giving residents a close up, picture window view.

Both CONIFER and ASPEN PARK contain retail centers with grocery stores and a good selection of retail shops and services.  There are several medical centers, and RTD public bus transportation is available to both Evergreen and Denver daily.  There is also a local newspaper.

Two volunteer fire departments serve the CONIFER and Turkey Creek Canyon areas.  Police protection is provided by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department.  There are several elementary schools, a middle school and a new high school in the immediate area.  All the schools are part of the Jefferson County R-1 School District.

Community spirit abounds in the area, and there are several fairs and festivals throughout the year.  One of the most popular of these events is the Conifer Hobby and Art Fair, started in 1969 as a way to showcase the works of the many talented artists living in the area.

The pleasant mountain suburbs are located at an ideal altitude, ranging from 7,500 to 9,500 feet, for a year-round desirable climate.  It’s sunny more than 300 days a year, and the air is clean and smog-free.  Summer temperatures seldom reach above 80 degrees in CONIFER, with most winter days offering sunshine and dry roads.  Most homes are located on county roads which are well maintained in both winter and summer.

The CONIFER area is easily reached by taking U.S. Highway 285 southwest from Denver, or by following C470 south off of Interstate 70 to Highway 285.