Sloan's Lake Park — Attraction in Denver

A lazy summer afternoon. As we walked along the water's edge, flocks of geese glided serenely on the water.

The sun shimmered and people were walking, running, rollerblading or cycling along the designated paths.

Even though it's all casual, norms have developed around what people wear when they're engaged in these activities.

Boats cut through along the water and orderly groups of rowers followed instructions shouted out on how to paddle - the rhythm followed soon enough.

Everyone does their own thing. There's the nod and smile as people pass one another but otherwise it's as if there's a collective experience inside individual bubbles.

The weather was wonderful and the clouds in the sky floated and changed shape ever so slowly.

It's a great place to take photographs - the blue sky, clouds and the plentiful trees offer lessons in composition and with smartphones today, you can just discard anything that doesn't work

We walked halfway around the lake and then deeper past the boat pier

There's something about being at a place at its prettiest. Maybe it does look great in the winter with snow but one has to then walk stiffly and the simple act of composing a shot can get complicated

I wonder what happens to the geese during winter. When we walked back most of them were feeding busily.on the grass. Just one gazed into the distance and seemed to be in a mindful state.

What does Nirvana mean...

Sloan's Lake is one of the nicest and most conveniently located dog-friendly parks in Denver. Located just about a 10 minute drive and 20 minute bike ride to Downtown Denver, Sloan's Lake has a ton to offer including the Edgewater Marketplace which is walking distance from the west side of Sloan's, fishing at the lake (although I would not recommend consuming the fish), paddle boarding on the lake, walking/running/biking around the lake, having a picnic which there is plenty of space to do, grabbing a drink at the Lakeview Lounge if dive bars are your thing, and many, many more.

A lap around the lake is a little over 2.60 miles so keep that in mind when planning your visit. Make sure to wear comfortable footwear, apply plenty of sunblock, and drink a lot of water.

Parking is plentiful. There are actual lots in every direction of the park except on the west and also plenty of street parking. I have never had an issue with parking here.

I will say that it is a very popular park so if you are not a fan of lots of people during your park visits, sharing lanes with bikes, and/or dogs, this may not be the place for you.

There are also events thrown here every now and then including my favorite, the Colorado Dragon Boat Festival which showcases AANHPI (Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander) culture including food, performances, shops, education, and more. Make sure to check it out...

One of the largest lake parks (if not thee) in the Denver metro area that offers it all. It's 2 and a half miles around and offers a concrete 2 way path and a gravel path that runs parallel along side it for joggers. The views are truly beautiful either direction. To the west the mountain range and to the east downtown. The path is typically moderately busy during the afternoons & weekends. It offers playgrounds, basketball courts, tennis courts and allows fishing. I wouldn't recommend riding your bike around the 2 way path during busy days because of all the walkers/joggers. There are parking lots on all sides of the park including streetside parking. When I think of Sloan's lake, I'm also thinking of the businesses across on the other side of Sheridan and Edgewater which connects with Lakewood on the west side pf the park. There are restaurants, Target, Kings, Joyride (which has a nice patio view), dispensaries, and other random businesses like the doll hospital. I hear Ohana Grille is really good and you should check out a local favorite Edgewater Inn for some really good pizza. Tons to do the area, enjoy, and...