Eaglewatch Lake

Eaglewatch Lake is one of those quiet suburban gems that catches you off guard. Tucked inside South Platte Park in Littleton, this small lake sits within Arapahoe County's network of urban nature preserves along the South Platte River corridor. You would never guess that a place this peaceful exists just minutes from the Denver Tech Center and the Mineral Avenue light rail station.

The lake covers part of the nearly 70-acre water system within South Platte Park, which includes five lakes, several ponds, and the South Platte River itself. A 1.8-mile loop trail circles Eaglewatch Lake, making it one of the most accessible waterside walks in the south metro area. The paved and unpaved paths connect to the larger Mary Carter Greenway Trail system, giving hikers, joggers, and cyclists miles of connected routes along the river.

Fishing at Eaglewatch Lake draws regulars who appreciate a spot that is not overrun with crowds. The lake holds rainbow trout, brown trout, and bass, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife stocks trout periodically. Anglers will find multiple fishing spots spread far enough apart to offer a measure of privacy. The surrounding lakes and ponds provide additional casting options if Eaglewatch itself feels pressured. Fishing is open year-round, so ice fishing is an option during cold winters when the lake freezes over.

Birdwatching is a major draw at Eaglewatch Lake and the surrounding South Platte Park corridor. The riparian habitat along the South Platte River supports a wide range of species throughout the year, and visitors regularly spot hawks, herons, eagles, and dozens of songbird species. Wildlife sightings extend well beyond birds. Visitors have reported snapping turtles, crawdads, lizards, snakes, and various small mammals along the shoreline and surrounding trails.

For families, Eaglewatch Lake delivers an easy outdoor outing without the long drive into the mountains. The trails are stroller-friendly in most sections, and kids can fish from shore while parents enjoy the front-range mountain views. A basic restroom facility with hand sanitizer is available near the lake. The Carson Nature Center, located within South Platte Park, adds an educational dimension with exhibits on local ecology and wildlife.

The park sits at the base of the foothills with clear sightlines to the Front Range peaks to the west. Wildflower displays color the meadows during spring and early summer. Whether you are looking for a quick after-work fishing session, a morning bird walk, or a weekend family stroll with mountain views, Eaglewatch Lake offers a surprisingly wild escape within the suburban landscape of the south Denver metro area.