Walking through Memorial Park, you’ll hear the flow of Ralston Creek with the unmistakable ring of the chain links ringing as disc golfers around the park sink the perfect shot followed by cheers and high fives. Tucked along the Ralston Creek Trail, Memorial Park is the kind of neighborhood park that people dream of when they think of life in Colorado. Friendly, familiar faces walk their dogs each day, kids play on the playground, and groups of people gather to play a round of disc golf. Memorial Park is proof that shared spaces bring our community together.
The park is situated along Ralston Creek Trail, one of Arvada’s longest trails stretching 12.5 miles. With spectacular views that wind all around Arvada, Memorial Park and Johnny Roberts Disc Golf Course are easy to access and enjoy as one of the many parks and stops along the way. Walking along the trail, it’s common to strike up a conversation with a neighbor or for a dog to stop at a tree to stare down a squirrel.
Local resident Judy Baker and her dog Max have been walking the trail and through Memorial Park for years. Judy has lived in Arvada since 1991 and walks the trails without fail, every single day. One of her favorite things about the park? “Well, Max loves to chase the squirrels, so that’s always fun,” she says, “but I enjoy all of the wildlife like the ducks and birds. It’s a great place to walk.” As Judy shares her love for the park, her dog Max ran into one of his dog friends along the trail, stopping to say hello, and that moment perfectly captures what is so special about the space.
Whether you’re enjoying brunch in Olde Town or a bike ride along the trail, Memorial Park has a playground, pavilion, and plenty of open space for friends and family to gather and enjoy. Reserve the pavilion for an outdoor gathering, celebration, or family reunion equipped with charcoal grills and picnic tables. Memorial Park is the perfect stop for a picnic or place to relax and enjoy a book under one of the many mature shade trees in the park.
Something for everyone and everyone is welcome! Memorial Park isn’t just home to Johnny Roberts Disc Golf Course; there is also a skate park and basketball court for locals to enjoy. Whether you show up with a group of friends or come alone, someone is likely to ask you to join in on a round of disc golf or a pickup game of basketball.
Local resident Dan S. shares, “There’s a strong sense of community here. You can show up with one disc or not even know how to play, and you’re almost guaranteed to meet someone on the course who will help.” Welcoming and inclusive, Dan adds, “It’s a great place to make friends- but let’s be sure we take care of it. The park means a lot to a lot of people.”
With so much to offer in a small space, it doesn’t matter if it's 85 and sunny or 32 and chilly, all year round, people come to get outside for fresh air and movement in a space that feels both familiar and safe. While some people think parks are better in the summer, there is something special about Memorial Park covered in a blanket of fresh snow, a kid stopping to make a snowman, or dogs barreling through with their noses covered in snow.
Nestled behind the police station and tucked between neighborhoods, Memorial Park easily connects to Ralston Central Park. Families can stroll from one to the other to enjoy the swings, playgrounds and the splash pad in the summer with mountain views as the backdrop. The easily accessible trail makes park hopping the perfect weekend activity.
What more can you ask for in a park than a shared space for runners, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts alike in the middle of a city. Whether it's your daily morning route or post work running trail, walking your dog along the creek with the calming effect of the water and the trees is the perfect dose of serotonin for your mental health. Add the laughter of kids playing on the playground and people celebrating rounds of disc golf- just another reminder how great life in Arvada is.
Enjoying local parks means showing a little love and respect for the spaces and each other. Always be sure to pick up any trash, clean up after your pets, and don't leave food or items that can harm the local wildlife. Be mindful of others using the park, kindly use your voice or bell when cycling, and always be sure to say hi to the dogs as they pass. The City of Arvada takes great care of the many parks throughout Arvada, and it’s everyone’s responsibility to do their part, so they can be enjoyed for years to come.
This is your sign to get out and visit Memorial Park- throw a round of disc golf or ask a friend to meet for a walk with coffee. Ride your bike along the creek, park hop and explore the trail with your family. Slow down, take a seat by the water or under a tree, and take pride in Arvada’s outdoor spaces.
If this inspired you to visit the park, be sure to take some photos and tag us @arvadalifestylemagazine or submit them for a chance to be featured in our City Scene Section- where neighbors can see and be seen!
The park means a lot to a lot of people.
Memorial Park is the perfect stop for a picnic or place to relax and enjoy a book under one of the many mature shade trees in the park.