Fly'n B Park
2910 Plaza Dr., Highlands Ranch
Hours: 5:00 AM-11:00 PM
I wasn't sure what to expect when I pulled up to the Fly'n B Park. I had heard it's a good spot for picnics, social gatherings, experiential play, and fishing. We pulled into the parking lot next to what looked like a big forest with a trail running through it.
When we got out of the car, we noticed the gravel trail off to the right. My boys went running up the winding path. At the top was a gorgeous view of the mountains.
Next, we decided to search for the pond. We found a cute bridge next to a large fallen tree. This tree was perfect for crossing the river. It was large enough that you wouldn't fall easily but small enough that it felt exciting and dangerous to a 7-year-old. After taking a trip across and back, we continued on the path.
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Following the stream that ran under the bridge, we came to a few rocks that made a small waterfall. Who can resist jumping from rock to rock over a stream?
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I was starting to understand the appeal of this park with all its natural features, including old trees, ponds, and wildlife. The trees are enormous with dense, thick grasses and bushes in between, great for critters to hide in.
The pond is hard to miss. It's a sizeable scenic pond with clear water stocked with Black Crappie, Pumpkinseed, Largemouth Bass, Bluegill, Catfish, and Green Sunfish. It is a catch-and-release pond so that it can be enjoyed for years by many families.
DID YOU KNOW? The Highlands Ranch Metro District hosts a FREE Kids Fishing Day at Fly'n B Park every year! Registration is required; visit www.highlandsranch.org/news-events/community-events to learn more and sign up.
On the east side of the pond is a pier and pavilion with multiple picnic tables, trash cans, recycle bins, and charcoal grills. A clean outhouse with a pit-latrine toilet and urinal is just off to the north.
We continued north until we reached a large white boarded-up house. The Fly’n B house was built in 1906 by Matthew Plews, who ran a greenhouse truck garden. In 1937 he sold it to O.E. “Smiling Charlie” Stephens, who ran an illegal gambling operation there until 1944. It passed through several families and businesses until 2006, when the Highlands Ranch Metro District acquired the house and surrounding five acres.
Next to the house is a small parking lot and a small wooden stage. We spied a hula hoop dancer recording herself on the stage. What a great background for a fun video! There were some photographers taking portraits at the house and the surrounding area. I would imagine this is a favorite place to take senior, graduation, engagement, or family photos.
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Further to the north, we ran into the end of the High Line Canal Trail. This trail runs through the east and south edges of the park, north to Green Valley Ranch in Denver. At the end of the trail is a tunnel dug under Plaza Road. This tunnel connects the High Line Canal Trail to the C470 Bike Trail.
Finally, it was time to head back toward the car. We found a clearing in the woods with two picnic tables. These tables back up to a beautiful watery area surrounded by lilac trees. We turned around and realized we were already at the eastern side of the parking lot!
This 5-acre park is packed full of things to see if you take the time to slow down and look.
FEATURES
- Catch-and-release fishing pond with two piers
- Large old trees
- Local wildlife
- Small trail bridge
- Fly'n B house
- Performance stage
- High Line Canal Trail
SEATING
- Shelter/Pavilion
- Picnic tables
- Multiple benches
AMENITIES
- Charcoal grills
- Drinking fountain
- Electrical outlets
- Outhouse
- Bicycle racks
- 26 parking spaces with one handicapped spot
NEARBY SWEETS AND TREATS
Check out Nono's Cafe, a couple of blocks away, for a delicious Cajun meal. For a sweet treat, Gelato & Co. Cremeria Italiana is just a mile and a half to the east of Plaza and Lucent. Head to Honey B's Macarons, just a couple miles east off Plaza Drive, for something a bit more delicate.
Get outside and play more! Visit the Parks and Playgrounds section of our directory to learn about other Douglas County parks.
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