A Scenic Gateway to Denver’s Largest Urban Lake

The pier at Sloan’s Lake Park provides a serene vantage point over Denver’s largest urban lake, offering panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains and the city skyline. This modest wooden pier extends into the lake, serving as both a visual anchor and a quiet retreat for parkgoers. Situated near the intersection of West 17th Avenue and Raleigh Street, on the revitalized southeast shore, the pier functions as a central point for gathering, reflection, and recreation. Visitors fish, photograph sunsets, or simply pause during their walks along the 2.6 mile loop trail.

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Though Sloan’s Lake itself dates back to the mid-1800s—reportedly formed when Thomas Sloan struck an underground aquifer while digging a well—the pier is a much more recent enhancement to the park’s amenities. It complements nearby upgrades including picnic areas, restrooms, playgrounds, and native plant landscaping introduced in recent years as part of city-led improvement efforts.

A View for Every Season

From the pier, the lake’s calm surface mirrors cottonwood trees in fall, snow-covered peaks in winter, and the electric orange hues of Colorado’s summer sunsets. On weekends, it’s common to see paddleboarders drifting past, flocks of Canada geese crossing low over the water, and neighbors gathering for early morning yoga or evening strolls.

For photographers and nature lovers, the pier is a favorite spot for birdwatching or catching the moment when Denver’s ever-changing skies reflect in the rippling lake. The unobstructed line of sight from the pier makes it a year-round destination for landscape views and quiet contemplation.

Accessibility and Park Amenities

The pier is accessible via paved paths, making it friendly to wheelchairs and strollers. Parking is available nearby along West 17th Avenue or in designated lots within the park. Visitors will also find rentable electric scooters and bike racks near the entrance for alternative transportation. The surrounding park features open lawns for picnicking and seasonal events, making the pier a perfect waypoint in a full day’s outing at Sloan’s Lake.