The Twin Lakes are the jewel of Gunbarrel. Located at the center of the Gunbarrel community, this open space offers the opportunity to enjoy your favorite recreational activities among unique wildlife and vegetation. Whether you prefer to soak up the sun while you enjoy a good book or hike through the winding trails, Twin Lakes has something for everyone!
The two lakes are not only beautiful, they also provide a very essential benefit to our local agricultural industry. The lakes were originally created by Boulder & Left Hand Irrigation Company to serve as water reservoirs, and continue to function in that capacity today. In the years since the IBM plant opened, the Gunbarrel residential community has experienced consistent growth, including a number of apartment complexes and townhouses. This housing boom has developed around the lakes, so they remain at the heart of the community.
The area is a wetland habitat, meaning that it supports aquatic plant and animal life. This type of ecosystem draws larger predators, including migrating bird species. Among them, you will find American Crows, Canadian Geese, Great Blue Heron, and many others.
Perhaps the most well-known and well-loved member of Twin Lakes’ wildlife population is the great horned owl. The owls have returned for their 5th consecutive year of nesting in the same location. If you live in one of the surrounding apartment communities, you can probably hear them calling to one another at night. However, the excitement is not so much for the returning migrant population as it is for the newest round of baby horned owls.
Still very tiny, they are not yet easily seen by Twin Lakes hikers, but enthusiasts are able to observe the nesting behaviors of the parents and hear the babies begging for food. You won’t be able to sneak up on the owls, though, so catching them carrying out normal activities will be difficult. The great horned owl is known as the “perfect predator”. They have extraordinary eyesight, remarkable hearing, and are able to fly soundlessly. Their color also varies based on where they live.
If you’re not interested in owl-watching, you won’t need to worry. The great horned owls get most of their sleep during the day, so they aren’t likely to bother you during your leisurely visit to Twin Lakes. You’ll have a great time exploring the trails and relaxing by one of the two lakes. Dogs and horses are always permitted, but they ask that you keep your dog leashed when hiking the East Twin Lakes Trail. Of course, you are also welcome to ride your bike through the trails. Fishing is permitted, but you should not plan on swimming or boating in the lakes. Always remember to respect the wildlife populations and be cognizant of the critical role that the Twin Lakes play in the health of our local agricultural industry.
[…] Lakes makes it the perfect place for observing our native flora and fauna, including our cherished Great Horned Owls. The park also has a path that is perfect for walking and jogging any time of the day, or […]