Nature Area Hours: 1 Hour Before Sunrise to 1 Hour After Sunset 

Originally developed in 1976, the Jim Hamm Nature Area comprises 24 acres, including a 14-acre pond. This land was donated in 1974 by the Hamm family in memory of USAF Captain Jim Hamm who was shot down over Vietnam in 1968 and to honor all St. Vrain Valley Veterans who fought in that war. Jim spent his youth exploring and appreciating the wild environment that once was part of his grandfather’s farm (Elmer Montgomery). The pond at the site is a designated bird sanctuary that welcomes a variety of waterfowl throughout the year. The panoramic vista of the Front Range as seen from the area is illustrated on a panel located on the view deck over the pond. 

In 1998, a master plan was completed for the nature area which recommended additional land be added to the South edge of the original site which was accomplished through an additional Hamm family donation in 2002.  Development of the nature area was completed in phases with earlier phases complete in 2001 and 2006, and the most recent and final phase complete in 2014. To view a complete list of amenities and associated trail distances, visit our Plans, Maps & Reports webpage and view the Park Amenities Chart.

The area is used by the public for passive recreation and is a Nature Area. St. Vrain Valley School District uses the site for environmental learning projects and the VFW and American Legion holds Memorial and Veterans Day events at the site. The pond water is supplied by Ute Creek and Spring Gulch. The water level fluctuates by season and year, influencing the kind and number of birds that use the pond. The foothills Audubon Society has conducted several bird counts there spotting as many as 80 different bird species.

The nature area has two shelters which may be reserved. Winterization of the restrooms occurs on October 15.

For more information or to reserve a shelter at this park, contact Parks, Open Space & Trails.