Residential community near the Rocky Mountain foothills
Set about 20 miles southwest of Denver, Dakota Ridge is an outdoorsy unincorporated community close to major attractions like Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The area has a population of about 33,000 per the 2020 census, and major employers include Lockheed Martin Space Systems and CoorsTek Technical Ceramics. Much of the area is residential subdivisions with sidewalks, pocket parks and clear views of the Rocky Mountains. The community’s reservoirs and trails make it desirable for homebuyers according to Alan Arata, a Realtor for Keller Williams Clients’ Choice Realty who’s sold in the area. “You have a family feel here,” he says. “The neighbors are talking to each other and decorating houses.”
Willowbrook offers an easygoing suburban lifestyle under gorgeous mountain views.
Spend an afternoon working on your aim at Fehringer Ranch Disc Golf Course in Friendly Hills.
1/2
Paddleboarding at Big Soda Lake
Dakota Ridge is filled with small lakes and ponds and backs up to the expansive Bear Creek Lake Park. The 2,000-acre site has paved and unpaved trails, an archery range and two lakes for boating and fishing. Big Soda Lake has a beach with volleyball nets and paddleboard rentals. Locals can also check out several golf courses nearby, like the 18-hole Homestead Golf Course, which has a driving range and pro shop. Arata says fishing is a popular pastime at spots like Bergen East and West Reservoirs is a popular pastime. Easton Regional Park has a playground, athletic fields and Hine Lake, where families like to stroll.
Bear Creek Lake Park offers opportunity for many activities such as mountain or road biking.
Spend a day boating at Bear Creek Lake Park
1/2
Tight housing inventory in Dakota Ridge
Mid to late-20th-century ranch-style and split-level homes sit along cul-de-sac subdivisions in neighborhoods like Willowbrook and Friendly Hills. Newer, modern Craftsman homes built in the 2010s and 2020s are spread throughout the area in HOA-controlled communities. Arata says there’s not a lot of building happening in the community, and it’s more of a “move out, move in situation,” making the home values increase. The median price for a single-family home in Dakota Ridge is around $635,000, but pricier properties fall in the $1 million to $2 million range. Condos and townhomes built between the 1980s and early 2000s are gathered in different pockets around the community. These one to three-bedroom homes have modern traditional styles with brick and vinyl facades; the median price for a townhouse is about $525,000.
Split-level homes with brick accents can be found in Foothill Green.
Ranch homes are popular in Foothill Green.
1/2
Assistance to those with dyslexia in Jefferson County School District
Jefferson County School District No. R-1 serves the area and receives an overall A-minus grade from Niche. Since Colorado is a “school choice” state, families outside of the district can apply to attend during open enrollment at certain times of the year. The district houses over 100 elementary, middle and high schools. Specialized programs like Study Abroad and Project-Based Learning are available to students, and the district even offers assistive technology support for those with dyslexia. Dakota Ridge Senior High also gets an A-minus rating and has career pathways in health care, hospitality and automotive disciplines.
Mount Carbon Elementary is a great place for children to start their education.
Summit Ridge Middle School maintains a B-plus Niche grade.
Dakota Ridge Senior High School is a public school located in Littleton, Colorado.
1/3
Retail finds at Bowles Crossing
A few shopping areas and strip malls with local businesses are found in Dakota Ridge. Locally owned sports bars and taverns are also scattered across town. Residents grocery shop at Safeway and grab a bite at several restaurants in the Kipling Marketplace up north. The Bowles Crossing shopping mall has tenants like Red Lobster, retail giants like Ross and an AMC theater in the Bowles Crossing shopping mall. Locals can browse through small clothing boutiques in nearby Littleton’s Main Street.
Bowles Crossing provides additional storefronts in a walkable outdoor mall style.
Across the street from Alkire Akres, grab brunch or dinner at Antonio’s Italian café.
1/2
Going to Littleton for orchestra concerts
For events, entertainment and the arts, folks travel just outside the community to Littleton. Colorado Dancesport is a local dance studio offering private lessons that competes in ballroom competitions worldwide. Breckenridge Brewery hosts classical concerts by the local Arapahoe Philharmonic throughout the year. Dakota Ridge is about 8 miles southeast of the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre where visitors can take yoga classes, watch films and see musical performances.
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is open while acts set up for their events.
Dakota Ridge residents can see the Arapahoe Philharmonic perform throughout the year at the Breckenridge Brewery.
1/2
Biking along the highway and riding RTD-Denver buses
Colorado State Highway 470 runs along the west side of Dakota Ridge, giving access to other towns like Morrison and Ken Caryl. Driving is a major form of transportation here, but some roads have bike lanes like South Kipling Parkway on the eastern border. The 2-mile C-470 Bikeway runs perpendicular to the highway and connects to Bear Creek Lake Park in the north. RTD-Denver buses also stop frequently within the area. AdventHealth West Littleton ER is on the west border, and Denver International Airport is a 40-mile drive via 470.
Community-centered police and preparing for harsh elements in Dakota Ridge
According to the Colorado Crime Statistics portal, overall violent crime increased from 2023 to 2024. Property crimes like robbery also increased, but motor vehicle theft specifically decreased in the same time frame. The office has a dedicated team of officers who work on crime prevention in the county through special events like meeting with the Citizens’ Advisory Council and organizing a Ride Along Program.
Dakota Ridge experiences all four seasons, and the area can get a significant amount of snowfall. Jefferson County advises residents to stay prepared by investing in tire chains and insulating pipes in their homes. Houses on the west side of town might be at risk of wildfires.
Written By
Hannah Baggenstoss
Photography Contributed By
Karl Brewick
Video By
Tyler Belile
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Landin Smith,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
On average, homes in Dakota Ridge, CO sell after 40 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Dakota Ridge, CO over the last 12 months is $600,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This stunning, brand-new ranch-style home in the desirable Deer Creek and Ken Caryl Ranch community is the epitome ofmodern living. Scheduled for completion by December 2025, this low-maintenance villa offers the perfect blend of luxuryand convenience. Bright & Open MAIN FLOOR LIVING. 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, including a luxurious primary suite onthe main level as well as an added
Sarah GallegosKeller Williams Advantage Realty LLC
Introducing 13102 W Cross Pl, a home that exudes warmth and charm. The living room is graced with a cozy fireplace, perfect for those chilly evenings. The kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting all stainless steel appliances and an accent backsplash that adds a touch of elegance. Step outside to a spacious deck, ideal for entertaining or simply enjoying a quiet morning coffee. The fenced-in backyard
Open concept kitchen with quartz countertops and white cabinets!Rooftop Deck! The Cameron offers a main-level flex space and full bath—ideal for a home office or fitness room. The open-concept second floor features a spacious great room and balcony perfect for entertaining, while the third-floor primary suite includes dual sinks and a large walk-in closet. With 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a
HOA fee includes both interior and exterior water, providing meaningful monthly savings and predictable ownership costs. Enjoy the convenience of water service for everyday household use as well as landscaping and exterior maintenance without separate billing. Combined with well-managed community services, this coverage helps simplify budgeting and enhances the overall value of ownership in this
This stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home in Littleton offers a perfect blend of modern updates and timeless appeal—truly move-in ready. Step inside to beautiful hardwood floors throughout the main level, fresh paint in the kitchen, family room, and loft, plus new carpeting in all bedrooms and closets. The refreshed kitchen features painted cabinets, new hardware, and a sleek new refrigerator.
This charming single-family home in the desirable Westgold Meadows community offers the perfect entry into homeownership without the compromises of condo or townhouse living. Nestled on a quiet street, this 2-bedroom, 2-bath residence delivers great value in a prime Littleton location. Step inside to find a welcoming layout ideal for relaxed everyday living, complete with a versatile bonus room
Fantastic Littleton location on a large corner lot in a quiet, well-loved community, great restaurants, and convenient shopping nearby. Enjoy the foothills lifestyle, just over an hour to world-class ski resorts. Step inside to find a warm, inviting home! The cozy living room with fireplace and soaring 2-story ceilings flows into the formal dining room and features new LVP flooring. The spacious
This well-maintained home offers a functional layout with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and distinct living spaces throughout, including a bar in the basement and a coffee bar in the main living area. The home features a comfortable main living room and a separate dining room that can also serve as a home office or flex space. The kitchen provides ample cabinet and counter space and is
Massive rooftop deck is an included option on this home and will have views to the south potential buyer can still add designer options for an additional charge. New home to be built in 2026. 4 bed, 3.5 bath, attached garage. Custom design selections available as time allows. Beautifully situated in the foothills of Morrison, this is the ideal Colorado community! Live only minutes from Red Rocks
Perfectly situated on a corner lot in one of Littleton’s most desirable neighborhoods, this beautifully maintained one-owner home offers space, comfort, and thoughtful updates for everyday family living. Located just six minutes from C-470, enjoy easy access to Chatfield State Park, Red Rocks, downtown Denver, and mountain adventures via I-70. Inside, vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light
Amazing huge, private lot at the top of cul-de-sac. This updated 3 bed 2 bath home has a large pass through 2 car garage, huge covered patio, multiple sheds and endless possibilities. The main level features an open floor plan, new quartz countertops, tile backsplash, and newer appliances. The large main level bathroom has been remodeled. New paint, new flooring, and tons of extras! The lower
This well-maintained 3-bedroom home sits on a spacious corner lot in a quiet, highly desirable neighborhood. The fenced backyard offers privacy and functionality with an RV-sized concrete pad, perfect for extra parking or outdoor toys. Inside, you’ll find a remodeled kitchen featuring modern finishes and updated cabinetry—ready for everyday cooking or entertaining guests. The seller has invested
Welcome to a highly desirable ranch home in the gated Township at Dakota Patio Homes! Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac, this residence offers many appealing features: 12 ft ceilings, vaulted spaces, plentiful light, strand-woven bamboo floors throughout the main floor, quality double pane windows, fresh interior paint, and thoughtful updates made by its original owner. The open living room with
Come and see this beautifully updated 2 bed, 2 bath ground level condo. Low maintenance living at its best. Enter to large open floor plan. Amazing kitchen with granite counters, island with seating, tile backsplash, 42" maple cabinets with pullout shelving, under cabinet lighting, newer oversized stainless steel refrigerator. The spacious dining room leads to private covered patio area. Large
The Belford steals the show with the open-concept second floor featuring a large kitchen island and balcony. Third floor, the primary suite boasts dual walk-in closets that simplify storage. Make your guests feel at home in the private main level bed.
New Stainless Steel Appliances, White Quartz Countertops, Gourmet Sink, Kitchen track lighting, deep gourmet sinks & sprayers and rectangular bathroom sinks. Call for details! Tanemara Apartments is located just off of C470 at Simms and Bowles in beautiful Littleton, CO. We are only minutes from shopping, restaurants, schools, movie theaters, parks, tons of trails for biking/hiking and the
Beautiful Littleton Brick Ranch Home*Rare Find In Lakehurst Community*Incredible Neighborhood*Lake Across The Street*Open Space With Parks And Trails*Fully Renovated*Perfect Open Floor Plan*Great Layout*Pride Of Ownership*Nice Finishes*Granite* Designer Touches*Gorgeous Kitchen*Oversized Island*Great Basement With Additional Family Room*Refinished Hardwood Floors Throughout*New Carpet In
If you're searching for your next great adventure, why not make the move to a 1, 2, or 3 bedroom Whisper Creek apartment? The ideal Rocky Mountain retreat in Lakewood, Whisper Creek Apartment Homes is ideally situated near Bear Creek Lake Park and Fox Hollow Golf Course, placing you minutes from spectacular outdoor activities and trails. With stunning mountain views, incredible resort-style
Discover the best of your better years at Aspendale Littleton, a 55+ active adult apartment community designed for you to live life boldly. Your own suburban oasis inspiring you to branch out and connect with newfound friends. Find yourself through invigorating hobbies, enriching activities, elevated group programs, and endless adventure with every thoughtful amenity. Come home to experiences
Avalon Red Rocks offers one-, two-, and three-bedroom Littleton apartments for lease. Entertain in our thoughtfully designed living spaces with modern kitchens and granite countertops. Live effortlessly with amenities that include a fitness center with a yoga/spin studio, outdoor pool, lounge areas, and outdoor picnic areas with gas grills. Take your pet out to play at our WAG Pet Park, or relax
Spacious, stylishly designed contemporary apartment homes are available at Dakota Ridge Apartment Homes! Our quaint and cozy apartment community is close to everything that you love, making life all the more enjoyable. Our ideal location places you within close proximity to local schools, major highways, fabulous shopping at Southwest Plaza and many fine restaurants.
Dont miss your chance to live in one of the premier apartment communities in Morrison, CO. Enjoy stunning views of Red Rocks and the Colorado foothills will living close to the convenience of the city. Picture coming home every day to the warm embrace of meticulous landscaping, comfortable homes, and thoughtful amenities tailored to enhance your life. Located in Morrison, CO, with easy access to
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $3284.90. That covers your base rent, $3225.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Smart
Staged photos of matching layout and similar décorImagery shows same floorplan and building, and similar décor as we finish photographing this new unit.Be the first to rent!Discover the best of Dakota Ridge, with this two bedroom apartment in Dakota Ridge. It’ll be easy to simply show up and start living in this furnished apartment with its fully equipped kitchen, living
Welcome to your next home in the charming Foothill Green district of Littleton, CO. This inviting property offers a comfortable living space perfect for those seeking a balance of convenience and community. With nearby dining options and a department store, everything you need is just a short stroll away.This residence features central heating and air conditioning for year-round comfort,
Staged photos of matching layout and similar décorImagery shows same floorplan and building, and similar décor as we finish photographing this new unit.Be the first to rent!Feel at home wherever you choose to live with Blueground. You’ll love this cozy Dakota Ridge furnished one bedroom apartment with its modern decor, fully equipped kitchen, and pretty living room.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
