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
Jickson Chacko,
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
Impeccably cared for and beautifully enhanced, this remarkable home highlights meticulous attention to detail throughout. Merging classic craftsmanship with thoughtful modern updates, each area embodies quality, care, and pride in ownership. As you enter the home, notice the professionally designed brickwork gardens and brick-paved driveway. The main floor boasts a private en-suite primary
Open concept kitchen with quartz countertops and white cabinets! The Belford features an open-concept second floor with a spacious kitchen island and balcony—ideal for entertaining. The third-floor primary suite includes dual walk-in closets, while a private main-level bedroom creates a perfect guest retreat. With 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and a 2-car garage, this townhome blends modern comfort and
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
Welcome to one of Littleton’s most desirable neighborhoods in Fairway Vista. This beautifully updated 4-bedroom, 4-bath home sits on a generous 8,160 sq. ft. lot and offers stunning double decks with sweeping Colorado mountain views, creating incredible outdoor living and unforgettable sunset evenings. Inside, the home features soaring vaulted ceilings, skylights, and an open, light-filled floor
Welcome to “The One” in Dancing Willows. This beautifully updated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom top floor condo blends architectural charm, thoughtful upgrades, and peaceful surroundings in one of Littleton’s most desirable communities. $5000 Buyer Incentive credit for buyer's closing costs with an acceptable contract! Key Features: • Highly sought after top floor layout with soaring vaulted ceilings and
True MAIN LEVEL LIVING in an active, non-age-restricted community with lock-and-leave convenience and quick possession available. The primary suite, laundry, and kitchen are all located on the main level, offering everyday ease and functionality. This Dancing Willows townhome offers a flexible layout with three bedrooms, a spacious loft, and multiple living areas that provide separation of space
Welcome to this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom townhouse with a bonus office space, ideally located near some of Colorado’s most sought-after outdoor amenities. This nearly maintenance-free home offers comfort, convenience, and style—just minutes from recreation, trails, and mountain access. Step inside to a modern, open-concept layout featuring a fully updated kitchen with sleek
Experience high-end design and modern technology, located in the premier lock-and-leave community of Dancing Willows. This isn't just a standard residence; it is a meticulously upgraded smart home designed for maximum efficiency and convenience. The main floor is anchored by a gourmet kitchen featuring an oversized leathered granite island, a touch-free faucet, and an LG Insta-View door-in-door
Ready to trade rent for ownership? This 2-bedroom, 3-bath townhome in Foothill Green makes that step feel exciting — not overwhelming. With 1,088 square feet of well-designed space, it’s the kind of home that just makes sense for a first step or place to settle into. The vibe is fresh and easy. Updated paint and carpet keep things feeling clean and current, while the remodeled kitchen with
Park-Backing Gem in Parkwood EstatesBeautifully updated home in the sought-after Parkwood Estates enclave, backing directly to the community park and open space. New concrete steps lead to a covered front porch with mountain views, while inside soaring vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, and abundant natural light create an inviting feel.The open layout connects the two-story family room
Impeccably cared for and beautifully enhanced, this remarkable home highlights meticulous attention to detail throughout. Merging classic craftsmanship with thoughtful modern updates, each area embodies quality, care, and pride in ownership. As you enter the home, notice the professionally designed brickwork gardens and brick-paved driveway. The main floor boasts a private en-suite primary
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
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
Welcome to 5383 S. Urban Court in Littleton, ideally situated on a corner lot within a quiet cul-de-sac in the established Country West neighborhood. This beautifully updated home features soaring vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, and a freshly painted interior complemented by luxury wide vinyl plank flooring and updated baseboards throughout the main living areas.The remodeled
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
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
The wonderful neighborhood of Friendly Hills is close to the charming town of Morrison! Step inside to the main floor that seamlessly connects the living room, dining room, and kitchen. The kitchen features stainless steel appliances, and stunning granite countertops. Just off the kitchen is a cozy family room complete with a wood burning fireplace, perfect for movie nights or snuggling up with a
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 $3344.90. That covers your base rent, $3285.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Air Filter Delivery Fee ($9.95), Smart
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.
Experience the perfect blend of convenience and style in this charming Littleton condo, ideally situated for an active Colorado lifestyle. This bright, upper-level unit offers a serene retreat with easy access to local shopping, dining, and outdoor adventures.Home Highlights & Amenities:- Modern Kitchen: Fully equipped with an Electric Range, Dishwasher, Microwave, Garbage Disposal,
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and 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.
