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
Karen Levine,
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
Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly desirable Silver Leaf community, this stunning home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience. Surrounded by open space and just a stone’s throw from the golf course, the location provides a peaceful setting with beautiful views and easy access to outdoor recreation. Inside, you’ll find an impressive custom kitchen featuring a large,
*****Open House Saturday 9/26/26 9am- 12pm & Sunday 9/27/26 11am-2pm*****Beautifully Updated Ranch Home Near the Rocky MountainsWelcome home to this well-maintained ranch-style property located just minutes from the Rocky Mountains. Offering 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this home combines comfortable one-level living with a long list of thoughtful updates and desirable features
Seller will provide a $10,000 credit toward interior paint and upstairs carpet with a strong offer (already quoted)! Westgold Meadows offers the best of Littleton living with easy access to Chatfield Reservoir, miles of trails and open space, Red Rocks Amphitheatre, local dining, shopping, and everyday conveniences. Whether you're headed outdoors for the day or grabbing dinner close to home, this
BACK ON MARKET THROUGH NO FAULT OF SELLER, Buyer's Contingency fell through. So you get another chance! You were looking for something clean and turnkey, right? Something charming and private. Spacious, with plenty of room no matter how you set up your lifestyle? We have it for you! This home happens to be in a fantastic location in Western Littleton, close to the foothills but also close to all
Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly desirable Silver Leaf community, this stunning home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience. Surrounded by open space and just a stone’s throw from the golf course, the location provides a peaceful setting with beautiful views and easy access to outdoor recreation. Inside, you’ll find an impressive custom kitchen featuring a large,
This is THE home you’ve been waiting for—in a neighborhood with so much to enjoy! Beautifully remodeled from top to bottom, this home feels fresh, bright, and is truly move-in ready. Enjoy a completely remodeled kitchen and baths, new texture and paint throughout, beautiful laminate wood flooring, new carpet, and newer windows. Vaulted ceilings create an open, airy feel, while the beautiful wood
FRESH INTERIOR PAINT & NEW CARPET! Colorado living starts here! Nestled in Morrison's desirable Harriman Park community, this beautifully appointed home combines modern finishes, inviting living spaces, and an incredible location just minutes from the foothills, Red Rocks, parks, and miles of scenic trails. Step inside to a bright, open floor plan where luxury vinyl flooring flows throughout the
Rustic Colorado Character | No HOA | RV Parking | Greenbelt SettingTucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in the desirable Trappers Glen community, this beautifully maintained one-owner home offers a rare combination of privacy, personality, and everyday comfort. With no HOA, dedicated RV and boat parking, a spacious backyard, and direct access to the neighborhood greenbelt, this property provides
The main level of this four-bedroom Morrison home has been thoughtfully redesigned for a more open, connected way of living. A wall was removed and the former living-room space was incorporated into an expanded kitchen and dining area, creating a bright, comfortable gathering space with room for everyday meals, holiday dinners and time with friends. The updated kitchen includes granite
Price Improvement. Situated in Littleton's desirable Powderhorn community, this light-filled two-story home offers an ideal balance of functional living and modern updates. The main level features soaring vaulted ceilings and wood floors throughout the open living areas, along with a dedicated main floor office perfect for remote work. The updated kitchen comes complete with quartz countertops,
Charming ranch-style home with a fresh, modern design, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms & a beautifully finished basement. If you’ve been looking for a remodeled home where the work has already been done, this is it! Thoughtful updates, stylish details & on-trend finishes give this home personality from the moment you step inside. Wide-plank luxury vinyl flooring extends throughout most of the main level,
Beautifully renovated 2-story in Westfield Park! Spacious lot with Fenced RV Parking in a quiet cul-de-sac location. Upgrades too numerous to count!, including a Remodeled Hickory Kitchen w/upgraded fixtures and convenient breakfast bar, Stunning Hickory hardwood floors throughout the main level, fresh exterior paint and newer gutters, Energy-efficient Double-pane vinyl windows, Closet
This 5-bedroom, 3-bath home sits on an oversized cul-de-sac lot and backs to the greenbelt in Belleview Acres. Inside, vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light create a bright, open feel, while the sunroom offers a comfortable place to relax year-round. The updated eat-in kitchen features shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, pendant lighting, and a large center
Welcome home to this inviting 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom townhome in Morrison, where comfort, convenience, and Colorado living come together. Step inside to a bright and welcoming living room featuring soaring vaulted ceilings, abundant natural light, warm wood flooring, and a cozy fireplace—the perfect setting for relaxing evenings or gathering with friends and family.The kitchen offers
Kyle GuentherCentury 21 Signature Realty North, Inc.
Beautiful 4 bedrooms, Large loft with 2.5 bath home ready now. Nice size fenced back yard. Storage space in the basement. Open, bright and clean. Pets accepted. This house features over 2,100 square feet.
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
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, 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. At Aspendale, we asked ourselves: what
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.
Welcome to Highland Trails, a welcoming 55+ community in Littleton designed to make everyday living comfortable and convenient. Choose from thoughtfully designed one- and two-bedroom apartments featuring modern finishes, spacious closets, full-size washers and dryers, stainless steel appliances, and private patios or balconies. Outside your apartment, you’ll find plenty of places to stay active,
Don't 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
Staged photos of matching layout and similar décor Imagery shows same floorplan and building, and similar décor as we finish photographing this new unit. Be the first to rent! Show up and start living from day one in Dakota Ridge with this comfortable two bedroom Blueground apartment. You’ll love coming home to this thoughtfully furnished, beautifully designed, and fully equipped
Staged photos of matching layout and similar décor Imagery shows same floorplan and building, and similar décor as we finish photographing this new unit. Be the first to rent! Show up and start living from day one in Dakota Ridge with this comfortable one bedroom Blueground apartment. You’ll love coming home to this thoughtfully furnished, beautifully designed, and fully equipped
Landing is a top-rated, fully furnished apartment network with thousands of homes across 250+ U.S. cities. With premium amenities, a mobile app to manage your stay, and 24/7 support. Our apartments have everything you need for monthly and longer stays. 6-Month+ Stay base rent: starts at $2130/mo 12-Month+ Stay base rent: starts at $2082/mo Landing's apartments at Whisper Creek are
Welcome to 12129 West Tanforan Avenue, a spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home featuring 1,919 square feet of living space. Inside, the cozy living room centers around a wood fireplace with a sliding glass door that leads out to a wooden deck and a fully fenced backyard, perfect for outdoor living. The kitchen comes outfitted with a complete suite of appliances, while the primary bedroom offers a
Landing is a top-rated, fully furnished apartment network with thousands of homes across 250+ U.S. cities. With premium amenities, a mobile app to manage your stay, and 24/7 support. Our apartments have everything you need for monthly and longer stays. 6-Month+ Stay base rent: starts at $2130/mo 12-Month+ Stay base rent: starts at $2103/mo Landing's apartments at Whisper Creek are
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.
