Adventure brief
Cheesman Park Ghost Tour
Step into Denver's shadowy past on the Cheesman Park Ghost Tour. Discover the park’s eerie origins as Denver’s first cemetery through captivating tales of hauntings and history that bring the city’s oldest green space to life in a new, chilling way.
Cheesman Park, located just east of central Denver, offers an uncanny blend of urban green space and macabre history. What now functions as a sprawling public park was originally Denver's first cemetery—a resting place for early settlers and pioneers. Denver Local Tours transforms this historic ground into a stage for chilling stories and unexplained phenomena with their 1.5-hour Cheesman Park Ghost Tour.
Walking under mature elms and towering maples, attendees are guided through shadowed paths where whispers from the past seem to seep from the earth. The park's unique backdrop, an 80-acre site with classic Victorian landscaping combined with remnants of grave markers and crypts, sets the scene for an eerie outdoor experience rooted in local lore. Visitors encounter stories of hauntings, mysterious apparitions, and tragic historical events, all tied to Cheesman Park’s somber origins.
These narratives deepen the connection between Denver’s growing urban footprint and the often-forgotten past lying just beneath its surface. Denver Local Tours leverages intimate storytelling paired with a knowledgeable guide who draws upon archival records and eyewitness accounts. This intimate approach allows guests to appreciate Denver’s cultural evolution through a spectral lens, enhancing the city's outdoor adventure offerings beyond conventional hikes and climbs.
This walk stands out in Denver’s outdoor recreation scene because it bridges history and the supernatural, offering an experience that encourages visitors to read the landscape differently. By blending natural beauty with eerie intrigue, the Cheesman Park Ghost Tour presents a truly distinctive way to engage with one of Denver’s oldest parks. Whether you're a local curious about your city's past or a visitor seeking unusual outdoor experiences, this tour turns a familiar urban park into a realm of mystery and suspense after dusk.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear Comfortable Shoesessential
The tour covers paved paths and slight inclines; sturdy, comfortable footwear will keep you steady.
- 02Bring a Layered Jacketinfo
Evening temperatures in Denver can drop quickly, so dress in layers to stay warm throughout the tour.
- 03Arrive Earlyinfo
Check in 10 minutes before your scheduled start to secure your spot and receive important briefing details.
- 04Use a Flashlight Sparinglywarning
The tour is mostly on lit paths; a small flashlight may help with uneven spots but avoid bright beams that spoil the atmosphere.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating paved and slightly uneven terrain during the tour.
EssentialLayered Jacket
Keeps you warm as temperatures drop after sunset.
fallEssentialSmall Flashlight or Headlamp
Helpful for low light conditions but avoid brightness to maintain the spooky atmosphere.
Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes can be active in warmer months; repellent ensures a more comfortable experience.
summerLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Look for subtle grave markers embedded in the park’s landscaping, Nearby Congress Park offers quieter city green space with distinct features
Local fauna
Urban squirrels, Various migratory bird species
Historic heritage
Cheesman Park was originally established as Denver’s Prospect Hill Cemetery in the late 1800s before being converted to public parkland in the early 1900s.
Mindful exploration
Park maintenance prioritizes preserving historic grave markers while managing urban green space responsibly amid ongoing city development.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Center of the park near the pavilion, Paths lined with mature trees, Near historic marker installations
- Subjects
- Historic grave markers, Silhouetted tree canopies, Dimly lit pathways
- Best times
- Twilight, Early evening after sunset, Late afternoon before dark
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is the Cheesman Park Ghost Tour suitable for children?
The tour contains spooky stories and paranormal themes that may not be appropriate for young children; parental discretion is advised.
Are the stories based on real events?
Yes, the guide shares both documented history and local legends that have circulated around Cheesman Park for years.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Most of the tour covers paved, level paths, but please contact Denver Local Tours directly to discuss accessibility requirements.
What should I bring to the tour?
Wear comfortable shoes, dress in layers for changing temperatures, and optionally bring a small flashlight or bug spray depending on the season.
Do I need to book in advance?
Advance booking is recommended as spots can fill quickly, especially during peak seasons and weekends.
Will the tour run in bad weather?
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled in case of severe weather such as thunderstorms or heavy snow for safety reasons.