Experience the Old West with a Cattle Drive Near Denver This Weekend
Longhorn cattle might not be a common sight for Denver metro residents, but this weekend, you’ll get a chance to see these majestic beasts up close and personal as part of a traditional event celebrating the state’s western heritage. Get ready for the Western Heritage Welcome Cattle Drive, kicking off the Douglas County Fair and Rodeo, scheduled from July 26 through August 4.
Yeehaw! The Cattle Drive Details
The cattle drive starts at 6 p.m. on Friday, so dust off your cowboy hat and find a spot along the barricades on Perry Street for a prime view of the action. Cowhands will guide a herd of Texan longhorns from Rock Park down Perry Street to a corral near Festival Park. It’s not every day you get to see this kind of spectacle, so don’t miss out!
Adding to the excitement, the Rocky Mountain Indigenous Dancers will lead the cattle drive with a lively processional performance. After the drive, stick around Festival Park for more fun, including ongoing performances by the dancers, chances for “old-time photos,” food trucks, and other entertainment.
A Nod to History
Back in the day, herds of longhorn cattle were a common sight being driven through Colorado. This annual cattle drive honors the heritage of the Goodnight-Loving Trail, a historic route that connected Texas ranches to Wyoming. Remnants of the trail can still be found throughout the state, including the Goodnight Barn in Pueblo, built by Charles Goodnight and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The trail’s other namesake, Oliver Loving, was a famous cattle driver from Texas.
Rules and Road Closures for the Cattle Drive
Before you hop on your imaginary horse and head out, take note of a few important details. If you were planning to capture some cool aerial shots of the longhorn cattle drive with a drone, you’re out of luck. Drones are strictly prohibited during the event because they can startle the cattle and, trust us, no one wants a stampede.
Additionally, parking on Perry Street will be restricted from 5 a.m. on July 26, including the parking at Rock Park. Perry Street will be closed to traffic from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. between Scott Street and South Street.
And of course, remember to stay behind the protective barriers on Perry Street and keep safety in mind. After all, these are real cattle, not a rodeo clown’s sideshow!
So, saddle up and head on over to Castle Rock this weekend for a taste of the Old West. The longhorns are ready, the cowhands are prepped, and the only thing missing is you!
