Parks · Trails · Open Spaces
Wide open spaces, kept beautiful for everyone.
With purpose and partnership, we cultivate vibrant outdoor spaces that nurture wellness, spark joy, and strengthen the bonds that make communities thrive.
Who we are
Caring for the outdoors, together
Through thoughtful strategy and shared passion, we create and care for outdoor spaces that bring people together, inspire movement, and celebrate community life in the open air.
Short Creek Outdoors is a nonprofit established by the United Effort Plan Trust, protecting and managing parks, trails, cemeteries, and open spaces so the whole community can enjoy them — this generation and the next.
Parks & Trails
We keep our parks and connecting trails beautiful, clean, and accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Cemeteries
We care for the community's resting places with the dignity and attention they deserve.
Open Spaces
We protect the valley's open lands so they stay wild, walkable, and welcoming.
Volunteer
Neighbors make it happen — join a workday and help these places thrive.
Our places
Five places to get outside
Flagship parkCottonwood Park
Large shaded and grassy areas under the huge iconic cottonwood trees — playgrounds, picnic areas, courts, a seasonal mini train, and the outdoor stage.
In progressJohnson Heritage Park
A large open space with apricot trees planted by a community father, “Uncle” Elmer Johnson, for whom the park is named.
CemeteryIsaac W. Carling Memorial Park
The community cemetery, on land donated by valley pioneer Isaac W. Carling — approximately 7,000 gravesites cared for with dignity. Search the records and find a loved one's resting place on our cemetery map.
Hike & viewsBig Rock Park
An icon to locals — a short hike rewards you with a great view over the whole Short Creek Valley.
TrailDike Trail
Meanders along the dike on the east side of the valley, connecting the North and South Reservoirs, with beautiful views of the red cliffs.
Cottonwood Park
The heart of the valley
Come enjoy the large shaded and grassy areas under the huge iconic cottonwood trees.
80 E Academy Avenue, Colorado City, AZ
Coming out to play?
Everyone who participates must have a current signed waiver on file.
Get involved
These places belong to all of us
Donate
Every dollar goes straight into keeping the parks, trails, and cemeteries beautiful and open to everyone.
Give todayVolunteer
Join a workday — planting, trail work, park cleanups. It's neighbors that make these places thrive.
Lend a hand