The best running trails around Denver

Denver offers a vast network of running trails, with over 200 routes documented on komoot. These range from easy, flat urban paths to more challenging routes in the nearby foothills, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain. Denver's urban areas feature mostly flat, paved greenways and river paths like the Cherry Creek Path and Platte River Trail. City parks such as Washington Park and City Park offer flat, often dirt or paved loops. For those seeking more challenge, the proximity to the Rocky Mountains provides access to trails with rolling hills and varied elevations, such as those found in Red Rocks Park or Bear Creek Lake Park.

Yes, Denver has several excellent options for family-friendly runs. Parks like Sloan's Lake Park offer a flat, accessible 2.6-mile loop suitable for all ages and strollers, complete with amenities like playgrounds. The Cherry Creek Path and sections of the High Line Canal Trail are also generally flat and well-maintained, making them great choices for families.

Many routes in Denver boast beautiful scenery and pass by landmarks. The City Park – Colorado State Capitol loop from Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial offers views of the city skyline and historical monuments. Sloan's Lake Park provides stunning city skyline and mountain views. For natural beauty, Red Rocks Park offers panoramic vistas of its striking red sandstone formations, and the Waterton Canyon Trail is known for picturesque landscapes and wildlife sightings.

Many of Denver's parks and trails are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations regarding leashes and waste disposal. Generally, urban greenways and many city parks welcome leashed dogs. For example, trails around Washington Park and City Park are popular among dog owners. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them.

Denver is an excellent place for jogging year-round, thanks to its approximately 300 days of sunshine annually. Spring and summer offer lush flowers along paths like the Cherry Creek Path. Fall brings pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. Even in winter, many trails remain accessible, though some higher elevation or less maintained paths might require caution due to snow or ice. Always check local conditions before heading out.

Absolutely. For longer runs, the High Line Canal Trail stretches 71 miles, offering an extended, relatively flat route. The City Park – Colorado State Capitol loop from Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is a challenging 10.9-mile (17.6 km) route. Cherry Creek State Park also provides 35 miles of trails, perfect for extended distances within a natural prairie environment.

The running routes in Denver are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.7 stars from over 39 reviews. More than 6,000 runners have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the diverse terrain, well-maintained paths, and the beautiful blend of urban and natural scenery.

Yes, several popular running routes in Denver are well-connected by public transport. For instance, the The Grove at Commons Park – Confluence Park loop from Union Station starts near Union Station, a major public transport hub. Many city parks are also accessible via Denver's bus and light rail systems, making it convenient to reach trails without a car.

A great moderate loop option is the Berkeley and Rocky Mountain Lakes Loop. This 3.9-mile (6.2 km) trail takes about 40 minutes to complete and offers tranquil settings around two lakes with pleasant mountain views. Another popular choice is the 2.5-mile loop around Washington Park.

Yes, Denver's running paths often lead to or pass by beautiful natural attractions. You can find several lakes, such as Bear Creek Lake, Big Soda Lake, and Chatfield Reservoir, which offer scenic backdrops for your run. Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the Platte River, provides a unique blend of cityscape and riverside tranquility. Additionally, you can explore natural monuments like Dinosaur Ridge or the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater, which also has trails.

Absolutely. Denver is very accommodating for beginners. The Cherry Creek Path is often cited as one of the easiest and prettiest, offering a flat, paved surface. The loops around city parks like Washington Park (2.5 miles) and Sloan's Lake Park (2.6 miles) are also excellent, flat, and accessible options for those new to jogging or looking for a relaxed run.