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United States
Colorado
Denver County
Denver

Bluff Lake Park – Bluff Lake Nature Area loop from Central Park

Routes
United States
Colorado
Denver County
Denver

Bluff Lake Park – Bluff Lake Nature Area loop from Central Park

Moderate

2.5

(21)

74

riders

Bluff Lake Park – Bluff Lake Nature Area loop from Central Park

02:20

42.2km

130m

Gravel riding

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: June 8, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted

After 29.6 km for 173 m

Waypoints

A

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

1

7.72 km

Prairie Gateway Loop Trail Picnic Area

Highlight • Rest Area

Sheltered picnic area on the edge of Rocky Mountain Aresenal, with far views of the mountains and nearby metro area. There is also an ultra minimalistic Japanese style rock garden, consisting of 3 small rocks and a shurb.

Tip by

2

9.28 km

Greenway Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail, or Greenway Trail, is one of the main trails on the southern side of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. It helps connect different …

Tip by

32.6 km

Morrison Nature Center

Nature Reserve

4

33.1 km

The Morrison Nature Center is one of the most beautiful sections of the Sand Creek Greenway. Here, at the banks of Sand Creek, you can spot all kind of wildlife throughout the year.

Tip by

5

33.2 km

Morrison Nature Center

Highlight • Natural

The Morrison Nature Center is one of the most beautiful sections of the Sand Creek Greenway. Here, at the banks of Sand Creek, you can spot all kind of wild life throughout the year.

Tip by

6

38.2 km

Bluff Lake Park

Highlight • Lake

Bluff Lake is the largest natural open space in Denver. This park is managed as a wild habitat to allow the fauna and flora to flourish there. You can also …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

7

38.3 km

Bluff Lake Nature Area

Highlight • Lake

Bikes are not allowed on the trail but there is a place to lock them up. Also no dogs

Tip by

8

39.8 km

View of Sand Creek

Highlight • Viewpoint

Great turn around point at the bridge to connect paved and gravel section of Sand Creek Trail.

Tip by

B

42.2 km

End point

Train Station

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

20.2 km

11.0 km

5.44 km

3.47 km

1.77 km

344 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

22.6 km

10.4 km

5.29 km

3.76 km

149 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (1,660 m)

Lowest point (1,580 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Friday 26 June

31°C

14°C

77 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Description

If you're looking for a moderate gravel biking route that skirts the edges of a significant natural area without entering restricted zones, the Bluff Lake Park – Bluff Lake Nature Area loop from Central Park offers a solid 26.2 miles (42.2 km) with 412 feet (125 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 19 minutes. This route is ideal for riders who appreciate a mix of urban park scenery and natural views, understanding that the protected Bluff Lake Nature Center itself is off-limits to bikes.

What to expect on Bluff Lake Park – Bluff Lake Nature Area loop from Central Park

This route primarily utilizes established bike paths and trails in the surrounding Central Park area, offering a blend of mixed paved and unpaved surfaces. You'll encounter sections of crusher fines and some larger gravel, typically 5-6 feet wide, providing a consistent surface for your ride. While much of the route is relatively flat, be prepared for some sections with considerable slopes, potentially varying between 5.5% and 16.5% in the steepest parts. The scenery includes views of lakes, prairies, and urban park landscapes, with potential wildlife sightings in the broader vicinity. This moderate route is best suited for riders who enjoy a longer, relatively gentle ride with varied terrain and a focus on accessible gravel paths.

Planning your visit

It is crucial to understand that bicycles are strictly not permitted on the trails within the Bluff Lake Nature Center itself; these trails are designated for walking and jogging only. If you wish to explore the Nature Center on foot, designated bike racks are available for securing your bike. For those planning to gravel bike the loop, parking can be found in the Central Park area. Shade can be minimal in some prairie sections, so plan accordingly with water, especially during warmer months. Always confirm specific trail regulations before heading out.

Trail details

  • Distance: 26.2 miles (42.2 km)
  • Elevation gain: 412 feet (125 metres)
  • Difficulty: moderate
  • Estimated time: 2 hours and 19 minutes

Nearby routes

Moderate

3.8

85

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Perimeter Trail

03:58h

43.4km

130m

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