Running & Cycling in Denver: Best Routes & Trails
Denver’s combination of 300 days of sunshine, extensive trail networks, and proximity to mountain terrain makes it one of the best cities in America for running and cycling. The active lifestyle culture permeates the city, and trail infrastructure has expanded dramatically. Here’s your guide.
Cherry Creek Trail
The Cherry Creek Trail runs over 40 miles from downtown Denver south to Franktown. The paved trail follows Cherry Creek through parks, neighborhoods, and open space. The downtown segment passes through Cherry Creek Shopping Center and connects to Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River. For runners and cyclists, it’s the metro’s most versatile trail.
South Platte River Trail
The South Platte River Trail runs north-south through the heart of the metro, connecting to multiple east-west trails. The trail provides over 30 miles of paved path from Chatfield State Park south through downtown and north to Adams County. The Confluence Park area where the Platte and Cherry Creek meet is a popular starting point.
Washington Park
“Wash Park” is Denver’s most popular running destination. The 2.6-mile loop around the park provides a flat, scenic route through one of the city’s most beautiful parks. The broader Washington Park neighborhood adds tree-lined streets for extended runs. Sunday morning Wash Park runs are a Denver tradition.
High Line Canal Trail
The High Line Canal Trail runs 71 miles through the south metro, following a historic irrigation canal through neighborhoods, open space, and natural areas. The primarily unpaved trail surface provides softer footing for runners and a change of scenery from paved greenways. The trail passes through Cherry Hills Village, Centennial, and Aurora.
Mountain Cycling
Denver’s proximity to the mountains opens world-class cycling opportunities. Lookout Mountain from Golden provides a classic climb. Deer Creek Canyon offers challenging road cycling. The mountain passes (Loveland, Guanella, Independence) provide epic high-altitude rides for experienced cyclists. These mountain routes are part of what makes Denver cycling unique.
Major Events
Denver hosts the Colfax Marathon (the city’s marquee running event), the BolderBOULDER 10K (one of the largest 10K races in the world, a short drive to Boulder), and numerous trail running events in the foothills. The cycling calendar includes the Elephant Rock century ride and Denver Century Ride.
Altitude Considerations
Running and cycling at 5,280 feet requires adaptation. Newcomers should expect reduced performance for 2 to 4 weeks while acclimatizing. Hydration needs are significantly higher at altitude, and the intense sun requires sun protection year-round. Once adapted, many athletes find the altitude training effect beneficial.
Explore neighborhoods along major trail corridors for the best active-lifestyle access.