Hiking and Biking in Denver

This way, you can take it as fast or slow as you’d like, getting up close and personal with the people and places that make The Mile High City a truly unique travel destination. If you need to rent a bike, no worries—Denver’s got you covered with their pioneering bike sharing system, B-Cycle, where you can cheaply rent wheels from stations all over this pioneering city.

Cherry Creek Bike Path

Cherry Creek is a popular path—not only will you see parts of the city that many tourists miss, you’ll also meet Mile High locals all along the way. Start at Confluence Park on 15th Street, where the path and the sparkling Platte River intersect. Head southeast toward Wazee Street, then cruise past the Denver Country Club. Ride by the Cherry Creek Mall, then on to Four Mile House and Historic Park. The house is an old stagecoach stop and is the oldest structure in the Denver metro area. Take a break and check out museums and other historic buildings that highlight the city’s pioneer history. The trail meets its exciting finale at Cherry Creek Dam and Reservoir.

Denver City Park Mile High Loop

Denver is aptly named the Mile High City, and if you want to find out what nature is like up there, the Mile High Loop is the hike to take. You’ll walk a crushed rock path on a 3.1-mile loop around Ferrill Lake, catching scenic views as you go. This trail sits at exactly 1 mile above sea level—5,280 feet, to be exact. Keep in mind that if you’re accustomed to a much lower altitude, this trail can be difficult, even though it’s flat. While you walk, drink plenty of water and take it slow. What better way to enjoy the view?

Greenway Bike Trail

Bike along the South Platte River on the Greenway Bike Trail, which winds through Denver’s neighborhood parks and provides a glimpse of some of the city’s best attractions. Along the river, historical markers will tell you stories of Denver’s rich history, including Wild West mountain men, railroad lore and farming. Don’t pass these signs up—they’ll show you what life was like for locals who stood in that very spot centuries ago. The nearly 30-mile trail takes you from Confluence Park through Hudson Gardens, where you can relax with a cup of coffee while you enjoy the foliage and flowers. You’ll end up at the Chatfield State Recreation Area, which offers horseback riding, water sports and hiking.

Deer Creek Canyon Loop Hike

Get out of the city and explore some of Denver’s surrounding foothills on the Deer Creek Canyon hike. This 2.7-mile loop provides breathtaking vistas of Colorado’s varied landscape and views of the Denver skyline rising up from the plateau in the distance. It’s relatively flat and suitable for even small children, and if Fido came along, keep him on a leash—it's a trail rule and rattlesnakes often sun themselves in the middle of the path. Set aside about two hours to complete the loop or longer if you take extended breaks to appreciate the view. During the hike, you'll gain about 500 feet in elevation, so bring plenty of sunscreen and lots of water.

Clear Creek Bike Path

Discover Denver’s quaint western neighbor on this paved bike path that runs from the South Platte River to downtown Golden. The 20-mile trip takes you along the creek, through neighborhoods and rural fields. Explore the Old West in Golden, where many of the sidewalks are plank-covered and the false-fronts of charming shops give you an authentic pioneer-town experience. You’ll find many coffee shops, restaurants and cafes for a snack or meal. While you’re in Golden, stop by the Coors Brewery and visit the Colorado Railroad Museum to see more than 500 train engines and learn about Colorado’s railroad history. If you’re hot and sweaty from your ride, take a kayak trip down the river that runs right through town.

Georgetown Railroad Hike and Train Ride

Hiking and train rides are two quintessential Colorado activities—mix in a knowledgeable guide, and you’ve found one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the state’s beauty and history. The 2.3-mile Georgetown hike starts on an ordinary gravel road, but don’t be too quick to judge. You’ll soon enter an old cemetery with overgrown vegetation and crumbling headstones. Along the way, your guide will regale you with stories of Colorado’s railroad history, accompanied by the rumble of passing trains. Hike through the pines and stop for lunch at the halfway point—typically in a clearing amidst a grove of cedars. The hike ends just past the Devil’s Gate High Bridge, where you’ll hop on the train for a ride back to your car.

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