Cherry Creek Trail
4.7(13)google
4.2(58)yelp
FreeOutdoorRiver
Overview
Stretching for over forty miles of seamlessly paved, multi-use paths, the Cherry Creek Trail is a spectacular recreational spine that connects downtown Denver with beautiful suburban landscapes and state parks. Lined with beautiful wildflowers, shade-giving trees, and striking urban architecture, this scenic pathway runs directly along the rushing waters of Cherry Creek. It serves as an absolute paradise for dedicated marathon runners, long-distance cyclists, and families looking to enjoy a sunny, active afternoon outdoors while completely immersed in Colorado's signature natural beauty.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 1-3 hours
Best TimeEarly mornings or late afternoons in late spring and summer are ideal. The canyon-like sunken urban trail is well-shaded and cooler, making it the perfect time for a scenic run or bike ride while escaping the bustling city streets directly above.
Getting ThereThis multi-mile paved trail spans the city. In the downtown area, the easiest access points are at Confluence Park or near the Denver Art Museum. The trail intercepts several light rail stations (including Union Station), making transit access effortless.
Travel Tips
- This trail is a major high-speed multi-use commuter vector. Bicycles and heavy e-bikes pass frequently at 15–20 mph without warning; pedestrians and layout photographers must never walk abreast or block the lane. Pets must stay on a short, taut leash. Move sharply right when hearing 'On your left!'.
- Large stretches of this singletrack run parallel inside a sunken concrete channel below the urban grid. During flash storm warnings, this concrete floor turns into an active drainage flume, flooding underpasses within 10–15 minutes. Abandon the canyon trail immediately during rains and retreat up to street levels.
- The trail retains zero municipal light fixtures through its urban subterranean channels and river confluences. Past 8 PM, these pitch-black bridge underpasses see concentrated numbers of unhoused encampments. For personal safety, do not engage in night jogging, walking, or solo biking along the canal floor after dark.
Reviews
Positive
- A beautiful greenway extending from the city to the suburbs, framed by clear creeks and lush greenery—a haven for running and cycling.
- The trail features complete pedestrian-vehicle separation; its sunken segments skillfully bypass main road traffic lights for uninterrupted riding.
- Passes many iconic Denver landmarks and parks, letting you easily detour into roadside shops for a coffee break, blending convenience and nature.
- The pavement is very smooth, mileage and direction signs are clear at a glance, and accessibility features are well-implemented for all ages.
Heads up
- Near the sunken tunnels of downtown, homeless tents gather year-round, and some bridge underpasses are plagued with trash and odors.
- On sunny weekends, it gets extremely packed; fast-moving cyclists and casual walkers frequently conflict on narrow lanes, requiring constant dodging.
- Public restrooms and water fountains along the trail are relatively scarce and spaced far apart, requiring self-prepared supplies for long workouts.
- Except for sections near main streets, most of the trail completely lacks artificial lighting at night, pitch black and highly unsafe for solo night trips.