Best Runs in Denver

| Apr 18, 2018 | Uncategorized

 

 

Denver is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes of all kinds. With such a close proximity to the Rocky Mountains, the Mile High City draws all kinds of adventurous souls. Add to this that most of the year has sunny days, and you’ve got a winning combination for outdoor activity. When you’re looking to get active without making the drive to the mountains, the city itself offers plenty of ways to do so. Whether you’re looking for a quick pre-work run or a longer distance route to get some exercise with a friend, Denver has plenty of outdoor options for runners. Here are some of the best runs to try out in Denver:

 

 

1. Highline Canal Trail

For a leisurely weekend run, this expansive winding trail is a great choice. This trail spans 71 miles, stretching from Aurora through Denver’s southside suburbs and reaching Roxborough State Park. Running alongside the High Line Canal, this route offers some beautiful scenery along the way, including parks, fields, pastures, neighborhoods, and even a large span lined with cottonwoods. This partially paved, partially unpaved route connects to several other recreational trails as well, making it a Denver favorite for long runs. Because the Highline Canal Trail meanders a lot you may not choose this trail if you’re in a hurry — save it for a great weekend run with a buddy.

 

 

2. Washington Park Loop

This run is on a considerably shorter trail than the last, making it a great choice for a morning workout. There are two loop trails to choose from: the inner loop with 2.3 paved miles in more of a park-like setting, and the outer loop with 2.6 dirt miles with views of the beautiful neighborhood homes. They’re both within Washington Park, one of the three major parks in Denver, so it’s no wonder this is such a popular running spot. At only 3 miles south of downtown, this convenient and quick run will allow you to pass by Smith Lake and two beautiful flower gardens.

 

 

3. Cheesman Park

Another great urban park in Denver, Cheesman Park, is a great spot for a quick run.

This park is centrally located in Capitol Hill and is a great option for a morning workout. The outer loop, gravel and dirt path is about 1.5 miles around Cheesman Park with views of the Denver Art Museum, the St. John’s Cathedral, and the Colorado History Center. The Denver Botanic Gardens are at the western side of the park as well, making this a beautiful spot to spend an afternoon. The trail may not seem challenging, but it includes some hills of slow elevation gain as it runs towards the Botanic Gardens. If you have a bit more time, start downtown and run along the State Capitol, then run the outer loop around Cheesman Park. You can add to the run by heading into Congress Park next or even over to City Park just a mile to the north.

 

 

4. City Park

For a run in Denver’s most notable park, head to City Park and run the outer Mile High loop. This trail is a little over 3 miles long and offers beautiful skyline views. At just about 2 miles from downtown, this convenient run will certainly get your heart rate up. The path is mostly paved and can include a half-mile loop around Ferril Lake. Looking for a bit more of a run? You can add to your workout by including some of the park’s interior trails as well. If you want to start your run right from downtown, it’s recommended to take 20th or 21st Ave.

 

 

5. Sloan Lake Park

This trail at Sloan Lake is located about 2.5 miles from downtown Denver and makes for a great run, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. This loop trail follows the lake’s perimeter and is about 2.6 miles long. With views of the skyline to the East and mountains to the West, this scenic run gives Denverites a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

 

Denver offers great trails for runners to explore, but if you’re not as used to Denver’s dry climate and elevation, you may be surprised at how much you need to hydrate. Make sure you’re proactive about hydrating adequately as you enjoy your run through some of these lovely trails. There are even running clubs you can join in the city, including the Rocky Mountain Road Runners, who host several events each week.