Cherry Creek Greenway - Road and Gravel Bike Trail

The Cherry Creek Trail is one of the most stunning serenities in Denver. It is the perfect place to go when you need a break from the city. When riding on the trail, you will hear the city’s noise, but the surrounding serenity will make you forget you are at the city’s heart. A vast segment of the trail is an 8 ft wide concrete surface. Its rural southern end is mostly gravel. We love how well-marked the trail is, with several spots for taking breaks and trail maps. It is the ultimate novice trail.

Before you go:

Drinking water

Restrooms

Fee required

Lift service

Fat bike grooming

Family Friendly

Night riding

E-bikes allowed

Dogs Allowed

Obstacles

Shuttles

Detailed Trail Description

The Cherry Creek Trail is a 40 miles long trail that starts from downtown Denver. It passes through counties of Arapahoe, Denver, and Douglas. It also lies below Speer Boulevard.

You can access the trail from different points, but for clarity, we recommend you begin your ride from the famous Denver's Confluence Park. The trail winds along cherry creek, and passes through urban landscapes and parks. It goes on to Arapahoe County through Cherry Creek State Park. You can ride down Arapahoe road safely without the traffic’s interruption.

If you keep riding southward, you will come by the Parker Jordan Centennial Open Space and pass various suburban and rural areas. Your riding adventure will end in Franktown at a hilly spot near the famous Castlewood Canyon State Park.

Additional Trail Features

You will come by the Cherry Creek Shopping District a few miles after leaving the Denver Confluence Park. In case you need to have a bite, water or a drink, the Cherry Creek Mall is a walking distance from the shopping district.

The entire route has multiple spots for resting, toilets, and air stations.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

Worthwhile attractions on the Cherry Creek Trail include a four-mile historic park where you can learn about Denver's history. You will also see the Cherry Creek state park, which has endless recreational opportunities including campgrounds, hiking trails and picnic areas.

The trail becomes much more beautiful when you move further from the city center. The cottonwood and willow trees are home to various bird species. You may also catch squirrels scurrying on the lush grasslands.

Recommendations / Precautions

Other places you can start biking from include:

• Cherry Creek Park in Aurora
• Anywhere from downtown Denver along Speer Boulevard
• Sunken Gardens Park in Denver

You don’t have to be a skilled biker to enjoy the trail but you must be mindful of all the joggers and hikers.

If you are a beginner rider, be wary of expert riders that ride at top speeds. Some even go as fast as 20 mph yet the limit is 15 mph.