South Platte River Greenway - Road Bike Trail

The South Platte River Greenway is a lovely paved path surrounded by a picturesque urban landscape. The well-maintained pathway is a perfect getaway from the bustling Denver city. It meanders around the Platte river, right at Denver’s heart, where all the history happened. The trail was declared a national recreational trail in 1978, a few years after the Platte river was rehabilitated from pollution.

The trail suits all biking skill levels, including beginners, intermediate, and professional bikers. It has notable city attractions surrounding it and various amenities including local parks and commercial districts.

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 South Platte River Greenway is 30 miles long. The trail starts at Denver’s farthest south, paralleling the Platte River and ends at Elaine T. Valente Open Space in the Northeastern part of the city. The trail's south section usually has more traffic and an industrial setting than the North. It connects to other trails like Sand Creek, Cherry Creek, and Clear Creek.

We began riding at Confluence Park. If you are downtown, get to the main entrance of REI Denver flagship store and keep east. The hardest part of the route is north of the trail, between 20^th street and Confluence. The route is wide enough but could be wider without the painted dividing lines and bollards on some of its sections.

Some of the interesting spots the trail passes include:

• Aquarium in downtown
• The sports authority field
• The Children’s museum of Denver
• The historic 19^th street bridge

Keep left to cross over to the eastern side of the river. Ride north of the trail as far as you can go. You will come by another confluence between Clear Creek and the South Platte River.

Additional Trail Features

The South Platte River Greenway has a couple of interesting features. For coffee or lunch, make a stop at fuel café by exiting the trail at 31^st street. Ride across to the west bank then keep north.

You can also stop and view the historic Riverside cemetery north of Race Street. Exit at Franklin Street, ride east, and then go north on to Race Street.

The stockyards complex north of Arkin Street is another exciting destination on the trail. Exit Globeville and keep north.

Sights of Interest, Landscapes, Views

The South Platte River Greenway has plenty amazing sights. The old-time stock bridge that leads nowhere on 49^th avenue is one of the catchy sights. We highly recommend stopping at Globeville and Argo parks to have a look at Denver’s former industrial center. You can also ride to the 104^th avenue to see the small water projects and fishing holes that were formerly gravel mining operation areas.

Besides the notable city attractions, we found the high grasslands and sceneries of plains and rocks pretty impressive. The urban jungle is home to various animals like ducks, herons, muskrat, beavers and otters.

Recommendations and Precautions

• Grab a bite at Linger and a refreshing ice cone at Little Man Ice Cream on the trail.
• Get at Denver Beer Company near the Highlands Bridge and drink a beer.
• Entry and parking is free.
• Bring your own drinking water.