How to Hike Cherry Creek Trail in Denver

The Cherry Creek Trail in Denver is one of the most accessible, scenic, and consistently popular multi-use paths in the Rocky Mountain region. Stretching over 13 miles from downtown Denver to the southern suburbs, this paved trail offers hikers, bikers, and joggers a seamless blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor seeking an authentic Denver outdoor experience, the Cherry Creek Trail delivers an unforgettable journey through riparian woodlands, urban parks, and historic landmarks—all without leaving the city limits.

Unlike remote alpine trails that require extensive planning and specialized gear, the Cherry Creek Trail is designed for everyday adventurers. Its gentle elevation gain, well-maintained surface, and abundant access points make it ideal for hikers of all ages and fitness levels. Beyond physical accessibility, the trail serves as a vital green corridor connecting communities, promoting active lifestyles, and preserving vital riparian ecosystems in an increasingly urbanized landscape.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for hiking the Cherry Creek Trail—from planning your route to navigating trail etiquette, essential gear, and real-world tips from seasoned users. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll know exactly how to prepare for, enjoy, and safely complete your hike on one of Denver’s most treasured outdoor assets.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose Your Starting Point

The Cherry Creek Trail has more than a dozen access points, so selecting the right starting location is critical to tailoring your experience. Your choice depends on your fitness level, time availability, and desired scenery.

For beginners or those seeking a short, family-friendly outing, start at the Cherry Creek State Park Trailhead (15001 E. Alameda Ave, Aurora). This southern terminus offers ample parking, restrooms, water fountains, and picnic areas. Hiking north from here to the confluence with the South Platte River (approximately 4 miles) provides a gentle, shaded route with abundant birdlife and open grasslands.

For a longer, more urban experience, begin at the Denver Central Park Trailhead near 17th and Downing Street. This central location places you in the heart of Denver’s cultural district. From here, you can hike south toward Cherry Creek State Park (about 9 miles) or north toward the Denver Art Museum and Civic Center Park. This route exposes you to city architecture, public art installations, and bustling neighborhoods.

Advanced hikers seeking the full experience should consider a point-to-point hike from Cherry Creek State Park to the South Platte River Confluence near the Denver Zoo. This 13-mile trek offers the complete trail narrative—from wild riparian zones to urban renewal corridors—and is best done with a shuttle or pre-arranged pickup.

2. Plan Your Route and Distance

Before setting out, determine your total distance and elevation profile. The Cherry Creek Trail is mostly flat, with an elevation gain of only 200 feet over its entire length, making it one of the most forgiving urban trails in the country.

Here are three common route options:

• Short Loop (3–4 miles): Start at Cherry Creek State Park, hike north to the 120th Avenue bridge, then return. Ideal for families and casual walkers.
• Mid-Length Hike (7–8 miles): Begin at the Denver Central Park Trailhead, hike south to the 6th Avenue Bridge, then return. Offers a balance of nature and city views.
• Full Trail (13 miles): Start at Cherry Creek State Park, hike north through Denver to the South Platte River near the Denver Zoo. Requires 4–6 hours and is best suited for experienced hikers.

Use Google Maps or AllTrails to visualize your chosen route. Set waypoints at major intersections (e.g., 120th Ave, 46th Ave, 17th St) to track progress. Always confirm trail conditions via the City of Denver Parks and Recreation website before departure.

3. Check Weather and Trail Conditions

Denver’s weather is notoriously variable, even in summer. Temperatures can swing 30°F in a single day. Always check the forecast for both the morning and afternoon hours.

During spring and early summer, sections near Cherry Creek can be muddy after snowmelt or heavy rain. In late summer, afternoon thunderstorms are common—plan to finish your hike by 3 p.m. to avoid lightning risk.

Check for trail closures or maintenance alerts on the Denver Parks and Recreation Trail Status Page. Occasionally, sections are closed for invasive species removal, bridge repairs, or wildlife management. The trail is generally open year-round, but winter conditions may require traction devices on icy patches near the creek.

4. Gather Essential Gear

Despite its urban setting, the Cherry Creek Trail demands basic hiking preparation. Here’s what to pack:

• Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners with good grip. Avoid sandals or brand-new shoes.
• Hydration: Carry at least 20 oz of water per person. Water fountains are available at major access points, but spacing varies.
• Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, or fruit. There are no vendors along the trail.
• Sun Protection: Hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ sunscreen. The trail has limited shade in many sections.
• Map or GPS: Download offline maps via AllTrails or Gaia GPS. Cell service can be spotty near the creek bed.
• First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatment. Minor scrapes from uneven pavement are common.
• Backpack: A lightweight daypack (10–15L) to carry essentials without bulk.

Optional items: Trekking poles (helpful for balance on wet pavement), binoculars (for birdwatching), and a portable phone charger.

5. Begin Your Hike with Proper Etiquette

The Cherry Creek Trail is shared by hikers, cyclists, joggers, and rollerbladers. Respect for others ensures safety and enjoyment for everyone.

When you start your hike:

• Stay to the right except when passing.
• Announce your presence when overtaking others: “On your left!”
• Yield to horses in designated equestrian zones (rare, but marked near the state park).
• Keep dogs on a 6-foot leash and clean up after them—poop bags are provided at rest areas.
• Do not feed wildlife. Squirrels, ducks, and geese are protected and can become aggressive if habituated to humans.

Be especially cautious near intersections with roads (e.g., 120th Ave, Alameda Ave). Look both ways before crossing, even if you have a pedestrian signal. Many accidents occur when hikers assume cyclists will stop.

6. Navigate Key Landmarks

As you hike, you’ll pass several notable landmarks that serve as natural milestones:

• Cherry Creek State Park Visitor Center: Your likely starting point. Use this to refill water and use restrooms.
• 120th Avenue Bridge: A major crossing point with benches and shaded picnic areas. Good turnaround point for short hikes.
• Denver Botanic Gardens (near 10th Ave): Visible from the trail. Consider extending your hike to visit the gardens (separate admission).
• 17th Street Corridor: The heart of downtown Denver. You’ll pass the Denver Public Library, the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, and the Colorado State Capitol. This section is busiest on weekdays during lunch hours.
• 6th Avenue Bridge: Marks the transition from urban to semi-rural. Look for the historic Cherry Creek Bridge (1920s) nearby.
• South Platte River Confluence: The official end of the trail. A small plaque marks the junction. This is a popular spot for photos and rest.

Use these landmarks to gauge your progress and take breaks. Most hikers pause for 10–15 minutes at the 120th Ave and 17th St points.

7. End Your Hike Safely

When you reach your endpoint, don’t rush. Take time to hydrate, stretch, and reflect. If you started at Cherry Creek State Park and finished downtown, consider using public transit to return.

RTD (Regional Transportation District) buses run along major corridors like Alameda and 17th Street. The 16th Street Mall Shuttle (free) connects downtown to the Denver Union Station, where you can catch trains back to Aurora or the state park area.

If you drove, ensure your vehicle is parked in a designated lot. Never leave valuables visible. The trail is generally safe, but theft from parked cars has occurred near high-traffic trailheads.

After your hike, log your experience on AllTrails or a personal journal. Note weather, trail conditions, and any observations—this helps you plan future hikes and contributes to community trail data.

Best Practices

Timing Your Hike for Optimal Experience

The best times to hike the Cherry Creek Trail are early morning (6–8 a.m.) and late afternoon (4–6 p.m.). These windows offer cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and better lighting for photography. Midday hikes during summer can be uncomfortably hot, especially on the exposed stretches between 120th and 46th Avenues.

Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends. If you prefer solitude, avoid Saturday afternoons and Sunday mornings, when the trail becomes a social hub for families, cyclists, and dog walkers.

Seasonal Considerations

Each season brings unique advantages to the Cherry Creek Trail:

• Spring (April–May): Wildflowers bloom along the creek banks. Water levels are high, creating lush greenery and active bird populations. Watch for mud in shaded areas.
• Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours allow for extended hikes. Afternoon storms are common—carry a lightweight rain jacket. Mosquitoes may be present near standing water.
• Fall (September–October): Crisp air and golden cottonwood leaves make this the most scenic season. Crowds thin out after Labor Day.
• Winter (November–March): The trail is often snow-free due to urban heat, but icy patches appear near bridges and shaded creek bends. Wear traction cleats if temperatures dip below freezing.

Leave No Trace Principles

Even in an urban setting, the Cherry Creek Trail is part of a fragile ecosystem. Follow these Leave No Trace guidelines:

• Carry out all trash—including food wrappers, napkins, and plastic bottles.
• Do not pick flowers, disturb wildlife, or remove rocks or logs.
• Use designated restrooms. If you must relieve yourself off-trail, go at least 200 feet from water sources and bury waste.
• Respect posted signs about restricted areas, especially near nesting sites for birds like the Great Blue Heron.

Hydration and Nutrition Strategies

Even on a flat trail, dehydration can occur quickly in Denver’s dry, high-altitude air (elevation: 5,280 ft). Drink water before you start, and sip every 20–30 minutes. Electrolyte tablets or sports drinks are beneficial on longer hikes.

For snacks, choose foods high in complex carbs and protein: trail mix with nuts and dried fruit, whole-grain energy bars, or banana slices. Avoid sugary candies—they cause energy spikes and crashes.

Navigation and Safety Tips

While the trail is well-marked, distractions are common. Phones, cameras, and scenic views can lead to missed turns or collisions.

• Always carry a physical map or offline GPS. Cell service drops near the creek bed.
• Let someone know your planned route and expected return time.
• Carry a whistle. In case of injury or getting lost, a whistle is more effective than shouting.
• Stay alert for cyclists. They often move faster than expected and may not always announce their approach.

Group Hiking Considerations

If hiking with children, elderly companions, or mixed-ability groups:

• Choose a shorter route (under 5 miles).
• Plan frequent rest stops with shade and seating.
• Bring extra layers—even in summer, evenings cool down rapidly.
• Assign a “rear guard” to ensure no one falls behind.
• Teach children to stay on the trail and not chase wildlife.

Tools and Resources

Mobile Apps for Trail Navigation

Several apps enhance your Cherry Creek Trail experience:

• AllTrails: Offers user reviews, photos, elevation profiles, and real-time trail conditions. Download the offline map before you go.
• Gaia GPS: Excellent for detailed topographic maps. Useful if you plan to extend your hike into adjacent greenways.
• Google Maps: Reliable for locating trailheads, restrooms, and nearby parking. Use “walking” mode for accurate routing.
• Denver Parks & Rec App: Official app with real-time alerts on closures, events, and water fountain status.

Official Websites and Contact Points

For authoritative information, consult these resources:

• Denver Parks and Recreation: www.denvergov.org/parks — Check for trail advisories, permits, and events.
• Cherry Creek State Park: cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/CherryCreek — Details on parking fees, hours, and amenities.
• Denver Botanic Gardens: www.botanicgardens.org — Offers guided nature walks that connect to the trail.
• Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG): www.drcog.org — Publishes regional trail maps and long-term greenway plans.

Recommended Gear Brands

While not mandatory, certain gear improves comfort and safety:

• Footwear: Merrell Moab 3, Hoka One One Bondi 8, or Salomon X Ultra 4
• Backpack: Osprey Arcane 18, Deuter Speed Lite 20
• Hydration: CamelBak Crux Reservoir (2L), Nalgene Wide-Mouth Bottle
• Weather Protection: Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pants, Patagonia Capilene Base Layer
• Navigation: Garmin inReach Mini 2 (for emergency SOS), iPhone with offline maps

Local Hiking Groups and Community Resources

Joining a local hiking group can enhance your experience and provide insider tips:

• Denver Hiking Club: Regular group hikes on weekends. Meetup.com group with 5,000+ members.
• Colorado Mountain Club: Offers beginner-friendly outings and trail maintenance days.
• Denver Botanic Gardens Volunteer Program: Learn about native plants along the trail through guided tours.

Many of these groups host “Trail Steward” events where volunteers help remove invasive species or repair signage. Participating is a meaningful way to give back to the trail you enjoy.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Hiker — Sarah’s 4-Mile Morning Walk

Sarah, a 32-year-old office worker from Lakewood, had never hiked before. She wanted to get outside during her lunch break but felt overwhelmed by the idea of “real hiking.”

She chose the 4-mile round-trip route from Cherry Creek State Park to the 120th Avenue Bridge. She started at 7 a.m. on a Saturday, parked in Lot C, and used the restroom before heading out. She wore her regular sneakers, carried a water bottle, and brought a granola bar.

“I didn’t expect to see so many herons,” she said. “I thought it was just a paved path, but the trees and the creek made it feel like I was miles away from the city.”

Sarah took 90 minutes to complete the hike, stopping to photograph birds and read trail markers. She returned to her car feeling energized and returned the next weekend with her sister.

Example 2: The Urban Explorer — Marcus’s 13-Mile Commute Hike

Marcus, a 45-year-old architect, decided to commute from his home in Aurora to his downtown office via the Cherry Creek Trail. He hikes 13 miles each way, three days a week.

He starts at 5:30 a.m., carrying a lightweight backpack with a change of clothes, a laptop sleeve, and a hydration bladder. He uses the trail’s smooth surface to maintain a steady pace, averaging 4.5 mph.

“It’s my meditation,” he says. “I watch the sunrise over the mountains, see the same herons every morning, and feel like I’m entering the city on my own terms—not stuck in traffic.”

Marcus keeps a journal of seasonal changes: “In November, the cottonwoods turn gold. In July, the creek smells like wet earth. You learn to read the land when you walk it daily.”

Example 3: The Family Adventure — The Thompsons’ Sunday Hike

The Thompsons—parents and two kids aged 6 and 9—hike the trail every other Sunday. They start at the 17th Street Trailhead and walk south to the 6th Avenue Bridge, then return.

They bring a small cooler with juice boxes, apples, and peanut butter sandwiches. The kids carry clipboards to “document wildlife”—they’ve identified 12 bird species and two types of turtles.

“We don’t care about distance,” says mom Lisa. “We care about noticing things. Last week, we found a discarded sneaker and talked about litter. That’s when my daughter asked if we could bring a bag next time to pick up trash. We do now.”

Their trail journal includes sketches, pressed leaves, and photos. They’ve turned their hikes into a family tradition—and a lesson in environmental stewardship.

Example 4: The Solo Hiker — Jamal’s Winter Sunrise Hike

Jamal, a 28-year-old photographer, hikes the trail at dawn during winter. He starts at 6:30 a.m. at Cherry Creek State Park, walks north to the 46th Avenue Bridge, and returns.

He wears thermal layers, traction cleats on his boots, and carries a tripod. “The ice on the creek looks like shattered glass,” he says. “And the light hits the downtown skyline just right around 7:15 a.m.”

Jamal has documented the trail’s transformation over four seasons. His Instagram series, “Cherry Creek in 365,” has over 25,000 followers and has inspired local schools to adopt trail-based environmental curricula.

FAQs

Is the Cherry Creek Trail free to use?

Yes. The trail is open to the public at no cost. However, parking at Cherry Creek State Park requires a daily or annual pass. Parking at downtown trailheads (e.g., 17th Street) is free on city streets or in public lots.

Can I bring my dog on the trail?

Yes, but dogs must be leashed at all times (maximum 6 feet). Owners are required to carry and use poop bags. Some sections near the creek have “no dogs” signs during bird nesting season—always check posted signs.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

Restrooms are available at Cherry Creek State Park, the 120th Avenue Trailhead, and near the Denver Botanic Gardens. Portable toilets are occasionally placed during events. Plan ahead—there are no restrooms between 120th and 17th Avenues.

Is the trail safe at night?

The trail is officially closed after sunset. While some sections are well-lit, lighting is inconsistent. Night hiking is not recommended due to reduced visibility, potential hazards, and lack of emergency services.

Can I bike the Cherry Creek Trail?

Yes. The trail is shared-use and extremely popular with cyclists. Always yield to pedestrians, announce your presence, and ride at a safe speed. Bicycles are not permitted on the adjacent dirt paths used for horseback riding.

What’s the best time of year to hike?

Fall (September–October) offers the most pleasant temperatures and stunning foliage. Spring is ideal for wildflowers and birdwatching. Summer is busy but long. Winter is quiet and serene if you’re prepared for cold and ice.

Are there food vendors along the trail?

No. There are no concessions, kiosks, or cafes on the trail itself. Plan to bring all food and water. The nearest restaurants are at Cherry Creek Shopping Center or downtown Denver.

Can I camp on the trail?

No. Camping is prohibited on the Cherry Creek Trail. Overnight stays are only permitted at Cherry Creek State Park’s designated campgrounds, which require a reservation.

What should I do if I see an injured animal?

Do not approach or attempt to handle wildlife. Call Colorado Parks and Wildlife at 303-291-7227 or use the CPW app to report the location. They have trained responders for injured animals.

Is the trail wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The entire paved trail is ADA-compliant with gentle slopes, accessible restrooms, and braille signage at major points. Wheelchair users report it as one of the most accessible urban trails in Colorado.

Conclusion

The Cherry Creek Trail is more than a path—it’s a living ribbon that connects Denver’s urban core to its natural heritage. Whether you’re taking a quiet morning stroll, training for a marathon, or teaching your children about local ecology, this trail offers a rare blend of accessibility, beauty, and tranquility in the heart of a major city.

By following this guide, you’re not just learning how to hike a trail—you’re learning how to move through a landscape with awareness, respect, and intention. The real reward isn’t the distance covered, but the moments of stillness: the rustle of reeds, the glide of a heron, the warmth of sun on your shoulders as you pass a street musician playing near the 17th Street Bridge.

Every step on the Cherry Creek Trail is a quiet act of conservation. By choosing to walk, you support green infrastructure, reduce carbon emissions, and affirm the value of nature in urban life. So lace up your shoes, fill your water bottle, and step onto the trail. The city is waiting—not as a maze of concrete, but as a corridor of wonder.