The Cherry Creek Trail is Denver's most beloved path - over 40 miles of paved trail following Cherry Creek from Confluence Park downtown to the reservoir and beyond. It's the spine of Denver's trail system, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and the entire metro area.
Cherry Creek Trail
Denver's Premier Greenway
Trail Segments
Downtown (Miles 0-4): Starts at Confluence Park, passes through LoDo, past REI and the Tattered Cover. Urban scenery, cafes nearby.
Cherry Creek North (Miles 4-8): Shopping district on one side, creek on the other. Good access to restaurants and coffee shops.
State Park Section (Miles 8-15): Through Cherry Creek State Park. Connects to reservoir swim beach and marina. Day pass required for park access.
South to Franktown (Miles 15-40+): Suburban and rural. Less crowded, more nature. Trail continues to Castlewood Canyon.
Best Access Points
Confluence Park: Mile 0. Free parking limited; bike or take RTD light rail to Union Station.
Cherry Creek Shopping Center: Mile 6. Plenty of parking, coffee shops, and restaurants.
Cherry Creek State Park: Mile 12. Large parking lots, restrooms, water. $11 day pass required.
Pro Tip: The downtown section gets crowded on weekends. For a peaceful run or ride, start early (before 8am) or use the sections south of the reservoir.