The best walks and hikes around Edgewater
4.5
(17)
1,649
hikers
111
hikes
Hiking around Edgewater, Colorado, is characterized by accessible lakeside loops, urban greenways, and paved multi-use paths. The terrain is generally flat, offering a mix of urban park and lakeside scenery. Its location provides access to an extensive network of trails that connect city parks with natural open spaces. This area features routes suitable for various ability levels, from short park walks to longer regional connections.
Best hiking trails around Edgewater
- The most popular hiking route is Sloan's Lake Trail,…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
3.36km
00:52
10m
40m
Hike the easy 2.1-mile Lakewood Gulch Trail through greenbelt parks, enjoying stream sounds and downtown Denver views.
4.0
(1)
341
hikers
4.18km
01:03
0m
0m
This easy 2.6-mile loop around Sloan's Lake Park offers picturesque views of the Denver skyline and Front Range peaks.
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26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
4.57km
01:10
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
8.01km
02:04
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This park is one of the best places to catch a sunset around Denver! The park also bustles with life and activity during the day, with recreation facilities that include playgrounds, tennis courts, basketball courts, athletic fields and multi-use trails.
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This is the largest lake in Denver, and the second-biggest park in the city; it's named after the man who accidentally created it by digging for a well. He struck an aquifer that flooded the land, and voila — a lake was born. There's a lot to do here: You can bike, run, walk,play tennis, explore the playgrounds, try out the water on a stand-up paddleboard, and a whole lot more.
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You probably don't want to swim in this lake, because of pollution from runoff. But you might still see water skiers chancing it. The lake and the land around it are also home to lots of waterbirds, songbirds, and small predators like foxes and coyotes. There's a nice, bikable loop around the lake.
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Sloan's Lake is a man-made lake in Denver, Colorado, whose origins are somewhat mysterious. While it did not exist during the early settlement of the area in the mid-19th century, it likely formed between 1861 and 1863. Today, Sloan's Lake is a habitat for various wildlife, including birds like white pelicans and Canada geese, and mammals like muskrats and nutria. Penny Island, located in the lake's center, features an osprey nesting structure and is a popular spot for drone pilots. Sloan's Lake Park, the second-largest park in Denver and is the center of the neighborhood of the same name.
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Even though this lake is in the middle of the city, it still offers some nice (if distant) views of the mountains, and a 1.3-mile trail loop that you can use for walking or running.
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A true gem in Bel Aire! Crown Hill Lake is a lovely place to enjoy a short walk with great views and fresh air.
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Sloan's Lake Park is the second-largest park in Denver. It has two playgrounds, tennis courts, multiple athletic fields, boating, basketball courts, multi-use trails and picnic areas.
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You get a great view of the Denver skyline looking east across the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Edgewater and what is the hiking like there?
Edgewater is a city in Colorado, located on the western edge of Denver next to Sloan's Lake. The hiking is characterized by accessible, relatively flat urban trails. Most routes are paved or gravel paths that follow lakeside perimeters, city parks, and regional greenways, offering a blend of city skyline views and natural open spaces.
Are there many easy, beginner-friendly hikes in Edgewater?
Yes, the area is ideal for beginners. The vast majority of trails are rated as easy, featuring flat terrain and well-maintained paths. A great example is the Crown Hill Lake loop from Riverfront, which is a gentle walk around a lake.
What are some good trails for families with kids?
Many trails in Edgewater are suitable for families. The paths are generally flat and paved, making them great for strollers and little legs. The area around Sloan's Lake is particularly popular, offering playgrounds and open spaces. The Sloan's Lake Park loop from Mariposa District is a straightforward and engaging walk for a family outing.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the trails around Edgewater, especially in parks like Sloan's Lake and on regional paths like the South Platte River Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash. Always check local signage for specific park rules before you go.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Edgewater?
The trails are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the easy accessibility of the routes and the pleasant scenery, especially the views of the Denver skyline from Sloan's Lake Park.
How many hiking trails are available near Edgewater?
There is an extensive network of trails, with over 60 designated hiking routes in and around Edgewater. These range from short park loops to longer connecting paths that are part of the wider Denver regional trail system.
Are there any circular or loop hikes?
Yes, loop hikes are very common in the area. The most notable are the paths around the various lakes. For instance, the trail around Sloan's Lake is a popular loop that offers continuous views of the water and the city.
Can I go trail running near Edgewater?
Absolutely. The flat, paved, and gravel trails are perfect for running. The paths around Sloan's Lake and along the South Platte River are local favorites for a run, providing long, uninterrupted stretches away from traffic.
What is the best time of year to hike in Edgewater?
Hiking in Edgewater is possible year-round due to the low elevation and well-maintained urban trails. Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant temperatures. Summer is also great, though it can be hot, so early morning or evening hikes are recommended. Winters are generally mild, but paths can be icy after a snowfall.
Are there any hikes with significant elevation gain for a challenge?
No, the trails directly in and around Edgewater are mostly flat. For more challenging hikes with significant elevation gain, you would need to travel west into the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, which are a short drive away.
Is it possible to get to the trails using public transport?
Yes, many of the trailheads, particularly around Sloan's Lake and those connecting to Denver's urban trail network, are accessible via the RTD bus system. This makes it convenient to plan a hike without needing a car.
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