The best running trails in Cherry Creek State Park

The Cherry Creek Spur Trail – Cherry Creek Reservoir loop from Cherry Creek High School offers a fantastic blend of urban convenience and natural beauty for joggers. You'll start in suburban areas, quickly transitioning to the expansive Cherry Creek State Park, where the route opens up to grasslands, wetlands, and impressive views of the 880-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir. The predominantly paved surface makes for a smooth run, and you might even catch glimpses of local wildlife like deer or various waterfowl along the way.

This moderate 4.5-mile (7.3 km) jogging route, with a gentle 141 feet (43 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 47 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet rewarding workout. Access is generally straightforward, and the well-maintained, multi-use paths are suitable for all skill levels. Consider an early morning or late afternoon run for cooler temperatures and the best chance to spot wildlife.

What sets this trail apart is its seamless transition from a suburban setting to a significant natural escape within the Denver Metro area. It's a key regional trail, providing a recreational oasis with grade-separated sections that allow for long, uninterrupted stretches of jogging. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a diverse and accessible outdoor experience without leaving the city.

The Running loop from Nine Mile offers a delightful blend of urban nature, transforming a former industrial site into a vibrant green space. You'll jog through wooded corridors and open parkland, following the Nine Mile Run stream, with highlights like raised wooden platforms in wetland areas. The trail culminates in impressive views of the Monongahela River and the Homestead Grays Bridge from Duck Hollow, making it a rewarding experience for those seeking scenic viewpoints on a run.

This moderate jogging route is generally considered easy, covering 3.1 miles (5.0 km) with a gentle 79 feet (24 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 31 minutes. While mostly flat, be prepared for one small but steep hill where the trail crosses Nine Mile Run. The trail is enjoyable year-round, with spring offering lush greenery and fall showcasing beautiful foliage, making it a versatile option for any season.

This trail is a testament to a successful urban restoration project, having transformed a former slag dump into a thriving ecosystem with flourishing vegetation and wetlands. It's a dog-friendly route, requiring dogs to be on a leash, and connects to other regional paths, offering further exploration opportunities. This makes it a unique and accessible option for those looking for popular running trails near Nine Mile.

If you're looking for a substantial jogging challenge with a mix of scenery, the Cherry Creek Reservoir loop offers a great option. This 9.4-mile (15.2 km) route, rated difficult, takes you past the expansive Cherry Creek Reservoir and through diverse wetlands, blending natural views with urban and suburban landscapes. With only 250 feet (76 metres) of elevation gain, the difficulty comes from the sustained effort required to complete it in an estimated 1 hour and 37 minutes, making it perfect for a long, consistent workout.

Starting near Cherry Creek High School, this popular trail is part of the larger Cherry Creek Regional Trail system and is accessible year-round. While the path is mostly paved, some sections might be gravel. Keep in mind that dogs are generally not allowed on this specific loop, and certain areas like the Wetlands Area can have closures, so it's wise to check conditions before you go.

This trail is a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing, thanks to the varied habitats within Cherry Creek State Park. It's a well-established route that provides a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Arapahoe County, offering a convenient escape for a challenging jog without venturing too far from the city.

The Cottonwood Creek Wetlands – Pope Trail loop offers a refreshing escape into nature, combining paved and easy-to-handle dirt paths through sparse woods and open prairie. You'll enjoy distant views of the city and mountains, with the highlight being the tranquil wetlands where bare trees reflect in still water and shallow rocky streams flow through reeds. This 10.1-mile (16.3 km) jogging route, despite its "difficult" rating, is often considered a great beginner trail due to its non-technical terrain, taking roughly 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete with 320 feet (98 metres) of elevation gain.

Starting from Cherry Creek High School, this loop is easily accessible for a morning or afternoon jog. While specific parking information isn't detailed, the trail's proximity to the school suggests convenient access. Spring and fall are particularly rewarding for birdwatching, though it's worth noting that a section of the trail passes near a shooting range, so be prepared for intermittent loud noises during your visit.

The Cottonwood Creek Wetlands are recognized as an Important Bird Area, making this an exceptional spot for wildlife sightings, especially during migration seasons. Beyond the diverse birdlife, you might also encounter prairie dog communities along the route. This trail stands out for its blend of natural beauty and accessibility, offering a substantial outing without requiring advanced technical skills, making it a popular choice for those looking for beginner jogging routes in the Cherry Creek area.

The Running loop from Sunset Park offers a unique jogging experience, combining a challenging, hilly terrain with unparalleled views. As you navigate the natural slopes, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the Manhattan skyline, including the Statue of Liberty, and can even glimpse the green hills of Staten Island and New Jersey. This route provides a refreshing escape from the typical urban run, making every mile feel rewarding.

Planning your visit is straightforward, though arriving in the late afternoon or early evening is highly recommended to catch the park's famous spectacular sunset views over the city. While the park is generally less crowded than other major New York City parks, it's wise to consider public transport options given its urban setting. The 6.1-mile (9.7 km) loop, with its 177 feet (54 metres) of elevation gain, is rated moderate and takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete.

What truly sets this route apart is its combination of a good workout and a tranquil setting, all within the bustling city. It's an excellent choice for runners seeking to incorporate inclines into their routine without leaving the city, offering a distinctive jogging experience that feels both challenging and serene. The park's elevated position, approximately 164 feet (50 meters) above sea level, is the secret to its impressive views and varied landscape.