Easy hikes and walks around Centennial
5.0
(18)
880
hikers
19
hikes
Easy hiking trails around Centennial are found within a landscape characterized by diverse ecosystems, transitioning from evergreen forests to higher elevation tundra. The region is a gateway to the Medicine Bow National Forest and the Snowy Range Mountains, featuring numerous alpine lakes. This area offers a variety of natural features for hikers, including forested paths and open mountain views.
Best easy hiking trails around Centennial
- The most popular easy hiking route is Cherry Creek Trail via Broncos Parkway Trailhead, a 2.2 miles (3.6 km) trail that takes 55 minutes to complete. This route offers a straightforward path suitable for a quick outing.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is deKoevend Park Trail Loop, an easy 1.1 miles (1.8 km) path. This loop provides a gentle walk through parkland scenery.
- Local hikers also love the High Line Canal Trail: Segment 11 - Greenwood Village Amble, a 2.3 miles (3.8 km) trail leading through varied urban green spaces, often completed in about 57 minutes.
- Hiking around Centennial is defined by evergreen forests, alpine lakes, and mountain vistas. The network offers options for different ability levels, with 15 easy hiking trails available.
- The routes in Centennial are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 700 hikers have used komoot to explore Centennial's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
5
hikers
3.62km
00:55
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Cherry Creek Trail via Broncos Parkway Trailhead, a 2.2-mile (3.6 km) route that takes about 55 minutes to complete. You will experience a minimal elevation gain of just 24 feet (7 metres), making it a very gentle outing. The path offers a pleasant mix of natural and urban views, following Cherry Creek through wooded sections and open grasslands, with occasional glimpses of the Denver skyline.
When planning your visit, you will find the Broncos Parkway Trailhead provides convenient amenities such as parking, restrooms, and dog stations. The trail is well-maintained and often cleared even in winter, making it a good choice for year-round outdoor activity. This accessible route is family-friendly and welcoming to dogs, perfect for a casual stroll at any time of day.
This section of the Cherry Creek Trail is notable for its blend of riparian scenery and distant cityscapes, offering a unique backdrop to your walk. You can find benches and picnic tables along the way, providing ideal spots for a short break by the water. The trail's easy accessibility and well-kept conditions make it a popular choice for a quick escape into nature within the Parker Jordan Centennial Open Space.
3
hikers
1.84km
00:28
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the deKoevend Park Trail Loop, a gentle 1.1 miles (1.8 km) route that takes approximately 28 minutes to complete. You will experience minimal elevation gain, just 28 feet (9 metres), making it perfect for a quick and accessible outing. The trail features wide, flat, and well-maintained paved paths, offering a blend of suburban scenery and natural elements. Look for large cottonwood trees that provide ample shade and vibrant fall colors. From the Sumac Hill Farm Overlook, you can catch glimpses of the majestic Front Range mountains, including Mount Evans.
Planning your visit to deKoevend Park is straightforward. The park is known for its cleanliness and offers well-maintained facilities, including easily accessible public restrooms located near the entrance. This route is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your canine companion along. With playgrounds available, it is also a popular spot for families looking for an outdoor activity. You will find ample shade along the route, making it comfortable even on sunnier days.
This trail stands out for its connection to the much longer High Line Canal Trail, providing an easy access point if you wish to extend your adventure. While hiking, keep an eye out for local wildlife; you might spot eagles or great-horned owls in the area. The park's well-maintained environment and diverse offerings make it a notable destination for a relaxed outdoor experience in the region.
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1
hikers
3.76km
00:57
10m
10m
The High Line Canal Trail: Segment 11 - Greenwood Village Amble offers a delightful, easy hike through what feels like a wooded village, even though you're in Greenwood Village. This 2.3-mile (3.8 km) route, with just 29 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 57 minutes and is characterized by its quiet, pastoral ambiance. You'll wander past horse farms and under numerous cottonwood trees, enjoying a tranquil escape on a mix of soft gravel and paved surfaces.
Planning your visit to this segment is straightforward, as it's designed for easy access and a relaxed experience. The trail is highly accessible and suitable for a variety of users, including walkers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians. It's a great option for a quick outing when you want to enjoy some natural beauty without a strenuous effort, making it a popular choice for family-friendly activities.
What makes this part of the High Line Canal Trail particularly charming are its unique points of interest, blending natural beauty with local artistry. Look for an historic barn decorated with red hearts and a specific cottonwood tree adorned with colorful ceramic birds. This blend of accessibility and a serene, almost rural environment within an urban setting makes it one of the best trails in Greenwood Village for a peaceful amble.
3.59km
00:55
10m
10m
Discover the High Line Canal Trail: Segment 10 - deKoevend Park, an easy 2.2 miles (3.6 km) hike perfect for a relaxing outing. You will experience a minimal elevation gain of just 25 feet (8 metres) over approximately 54 minutes. The route guides you through a charming "Wooded Village" feel, thanks to the large cottonwood trees that offer shade and vibrant fall colors. Keep an eye out for the Sumac Hill Farm viewpoint, which provides clear views of Mount Evans, a prominent peak in the Front Range.
This segment of the trail is easily accessible, starting directly from deKoevend Park. You will find convenient access points there, along with amenities like restrooms and picnic shelters, making your visit comfortable. There are no specific trail cautions or permits required for this peaceful route, so you can plan your visit without extra hassle.
As you hike, you will notice a blend of historical and natural landscapes. The lush habitat along the canal is home to various wildlife; watch for eagles and great-horned owls. This segment offers a tranquil escape, allowing you to connect with nature and history without venturing far from urban conveniences.
3.04km
00:46
0m
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Embark on the deKoevend Park Trail Loop for an easy and refreshing hike that covers 1.9 miles (3.0 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 16 feet (5 metres). You can comfortably complete this route in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick escape into nature. As you follow the path, you will find yourself surrounded by large cottonwood trees, which provide welcome shade and burst into vibrant colors during autumn. Keep an eye out for glimpses of the majestic Front Range mountains, including a notable view of Mount Evans from the Sumac Hill Farm Overlook.
This well-maintained loop is designed as a welcoming community hub, offering a straightforward and accessible outdoor experience for everyone. You will find convenient amenities such as restrooms, picnic shelters, and playgrounds available within the park, enhancing your visit. The park is known for its cleanliness and quiet, safe atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for families and those seeking a casual stroll.
Beyond the pleasant scenery, the deKoevend Park Trail Loop is a great spot for local wildlife viewing; eagles and great-horned owls are sometimes spotted here. The trail's gentle nature and accessible features make it a standout option for a relaxed outing in Centennial, Colorado. Whether you are looking for a peaceful walk or a place to enjoy nature with loved ones, this route offers a delightful experience.
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Tips from the Community
This is a strategic point along the High Line Canal Trail with a view over Sumac Hill Farm. You can see the Big Dry Creek basin, the surrounding vegetation, and some of the birdlife that lives here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available around Centennial?
Centennial offers 15 easy hiking trails, providing a variety of options for gentle walks through diverse landscapes. In total, there are 19 hiking routes in the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Centennial?
Easy hikes in Centennial feature diverse ecosystems, transitioning from evergreen forests to higher elevation tundra. You'll find paths through the Medicine Bow National Forest and around picturesque alpine lakes, offering both forested and open mountain views.
Are there any family-friendly easy hikes in Centennial?
Yes, many of the easy trails are suitable for families. For instance, the deKoevend Park Trail Loop is a gentle 1.1-mile path through parkland, ideal for a leisurely family outing. The region's alpine lake trails, like those around Lake Marie, Mirror Lake, and Lewis Lake, often have accessible sections perfect for families.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
The Medicine Bow National Forest, which surrounds Centennial, generally allows dogs on trails, often requiring them to be on a leash. It's always best to check specific trail regulations before heading out, but many easy trails are dog-friendly.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along easy trails in Centennial?
Centennial's easy trails offer views of the Snowy Range Mountains, evergreen forests, and alpine lakes. You can explore areas near the South Platte River or the Chatfield Reservoir. The Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve also provides opportunities to enjoy nature.
Are there any loop trails among the easy hikes?
Yes, the deKoevend Park Trail Loop is a popular easy loop trail, offering a gentle walk through parkland scenery. Another option is the deKoevend Park Trail Loop, which is slightly longer at 1.9 miles.
What is the best time of year for easy hikes in Centennial?
The best time for easy hikes in Centennial is typically during the summer and fall. Summer offers pleasant temperatures and lush scenery, while fall brings vibrant colors to the evergreen forests. The Snowy Range Scenic Byway, which accesses many trails, is usually open from late May/early June through October, depending on snow conditions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Centennial?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from serene forests to open mountain vistas, and the accessibility of trails around the beautiful alpine lakes.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on easy trails?
Yes, the Medicine Bow National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, elk, and deer. While hiking easy trails, you might spot various bird species, especially near the alpine lakes and forested areas.
Are there any easy trails that follow a canal or river?
Yes, the High Line Canal Trail: Segment 11 - Greenwood Village Amble and the High Line Canal Trail: Segment 10 - deKoevend Park offer easy walks alongside the canal, providing varied urban green spaces and natural scenery.
What is a good easy trail for a quick outing?
For a quick and straightforward outing, consider the Cherry Creek Trail via Broncos Parkway Trailhead. It's a 2.2-mile trail that typically takes about 55 minutes to complete, offering an accessible path for a short hike.
Are there any paved sections on easy trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
While many trails are natural surfaces, some areas around the alpine lakes, such as Lake Marie, have paved sections, making them more accessible. Additionally, the Chatfield Dam Trail (Paved Section) is a highlight that offers a paved surface suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
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