The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Chatfield State Park

The Chatfield Dog Off-Leash Area Loop is a fantastic spot for you and your dog to stretch your legs, offering an easy 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hike with just 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 40 minutes. This route winds through lush grassy areas and past two inviting ponds where dogs can swim, all while providing scenic views of the Chatfield Reservoir and distant Rocky Mountains. It's a truly pleasant and varied experience for both human and canine.

Planning your visit requires a valid Chatfield State Park pass, plus an additional pass specifically for the off-leash area. The area is well-maintained with amenities like pet waste stations and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable outing. Parking is readily available, but arriving earlier in the day can help you secure a spot during peak times, especially on weekends.

This trail is renowned as one of the top dog parks in the Denver area, set within a vast 69-acre fenced space that allows dogs to run freely under voice control. Its minimal difficulty makes it a family-friendly option, perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk or for those seeking easy hiking trails. The focus on a safe, expansive, and dog-centric environment truly sets it apart.

The Mary Carter Greenway Trail offers a unique long-distance hiking experience right in the Denver metropolitan area, following the South Platte River. You'll find a mostly flat, multi-use path, with a crushed stone section specifically for pedestrians, winding past scenic spots like Eaglewatch Lake and the South Platte Reservoir. It's a great way to immerse yourself in nature without leaving the city, though some northern sections do pass through more industrial areas.

This is a serious commitment in terms of time, rated as difficult due to its length of 20.3 miles (32.7 km), which typically takes around 8 hours and 15 minutes to complete. However, with only 186 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain, the terrain is very gentle, making it more about endurance than steep climbs. Parking is available at various access points, such as the "Park and Rafters" highlight, and the trail is well-connected to public transport options throughout Littleton.

The Mary Carter Greenway Trail is a testament to urban greenway development, having received national awards for its restoration efforts along the South Platte River. It serves as a vital artery in Denver's extensive trail network, linking to other major paths like the C-470 bikeway. Beyond hiking, you can find amenities like interpretive sites and even whitewater boating facilities, making it a versatile outdoor destination.

The Mary Carter Greenway Trail offers a unique blend of urban accessibility and natural beauty, following the South Platte River through the Denver metro area. You'll find yourself traversing lush green meadows, passing serene lakes like Eaglewatch Lake and Redtail Lake, and enjoying views of the river itself. While some northern sections might brush past more industrial areas, the trail's southern stretches provide a refreshing escape, often described as wide open with opportunities to spot wildlife. This 20.3-mile (32.7 km) route, with its minimal 186 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult primarily due to its length, making it a substantial day hike that takes approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes.

Planning your visit to the Mary Carter Greenway Trail is straightforward, as it's a well-established urban greenway. Parking is available at various access points, including the Park and Rafters area, though it's always wise to arrive earlier on busy days. The trail features a dual-path system: a paved path for cyclists and an adjacent crushed stone path specifically for pedestrians and wheelchair users, helping manage its heavy usage. With amenities like restrooms, drinking fountains, and shaded picnic areas at various rest stops, it's well-equipped for a long day out. Consider visiting during the spring or fall for comfortable temperatures, though it's accessible year-round.

What makes the Mary Carter Greenway Trail truly stand out is its role as a central artery in the wider Denver metro trail system. It connects seamlessly with numerous other trails, including the C-470 trail and the Lee Gulch Trail, creating a vast network for exploration. This trail is a testament to successful urban greenway development, incorporating significant restoration efforts for the South Platte River, including re-vegetation and landscaping. It's a fantastic option for family friendly hikes or for those looking for dog friendly sections, offering a natural escape and a model for urban conservation right within the city.

Englewood Centennial Park offers a refreshing urban escape with its easy 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hiking loop. You'll find yourself on well-maintained, flat paths winding through lush greenery, often alongside the tranquil Centennial Lake. The ambiance is peaceful, especially as you pass the Centennial Pond Sunset View, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing walk. This route is perfect for anyone looking for a gentle outdoor experience, taking about 37 minutes with only 26 feet (8 metres) of elevation gain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the park provides multiple parking lots and restrooms, making it convenient for families. While you can enjoy the park year-round, spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for your hike. It's a great place to combine a walk with other activities, given the picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities available.

This park stands out as a family-friendly destination within Englewood, Colorado, offering more than just hiking trails. The Centennial Lake is stocked for fishing, and an ADA fishing pier is available on the south side. It's a versatile spot for outdoor recreation, providing a natural oasis for local residents and visitors alike.