The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Cherry Creek State Park
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Dog friendly hiking trails in Cherry Creek State Park offer a natural prairie and wetland environment within the Denver metropolitan area. The park is characterized by gentle rolling hills, grasslands, and cottonwood trees, with the Cherry Creek Reservoir as a central feature. Its extensive trail system provides diverse landscapes for hikers and their dogs. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Cherry Creek State Park
- The most popular dog friendly hiking route is Cherry Creek, Pope, and Butterfly Hill Trail Loop, a 2.7 mile (4.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 7 minutes to complete, offering prairie views.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wetland and Cherry Creek Trail Loop, a moderate 5.8 mile (9.4 km) path winding through the park's wetland ecosystem and open prairie.
- Local hikers also love the Cherry Creek and Pipeline Trail, a 2.4 mile (3.9 km) trail leading through grasslands and cottonwood trees, often completed in about 59 minutes.
- Hiking in Cherry Creek State Park is defined by natural prairie, wetland environments, and the Cherry Creek Reservoir. The network offers options for easy and moderate ability levels.
- The routes in Cherry Creek State Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 380 hikers have used komoot to explore Cherry Creek State Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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4.30km
01:07
20m
20m
Embark on the Cherry Creek, Pope, and Butterfly Hill Trail Loop for an easy hike through a natural prairie landscape. This route covers 2.7 miles (4.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 81 feet (25 metres), making it accessible for most. You can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 6 minutes, enjoying a pleasant mix of paved and unpaved surfaces as you traverse gentle, rolling hills and flat sections. The trail offers expansive viewpoints of the 850-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir, providing a scenic backdrop to your outdoor adventure. It is a great way to experience the park's diverse environment.
To plan your visit, remember that the Cherry Creek, Pope, and Butterfly Hill Trail Loop is located within Cherry Creek State Park. You will find ample parking available inside the park, making access straightforward for your trip. Before heading out, it is always a good idea to check the park's official website for any entrance fees or specific regulations that might apply. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience without any unexpected surprises. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more tranquil hike.
This trail is a true urban oasis, offering a chance to connect with nature close to the city. As you hike along the reservoir-side paths, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer and various bird species that frequent the area. The presence of the large Cherry Creek Reservoir is a prominent natural feature, shaping the ecosystem and providing a habitat for many creatures. It is a notable trail in the region for its accessibility and the opportunity to observe nature within a state park setting.
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9.39km
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Explore the moderate 5.8-mile Wetland and Cherry Creek Trail Loop in Cherry Creek State Park, featuring wetlands, forests, and reservoir vie
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3.91km
01:00
10m
10m
The Cherry Creek and Pipeline Trail offers an easy hike through diverse landscapes within Cherry Creek State Park. You'll find yourself moving from wetlands and lush woodlands into open meadows, with the gurgling Cherry Creek often by your side. Look for cottonwood trees and willows along the creek, and enjoy scenic views of the expansive Cherry Creek Reservoir. This route is a gentle 2.4 miles (3.9 km) long, gaining only 26 feet (8 metres) in elevation, making it a perfect quick escape. Most hikers can complete it in about 59 minutes, offering a pleasant experience for all skill levels.
To access the Cherry Creek and Pipeline Trail, you'll need to enter Cherry Creek State Park, which typically involves an entrance fee. Parking is readily available within the park, providing convenient access right to the trailhead. This makes it straightforward to start your hike without much hassle. The trail is considered a great option for families looking for an outdoor activity. Consider visiting in the morning or evening hours for the best chance to spot wildlife.
As you hike, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. You might spot deer, various waterfowl, and active prairie dog colonies, especially during quieter times of the day. The trail's path alongside Cherry Creek and its proximity to the reservoir create a rich ecosystem. This makes the route a rewarding choice for nature observation and a peaceful break from city life.
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4.61km
01:10
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cottonwood Creek runs out of Cherry Creek Reservoir and continues south. You cross the creek on several occasions on bridges while following the bike path.
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Nice ride, non biting nats on the south side of the late but only occasionally
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The views towards the lake are absolutely stunning and especially so with the grassland in the foreground. Please be courteous of other users of this beautiful path.
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The Smoky Hill Picnic Site is located on the eastern side of Cherry Creek Reservoir. It has a parking area and provides public toilets and sheltered eating areas with loads of room to run around. Slightly north of here is a lake beach with a designated swimming area. Make sure to only swim at the northern end of the beach as swimming is prohibited at the southern side.
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The Smoky Hill Picnic Site is located on the eastern side of Cherry Creek Reservoir. It has a parking area and provides public toilets and sheltered eating areas with loads of room to run around. Slightly north of here is a lake beach with a designated swimming area. Make sure to only swim at the northern end of the beach as swimming is prohibited at the southern side.
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Cherry Creek State Park is big enough that it features a number of trailheads. This northern entrance is an easy way to access the park from Englewood and Glendale.
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Cherry Creek State Park is big enough that it features a number of trailheads. This northern entrance is an easy way to access the park from Englewood and Glendale.
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The Smoky Hill Picnic Site is located on the eastern side of Cherry Creek Reservoir. It has a parking area and provides public toilets and sheltered eating areas with loads of room to run around. Slightly north of here is a lake beach with a designated swimming area. Make sure to only swim at the northern end of the beach as swimming is prohibited at the southern side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Cherry Creek State Park?
There are 7 dog-friendly hiking trails in Cherry Creek State Park featured in this guide, ranging from easy strolls to moderate hikes. These trails offer a great way to explore the park with your canine companion.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly hikes in Cherry Creek State Park?
The dog-friendly trails in Cherry Creek State Park primarily feature natural prairie and wetland environments. You'll find paths winding through open grasslands, gentle rolling hills, and areas with cottonwood trees and marshes. Many trails offer picturesque views of the Cherry Creek Reservoir.
Are there any easy, short dog-friendly loop trails suitable for beginners or older dogs?
Yes, for an easy and relatively short loop, consider the Cherry Creek, Pope, and Butterfly Hill Trail Loop. It's just over 4 kilometers long and has minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed outing with your dog.
What are the best times of year to hike with my dog in Cherry Creek State Park?
Cherry Creek State Park is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. In winter, some trails can be used for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, but always check conditions. Summer can be warm, so plan early morning or late afternoon hikes and ensure you bring plenty of water for both you and your dog.
Are there any specific regulations or permits required for dogs on trails in Cherry Creek State Park?
Cherry Creek State Park is known for being very dog-friendly. While dogs are generally welcome on trails, they must be kept on a leash unless you are in the designated off-leash dog area. Always be sure to clean up after your pet. For specific permit requirements, especially for park entry, it's best to check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the dog-friendly trails?
Cherry Creek State Park is home to diverse wildlife. You might spot eastern cottontail rabbits, coyotes, mule deer, and black-tailed prairie dogs. Birdwatchers can enjoy seeing meadowlarks, horned larks, ducks, herons, and even raptors like Bald Eagles. Keeping your dog leashed helps protect both your pet and the local wildlife.
Are there any dog-friendly trails that offer views of the Cherry Creek Reservoir?
Absolutely! Many trails provide scenic views of the Cherry Creek Reservoir. For a pleasant walk with reservoir vistas, the Pope Trail – Cherry Creek Reservoir loop offers great perspectives of the park's centerpiece.
What do other hikers say about the dog-friendly trails in Cherry Creek State Park?
The dog-friendly trails in Cherry Creek State Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.95 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful prairie and reservoir views, and the overall accessibility for hiking with dogs.
Are there any longer, more challenging dog-friendly hikes for experienced hikers?
For a moderate challenge, consider the Wetland and Cherry Creek Trail Loop. This route is over 9 kilometers long and takes you through varied terrain, including the Cottonwood Creek Wetlands, offering a longer outing for you and your dog.
Are there any specific points of interest or natural features to look out for on the dog-friendly trails?
Beyond the expansive Cherry Creek Reservoir, you can explore the unique Cottonwood Creek Wetlands, which are a haven for birdlife. The trails themselves, like the Cherry Creek Trail, offer a chance to experience the natural prairie ecosystem within an urban setting.
Is there parking available for accessing the dog-friendly trails?
Yes, Cherry Creek State Park has multiple access points and parking facilities. Many of the featured dog-friendly routes, such as the Cherry Creek and Pipeline Trail, are easily accessible with convenient parking options within the park. Note that park entry fees may apply.
Most popular routes in Cherry Creek State Park
Most popular attractions in Cherry Creek State Park
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