The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Adams County

The Riverdale Regional Park Loop offers a refreshing escape into nature, winding through diverse riparian habitats and wetlands. You'll follow the South Platte River and circle several lakes, all while being treated to picturesque views of the Front Range mountains, especially from a specific bridge overlooking the Platte River. This easy 3.4-mile (5.4 km) hike, with just 64 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain, can comfortably be completed in about 1 hour and 23 minutes on its mix of paved and natural surfaces.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is ample and easily accessible within Riverdale Regional Park. Its easy difficulty makes it highly accessible for families and beginners looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. The park itself is well-equipped, offering amenities like the Adams County Museum and disc golf courses, so you can make a day of it.

This trail is a notable part of the larger Riverdale Regional Park, which hosts various events throughout the year and connects to the extensive South Platte River Trail. It's a fantastic option for observing local flora and fauna in its diverse ecosystems, providing a convenient and family-friendly way to enjoy the natural environment of Adams County.

The Platte River Greenway Trail in Adams County offers a unique blend of urban and natural scenery, making it an interesting and accessible hiking option. You'll traverse a smooth, paved path that meanders past industrial areas, then opens up to views of high grasslands and the distant Rocky Mountains. Keep an eye out for wildlife like ducks and herons around Valente Lake & Open Space, providing a natural respite within the urban corridor.

This easy 1.3-mile (2.0 km) route, with a negligible 13 feet (4 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick, family-friendly outing. As a multi-use path, it's suitable for various activities, and its flat terrain means it's accessible for all skill levels. While specific parking isn't detailed for this segment, it connects to numerous parks and open spaces, offering multiple access points.

This trail is a vital part of the larger Colorado Front Range Trail system, serving as a continuous thread that links parks, open spaces, and other regional trails across the Denver Metro area. It provides access to significant locations like Riverdale Regional Park and Elaine T. Valente Open Space, and connects to other major routes such as the Clear Creek Trail. Recent developments have improved connectivity, enhancing its role as a key recreational artery.

The South Platte River Trail offers a refreshing, easy escape into nature right within the city. This 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hiking route is mostly paved and flat, with a gentle 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for a leisurely 1 hour and 45 minute stroll. You'll follow the river, enjoying views of the water and passing through pleasant green spaces like the Elaine T. Valente Open Space, home to Valente Lake.

Accessing this urban greenway is straightforward, with various parking access points available along its length. Given its easy nature and urban amenities, it's a great option for a quick walk or bike ride any time of year, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. You'll find frequent rest stops and even cafes nearby, making it easy to extend your outing.

This section of the South Platte River Greenway is part of a much larger network, connecting to other regional trails like the Cherry Creek Trail. It's a fantastic example of urban revitalization, offering a chance to see wildlife in a riparian environment and providing a family-friendly activity. You might even catch glimpses of city landmarks like Empower Field at Mile High from certain viewpoints along the trail.

Hike the 9.1-mile Big Dry Creek Trail, a moderate route through open spaces and riparian corridors with urban wildlife sightings.