If you could draw a single line through Denver that explains why people love living here, it would probably follow Cherry Creek. The Cherry Creek Trail runs more than 40 miles from Confluence Park in the heart of downtown to the open grasslands near Franktown in Douglas County, paralleling the creek that gave Denver its start. It passes beneath the glass towers of LoDo, slips through the boutique-lined streets of Cherry Creek North, opens up into the 4,000 acres of Cherry Creek State Park, and eventually reaches ranch country south of Parker.

It’s Denver’s most popular multiuse trail by a wide margin — cyclists, runners, walkers, rollerbladers, and families with strollers share the path daily. The trail is mostly paved, mostly flat, and almost entirely separated from car traffic. On any given Saturday morning, you’ll see a road cyclist in full kit drafting at 20 mph alongside a family teaching a five-year-old to ride without training wheels, with a golden retriever trotting on a leash somewhere in between.

This guide covers the full trail section by section, from downtown to Franktown, with access points, parking, connecting trails, what to see along the way, safety and etiquette, and seasonal tips. Whether you’re riding the whole thing or just looking for the best place to hop on for a quick loop, this is everything you need to know.

Cherry Creek Trail at a Glance

Total distance: Approximately 40 to 47 miles from Confluence Park to Franktown, depending on which route segments and connections you follow. The most popular urban section — Confluence Park to Cherry Creek State Park — is about 11 miles one-way.

Surface: Primarily 8-foot-wide concrete and asphalt. Smooth, fast, and well-maintained. Short gravel sections appear near the southern (rural) end. A painted center line divides traffic in the busiest sections.

Elevation gain: Roughly 590 feet over the full 40+ mile length. The urban section is essentially flat. A gentle, barely perceptible grade heads southeast toward the reservoir.

Dogs: Allowed on leash throughout most of the trail. Cherry Creek State Park has a separate 100-acre off-leash area (requires a dog off-leash pass in addition to park entry). Bring waste bags.

Hours: Open year-round, dawn to dusk. Not recommended after dark in most sections due to limited lighting.

Fee: The trail itself is free. Cherry Creek State Park charges a vehicle entrance fee ($11 daily or $80 annual pass), but cyclists and pedestrians enter the park for free.

Road crossings: Very few. The trail is grade-separated through most of the urban section — sunken below Speer Boulevard, tunneled under major roads, or bridged over intersections. This is one of the trail’s greatest strengths: once you’re on it, you can ride or run for miles without stopping for traffic.

Trail connections: The Cherry Creek Trail links to the South Platte River Trail, Bear Creek Trail, Highline Canal Trail, and several smaller connectors, creating a network of more than 150 miles of paved and unpaved paths accessible from a single starting point.

Cherry Creek Trail Section by Section: Downtown to Franktown

The trail changes character as it moves southeast from downtown Denver toward Douglas County. Here’s what to expect in each segment.

Confluence Park to Cherry Creek North (approximately 3 miles)

The trail begins at Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River — the spot where gold was discovered in 1858, the event that led to the founding of Denver. Today, the park is a hub of activity: kayakers in the whitewater park, families on the grassy banks, and the REI flagship store just across the footbridge. My Brother’s Bar, which has operated in some form since 1873 and hosted Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassady, is a short walk away.

From Confluence Park, the trail heads southeast and drops below street level. This sunken section beneath Speer Boulevard is one of the trail’s most distinctive features — you’re running or riding along the creek with overhead bridges crossing above you, the sounds of the city slightly muffled by the grade change. Vibrant murals line the trail walls through this stretch, added by local artists through the Cherry Creek Trail Wall Fest and other public art programs. It feels like riding through an open-air gallery.

The trail surfaces near the Golden Triangle neighborhood, with views of the Denver Art Museum and Colorado History Center above. As you approach Cherry Creek North, the surroundings shift from downtown towers to tree-lined residential streets and the beginning of Denver’s premier shopping district.

Cherry Creek North to Cherry Creek State Park (approximately 8 miles)

This is the section most Denver residents know best. The trail passes along the southern and western edges of Cherry Creek North, putting 500-plus galleries, boutiques, and restaurants within a short detour. Cherry Creek Mall — Denver’s premier shopping center — is adjacent. It’s entirely reasonable to ride to Cherry Creek, lock your bike, have lunch on the patio, and ride home. Many residents in the Cherry Creek neighborhood do exactly this.

Past Cherry Creek North, the trail passes Four Mile Historic Park — a genuinely worthwhile stop that most trail users ride past without noticing. The Four Mile House, built in 1859, is likely the oldest remaining structure in the Denver metro area. The 12-acre park includes a museum, farm animals, and programming that tells the story of Denver’s earliest settlers.

The trail continues through Glendale (where a couple of breweries sit just off the path) and into increasingly open, residential territory. The character transitions from urban to suburban. Shade thins out significantly in this section — bring sun protection on summer rides. You’ll pass the Denver Country Club and several neighborhood parks with easy trail access.

Cherry Creek State Park (approximately 6 miles through the park)

Entering Cherry Creek State Park feels like a gear shift. The trail opens up from an urban corridor into a 4,000-acre landscape of grasslands, wetlands, and the 850-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir. The scale change is dramatic — you go from passing beneath highway overpasses to scanning the horizon for great blue herons.

The park has 35 miles of its own trails (15 paved) branching off the main Cherry Creek Trail, so you can extend your ride or run significantly within the park itself. The reservoir is a destination for boating, swimming, paddle boarding, and fishing. The sandy beach fills with families on summer weekends. Campgrounds serve overnight visitors.

A critical practical note: vehicles pay $11 per day or $80 per year to enter the park. But cyclists and pedestrians enter for free. This makes the park one of the best deals in the Denver trail system — ride in, spend the afternoon, ride home, and never pay a dime. The dog off-leash area (100+ acres, separate pass required) is in the park’s 12-Mile area.

Cherry Creek State Park to Parker (approximately 10 miles)

South of the park, the trail transitions to suburban and semi-rural character. Cherry Creek’s banks are lined with cottonwoods and willows, the grasslands open up, and horses become a regular sight — an unpaved equestrian trail runs parallel to the main paved path.

Parker has invested significantly in trail infrastructure. Trailheads with parking, restrooms, and picnic areas are located at McCabe Meadows Park, Bar CCC Park, and Cottonwood Trailhead Park. The trail surface remains primarily 10-foot-wide concrete. The Parker Jordan Centennial Open Space — 107 preserved acres along the creek, formerly private land — is one of the quieter, more scenic stretches.

Parker to Franktown (approximately 8–10 miles)

The final segment is the most remote. Short gravel sections appear. The landscape is increasingly rural — open plains, ranch fencing, and the kind of quiet that reminds you Denver started as a frontier outpost. The trail ends south of Highway 86 near Franktown, not far from Castlewood Canyon State Park, which offers its own hiking trails, geological formations, and rock climbing.

This section is best for experienced cyclists or groups. It’s quieter, more isolated, and less frequently maintained than the urban sections. But if you want to see the full arc of the Cherry Creek corridor — from the skyscrapers of LoDo to the open grasslands of Douglas County — riding the whole thing is one of Denver’s great cycling experiences.

Cherry Creek Trail Access Points and Parking

One of the trail’s strengths is how many places you can get on and off. Here are the key access points, organized north to south:

Confluence Park (downtown) — The trail’s northern terminus. Parking off Platte Street and Water Street. Connects directly to the South Platte River Trail. REI Denver is steps away for last-minute gear. This is the classic starting point for a full south-bound ride.

Speer Boulevard corridor — Neighborhood street parking anywhere along Speer between downtown and Cherry Creek. Multiple ramps and staircases drop down to the sunken trail. The easiest access for Capitol Hill and Baker neighborhood residents.

Cherry Creek North and Cherry Creek Mall — Use Cherry Creek Shopping Center parking (free with validation) or neighborhood street parking. Trail access via 1st Avenue or Cherry Creek Drive. This is the most popular access point for Cherry Creek residents and the natural starting point if you want to ride southeast toward the reservoir. For the full neighborhood, see our Cherry Creek guide.

University Boulevard — Street parking near the University of Denver campus where the trail crosses. Good midpoint access.

Colorado Boulevard — Trail crossing near Glendale with street access. The Glendale brewery scene is a short detour from here.

Cherry Creek State Park — Multiple large parking lots inside the park. The north entrance off Parker Road and Orchard Road is the most popular vehicular access. Tower Loop lot is a common starting point for the reservoir loop. Remember: $11/day vehicle fee, but cyclists and pedestrians enter free.

Parker trailheads — McCabe Meadows Park, Bar CCC Park, and Cottonwood Trailhead Park all have dedicated parking, restrooms, and picnic areas.

From Washington Park: The Cherry Creek Trail doesn’t run through Wash Park directly, but protected bike lanes on Downing Street and Marion Street connect the two in approximately one mile. It’s a quick, low-stress connection. For details on routing from Wash Park, see our Washington Park running and cycling guide.

Trails That Connect to the Cherry Creek Trail

The Cherry Creek Trail is the spine of Denver’s trail network. These connections turn a single path into a system that can take you across the metro area and into the foothills.

South Platte River Trail connects at Confluence Park. It runs 30-plus miles north toward Brighton and south to Chatfield State Park. Combined with the Cherry Creek Trail, the two form the backbone of a 70-plus-mile urban trail network. The Platte River Trail was used by Indigenous peoples and settlers long before it was paved — the Colorado Historical Society has placed interpretive signs along the route.

Bear Creek Trail is accessible via the South Platte River Trail. It runs 14.5 miles west from Denver to Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Morrison. The entire ride is a gentle incline, and arriving at Red Rocks by bike is one of Denver’s great outdoor experiences. Combine Cherry Creek Trail to Confluence Park, then South Platte to Bear Creek for a roughly 25-mile one-way ride from Cherry Creek to Red Rocks.

Highline Canal Trail connects at Hentzell Park in the Hampden area. The 66-mile canal trail winds through Denver’s southern suburbs on a mix of hard-packed dirt and paved surfaces, shaded by cottonwoods. It’s ideal for gravel bikes and a change of pace from the fully paved Cherry Creek route.

Harvard Gulch Trail is a local connector from the Platt Park and south Denver area. Short but useful for linking Platt Park’s South Pearl Street dining scene to the broader trail network.

For the full picture of cycling and running routes that start from or connect through Washington Park, including how to link the Wash Park loops to the Cherry Creek Trail, see our Wash Park running and cycling guide.

What to See and Do Along the Cherry Creek Trail

The trail isn’t just a fitness corridor — it’s a tour of Denver’s character, neighborhood by neighborhood.

Confluence Park is where Denver was born. The 1858 gold discovery happened at this confluence. Today it’s kayakers, picnickers, and the starting line for thousands of trail rides every week. The REI flagship store is across the footbridge. My Brother’s Bar, operating since 1873, is a short walk.

Public art and murals line the urban section, particularly along the sunken trail beneath Speer Boulevard. The Cherry Creek Trail Wall Fest adds new works regularly, and the result is a constantly evolving open-air gallery. Even frequent riders notice new pieces.

Cherry Creek North is Denver’s premier shopping and dining district — 500-plus galleries, boutiques, and restaurants within a block of the trail. Lock your bike and detour for lunch. See our Cherry Creek restaurant guide for the best options.

Four Mile Historic Park sits right on the trail and is Denver’s best-kept historical secret. The Four Mile House (1859) is likely the oldest remaining structure in the metro area. The 12-acre park includes a museum, farm animals, and seasonal programming. Most cyclists ride past without knowing it’s there.

Cherry Creek State Park is the trail’s crown jewel for recreation — 4,000 acres with an 850-acre reservoir, sandy beach, boating, fishing, campgrounds, and 35 miles of additional trails. It’s an entire day trip accessible by bike from downtown.

Castlewood Canyon State Park, near the trail’s southern terminus, offers hiking trails through dramatic geological formations and rock climbing. It’s the reward for riders who complete the full route.

Food and drink stops are plentiful along the urban section. In LoDo, the restaurants are steps away. In Cherry Creek North, the dining options are among Denver’s best. Near Glendale, breweries sit just off the trail. And if you connect to Washington Park via Downing Street, the entire Wash Park restaurant scene and Platt Park’s South Pearl Street are within easy reach.

Cherry Creek Trail Safety, Etiquette & Practical Tips

Trail Etiquette

The Cherry Creek Trail is heavily used, and mutual respect keeps it working for everyone. Cyclists: call out “on your left” when passing or use a bell. Ride single-file. Slow down in congested sections, especially near Confluence Park and Cherry Creek North. Pedestrians and runners: stay to the right. Keep dogs on a short leash. Look before crossing the center line. Headphones: use one ear or bone-conduction headphones so you can hear approaching cyclists and warnings. The painted center line exists because the trail is busy and two-directional — respect it.

Safety

The trail is heavily used and generally safe during daylight hours, particularly between Confluence Park and Cherry Creek State Park. Ride or walk during peak hours for the most company — weekday mornings and weekend mornings see consistent traffic.

A few honest notes: the downtown section is less populated at very early or late hours. Some isolated sections — particularly along Highway 225 near the reservoir and in a few underpasses — have seen encampments and litter. Denver maintains the trail regularly, but conditions can vary by section. The suburban and rural sections south of the park are generally cleaner and quieter. Standard trail safety applies: ride with a buddy when practical, keep valuables secured, and stay aware of your surroundings. The trail is not recommended after dark in most sections.

Practical Tips

Water and restrooms: Drinking fountains and air stations (for tires) are available along the trail seasonally. Port-a-potties at multiple access points. Full restrooms inside Cherry Creek State Park. Bring your own water in winter when fountains are turned off.

Bike repair: Air stations along the trail handle flats. REI near Confluence Park is the closest full-service shop to the northern terminus. Near Washington Park and Platt Park, Greentree Cyclery and Campus Cycles are good options.

Sun protection: Much of the trail south of downtown has limited tree cover. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential from May through September. The early morning shade from buildings in the downtown section is gone by mid-morning.

Transit integration: Denver RTD buses have bike racks, and light rail allows bikes on board. You can ride the trail one direction and take transit back — a useful option for one-way rides to Cherry Creek Reservoir or Parker.

Bike rentals: Wheel Fun Rentals operates at Washington Park with self-guided Cherry Creek Trail tours. Denver B-cycle stations are located throughout the city. REI near Confluence Park also offers rentals.

Best Times to Ride or Run the Cherry Creek Trail

Spring (March–May) is ideal. Temperatures are mild, the creek runs higher from snowmelt, and wildflowers begin along the suburban and rural sections. Early March may still have icy patches in shaded underpasses. By April, conditions are consistently excellent.

Summer (June–August) is the busiest season. Start early — before 9am — to beat the heat and the afternoon thunderstorms that roll in most summer days. The trail south of downtown has very little shade and can be brutally hot by midday. Hydrate aggressively. Monitor air quality in July and August: wildfire smoke from western fires occasionally pushes Air Quality Index readings into unhealthy ranges. On smoky days, shift to early morning or skip the outdoor workout.

Fall (September–November) is the best season on the trail. Cool mornings, warm afternoons, fall foliage along the creek, lower humidity, and fewer crowds than summer. September and October are peak cycling weather in Denver — the kind of days where you plan a 20-mile ride and end up doing 40 because the conditions are too good to turn around.

Winter (December–February) is more usable than people expect. Many Denver winter days are sunny and 40–50°F. The trail is rideable year-round, but watch for ice on bridges, in underpasses, and on shaded sections of the sunken downtown stretch. Dress in layers — you’ll start cold and warm up fast. The crowd thins significantly in winter, which is either a benefit or a reason to ride with a partner, depending on your perspective.

Best times of day: Weekday mornings are the quietest on the trail. Weekend mornings from 8 to 11am are the busiest. Weekday evenings after 5pm see a surge of bike commuters. Summer afternoons are the worst window for heat, storms, and crowding.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cherry Creek Trail

How long is the Cherry Creek Trail?

The Cherry Creek Trail runs approximately 40 to 47 miles from Confluence Park in downtown Denver to Franktown in Douglas County. The most popular section — Confluence Park to Cherry Creek State Park — is about 11 miles one-way, making a 22-mile round trip. The trail is primarily 8-foot-wide paved concrete with short gravel sections near the southern end.

Where does the Cherry Creek Trail start?

The northern terminus is at Confluence Park in downtown Denver, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River. You can park near Platte Street or Water Street. From there, the trail heads southeast through Cherry Creek North, Cherry Creek State Park, Parker, and eventually Franktown. Most people access the trail from Confluence Park, Cherry Creek North, or Cherry Creek State Park.

Is the Cherry Creek Trail safe?

The trail is heavily used and generally safe during daylight hours, particularly between Confluence Park and Cherry Creek State Park. Ride or walk during peak hours for the most company. Some isolated sections may have encampments or litter — Denver maintains the trail regularly, but conditions can vary. The trail is not recommended after dark due to limited lighting. Standard trail awareness applies: ride with a buddy when practical, keep valuables secured, and stay alert.

Can you bike the Cherry Creek Trail?

Absolutely — it’s one of Denver’s premier cycling routes. The 8-foot-wide paved surface is smooth and fast with very few road crossings. The trail connects to the South Platte River Trail at Confluence Park, the Bear Creek Trail (which runs 14.5 miles to Red Rocks Amphitheatre), and the 66-mile Highline Canal Trail. Bike rentals are available at Washington Park (Wheel Fun Rentals), Denver B-cycle stations, and REI near Confluence Park.

Are dogs allowed on the Cherry Creek Trail?

Dogs are allowed on leash throughout most of the trail. Inside Cherry Creek State Park, dogs must be on leash on the main trail, but a 100-plus-acre off-leash area is available in the park’s 12-Mile section (requires a separate dog off-leash pass in addition to the vehicle park entry fee; cyclists and pedestrians still enter the park for free). Bring waste bags — cleanup is expected and enforced along the entire trail.

Is the Cherry Creek Trail free?

The trail itself is completely free to use. Cherry Creek State Park charges a vehicle entrance fee of $11 per day or $80 per year, but cyclists and pedestrians can enter the park at no cost. This makes riding to the park one of the best deals in the Denver trail system.

The Trail That Connects Denver’s Best Neighborhoods

The Cherry Creek Trail isn’t just a path — it’s a thread that connects some of Denver’s most desirable places to live. It links Cherry Creek North’s boutiques and galleries to Confluence Park’s urban energy, runs within a mile of Washington Park’s running loops and restaurant scene, and extends into the open space and reservoir recreation that anchor Denver’s southern suburbs. For homeowners in Cherry Creek and Wash Park, trail access isn’t an amenity — it’s a core part of why these neighborhoods command the prices they do.

That lifestyle works best when the home at the end of the trail is well-maintained. Willow Home provides concierge home management for Cherry Creek, Washington Park, and the neighborhoods along the trail corridor — the seasonal upkeep, contractor coordination, and ongoing care that keeps your property in the kind of shape these neighborhoods deserve.

Learn more about Willow Home’s home concierge services and maintenance plans →

If you could draw a single line through Denver that explains why people love living here, it would probably follow Cherry Creek. The Cherry Creek Trail runs more than 40 miles from Confluence Park in the heart of downtown to the open grasslands near Franktown in Douglas County, paralleling the creek that gave Denver its start. It passes beneath the glass towers of LoDo, slips through the boutique-lined streets of Cherry Creek North, opens up into the 4,000 acres of Cherry Creek State Park, and eventually reaches ranch country south of Parker.

It’s Denver’s most popular multiuse trail by a wide margin — cyclists, runners, walkers, rollerbladers, and families with strollers share the path daily. The trail is mostly paved, mostly flat, and almost entirely separated from car traffic. On any given Saturday morning, you’ll see a road cyclist in full kit drafting at 20 mph alongside a family teaching a five-year-old to ride without training wheels, with a golden retriever trotting on a leash somewhere in between.

This guide covers the full trail section by section, from downtown to Franktown, with access points, parking, connecting trails, what to see along the way, safety and etiquette, and seasonal tips. Whether you’re riding the whole thing or just looking for the best place to hop on for a quick loop, this is everything you need to know.

Cherry Creek Trail at a Glance

Total distance: Approximately 40 to 47 miles from Confluence Park to Franktown, depending on which route segments and connections you follow. The most popular urban section — Confluence Park to Cherry Creek State Park — is about 11 miles one-way.

Surface: Primarily 8-foot-wide concrete and asphalt. Smooth, fast, and well-maintained. Short gravel sections appear near the southern (rural) end. A painted center line divides traffic in the busiest sections.

Elevation gain: Roughly 590 feet over the full 40+ mile length. The urban section is essentially flat. A gentle, barely perceptible grade heads southeast toward the reservoir.

Dogs: Allowed on leash throughout most of the trail. Cherry Creek State Park has a separate 100-acre off-leash area (requires a dog off-leash pass in addition to park entry). Bring waste bags.

Hours: Open year-round, dawn to dusk. Not recommended after dark in most sections due to limited lighting.

Fee: The trail itself is free. Cherry Creek State Park charges a vehicle entrance fee ($11 daily or $80 annual pass), but cyclists and pedestrians enter the park for free.

Road crossings: Very few. The trail is grade-separated through most of the urban section — sunken below Speer Boulevard, tunneled under major roads, or bridged over intersections. This is one of the trail’s greatest strengths: once you’re on it, you can ride or run for miles without stopping for traffic.

Trail connections: The Cherry Creek Trail links to the South Platte River Trail, Bear Creek Trail, Highline Canal Trail, and several smaller connectors, creating a network of more than 150 miles of paved and unpaved paths accessible from a single starting point.

Cherry Creek Trail Section by Section: Downtown to Franktown

The trail changes character as it moves southeast from downtown Denver toward Douglas County. Here’s what to expect in each segment.

Confluence Park to Cherry Creek North (approximately 3 miles)

The trail begins at Confluence Park, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River — the spot where gold was discovered in 1858, the event that led to the founding of Denver. Today, the park is a hub of activity: kayakers in the whitewater park, families on the grassy banks, and the REI flagship store just across the footbridge. My Brother’s Bar, which has operated in some form since 1873 and hosted Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassady, is a short walk away.

From Confluence Park, the trail heads southeast and drops below street level. This sunken section beneath Speer Boulevard is one of the trail’s most distinctive features — you’re running or riding along the creek with overhead bridges crossing above you, the sounds of the city slightly muffled by the grade change. Vibrant murals line the trail walls through this stretch, added by local artists through the Cherry Creek Trail Wall Fest and other public art programs. It feels like riding through an open-air gallery.

The trail surfaces near the Golden Triangle neighborhood, with views of the Denver Art Museum and Colorado History Center above. As you approach Cherry Creek North, the surroundings shift from downtown towers to tree-lined residential streets and the beginning of Denver’s premier shopping district.

Cherry Creek North to Cherry Creek State Park (approximately 8 miles)

This is the section most Denver residents know best. The trail passes along the southern and western edges of Cherry Creek North, putting 500-plus galleries, boutiques, and restaurants within a short detour. Cherry Creek Mall — Denver’s premier shopping center — is adjacent. It’s entirely reasonable to ride to Cherry Creek, lock your bike, have lunch on the patio, and ride home. Many residents in the Cherry Creek neighborhood do exactly this.

Past Cherry Creek North, the trail passes Four Mile Historic Park — a genuinely worthwhile stop that most trail users ride past without noticing. The Four Mile House, built in 1859, is likely the oldest remaining structure in the Denver metro area. The 12-acre park includes a museum, farm animals, and programming that tells the story of Denver’s earliest settlers.

The trail continues through Glendale (where a couple of breweries sit just off the path) and into increasingly open, residential territory. The character transitions from urban to suburban. Shade thins out significantly in this section — bring sun protection on summer rides. You’ll pass the Denver Country Club and several neighborhood parks with easy trail access.

Cherry Creek State Park (approximately 6 miles through the park)

Entering Cherry Creek State Park feels like a gear shift. The trail opens up from an urban corridor into a 4,000-acre landscape of grasslands, wetlands, and the 850-acre Cherry Creek Reservoir. The scale change is dramatic — you go from passing beneath highway overpasses to scanning the horizon for great blue herons.

The park has 35 miles of its own trails (15 paved) branching off the main Cherry Creek Trail, so you can extend your ride or run significantly within the park itself. The reservoir is a destination for boating, swimming, paddle boarding, and fishing. The sandy beach fills with families on summer weekends. Campgrounds serve overnight visitors.

A critical practical note: vehicles pay $11 per day or $80 per year to enter the park. But cyclists and pedestrians enter for free. This makes the park one of the best deals in the Denver trail system — ride in, spend the afternoon, ride home, and never pay a dime. The dog off-leash area (100+ acres, separate pass required) is in the park’s 12-Mile area.

Cherry Creek State Park to Parker (approximately 10 miles)

South of the park, the trail transitions to suburban and semi-rural character. Cherry Creek’s banks are lined with cottonwoods and willows, the grasslands open up, and horses become a regular sight — an unpaved equestrian trail runs parallel to the main paved path.

Parker has invested significantly in trail infrastructure. Trailheads with parking, restrooms, and picnic areas are located at McCabe Meadows Park, Bar CCC Park, and Cottonwood Trailhead Park. The trail surface remains primarily 10-foot-wide concrete. The Parker Jordan Centennial Open Space — 107 preserved acres along the creek, formerly private land — is one of the quieter, more scenic stretches.

Parker to Franktown (approximately 8–10 miles)

The final segment is the most remote. Short gravel sections appear. The landscape is increasingly rural — open plains, ranch fencing, and the kind of quiet that reminds you Denver started as a frontier outpost. The trail ends south of Highway 86 near Franktown, not far from Castlewood Canyon State Park, which offers its own hiking trails, geological formations, and rock climbing.

This section is best for experienced cyclists or groups. It’s quieter, more isolated, and less frequently maintained than the urban sections. But if you want to see the full arc of the Cherry Creek corridor — from the skyscrapers of LoDo to the open grasslands of Douglas County — riding the whole thing is one of Denver’s great cycling experiences.

Cherry Creek Trail Access Points and Parking

One of the trail’s strengths is how many places you can get on and off. Here are the key access points, organized north to south:

Confluence Park (downtown) — The trail’s northern terminus. Parking off Platte Street and Water Street. Connects directly to the South Platte River Trail. REI Denver is steps away for last-minute gear. This is the classic starting point for a full south-bound ride.

Speer Boulevard corridor — Neighborhood street parking anywhere along Speer between downtown and Cherry Creek. Multiple ramps and staircases drop down to the sunken trail. The easiest access for Capitol Hill and Baker neighborhood residents.

Cherry Creek North and Cherry Creek Mall — Use Cherry Creek Shopping Center parking (free with validation) or neighborhood street parking. Trail access via 1st Avenue or Cherry Creek Drive. This is the most popular access point for Cherry Creek residents and the natural starting point if you want to ride southeast toward the reservoir. For the full neighborhood, see our Cherry Creek guide.

University Boulevard — Street parking near the University of Denver campus where the trail crosses. Good midpoint access.

Colorado Boulevard — Trail crossing near Glendale with street access. The Glendale brewery scene is a short detour from here.

Cherry Creek State Park — Multiple large parking lots inside the park. The north entrance off Parker Road and Orchard Road is the most popular vehicular access. Tower Loop lot is a common starting point for the reservoir loop. Remember: $11/day vehicle fee, but cyclists and pedestrians enter free.

Parker trailheads — McCabe Meadows Park, Bar CCC Park, and Cottonwood Trailhead Park all have dedicated parking, restrooms, and picnic areas.

From Washington Park: The Cherry Creek Trail doesn’t run through Wash Park directly, but protected bike lanes on Downing Street and Marion Street connect the two in approximately one mile. It’s a quick, low-stress connection. For details on routing from Wash Park, see our Washington Park running and cycling guide.

Trails That Connect to the Cherry Creek Trail

The Cherry Creek Trail is the spine of Denver’s trail network. These connections turn a single path into a system that can take you across the metro area and into the foothills.

South Platte River Trail connects at Confluence Park. It runs 30-plus miles north toward Brighton and south to Chatfield State Park. Combined with the Cherry Creek Trail, the two form the backbone of a 70-plus-mile urban trail network. The Platte River Trail was used by Indigenous peoples and settlers long before it was paved — the Colorado Historical Society has placed interpretive signs along the route.

Bear Creek Trail is accessible via the South Platte River Trail. It runs 14.5 miles west from Denver to Red Rocks Amphitheatre and Morrison. The entire ride is a gentle incline, and arriving at Red Rocks by bike is one of Denver’s great outdoor experiences. Combine Cherry Creek Trail to Confluence Park, then South Platte to Bear Creek for a roughly 25-mile one-way ride from Cherry Creek to Red Rocks.

Highline Canal Trail connects at Hentzell Park in the Hampden area. The 66-mile canal trail winds through Denver’s southern suburbs on a mix of hard-packed dirt and paved surfaces, shaded by cottonwoods. It’s ideal for gravel bikes and a change of pace from the fully paved Cherry Creek route.

Harvard Gulch Trail is a local connector from the Platt Park and south Denver area. Short but useful for linking Platt Park’s South Pearl Street dining scene to the broader trail network.

For the full picture of cycling and running routes that start from or connect through Washington Park, including how to link the Wash Park loops to the Cherry Creek Trail, see our Wash Park running and cycling guide.

What to See and Do Along the Cherry Creek Trail

The trail isn’t just a fitness corridor — it’s a tour of Denver’s character, neighborhood by neighborhood.

Confluence Park is where Denver was born. The 1858 gold discovery happened at this confluence. Today it’s kayakers, picnickers, and the starting line for thousands of trail rides every week. The REI flagship store is across the footbridge. My Brother’s Bar, operating since 1873, is a short walk.

Public art and murals line the urban section, particularly along the sunken trail beneath Speer Boulevard. The Cherry Creek Trail Wall Fest adds new works regularly, and the result is a constantly evolving open-air gallery. Even frequent riders notice new pieces.

Cherry Creek North is Denver’s premier shopping and dining district — 500-plus galleries, boutiques, and restaurants within a block of the trail. Lock your bike and detour for lunch. See our Cherry Creek restaurant guide for the best options.

Four Mile Historic Park sits right on the trail and is Denver’s best-kept historical secret. The Four Mile House (1859) is likely the oldest remaining structure in the metro area. The 12-acre park includes a museum, farm animals, and seasonal programming. Most cyclists ride past without knowing it’s there.

Cherry Creek State Park is the trail’s crown jewel for recreation — 4,000 acres with an 850-acre reservoir, sandy beach, boating, fishing, campgrounds, and 35 miles of additional trails. It’s an entire day trip accessible by bike from downtown.

Castlewood Canyon State Park, near the trail’s southern terminus, offers hiking trails through dramatic geological formations and rock climbing. It’s the reward for riders who complete the full route.

Food and drink stops are plentiful along the urban section. In LoDo, the restaurants are steps away. In Cherry Creek North, the dining options are among Denver’s best. Near Glendale, breweries sit just off the trail. And if you connect to Washington Park via Downing Street, the entire Wash Park restaurant scene and Platt Park’s South Pearl Street are within easy reach.

Cherry Creek Trail Safety, Etiquette & Practical Tips

Trail Etiquette

The Cherry Creek Trail is heavily used, and mutual respect keeps it working for everyone. Cyclists: call out “on your left” when passing or use a bell. Ride single-file. Slow down in congested sections, especially near Confluence Park and Cherry Creek North. Pedestrians and runners: stay to the right. Keep dogs on a short leash. Look before crossing the center line. Headphones: use one ear or bone-conduction headphones so you can hear approaching cyclists and warnings. The painted center line exists because the trail is busy and two-directional — respect it.

Safety

The trail is heavily used and generally safe during daylight hours, particularly between Confluence Park and Cherry Creek State Park. Ride or walk during peak hours for the most company — weekday mornings and weekend mornings see consistent traffic.

A few honest notes: the downtown section is less populated at very early or late hours. Some isolated sections — particularly along Highway 225 near the reservoir and in a few underpasses — have seen encampments and litter. Denver maintains the trail regularly, but conditions can vary by section. The suburban and rural sections south of the park are generally cleaner and quieter. Standard trail safety applies: ride with a buddy when practical, keep valuables secured, and stay aware of your surroundings. The trail is not recommended after dark in most sections.

Practical Tips

Water and restrooms: Drinking fountains and air stations (for tires) are available along the trail seasonally. Port-a-potties at multiple access points. Full restrooms inside Cherry Creek State Park. Bring your own water in winter when fountains are turned off.

Bike repair: Air stations along the trail handle flats. REI near Confluence Park is the closest full-service shop to the northern terminus. Near Washington Park and Platt Park, Greentree Cyclery and Campus Cycles are good options.

Sun protection: Much of the trail south of downtown has limited tree cover. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential from May through September. The early morning shade from buildings in the downtown section is gone by mid-morning.

Transit integration: Denver RTD buses have bike racks, and light rail allows bikes on board. You can ride the trail one direction and take transit back — a useful option for one-way rides to Cherry Creek Reservoir or Parker.

Bike rentals: Wheel Fun Rentals operates at Washington Park with self-guided Cherry Creek Trail tours. Denver B-cycle stations are located throughout the city. REI near Confluence Park also offers rentals.

Best Times to Ride or Run the Cherry Creek Trail

Spring (March–May) is ideal. Temperatures are mild, the creek runs higher from snowmelt, and wildflowers begin along the suburban and rural sections. Early March may still have icy patches in shaded underpasses. By April, conditions are consistently excellent.

Summer (June–August) is the busiest season. Start early — before 9am — to beat the heat and the afternoon thunderstorms that roll in most summer days. The trail south of downtown has very little shade and can be brutally hot by midday. Hydrate aggressively. Monitor air quality in July and August: wildfire smoke from western fires occasionally pushes Air Quality Index readings into unhealthy ranges. On smoky days, shift to early morning or skip the outdoor workout.

Fall (September–November) is the best season on the trail. Cool mornings, warm afternoons, fall foliage along the creek, lower humidity, and fewer crowds than summer. September and October are peak cycling weather in Denver — the kind of days where you plan a 20-mile ride and end up doing 40 because the conditions are too good to turn around.

Winter (December–February) is more usable than people expect. Many Denver winter days are sunny and 40–50°F. The trail is rideable year-round, but watch for ice on bridges, in underpasses, and on shaded sections of the sunken downtown stretch. Dress in layers — you’ll start cold and warm up fast. The crowd thins significantly in winter, which is either a benefit or a reason to ride with a partner, depending on your perspective.

Best times of day: Weekday mornings are the quietest on the trail. Weekend mornings from 8 to 11am are the busiest. Weekday evenings after 5pm see a surge of bike commuters. Summer afternoons are the worst window for heat, storms, and crowding.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cherry Creek Trail

How long is the Cherry Creek Trail?

The Cherry Creek Trail runs approximately 40 to 47 miles from Confluence Park in downtown Denver to Franktown in Douglas County. The most popular section — Confluence Park to Cherry Creek State Park — is about 11 miles one-way, making a 22-mile round trip. The trail is primarily 8-foot-wide paved concrete with short gravel sections near the southern end.

Where does the Cherry Creek Trail start?

The northern terminus is at Confluence Park in downtown Denver, where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte River. You can park near Platte Street or Water Street. From there, the trail heads southeast through Cherry Creek North, Cherry Creek State Park, Parker, and eventually Franktown. Most people access the trail from Confluence Park, Cherry Creek North, or Cherry Creek State Park.

Is the Cherry Creek Trail safe?

The trail is heavily used and generally safe during daylight hours, particularly between Confluence Park and Cherry Creek State Park. Ride or walk during peak hours for the most company. Some isolated sections may have encampments or litter — Denver maintains the trail regularly, but conditions can vary. The trail is not recommended after dark due to limited lighting. Standard trail awareness applies: ride with a buddy when practical, keep valuables secured, and stay alert.

Can you bike the Cherry Creek Trail?

Absolutely — it’s one of Denver’s premier cycling routes. The 8-foot-wide paved surface is smooth and fast with very few road crossings. The trail connects to the South Platte River Trail at Confluence Park, the Bear Creek Trail (which runs 14.5 miles to Red Rocks Amphitheatre), and the 66-mile Highline Canal Trail. Bike rentals are available at Washington Park (Wheel Fun Rentals), Denver B-cycle stations, and REI near Confluence Park.

Are dogs allowed on the Cherry Creek Trail?

Dogs are allowed on leash throughout most of the trail. Inside Cherry Creek State Park, dogs must be on leash on the main trail, but a 100-plus-acre off-leash area is available in the park’s 12-Mile section (requires a separate dog off-leash pass in addition to the vehicle park entry fee; cyclists and pedestrians still enter the park for free). Bring waste bags — cleanup is expected and enforced along the entire trail.

Is the Cherry Creek Trail free?

The trail itself is completely free to use. Cherry Creek State Park charges a vehicle entrance fee of $11 per day or $80 per year, but cyclists and pedestrians can enter the park at no cost. This makes riding to the park one of the best deals in the Denver trail system.

The Trail That Connects Denver’s Best Neighborhoods

The Cherry Creek Trail isn’t just a path — it’s a thread that connects some of Denver’s most desirable places to live. It links Cherry Creek North’s boutiques and galleries to Confluence Park’s urban energy, runs within a mile of Washington Park’s running loops and restaurant scene, and extends into the open space and reservoir recreation that anchor Denver’s southern suburbs. For homeowners in Cherry Creek and Wash Park, trail access isn’t an amenity — it’s a core part of why these neighborhoods command the prices they do.

That lifestyle works best when the home at the end of the trail is well-maintained. Willow Home provides concierge home management for Cherry Creek, Washington Park, and the neighborhoods along the trail corridor — the seasonal upkeep, contractor coordination, and ongoing care that keeps your property in the kind of shape these neighborhoods deserve.

Learn more about Willow Home’s home concierge services and maintenance plans →