From the Denver Post / Daily Camera
Biking is one of the many physical activities that Colorado offers. As Denver’s streets become more crowded, the state is working to boost the number of cycling commuters. The state announced that it would commit more than $100 million in 2015 over a four year stretch to add bicycle infrastructure. If you’re in Denver with your bike, hit these trails to not only get exercise, but to see new parts of your state.
High Line Canal Trail Places to access the trail: James A Bible Park, 6802 E. Yale Ave., and DeKoevend Park, 6301 S. University Blvd. (Centennial) High Line Canal Trail stretches for 71 miles, almost all the way to Denver International Airport. It connects to 13 other major regional trails, and it offers different types of surfaces, including dirt, asphalt and concrete. Along the way you’ll see different parks, golf courses and a great view of the Denver skyline. “You can imagine how many different communities it goes through. It provides areas that are quite rural and quite urban.
Along the trail itself you see deer. Sometimes there are coyotes. Bird watchers love parts of it, especially in the southern parts.” — Suzanna Fry Jones, director of marketing and community outreach for the High Line Canal Conservancy
South Platte River Trail Places to access the trail: Fishback Park, 818 Water St., and Crescent Park, 782 Roslyn St.
The South Platte River Trail runs for 18 miles through the middle of Denver. You can reach numerous landmarks on it, like the Pepsi Center, Sports Authority Field at Mile High and the Auraria Campus.
The majority of the trail is paved, creating a smooth, scenic ride for cyclists.
“South Platte is a great trail because of the regional connectivity. It is kind of a backbone of a trail system. It connects to so many other off-street trails that can connect you to other places in Denver and the metro area.” — Jay Henke, Denver Parks and Recreation senior landscape architect
Cherry Creek Bike Path Places to access the trail: Garland Park, 6300 E. Mississippi Ave., and John F Kennedy Park, 3333 S. Macon St.
The Cherry Creek Bike Path stretches for 42 miles and it is a popular trail for Denver cyclists. The surface of the trail is predominantly paved. Along the way, you will pass the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, climb over the Cherry Creek Reservoir dam, and you’ll even see a historical site— Four Mile House Museum, Denver’s oldest house.
“(Cherry Creek Bike Path) provides a lot of good distance without having to interact with vehicular traffic. It is a little more challenging because of user conflicts, but it can also provide you really good connectivity, regionally.
You can put together a pretty good long distance ride without having to leave the trail.” — Jay Henke, Denver Parks and Recreation senior landscape architect
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