Trail running is one of the fastest growing sports in the world and for one main reason: it is so much fun!
We are fortunate to live in a place with a myriad of park systems and literally hundreds of miles of trails right in our backyard.
Not all front range trails are suitable for beginners.
Steep climbs, descents and technical terrain are a veteran trail runner’s delight but those new to trail running may find themselves beyond their ability level and at higher risk for injury.
So how to know where to start? We’ve compiled a list of the 7 best trails in Southwest Denver (within 20-30 minutes of Denver proper) for runners looking to hit the trails for the first time.
South Valley Park, Littleton
This is #1 on our list for beginner trail runners. The trail is smooth and even wide enough for a jogging stroller if you want to bring your kids along to explore a bit of nature. We recommend the 2 mile loop (Coyote song to Swallow trail) with just the right amount of rolling hills that will take you through fields of wildflowers and majestic rock formations.
Red Rocks Park, Morrison
When most people think about Red Rocks, they think of the famous Amphitheatre. But did you know that there are miles of trails right from the Trading post parking lot? The 1.4 mile Trading post loop trail is a great beginner trail. Several rocky sections and steep climbs but the scenery is well worth the effort!
Phillip S Miller Park, Castle Rock
This park is most known for its “mini-incline” or staircase straight up a 200ish hill. The park recently added miles of new trail, designed in the shape of flower petals. 4 loops (or petals) start and end at the athletic fields, each ranging from 1.5 to 3 miles. The trails are pretty smooth with rolling hills and some moderate climbs. Plan on seeing lots deer and peregrine falcons on your runs here. We recommend going to this park if you are training for an event or looking to add mileage weekly: as your fitness improves, add another loop!
William Frederick Hayden Park (aka “Green Mountain”)
“Green Mountain” as it is known to us locals cannot be missed. As you are driving on c-470, the mountain rises from the city of Lakewood like gentle folds of blanket. It’s not so much of a mountain than a really big hill. There are many different trails around and up to the top of this park, the easiest trail is the Green Mountain Trail which is a 7 mile loop that winds along the base and then up to the top and back around again. If you go to this park plan on seeing a lot of mountain bikers and this time of year (late spring/early summer) rattlesnakes. Don’t let that scare you away from visiting in the spring however, this is when the mountain is at its most beautiful and fits its namesake with fields of bright green grasses and colorful wildflowers. If you run here in the middle of the day or during summertime, make sure to wear sunscreen, a hat and bring plenty of water. There is no tree coverage and it can get quite hot.
Roxborough State Park, Roxborough
These iconic bright red and orange rock formations make this park worth the visit. Because this is a state park there is an entry fee and dogs, bikes and horses are prohibited on the trails. There are miles of easy to moderate trails that wind through the native, desert like vegetation. There is little tree coverage on these trails so make sure to plan accordingly!
Bluffs Regional Park Off of Lincoln Ave. and RidgeGate Pkwy. in Lone Tree, CO
The Bluffs trail is probably #2 on our list for beginner trail runners. The trails aren’t true “single track” trails but a wide gravel road that loops around and up to the top of the Bluff. This trail is definitely stroller friendly and offers some long gradual hills, enough to slow down a trained runner. There is a 2.7 loop with extra mileage if you add the lookouts. Expect beautiful grassy meadows with amazing views of Pikes Peak, the central mountains and Denver from the top!
Bear Creek Lake State Park, Lakewood CO
This is another state park so be prepared to pay an entry fee. If you want to avoid the fee and add an extra 1/2 mile to your run, park in the gravel lot located across the street from the Conoco off the Morrison exit and then cross over onto the bike path which will take you into the park by foot. The trails at Bear Creek park are relatively flat and a lot of fun! Plan on a couple of creek crossings and a lot of shade, this is a great spot to run mid-summer with plenty of opportunities to cool off! Want to get into trail running but don’t know where to start?
Life’s 2 Short offers Women’s beginner trail running courses.In this 6 week course you will gain the knowledge, fitness and confidence so that you can join your friends on their next trail running adventure. The sessions take place on different trails across the front range and are part running/skills work and part classroom where you will learn how to conquer steep hills, technical sections, how to handle wildlife, what to wear, what to pack and more! Learn more