Whether it’s real spring or fake spring this time of year is anypuppy’s guess. But soon enough, we hope the flowers will be blooming, the sun will be shining, and it will be prime time for enjoying walkies without freezin’ our heckin’ bums off. It wouldn’t hurt if we could keep those paws clean while doing it too! From urban oases with skyline views to suburban lakes, forests, and wetlands, we sniffed out 5 Denver paved trails for spring dog walking.
Note: Remember to keep doggo on leash and always pick up any messes!
1. Cherry Creek Trail
Weaving nearly 25 miles from Cherry Creek Dam and Reservoir through the heart of Denver, the Cherry Creek Trail is one of Denver’s most pupular for good reason. Your floofer can choose her own adventure on this trail. Prefer people watching, looking at murals, and getting a peep of the skyline? Park near Confluence Park. If your fren would rather have room to roam and enjoy nature and wildlife, park near the Cherry Creek Reservoir.
2. Bible Park Trail
If your woof is elderly or struggling with mobility, Bible Park Trail Loop in Southeast Denver features a short but sweet trail. Bible Park gives serene country vibes, though it’s easily accessible from I-25 and Hampden. This 1.7-mile trail features river views and opportunities for bird watching. Have hooman kiddos? They’ll enjoy the brand new playground.
3. Cheesman Park Loop
For the cosmopawlitan pup who prefers to see and be seen while enjoying his fresh air, Cheesman Park Loop is exactly what the dogtor ordered. This .9-mile loop in central Denver boasts cityscape views and plenty of green space for picnicking, playing, and chilling. The center of the park features a greek-style memorial pavilion, along with three fountains—in other words, multiple Insta-worthy photo opps.
4. Highline Canal Trail to Lee Gulch Trail Loop
Looking for a trail that’s pawfect for fur babies and kiddos? Head to the Highline Canal Trail to Lee Gulch Trail Loop near Littleton that features stops with playgrounds, restrooms, and scenic views of the Platte River and Front Range. Part of this 14.8-mile loop is paved and part of it is gravel, so paws could get a little dirty. Park off East Highline Circle at the southeast end of the trail for a fully paved, van-accessible lot and trail.
5. Bear Creek Greenbelt: Sheridan to Wadsworth
Live in the west suburbs but don’t feel like battlin’ traffic to the mountains? Then over the meadow and through the woods to Bear Creek Greenbelt: Sheridan to Wadsworth doggo goes. This 3.7-mile out-and-back trail follows the north shore of a large pond, crosses a bridge, and winds along wetland areas and cottonwood forests. If your pooch is feeling energetic and doesn’t mind a little off-roading, he can create a loop by taking some of the unpaved Stone House Trail.
Where’s your fave spring spot to walk pup without getting muddy? Howl at us in the comments and tag us @SidewalkDog in your woofer’s wanderings!
Featured photo: Andriyko Podilnyk
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