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Widely recognized as one of the best urban trails in the country.


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Map Key

61.3

Miles

98.7

KM

100%

Runnable

5,549' 1,691 m

High

5,435' 1,657 m

Low

369' 112 m

Up

468' 143 m

Down

0%

Avg Grade (0°)

2%

Max Grade (1°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · Geological Significance · Historical Significance · Lake · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

There is a small section to the east near the reservoir where the trail becomes private property.

Overview

The trail is crushed dirt and very wide in most sections south of Hampden/285. To the northeast, the trail becomes paved out into Aurora, but a concerned runner can find singletrack alongside the pavement in many areas. This trail is extremely popular for marathon training given its flat elevation profile and tunnels that avoid roads and traffic stops.

Runner Notes

There is a nearly uninterrupted 15-mile stretch of crushed dirt road through the Cherry Hills Neighborhood that provides the best flat ground training in Denver. In addition, the Cherry Hills portion features views of the front range, creeks, and a bevy of spectacular homes along the canal.

Description

Few have ever undertaken the full length of the Highline Canal Trail, and even fewer have done it all in one attempt. Use different sections of the trail to get to know greater Denver. Don't expect the most stunning views, but give the trail credit as it spoils runners who want endless trail without having to leave the city.

Contacts

Shared By:

Taylor Simmons with improvements by Chris Englert Denver By Foot

Trail Ratings

  4.6 from 17 votes

#708

Overall
  4.6 from 17 votes
5 Star
59%
4 Star
41%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#145

in Colorado

#708

Overall
23 Views Last Month
7,146 Since Sep 7, 2015
Easy Easy

88%
13%
0%
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Photos

Sunrise over Skeel Reservoir.
Sep 7, 2015 near Cherry…, CO
Flat dirt road as featured by much of the southwest portion of the trail.
Sep 7, 2015 near Cherry…, CO

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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Minor Issues 90 days ago
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