If you and your family love to bike ride, you live in the right place! Denver boasts more than 85 miles of paved trails, and if you’re into a more rugged ride, many of these trails connect to hundreds more miles of dirt trails.
Besides enjoying the beauty of the ride, there are several notable stops you can choose to make along the way to bring more family fun into the mix. Put your helmet on and get in gear, we’re going on a fun family bike ride along these paths!
The Greenway Trail Along the South Platte River
Following the South Platte River for more than 30 miles, the Greenway Trail is a paved bike path that connects to several riverside parks. Besides catching up on your history of the area along the way with fun facts provided by the Colorado Historical Society, you can also stop by the Children’s Museum of Denver at Marisco Campus. The kids will love taking part in the many hands-on activities. When you’re done visiting the museum, you can get back on your bikes and continue your ride along the river.
Cherry Creek Bike Path
Another of Denver’s many paved bike trails, the Cherry Creek Bike Path runs along Cherry Creek. It begins at Confluence Park and continues all the way to Franktown. This is one of the most popular biking and hiking trails in all of Denver. While you and the kids will enjoy biking through the area, you can also stop at Cherry Creek State Park. Check out unique activities here like model airplane flying as well as horseback riding. After you’ve stopped at the park, continue your ride all the way to Franktown.
Clear Creek Bike Path
Bike through neighborhoods and the countryside along Clear Creek. This 20 mile stretch follows the creek until the town of Golden. As you get near Golden, you’ll catch some scenic views of the area. Clear Creek Bike Path goes across some streets so be sure the kids are always staying alert.
If you want to take a break along the way, the Colorado Rail Museum is located just off the path in Golden. As the largest railroad museum in the state, you’ll have the chance to look at more than 50 locomotives and cars. This is a favorite stop for both kids and adults!
Bear Creek Bike Trail
Pedal along Bear Creek to the mountain town of Morrison along this 20 mile trail. The Bear Creek Bike Trail has a lot of little bonuses and perks. As you ride, you’ll come to the gateway of Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater.
Red Rocks hosts fantastic live concerts as well as 70 million-year-old red rock outcroppings, some of which rise 300 feet high. You can bike around these outcroppings, if you’re up for it. When you get to the town of Morrison, take the family for ice cream at one of the many shops.
High Line Canal Trail
If you choose to bike along the High Line Canal Trail, you will be biking along one of the longest urban trails in America. This path will take you through suburban Denver all the way near Denver International Airport; this stretch has also been named a National Landmark Trail.
Cross paths with Chatfield State Park and let the kids ride a horse or fly a model airplane. If you pack a picnic lunch, you can also relax here and enjoy some fun family time. If you need some time off of the bike, you can make a stop in historic downtown Littleton where there are plenty of small shops to browse.
Bike rides along these paths in Denver have a lot to offer. From museums to parks to ice cream shops, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Get in gear and get ready to ride!
