With 300 days of sunshine, Denver practically begs you to get outside. From skyline views to lakeside loops, the city offers no shortage of ways to ride through the warm weather months. If you’re searching for the best bike routes that don’t require a mountain drive, you’re in the right place, because coasting through the city proves you don’t need mountains to experience Denver’s best rides, and sometimes, the best views are right where you are.
South Platte River Trail
Running through the heart of the city and serving as the backbone of Denver biking, this is one of the flattest rides in Denver. It has multiple downtown access points, from Commons Park to the 19th Street Bridge, with Confluence Park, one of the city’s most popular gathering spots, as a common starting and ending point. The route runs along the South Platte River, the exact waterway that gave rise to Denver during the gold rush, offering bikers a ride rooted in the city’s earliest beginnings. Ideal for casual cyclists looking to avoid steep hills, the paved path offers a smooth, easy ride through the city. Pedal past the towering city buildings and glide underneath Denver’s iconic bridges. And refuel mid-ride with a cheeseburger at Denver’s oldest bar and family-owned staple, My Brother’s Bar. Or reward yourself with a classic hot dog from a local stand at the park when you’re done.
Sloan’s Lake Park
Short on time but still craving a ride with a view? Sloan’s Lake Park offers a 2.5-mile ride that cyclists can complete in about 20 minutes per lap. With easy, even terrain, lakefront scenery, and prime people-watching, it’s ideal for a quick escape, and the short loop makes it easy to ride at your own pace. No pressure, just a chance to unplug. But don’t stop there. Take a quick detour to grab a Denver-roasted coffee at Brew Culture Coffee, just a few blocks from the lake, and ease into the neighborhood’s laid-back pace.
Washington Park
A favorite among locals, the paved path at Washington Park offers a simple 2.2-mile ride perfect for cyclists of all levels. Dating back to the late 1800s, the park carries a sense of history that adds a timeless and familiar feel. Surrounded by lush green space and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere, the trail evokes nostalgia — especially when an ice cream truck rolls by. It remains one of Denver’s most popular loops and is a place where seasoned cyclists and first-time riders share the same path. Bike past the park’s historic boathouse and two lakes, where sights and summer traditions make every lap feel like a return to something simple.
Cherry Creek Reservoir
Along the edge of the reservoir in Cherry Creek State Park, this 6.5-mile circuit offers a relatively flat ride, making it perfect for a laid-back cruise. In the summer, the park comes to life with visitors running, boating, and fishing, creating a vibrant, active atmosphere. With a mix of paved and gravel trails, gentle hills, and wide-open prairie views, the route is both peaceful and approachable. Ideal for riders who prefer a relaxed pace, and it is a great spot to soak up the sunshine alongside fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Sand Creek Regional Greenway
Stretching across Denver, Aurora, and Commerce City, the Sand Creek Regional Greenway offers a 13-mile ride that feels like a hidden escape just beyond the city. The route blends smooth pavement with soft gravel stretches, winding through a quiet wildlife corridor where nature and city life meet. Keep an eye out for birds overhead and native wildflowers along the path. For a ride that truly feels Colorado, settle into the rhythm of it all, where the sound of flowing water, birdsong, and spinning wheels make the most peaceful summer reset.
High Line Canal
This is where long-distance riding meets Denver’s everyday energy. The High Line Canal Trail stretches 71 miles, making it one of the longest uninterrupted urban trails in the country. Running from Waterton Canyon to near Denver International Airport, it offers plenty of access points and connections to nearby routes, so you can ride as little or as far as you’d like. Tree-lined and quiet, it’s an easy place to clear your head while still staying active and connected to the city. And when the summer heat catches up with you, cool off with a scoop from Heaven Creamery, just off the canal near Orchard Road—a Colorado-based shop known for its small-batch ice cream, gelato, and sorbet.
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