Looking for the top places to run, local running stores, group runs, and more? Here’s your guide to running in Denver, Colorado.

(Feature photo by Visit Denver & Captain Colorado Photography)

Article last updated: November 7, 2025

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The Denver City Guide is developed in partnership with Fleet Feet Colorado. Read more about Fleet Feet Colorado in the Running Stores section below!

Running in Denver offers the best of both worlds. You’ll find plenty of city routes around urban green spaces in Denver’s city limits. Just outside the city, still within the Denver-metro area, dirt trails and challenging climbs lead to breathtaking views. You really can’t go wrong!

After a run, settle into one of the many locally owned coffee shops and eateries to fuel up. If you’re looking for a group to enjoy a post-run beer with, a number of breweries host weekly run clubs, including Odell, Cerebral, Cheluna, and Banded Oak.

Be sure to mark your calendar for Denver’s biggest running event, the Denver Colfax Marathon, in May. The marathon course provides a unique tour of the city, including a trip through the home stadium of the Denver Broncos.

The guide below only scratches the surface of the Denver area’s running scene. Start with these local favorites and expand from there.

Bookmark this guide for your next trip to Denver. Rather than researching where to go, you can spend more time on the trails and grabbing a post-run beer.

• Running in Denver, Colorado
• When Is the Best Time to Visit Denver, Colorado?
• Where to Stay in Denver, Colorado
• Where to Run in Denver, Colorado
• Running Stores in Denver, Colorado
• Run Clubs in Denver, Colorado
• Destination Races in Denver, Colorado
• After the Run: Where to Eat in Denver, Colorado

Planning your upcoming running vacations?
Find more destination running guides.

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Running in Denver, Colorado

It’s easy to find fellow runners all around Denver, whether you’re on the trails or visiting a local brewery. While many runners come here to train at the higher altitude, there are plenty of run clubs around town that are inclusive of all paces, focused on providing fun and safe spaces, and interested in growing a community.

Whether you’re looking for a road run through the city or a trail run with breathtaking views, you can find the type of run that best suits you and your lifestyle here in Denver.

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When Is the Best Time to Visit Denver, Colorado?

Denver’s running scene truly comes alive in the spring. Enjoy the colorful spring blooms and green landscapes as the area reawakens. As the city transitions into summer, temperatures can get into the upper 90s (Fahrenheit). This time of year, early morning and evening runs are ideal. Fall is lovely, with cool breezes and the turning of the leaves.

Remember, you’re closer to the sun here, and it’s a dry climate, so prioritize your hydration! It’s also worth noting that Denver’s weather can be unpredictable — we’re talking snow in May and sunny and 70s in January. Therefore, it’s always prudent to be prepared by packing for a range of weather conditions.

Read more about running at altitude here.

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Where to Stay in Denver, Colorado

Running Lifestyle is pleased to be partnered with TravelRunner, your go-to source for running-friendly accommodations. Read recent hotel reviews from fellow runners and athletes, and book your perfect stay. Become a part of a community created by and for travel runners!

Use code GUIDE for 2.5% off your bookings on TravelRunner.com.

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Where to Run in Denver, Colorado

Cherry Creek Trail from Cherry Creek Shopping Center
Start at the south side of the Cherry Creek Shopping Center and run east on the Cherry Creek Trail for a nice and flat, out-and-back run along Cherry Creek. This is a popular spot for runners, walkers, and cyclists. Fleet Feet Cherry Creek’s storefront backs up to the trail, so be sure to stop in and say hello before or after your run.

The full Cherry Creek trail extends more than 40 miles, running through Denver, Aurora, Centennial, and Parker. Find a map here for the main section, starting in Downtown Denver and ending at Cherry Creek State Park in Aurora.

Congress Park and Cheesman Park
Cheesman Park is a lovely green space just east of Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The park’s perimeter path is 1.5 miles and runs adjacent to Denver Botanic Gardens. Enjoy a picturesque view of the downtown skyline in addition to the area’s unique architectural homes. (Fun fact: The park is rumored to be haunted, as it sits on the site of a former cemetery.) Congress Park is situated on the other side of the Denver Botanic Gardens. While in the area, be sure to run along a portion of 7th Avenue to admire the gorgeous neighborhood homes.

This 3.7-mile route is a great way to explore the area’s best, and you’ll find it easy to tack on more mileage around the neighborhood or with another loop around Cheesman Park.

High Line Canal
The High Line Canal stretches 71 miles, from Waterton Canyon and the Colorado Trail, up through the southeast portion of Denver, and ending just west of Denver International Airport. From views of the rolling plains and Front Range mountains to a wooded urban sanctuary, this trail has a little for everyone at any time of the year. The trail is generally flat, following the historic High Line Canal, once used to deliver irrigation water to farmland on the plains. There are segments of crushed gravel and paved path. View the full trail map here.

Consider these starting locations:

• Mile 2 at 10401 Waterton Road, Littleton, Colorado, just south of Waterton Canyon and with entrances into Chatfield State Park
• Writer’s Vista Park parking lot at 8101s South Peninsula Drive, Littleton, Colorado
• High Line Canal Trailhead off of Belleview Avenue at 4200 East Belleview Avenue, Greenwood Village, Colorado; follow the sidewalk along Belleview to the east to hop on the High Line Canal
• Expo Park at 10955 East Exposition Avenue, Aurora, Colorado; the trail follows the west side of the park and can be accessed behind the softball fields
• Triple Creek Trailhead at 18000 East Colfax Avenue, Aurora, Colorado

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is an iconic spot to see a concert, and it’s located just outside of Denver. But did you know the park also has many runnable trails? These single-track trails play around the rocks for which the park is named and grant sweeping views of Denver and the surrounding plains.

A local favorite is to start at the Lower North Lot and follow the Red Rocks Trail (located on the east end of the lot). The trail will turn north, cross West Alameda Parkway, and head into Matthews/Winters Park. Here, you’ll run into a fork in the trail. Take either direction and hug the inside of the trail at each intersection to form a 4.53-mile loop with over 1,000 feet of vertical gain.

Still wanting more miles and vert? Take Trading Post Road to the Funicular Trail, head up into the Upper North Lot, then run into Red Rocks Amphitheatre, which is open to the public whenever there’s not a show scheduled. Find Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre’s trail map here.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
Have you ever wanted to run with the buffalo (at a safe distance, of course)? You might have that chance at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. The Arsenal was once a chemical manufacturing facility for the U.S. Army during World War II, and it has since undergone one of the most extensive environmental restoration projects in the country to become an urban wildlife sanctuary. Just 10 miles northeast of Denver, the 15,000-acre refuge features more than 20 miles of trails, and buffalo, deer, raptors, and prairie dogs are just a few of the animals you may see.

There’s a great 3.7-mile loop to explore. Park at the North Havana parking lot (off of Havana Street just north of 56th Avenue), and follow the Havana Ponds Trail to the Prairie Trail intersection. Take the Prairie Trail to the left until it connects with the Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail. Take a right on the Rocky Mountain Greenway Trail and follow it until you reach the Prairie Trail again. Complete the loop by taking the Prairie Trail to the right, following it down to the Havana Ponds Trail. From there, you can jog back to the parking lot. Find more park and trail information here.

Sloan’s Lake
A jog around Sloan’s Lake is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Located on the west side of Denver, the 2.6-mile loop takes you around the lake and has expansive views of the nearby mountains. You won’t be the only runner — it’s a popular spot within the local community. Park in the North-West Parking Lot (on West Byron Place off of Sheridan Boulevard). After your run, stroll down 25th Avenue to find post-run food and drinks.

Washington Park
Washington Park, also known as Wash Park, is one of the most well-known running destinations in Denver. This park features a 2.5-mile loop with a flat, dirt surface and pleasant of scenery. (Be sure to check out Mount Vernon Garden during the summer!) If you want to mix up your laps, take a loop around one of the ponds or through the gorgeous neighborhoods nearby. Street parking is easily found along the park’s perimeter. For driving directions: South Downing Street and East Louisiana Avenue, Denver.

Looking for more running routes in the Denver area?

• East of downtown Denver, you’ll find City Park and Central Park.
• In Lakewood, explore the Bear Creek Greenbelt and additional trails in Bear Creek Lake Park. Or run the trails on Green Mountain; consider parking at the Rooney Road Trailhead.
• In Aurora, the Cherry Creek State Park has 35 miles of dirt and paved trails.
• In Englewood, hop on the South Platte River Trail, also known as the Mary Carter Greenway.
• In Lonetree, you’ll find Bluffs Regional Park and Trail.
• Check out the Colorado Trail Explorer map for more.

As with any running route, take the necessary precautions for a safe run. Whenever possible, run with a buddy. Tell someone you know well where you’re going and when you expect to return, bring your cell phone and an ID, and remain aware of your surroundings.

Read more in 11 Running Safety Tips Every Runner Should Follow.

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Running Stores in Denver, Colorado

Fleet Feet Cherry Creek
Located on the south side of Cherry Creek Shopping Center, closest to the Macy’s entrance, Fleet Feet Cherry Creek offers a personalized shoe-fitting experience using the fit id® 3D foot scanning technology. You’ll find a wide range of running products, including shoes, performance socks, insoles, apparel, hydration vests, and more. Brands include Hoka, On Running, Feetures, Superfeet, Rabbit, and Roll Recovery.
3000 East 1st Avenue, Denver, Colorado; 303-847-4123

Fleet Feet Littleton
Located in the Chanson Plaza Shopping Center, alongside the Johnson Reservoir, Fleet Feet Littleton offers a personalized shoe-fitting experience utilizing the fit id® 3D foot scanning technology. This process allows staff to make expert recommendations from a collection of running shoe brands and models.
8116 West Bowles Avenue, Littleton, Colorado; 303-932-6000

BPRunCO
Locally owned Berkley Park Running Company (BPRunCO) opened its doors to the Wheat Ridge community, just west of Denver, in 2017. The company’s racing team is the Wild Jackalopes, and you’ll find a weekly group run from the store (Thursdays).
10033 West 26th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado; 720-456-6904

Runners Roost
Since 1977, Runners Roost has been serving the Front Range running community. You’ll see members of the Roost’s racing team at events statewide, and Runners Roost provides timing services for many local races. Stop in for a treadmill gait analysis and the staff’s help choosing from a wide selection of road and trail shoes. While you’re there, be sure to pick up a Runners Roost-branded gear item.
Aurora: 6790 South Cornerstar Way, Aurora, Colorado; 303-766-3411
Central Park: 7305 East 35th Avenue, Denver, Colorado; 303-377-3732
Denver: 1685 South Colorado Boulevard, Denver, Colorado; 303-759-8455
Lakewood: 7978 West Alameda Avenue, Lakewood, Colorado; 303-991-1851
Lonetree: 9994 Commons Street, Lone Tree, Colorado; 720-536-5879

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Run Clubs in Denver, Colorado

We aim to keep this guide updated regularly, but things can change quickly! Before attending a run club on this list, call the associated store or check the group’s social media to confirm the date, time, and location.

Fleet Feet Monday Trail Run Club
When: Mondays at 6 p.m.
Distance: 3-5 miles
Starting Point: Rotating trailheads in southwest Denver (Green Mountain, Apex, South Valley, Bear Creek, and Mt. Falcon); check the schedule

Runners Roost Central Park
When: Mondays at 5:45 p.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Runners Roost Central Park at 7305 East 35th Avenue, Denver, Colorado

Cerebral Run Club
When: Mondays at 6 p.m.
Distance: 1-3 miles
Starting Point: Cerebral Brewing at 1477 Monroe Street, Denver, Colorado

Cheluna ¡Corre! Running Group
When: Tuesdays at 5:45 p.m.
Distance: Choose your distance; all paces
Starting Point: Cheluna Brewing Co. at Stanley Marketplace: 2501 North Dallas Street, Aurora, Colorado

Runners Roost Aurora
When: Tuesdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Runners Roost Aurora at 6790 South Cornerstar Way, Aurora, Colorado

Cooldown
When: Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.
Distance: 1-5 miles (run/walk)
Starting Point: Rotating; check Instagram

Banded Oak Brewing Run Club
When: Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: Not listed
Starting Point: Banded Oak Brewing at 470 Broadway, Denver, Colorado

Runners Roost Denver
When: Wednesdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Runners Roost Denver at 1685 South Colorado Boulevard, Denver, Colorado

Runners Roost Lakewood
When: Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Runners Roost Lakewood at 7978 West Alameda Avenue, Lakewood, Colorado

Runners Roost Lone Tree
When: Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Runners Roost Lone Tree at 9994 Commons Street, Lone Tree, Colorado

Aurora Road Runners
When: Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: 4-mile and 1.5-mile options
Starting Point: Second Dawn Brewing at 2302 Dayton Street, Aurora, Colorado

Wild Jackalopes of Berkeley Park
When: Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Distance: 5K
Starting Point: BPRunCo at 10033 West 26th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado

Citius RC
When: Saturdays at 8 a.m. in the fall and winter; 7 a.m. in the spring and summer
Distance: 6-12 miles; pace groups from 7:00-11:00 mile pace
Starting Point: Varies; check Instagram

Colorado Frontrunners
When: Saturdays at 9:15 a.m.
Distance: 6 miles (around Washington Park) or 3.2 miles (around Cheesman Park)
Starting Point: The corner of 9th Avenue and Downing in Denver, Colorado
Check the website for more meetups.

Bullfrog
When: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m.
Distance: 3-5 miles
Starting Point: Rotating coffee shops; check Instagram

Aurora Road Runners
When: Sunday at 8:30 a.m.
Distance: 5-mile, 5K, and 1.5-mile options
Starting Point: Mishap Coffee (within Second Dawn Brewing) at 2302 Dayton Street, Aurora, Colorado

Odell Sloan’s Run Club
When: Sundays at 9:30 a.m.
Distance: Varies (4-6.5 miles); pace groups for 9:30, 10:30, and 11:30 mile pace
Starting Point: Odell Brewing Sloan’s Lake Brewhouse & Pizzeria at 1625 Perry Street, Denver, Colorado (there’s limited parking available on-site, but plenty of street parking in surrounding neighborhoods and across the street at Sloan’s Lake)

bRUNch Running Club
When: Sunday mornings (7:30 a.m. summer months, 9:30 a.m. October-May)
Distance: Varies
Starting Point: Rotating brunch restaurants and coffee shops; check the calendar

Additional group runs with varied schedules include Thick Thighs Run Club, Denver Black Girls Run, Black Men Run Denver, and Latinos Run Denver.

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Destination Races in Denver, Colorado

That Dam Run | March | Greenwood Village, Colorado | Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
All three race distances follow out-and-back routes alongside the Cherry Creek Reservoir in Cherry Creek State Park. The half marathon distance continues farther, connecting to the Cherry Creek Trail.

Platte River Half Marathon & Relay | April | Littleton, Colorado | Half Marathon, Relay
The out-and-back course follows the South Platte River Trail from Littleton to Denver, with a start and finish line adjacent to The Farm House at Breckenridge Brewery in Littleton. That means an epic post-race party! Stick around to enjoy a free beer or seltzer, food, and live music.

Denver Colfax Marathon | May | Denver, Colorado | Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 Miles, Marathon Relay
Denver’s signature road race event — and the city’s only marathon —starts and ends at City Park. The full marathon runs through downtown and Empower Field at Mile High, around Sloan’s Lake, and along Colfax Avenue. The half marathon takes a trip around the Denver Zoo and City Park Golf Course, and the 10-miler follows a point-to-point course starting in Lakewood.

Chase the Moon Endurance Run | July | Highlands Ranch, Colorado | 12 Hours, 6 Hours, 3 Hours, 50K, Relay
Run through the night under the light of a full moon on trails just south of Denver. All race distances, relay and solo, start 1.5 hours before sunset.

The Bear Chase Trail Races | October | Lakewood, Colorado | 100K, 50 Miles, 50K, Half Marathon, 10K, 5K
The Bear Chase Trail Races have been running in Lakewood’s Bear Creek Lake Park for 15 years and counting. The terrain is challenging but not too technical, which makes it a welcoming event for newer trail runners.

Hot Chocolate Run | October | Denver, Colorado | 5K, 10K, 15K
Choose from three race distances, then enjoy hot chocolate and chocolate fondue at the post-race party in Washington Park.

The bRUNch Run | October | Denver, Colorado | 5K, 10K, 15K
THIS EVENT IS CANCELLED FOR 2025
A race for all food-lovers, The bRUNch Run is hosted by Denver-based run club bRUNch Running. After you cross the finish line, fill up on small bites from local brunch restaurants. The race is stroller, wheelchair, and dog-friendly, and a portion of the race’s proceeds support Metro Caring, a local anti-hunger organization.

Mile High United Way Turkey Trot | November | Denver, Colorado | 4 Miles
A Denver Thanksgiving morning tradition. Join thousands of runners and walkers for a family-friendly 4-miler around Washington Park. Proceeds support Mile High United Way.

Find more destination races in Colorado.

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After the Run: Where to Eat in Denver, Colorado

Atlas Coffee — In addition to coffee, you’ll find vegan and gluten-free food options at this quaint family-owned coffee shop. The Belleview location has access to the Big Dry Creek Trail. The Littleton locations are not far from the High Line Canal Trail.
Belleview: 200 West Belleview Avenue, Englewood, Colorado; 303-948-4600
Sterling Ranch: 8155 Piney River Avenue, Littleton, Colorado; 303-948-4600
Littleton Broadway: 6504 South Broadway, Littleton, Colorado; 303-948-4600

Banded Oak Brewing Co. — Located near the Cherry Creek Trail, this brewery has a Wednesday run club and is always welcoming to runners. Expect a great selection of beers and food trucks on site.
470 Broadway, Denver, Colorado; 720-479-8033

The Bardo Coffee House — The Lakewood location is right next to the Bear Creek Greenbelt Trail. You’ll find an amazing latte selection, including seasonal menus, and breads from local bakeries.
Denver: 238 South Broadway, Denver, Colorado; 303-629-8331
Lakewood: 3333 South Wadsworth Boulevard, Lakewood, Colorado; 720-446-1959
Wheat Ridge: 6150 West 38th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado; 720-485-3508

Bonnie Brae Ice Cream — Stop in for a homemade scoop of ice cream after a summer run at Washington Park. This family-owned ice cream shop has been in business since 1986. Flavors rotate often and include a couple of vegan options.
799 South University Boulevard, Denver, Colorado; 303-777-0808

Cerebral Brewing — This brewery’s Congress Park location hosts a Monday run club. Both Congress Park and Aurora Arts locations host food trucks. The West Highlands location is not far from Sloan’s Lake and serves sourdough pizzas.
Congress Park: 1477 Monroe Street, Denver, Colorado; 303-865-7341
Aurora Arts: 9990 Colfax Avenue, Aurora, Colorado; 720-508-1984
West Highlands: 3257 Lowell Boulevard, Denver, Colorado; 720-615-0554

DIRT Coffee Bar — A cute coffee shop near downtown Littleton, the South Platte River, and the Mary Carter Greenway. For food, fuel up with a breakfast burrito or a panini. DIRT stands for Divergent Inclusive Representation Transforms. The coffee shop not only employs neurodivergent individuals but also works within the community to increase employment equity.
Littleton: 5767 South Rapp Street, Littleton, Colorado; 303-635-6674
Park Hill: 1785 Quebec Street, Denver, Colorado; 720-661-1398

The Farm House at Breckenridge Brewery — No need to drive to Breckenridge to experience this brewery. Located in Littleton along the South Platte River Trail, also called the Mary Carter Greenway, The Farm House at Breckenridge Brewery is the perfect place to relax after a run. Enjoy a craft beer and a burger while hanging out by the fire pits or playing lawn games.
2990 Brewery Lane, Littleton, Colorado; 303-803-1380

Illegal Pete’s — Illegal Pete’s has been serving burritos in Colorado since the ’90s. It’s the perfect place to load up on good eats and drinks, especially the Prickly Pear Margarita, after a run. The Wheat Ridge location is right across the street from Crown Hill Park. The Evans Avenue location is less than 2 miles south of Washington Park.
10009 West 26th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado; 720-605-7182
1744 East Evans Avenue, Denver, Colorado; 720-797-8600
Additional locations around Denver and Colorado

Moe’s Broadway Bagel — Choose from more than 20 varieties of fresh-baked New York-style bagels. Pack it with a cream cheese spread or one of the specialty breakfast or lunch sandwiches. The Grant Street location is just off the Cherry Creek Trail and not far from both Cheesman and Washington parks.
550 Grant Street, Denver, Colorado; 303-733-7331
1390 South Colorado Boulevard, Denver, Colorado; 720-756-1669

Odell Brewing Sloan’s Lake Brewhouse & Pizzeria — The brewery is located a block south of Sloan’s Lake and has its own run club. Choose from a delicious pizza selection and a lineup of beers to enjoy on the rooftop after your run.
1625 Perry Street, Denver, Colorado; 303-376-3777

Stanley Marketplace — One building, 50+ independent Colorado businesses, plus access to the Westerly Creek Trail. Check out Cheluna Brewing Co. for great drinks and Denver Biscuit Co. to satisfy all your biscuit needs.
2501 North Dallas Street, Aurora, Colorado

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