The best walks and hikes around Garden City
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hikers
9
hikes
Hikes around Garden City are set against the backdrop of Bear Lake and the Bear River Mountain Range. The area's terrain is varied, offering routes that follow the Poudre River, as well as paths through local parks and natural areas. The landscape is primarily characterized by riverside trails and relatively flat parkland paths with minimal elevation change.
Best hiking trails around Garden City
- The most popular hiking route is Poudre River Trail — Greeley, a 10.3 mile (16.6 km)…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
82.9km
20:59
180m
130m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
82.9km
20:59
180m
130m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
hikers
2.63km
00:41
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
2.98km
00:45
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16.6km
04:11
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Garden City
Tips from the Community
The Josephine Jones Natural Area is a quiet park in West Greeley. There is a pond, which is a great spot for bird watching, a playground, and walking and hiking trails. You get fantastic views of the Front Range from really any of the wide, easy trails through this area.
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Signature Bluffs Natural Area is located in Greeley, Colorado and spans 86 acres along the Cache la Poudre River. This beautiful natural area features diverse habitats, including cottonwood stands, cattail marshes, meadows, and a large pond, perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. It serves as an excellent spot for bird watching and wildlife observation. The Poudre River Trail runs through the southern end of this area, linking it with other natural areas and trails in the region. The main trailhead for this area is at 71st Avenue and is easily recognizable by its large, red barn.
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The Poudre River Trail is a 21-mile long multi-use trail. It is fully paved and follows alongside the Cache la Poudre River. It is a popular trail, so make sure that you are aware of other path users.
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The Poudre River Trail is a 21-mile long multi-use trail. It is fully paved and follows the Cache la Poudre River. It is a popular trail, so make sure that you are aware of other path users.
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The South Platte River is one of the two principal tributaries of the Platte River. The 439-mile river offers countless recreational opportunities, including fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
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The Cache La Poudre River runs 126 miles in length and is Colorado's only nationally designated "Wild & Scenic" river. It starts in Rocky Mountain National Park and ends at the confluence of the South Platte River near Greeley. The river's name in French translates to "cache of powder" and originated from French trappers hiding gunpowder along the river in the 1820s.
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At this location, the Poudre River Trail crosses the Poudre River over a bridge. The Jones Ditch is one of the earliest ditches that are still operating today and is a typical canal for irrigation structures in the 1860s. Over three miles long, it supplied water for domestic use and irrigation and was named after William R. Jones, a steelmaking inventor and manager.
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The Poudre Learning Center right next to the Poudre River Trail is a great place for children and families to learn all about the natural history of the region. The center offers activities and programs for all ages. You can find more information about hours and events here: https://poudreheritage.org/locations/poudre-learning-center/
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Garden City suitable for families and children?
Yes, the area is very family-friendly. Most trails are rated as easy and feature minimal elevation change. A great option is the Josephine Jones Natural Area loop — West Greeley, a short and flat walk that's perfect for all ages.
What are the trail conditions like in Garden City?
The trails are generally well-maintained and accessible. You'll find a mix of paved paths, like parts of the Poudre River Trail, and natural surface trails within local parks. Most routes are relatively flat, making for easy walking conditions.
Are there any dog-friendly trails in the area?
Many of the park and riverside trails in the Garden City area are suitable for walking with a dog. The Bittersweet Park loop — Greeley is a good choice for a shorter walk. Always check local regulations and keep your dog on a leash where required.
Can I find any circular or loop hikes?
Absolutely. There are several enjoyable loop hikes that bring you back to your starting point without retracing your steps. For a pleasant walk through parkland, consider the Riverside Park loop — Greeley, which is just under 2 miles long.
Are there any long-distance hiking options?
Yes, for those looking for a longer outing, the Poudre River Trail — Greeley offers a substantial 10.3-mile route. It's a moderate, mostly flat trail that follows the river, providing a peaceful, extended hike.
What kind of scenery can I expect on these hikes?
The landscape is primarily defined by pleasant riverside scenery along the Poudre River and the green, open spaces of local parks. Hikes like the Glenmere Park loop — Greeley offer classic parkland views with mature trees and water features.
How many hiking trails are available in this guide?
This guide features a curated selection of the top hikes in the area. In total, there are around 7 routes to explore around Garden City, ranging from short park loops to longer riverside walks.
What is the best time of year to hike around Garden City?
Hiking here is enjoyable from spring through fall. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and greening landscapes. Summer is great for longer days, though it can be warm. Autumn provides cooler weather and changing colors, making it a particularly beautiful time to explore the riverside trails.
Are there any challenging or difficult hikes available?
The trails in this guide are primarily easy to moderate. The terrain is mostly flat, focusing on accessible parkland and riverside paths rather than strenuous mountain climbs. The longest route is rated as moderate due to its distance, not its elevation gain.
What should I pack for a day hike in Garden City?
For most hikes here, comfortable walking shoes are sufficient. Be sure to bring water, especially for longer routes like the Poudre River Trail. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are recommended as many trails are exposed. It's also wise to carry a light jacket as weather can change.
Is there good parking available at the trailheads?
Most of the trails featured in this guide start from local parks or designated natural areas, which typically have dedicated parking lots. For popular spots, it's always a good idea to arrive earlier in the day to secure a space, especially on weekends.
Most popular routes around Garden City
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