The best walks and hikes around Four Square Mile

The Crestmoor Park Loop offers an easy hiking experience through a pleasant urban green space, perfect for a quick escape into nature. As you follow the well-maintained path, you will pass by mature trees and open grassy areas, providing a refreshing atmosphere within the city. This route covers 1.2 miles (1.9 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 18 feet (5 metres), making it an accessible and gentle walk that typically takes around 29 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to Crestmoor Park is straightforward, as the loop is known for its accessibility. You can expect to find ample parking available within or very close to the park, making it convenient for those arriving by car. This trail is suitable for all skill levels, including families with young children or anyone looking for a leisurely stroll, and it can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Crestmoor Park Loop stands out as a welcoming urban oasis, providing a comfortable outdoor experience without needing to leave the city. It offers a simple yet effective way to connect with nature, even if only for a short period. The park's design emphasizes ease of use and a tranquil environment, making it a popular choice for local residents seeking a peaceful walk.

Embark on an easy hike along High Line Canal Trail: Segment 16 - Bible Park, a pleasant urban escape spanning 3.1 miles (5.0 km). This route offers a green oasis within the metropolitan area, with a gentle elevation gain of just 41 feet (12 metres). You can expect to complete this segment in about 1 hour and 15 minutes, enjoying a path that features a mix of concrete, asphalt, and soft-surface terrain. As you walk, you'll find yourself immersed in a tranquil setting, passing through the welcoming green spaces of James A. Bible Park and intersecting with Goldsmith Gulch.

For your visit, James A. Bible Park serves as a convenient access point, providing parking facilities and restrooms, including seasonal portable options. While the trail is generally straightforward, be mindful of a few street crossings along the way. Specifically, exercise caution at the two unprotected crossings at E. Yale Avenue, where you should look carefully for traffic. This segment is well-suited for a family-friendly outing, offering an accessible way to enjoy nature close to the city.

This particular segment of the High Line Canal Trail stands out as an urban refuge, providing a valuable natural corridor. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you explore; you might spot magpies, squirrels, or even evidence of coyotes. The trail's blend of natural elements and urban convenience makes it a unique feature in Denver and Arapahoe County, offering a peaceful retreat without venturing far from city amenities. Remember that horses are not permitted within the Denver sections of the trail, including the area around Bible Park.

The Goldsmith Gulch and High Line Canal Trail Loop offers a unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, making it a standout option for a city escape. You'll wander through open meadows and dense woodlands along Goldsmith Gulch, then transition to the historic High Line Canal, shaded by mature cottonwood trees and offering views of the Front Range mountains. This moderate 6.1-mile (9.8 km) hike, with a gentle 89 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, is typically completed in about 2 hours and 29 minutes, providing a refreshing experience without demanding too much effort.

Accessing the trail is simple, with ample parking available at James A. Bible Park. The route is well-maintained and suitable for year-round use, so you can enjoy it in any season. Given its location, you'll find numerous amenities nearby, including cafes and pubs, perfect for a stop before or after your walk.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the High Line Canal is a critical wildlife habitat, supporting over 212 bird species and a vital green corridor within the Denver metropolitan area. Originally an irrigation project from 1883, it now serves as a testament to the region's history and ecological significance, offering a chance to spot deer, foxes, and various bird species right within the city.

Embark on a moderate hike along the Highline Canal Trail, stretching 8.3 miles (13.3 km) from Cherry Creek Trail to Expo Park. You will experience a surprisingly rural atmosphere, especially as you pass towering older cottonwood trees near Expo Park. With a gentle elevation gain of just 87 feet (26 metres), this route offers a pleasant outdoor escape that takes about 3 hours and 22 minutes to complete. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including blackbirds, ducks, and even foxes, as you enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is accessible year-round for your convenience. Expo Park serves as an excellent starting point, providing easy access with available parking and restrooms. This multi-use path welcomes not only hikers but also runners and cyclists, making it a versatile option for various outdoor activities. You can easily spend a morning or afternoon exploring this urban oasis.

This segment of the Highline Canal Trail offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature right within the city. You can enjoy views of the mountains from the Cherry Creek Country Club area, adding to the scenic appeal of your journey. The trail provides a refreshing contrast to the urban landscape, showcasing a vibrant ecosystem that thrives alongside the city.