The best running trails around Aurora

Aurora, Colorado, boasts an extensive network of trails, with over 100 miles of trails and more than 8,000 acres of open space. Our guide features 20 curated jogging routes, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging runs, ensuring a diverse selection for all fitness levels.

You'll find a wide variety of terrain in Aurora. Many routes feature paved paths, such as the 8-mile perimeter trail at the Aurora Reservoir or sections of the Sand Creek Regional Greenway. Other trails offer soft-surface paths through prairies and wetlands, providing a gentler impact. For those seeking a challenge, areas within Cherry Creek State Park offer small hills.

Absolutely! Aurora is home to several reservoirs that offer beautiful water views. The Aurora Reservoir features an 8-mile paved perimeter trail, while Quincy Reservoir has a scenic 3.1-mile loop trail, both providing excellent opportunities for a run with picturesque backdrops and birdwatching. Additionally, Cherry Creek State Park offers a 9-mile paved reservoir loop.

Many of Aurora's trails are multi-use and suitable for families. The Jewell Wetlands offer a tranquil 1-mile loop trail with a boardwalk, perfect for a short, easy run with children. Trails around Quincy Reservoir are also generally flat and accessible, providing a pleasant experience for all ages.

Many of Aurora's extensive trail systems are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash on multi-use trails. Areas like Cherry Creek State Park and the High Line Canal Trail are popular choices for runners with canine companions.

Yes, Aurora offers several excellent circular running routes. The Aurora Reservoir provides an 8-mile paved loop, and the Quincy Reservoir features a scenic 3.1-mile loop. Within our guide, you can find routes like Springbrook Prairie Trail loop, which offers expansive views across prairie landscapes.

Aurora's diverse natural landscapes offer fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities. Along trails at the Aurora Reservoir, you might spot various bird species, raccoons, rabbits, mule deer, and pronghorn. The Plains Conservation Center is home to bison, red-tailed hawks, and bald eagles, while the Jewell Wetlands are great for birdwatching and spotting sunning turtles. Star K Ranch also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing along its cottonwood-shaded trails.

While jogging in Aurora, you can encounter several interesting natural features. The High Line Canal Trail is a historic 71-mile pathway with sections running through Aurora, offering prairie views. You can also explore natural areas like the West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve or visit the McKee Marsh Observation Platform for scenic vistas.

The komoot community highly rates Aurora's running trails, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 7 reviews. Runners frequently praise the variety of scenic routes, from open prairies to serene wetlands and reservoirs, and the opportunities for wildlife encounters that enhance the jogging experience.

For those looking for longer runs, Aurora offers several options. The Aurora Reservoir has an 8-mile paved perimeter trail, and Cherry Creek State Park features nearly 50 miles of trails, including a 9-mile paved reservoir loop. The Sand Creek Regional Greenway also meanders for nearly 13 miles through Aurora and surrounding areas, providing extensive mileage.

Beginners will find several accessible options in Aurora. The Jewell Wetlands offer a tranquil 1-mile loop trail, perfect for an easy start. Our guide also highlights Waubonsie Creek Trail, an easy 2.5-mile path, and Lake Waubonsie loop from Waubonsie Valley High School, a 2.4-mile trail, both ideal for those new to running.

Yes, Aurora's trail system is well-connected. The Toll Gate Creek Trail, a 6.3-mile paved path, connects to other major trails like the High Line Canal Trail and the Cherry Creek Spillway Trail. The Sand Creek Regional Greenway also links Aurora with Denver and Commerce City, offering extended running possibilities.