How to Bike the Cherry Creek Trail from Confluence Park Denver

The Cherry Creek Trail is one of Denver’s most beloved and accessible urban bike paths, stretching over 10 miles from Confluence Park in downtown Denver southward to the southern suburbs. For cyclists of all levels—from casual riders to daily commuters—biking the Cherry Creek Trail from Confluence Park offers a seamless blend of urban energy, natural beauty, and recreational opportunity. Whether you're looking to escape the city’s concrete jungle for a peaceful ride along a tree-lined waterway or seeking a safe, car-free route to commute to work, this trail delivers an unforgettable experience. Starting at Confluence Park, where the South Platte River meets Cherry Creek, provides a symbolic and scenic launch point that connects Denver’s history, culture, and outdoor lifestyle. This guide walks you through every detail you need to know to plan, prepare for, and enjoy a successful bike ride along the Cherry Creek Trail from its most iconic starting point.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Begin at Confluence Park

Confluence Park is located at the intersection of 15th and Wynkoop Streets in downtown Denver, just west of Coors Field and the Denver Aquarium. This is not just a geographical starting point—it’s a cultural landmark. The park commemorates the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, a site historically significant to Native American tribes and early settlers. To begin your ride, park your vehicle at one of the nearby public lots (such as the 15th Street Garage or the Denver Performing Arts Complex lot) or use a bike-share station like Denver B-cycle located directly at the park entrance. If you’re arriving by public transit, the 15th & Stout Station on the W Line light rail is less than a 5-minute walk away.

Once you arrive, take a moment to orient yourself. Look for the large bronze sculpture of a Native American on horseback near the creek’s edge—the trailhead begins just south of this monument. The Cherry Creek Trail officially starts here, marked by a paved path running parallel to the creek with clear signage pointing southbound toward the Denver Botanic Gardens and beyond.

2. Prepare Your Bike and Gear

Before you push off, ensure your bike is in good working order. Check the tires for proper inflation (typically 40–60 PSI for hybrid or road tires), test your brakes, and confirm your chain is lubricated and free of rust. If you’re renting a bike, inspect it thoroughly for damage or misalignment. Bring essentials: a helmet (required by law for riders under 18, but strongly recommended for all), water (at least 16–20 oz for a 5-mile ride), sunscreen, and a small repair kit with a spare tube, tire levers, and a mini pump or CO2 inflator. Many riders also carry a phone in an armband or handlebar mount for navigation and emergencies.

Wear moisture-wicking clothing suited to the season. In summer, lightweight shorts and a breathable jersey are ideal. In spring or fall, layer with a light windbreaker. Avoid loose clothing that can snag on bike components. Closed-toe shoes are essential—flip-flops or sandals are unsafe on a bike.

3. Ride South on the Cherry Creek Trail

Once you’re ready, begin pedaling south along the paved trail. The first half-mile is urban and bustling, passing under the 15th Street Bridge and alongside the Denver Art Museum’s satellite campus. You’ll notice cyclists, joggers, and families enjoying the path—this is a shared-use trail, so stay alert and follow trail etiquette. Ride on the right, pass on the left, and announce your presence with a bell or voice (“On your left!”) before overtaking.

At approximately 0.8 miles, you’ll pass the entrance to the Denver Botanic Gardens. This is a great landmark and an ideal spot to pause for a photo or a quick rest. The trail here widens slightly and becomes more shaded as it enters the green corridor of Cherry Creek. Continue south, and within another 0.5 miles, you’ll cross the first major intersection: Evans Avenue. Here, the trail crosses under the road via a dedicated underpass, clearly marked with signage and lighting.

4. Navigate Key Landmarks and Intersections

As you continue, the trail becomes increasingly scenic. At mile 2.5, you’ll reach the Cherry Creek Shopping Center. This is one of the trail’s most popular stops, with restrooms, food vendors, and seating areas. The trail passes directly behind the mall, with a wide, well-lit path flanked by trees and benches. Take advantage of the public restrooms here—they’re clean, well-maintained, and free to use.

At mile 3.7, the trail passes under the I-25 overpass. This is a critical navigation point. The trail splits here slightly—stay on the main paved path marked with green Cherry Creek Trail signs. Do not follow the narrower, less-maintained side paths. Just past the overpass, you’ll encounter a gentle uphill grade. This is the only notable elevation gain on the first 5 miles, and it’s mild enough for most riders to power through without shifting to the lowest gear.

At mile 5.2, you’ll reach the intersection with the South Platte River Trail. This is a major junction. The Cherry Creek Trail continues south, while the South Platte Trail heads east toward the Denver Zoo and north toward the LoDo district. Stay on the Cherry Creek Trail signs pointing toward “Greenwood Village” and “Creek Path.” You’ll now enter a more residential and suburban section of the trail. The environment shifts from urban park to natural riparian corridor, with increased wildlife sightings—herons, ducks, and even the occasional fox or coyote.

5. Continue to Mile 8 and Beyond

From mile 5 to mile 8, the trail becomes quieter and more tranquil. You’ll pass several neighborhood access points, including the Stapleton neighborhood on the east and the University of Denver’s campus on the west. The trail is lined with native grasses, wildflowers, and mature cottonwoods. Watch for interpretive signs that explain local ecology and conservation efforts.

At mile 7.5, you’ll encounter the Cherry Creek Reservoir Trail spur. While not part of the main Cherry Creek Trail, this connector leads to the reservoir and offers a longer, more challenging ride for advanced cyclists. If you’re planning a full-day adventure, consider this detour. Otherwise, stay on the main trail.

By mile 8.5, you’ll reach the city limits of Denver and enter the suburban community of Greenwood Village. The trail surface remains excellent, but you’ll notice more residential driveways and crosswalks. Be especially cautious here—motorists may not always yield to trail users. Slow down and make eye contact before crossing any streets.

6. End Points and Return Options

The official southern terminus of the Cherry Creek Trail is at the intersection of Alameda Avenue and Quincy Avenue in Greenwood Village. This is a popular endpoint for many riders, especially those commuting or doing a round-trip. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can continue another 2 miles south on the Alameda Trail to reach the City of Englewood, or even connect to the High Line Canal Trail for a longer loop.

For your return journey, you have several options. You can retrace your path back to Confluence Park, which is the most straightforward. Alternatively, you can take the High Line Canal Trail east from Greenwood Village, then connect to the South Platte Trail northward to return downtown. This creates a scenic loop of 18–20 miles and is favored by experienced riders. If you’re using a bike-share system, drop off your bike at any Denver B-cycle station near your endpoint and take public transit back.

Best Practices

1. Ride with the Flow, Not Against It

The Cherry Creek Trail is a shared-use path, meaning pedestrians, joggers, and cyclists all share the same space. To ensure safety and courtesy, always ride on the right-hand side of the trail, just as you would on a road. When passing others, announce yourself clearly and give ample space—ideally, at least 3 feet. Avoid sudden stops or swerves. If you’re riding with a group, ride single file to avoid blocking the trail.

2. Be Weather-Ready

Denver’s weather is famously unpredictable. Even on a sunny morning, afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly during summer. Always check the forecast before you leave. In spring and fall, temperatures can swing dramatically—layers are key. Carry a lightweight rain jacket, even if the sky looks clear. In winter, the trail is plowed regularly, but ice can form in shaded areas. Studded tires or wider tires with good tread are recommended for cold months.

3. Hydrate and Fuel Appropriately

Denver’s elevation (5,280 feet) can dehydrate you faster than you realize. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, drink water regularly. Plan to consume at least 8 oz every 20–30 minutes during your ride. For rides longer than 2 hours, bring a small snack—energy bars, trail mix, or bananas work well. Avoid sugary drinks that can cause energy crashes.

4. Respect Wildlife and Environment

The Cherry Creek Trail passes through a protected riparian zone. Stay on the designated path to avoid disturbing nesting birds or native plants. Do not feed wildlife—ducks and geese are common, but feeding them bread harms their health. Pack out all trash, including food wrappers and water bottles. Use the designated trash and recycling bins at trailheads and rest areas.

5. Use Lights and Reflective Gear

Even if you plan to ride during daylight, carry a front white light and rear red light. Many riders extend their rides into dusk, and the trail is poorly lit in sections between mile 6 and 8. Reflective clothing or ankle bands increase visibility, especially near intersections and underpasses. In winter, when daylight hours are short, lights are not optional—they’re essential for safety.

6. Avoid Peak Hours When Possible

Weekend afternoons and weekday evenings (5–7 PM) are the busiest times on the trail, especially between mile 2 and mile 6. If you prefer solitude and smoother riding, aim for early mornings (6–8 AM) on weekdays or midday on weekends. You’ll also avoid the heat of the afternoon sun during summer months.

7. Know Your Limits and Plan Your Distance

While the trail is mostly flat, elevation changes do occur, and the length can be deceiving. A 10-mile ride may feel longer at altitude. Beginners should start with a 5-mile round trip from Confluence Park to the Cherry Creek Shopping Center. Intermediate riders can aim for 8–10 miles one way. Advanced riders may tackle the full 12-mile route to Englewood or loop back via the High Line Canal. Always leave yourself time to return before sunset.

Tools and Resources

1. Trail Maps and Navigation Apps

Several digital tools can enhance your ride. The official Cherry Creek Trail map is available on the City of Denver’s Open Data Portal and can be downloaded as a PDF. For real-time navigation, use apps like Google Maps (set to “Biking” mode), Komoot, or Ride with GPS. These apps show elevation profiles, trail conditions, and nearby amenities like restrooms and water fountains.

Denver B-cycle offers an app that locates bike-share stations along the trail and allows you to unlock bikes using your smartphone. The app also includes route suggestions and ride statistics.

2. Bike Rental and Repair Shops

If you don’t own a bike, several reputable shops near Confluence Park offer rentals:

• Denver B-cycle – Affordable hourly rentals with 20+ stations along the trail.
• Denver Bike & Roll – Located at 15th and Larimer, offers hybrid and electric bikes with helmets and locks included.
• REI Co-op Denver – Provides rentals and free trail advice from knowledgeable staff.

For repairs, Denver Cycleworks (on 17th Street) and Cherry Creek Bike Shop (at 1320 S. Colorado Blvd) offer quick fixes and tune-ups. Many shops offer same-day service and can help you adjust your saddle height or fix a flat before you head out.

3. Water and Rest Stops

Public water fountains are available at:

• Confluence Park (near the sculpture)
• Denver Botanic Gardens entrance
• Cherry Creek Shopping Center (multiple locations)
• 13th Avenue Trailhead (near the I-25 overpass)
• Greenwood Village Trailhead (at Alameda Ave)

Restrooms are available at the shopping center, Denver Botanic Gardens, and the Cherry Creek Reservoir Trailhead. Portable toilets are sometimes placed at major intersections during summer events.

4. Safety and Emergency Contacts

In case of emergency, dial 911. For non-emergency trail issues (e.g., downed branches, graffiti, or broken signs), report them to the City of Denver’s 311 service via phone or the Denver 311 mobile app. The Denver Parks and Recreation Department maintains the trail and responds to reports within 24–48 hours.

5. Seasonal Events and Trail Closures

Check the City of Denver’s Parks and Recreation website for scheduled events. The trail may close temporarily for:

• Annual Cherry Creek Arts Festival (mid-July)
• Trail maintenance projects (typically in spring and fall)
• Heavy snowfall or flooding events

Signage is posted at all major access points during closures. You can also subscribe to the Denver Parks email newsletter for real-time updates.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Commuter’s Daily Ride

Julia, a 32-year-old software engineer, bikes the Cherry Creek Trail from Confluence Park to her office in the Cherry Creek North neighborhood every weekday. She leaves at 7:15 AM, rides 5.5 miles one way, and arrives by 8:00 AM. She uses a folding electric bike she keeps at work. “It’s the only part of my day I feel truly calm,” she says. “I see the same herons every morning, and the trail is quiet before the crowds come. I’ve lost 18 pounds in six months just by biking instead of driving.”

Example 2: The Family Weekend Adventure

The Ramirez family—parents and two kids aged 8 and 11—biked the trail from Confluence Park to the Cherry Creek Shopping Center on a Saturday morning. They rented four hybrid bikes from Denver Bike & Roll and brought snacks and a portable Bluetooth speaker. “We stopped every mile for ice cream and photos,” says mom Elena. “The kids loved seeing the ducks and the giant slide at the park. We didn’t even realize we’d biked 6 miles until we checked the app.” They returned via the light rail, leaving their bikes at the station.

Example 3: The Long-Distance Cyclist’s Loop

Mark, a 45-year-old endurance cyclist, completed a 22-mile loop: Confluence Park → Cherry Creek Trail → High Line Canal Trail → South Platte Trail → back to downtown. He started at dawn and finished by noon. “The trail surface is so smooth, and the shade is perfect in the morning,” he says. “I’ve ridden trails all over Colorado, but Cherry Creek is uniquely urban and natural at the same time. It’s like having a national park in your backyard.” He documented his ride on Strava, and it’s now one of the most popular routes in Denver.

Example 4: The First-Time Rider’s Success Story

After years of avoiding exercise, 58-year-old Linda decided to try biking the Cherry Creek Trail. She started with just 1 mile from Confluence Park to the first bridge and back. “I was terrified I’d fall or get lost,” she admits. “But the trail is so well-marked, and everyone was so friendly.” Two months later, she completed her first 8-mile ride. “I’ve never felt stronger or more at peace. I’m planning to bike to the reservoir next month.”

FAQs

Is the Cherry Creek Trail safe for solo riders?

Yes, the Cherry Creek Trail is one of the safest urban bike paths in the U.S. It is well-lit, frequently used, and patrolled by Denver Parks staff and volunteers. However, always practice standard safety precautions: avoid wearing headphones, stay aware of your surroundings, and let someone know your route and expected return time.

Can I ride a mountain bike on the Cherry Creek Trail?

Absolutely. While hybrid and road bikes are most efficient due to the paved surface, mountain bikes handle the trail perfectly fine. Their wider tires provide extra stability, especially in wet conditions or on gravel shoulders.

Are e-bikes allowed on the trail?

Yes, Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes (those with pedal-assist up to 20 mph) are permitted. Class 3 e-bikes (with throttle and speeds up to 28 mph) are not allowed on the trail due to safety concerns with shared pedestrian use.

Is the trail accessible for people with disabilities?

The Cherry Creek Trail is ADA-compliant and features smooth, wide pavement, gentle grades, and accessible restrooms at key points. Adaptive bikes and handcycles are permitted. The trail is also used by wheelchair users and mobility scooter riders.

Can I bring my dog on the trail?

Yes, dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed (6-foot maximum) and under control at all times. Always clean up after your pet using the waste stations located throughout the trail.

What’s the best time of year to bike the Cherry Creek Trail?

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer the most pleasant temperatures and scenic views. Summer is busy but ideal for long daylight hours. Winter rides are possible with proper gear—snow is usually cleared within 24 hours of accumulation.

How long does it take to bike the entire trail?

For most riders, biking the full 10–12 miles from Confluence Park to Greenwood Village takes 45–75 minutes, depending on stops and fitness level. Including breaks, a leisurely ride can take 2–3 hours.

Are there any fees to use the trail?

No, the Cherry Creek Trail is completely free to use. Parking at nearby lots may have fees, but the trail itself requires no permit or payment.

What should I do if I get a flat tire on the trail?

Carry a basic repair kit. If you’re unable to fix it yourself, call a local bike shop for assistance—many offer mobile repair services. Alternatively, use the Denver B-cycle app to locate the nearest rental station and return your bike, then take public transit to retrieve your own later.

Can I camp along the trail?

No, camping is not permitted along the Cherry Creek Trail. The trail is a public recreation corridor, not a wilderness route. Overnight stays are prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.

Conclusion

Biking the Cherry Creek Trail from Confluence Park is more than just a ride—it’s an immersion into the heart of Denver’s outdoor culture. From the urban pulse of downtown to the serene greenery of the riparian corridor, this trail offers something for everyone: fitness enthusiasts, nature lovers, commuters, families, and curious visitors alike. With its exceptional accessibility, well-maintained infrastructure, and stunning scenery, the Cherry Creek Trail stands as a model for urban trail systems nationwide.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—preparing your gear, respecting trail etiquette, using available resources, and learning from real rider experiences—you’re not just riding a path; you’re becoming part of a vibrant, active community that values health, sustainability, and connection to place. Whether you’re pedaling your first mile or your hundredth, the Cherry Creek Trail rewards every rider with calm, beauty, and a sense of freedom rarely found in a city of its size.

Grab your helmet, pump up your tires, and head to Confluence Park. The trail is waiting.