Denver, CO
10k, 5k, or 1mi Course: Waterton Canyon Trail
Description: The Waterton Canyon Trail provides a wide gravel road through the canyon and alongside the South Platte River. There’s a gradual slope toward the Strontia Springs Dam from the trailhead that creates an added challenge. In addition to the beautiful canyon scenery, you will likely run into bighorn sheep along the route! The trail is great for runners, hikers, and cyclists alike. From the trailhead, a 10k, 5k, and 1mi fun run can be completed in a straight distance using an activity tracker, or you can run an out-and-back. More trail info here.
Location: From C-470 and Wadsworth Boulevard, head south on Wadsworth approximately 5 miles. There is a parking area on the east side of the road, and the trail starts across the street, heading west. Trailhead location on google maps.
10k, 5k, or 1mi Course: High Line Canal Trail
Description: This wide dirt trail shaded by beautiful cottonwood trees extends from Chatfield State Park to Aurora with countless access points. Most runners access it somewhere between Hampden Avenue on the north and Arapahoe Road on the south. Given its history as a 19th-century irrigation canal that used gravity to transport water long distances, it’s pretty much the flattest place you can run in the metro area.
Location (5k): A scenic 5k route is to park at the E Orchard Rd lot (Google Maps here), head north along the trail, ad finish by circling around the Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve near E Belleview Ave. Route Map and details here.
Location (10k & 5k): A 10k and 5k out-and-back routes are also available behind the Goodson Recreation Center (map) on S. University between E Orchard Rd. and E Arapahoe Rd. 10k course map and details here. 5k course map and details here.
Local Scavenger Hunt
Want to explore more around Denver after your race? Make a day of it and explore! Denver has plenty of socially-distanced fun for the whole family!
Take a Photo with Dinosaur Footprint!
Dinosaur Ridge is a National Natural Landmark just outside suburban Denver. It has been ranked as the top dinosaur track site in the United States, and one of the top such sites in the world. Enjoy an outside guided walking tour with a geologist... or go self-guided!
Address: 16831 W Alameda Pkwy, Morrison, CO 80465
Phone: 303-697-3466
https://dinoridge.org
Take a Homestead Tour of Chatfield Farms
Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms is a 700-acre native plant refuge and working farm located along the banks of Deer Creek. With beautiful gardens, a lavender field, children's play area, paved and unpaved walking trails, butterfly conservatory, Hildebrand Ranch, seasonal events, and even a local CSA -- there is plenty to see and do.
Address: 8500 West Deer Creek Canyon Road, Littleton, CO 80128
Phone: 720-865-3500
https://www.botanicgardens.org/chatfield-farms
