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Top Family-Friendly Bike Trails In Denver

Cherry Creek Bike PathCherry Creek Bike Path (credit: CBS)

Cyclists love the Mile High City, thanks to many days of sunshine and a plethora of paved and off-road trails. Denver has more than 850 miles of paved trails that connect to other dirt trails, many of which lead up into the picturesque scenery of the Rocky Mountains. If you love biking, then you'll want to set out for a ride on any of these beautiful biking trails. All of which are perfect for the whole family. National Bike Day is April 19, so bring the kids, pack a lunch and make a day as you explore Denver's many trails while you make great memories and enjoy a day of fitness together as a family.

South Platte Regional Greenway Trail
Denver, CO 80238
www.sandcreekgreenway.org

The South Platte River has a paved bike trail that runs along side for nearly 30 miles. Not only can you enjoy this scenic ride, but you'll love stopping along the route to read the many historic signs erected by the Colorado Historical Society to tell the history of the area. You'll find markers and signs detailing the lives of the Native Americans who once called this area home, as well as plaques about the dinosaurs and other geologic points of interest that are within this area. There is a lot to see and learn while you explore this long bike trail, and it also connects to lots of great riverside parks, so you'll have many great options to stop for lunch.

Cherry Creek Bike Path
Denver, CO 80202
www.denvergov.org

The other long trail that runs near a body of water in Denver is the Cherry Creek Bike Path. This paved trail runs more than 40 miles all the way to Franktown. It is one of the most popular biking trails in the city. You can stick to the urban side, biking along the Cherry Creek Shopping District, enjoying the upscale cafes and quiet neighborhood. Or you can head to the Cherry Creek State Park side, where you can enjoy the trails as they wind through one of the largest parks in the state. You can even visit the Four Mile House and Historic Park, which is also lined by the trail, where you can learn a bit about the early pioneers in Colorado.

Related: Top Dog Walking Trails In Denver

High Line Canal Trail
Denver, CO 80231
www.denverwater.org

If you live in the southeast side of Denver, you probably already use the High Line Canal Trail on a daily basis. This massive collection of trails runs more than 70 miles with pretty spots for pictures or to spread out for a picnic lunch. Most of the trails run through the suburban housing areas in southeast Denver but you'll love the smooth trails and the pretty homes as you enjoy the ride with your family. One of the best things about the High Line Canal Trail is that it's a very well maintained trail and it's also a very level, easy trail for beginners as well as seasoned bikers. Even the kids will have a great time on this fantastic bike path.

Bear Creek Bike Trail
Morrison, CO 80465
www.lakewood.org

Bear Creek Bike Trail is a little smaller than the others on this list but you'll still find 20 miles of trail running from the South Platte River up to Morrison, where you can also spend some time biking around Red Rocks Amphitheater and Park. This is definitely a ride for more experienced bikers, as there are more hills as the trail runs along the beautiful Bear Creek. Make a day of it and spend some time checking out all the cute cafes and shops in Morrison or spend the day exploring Red Rocks. Just make sure to visit the Red Rocks Museum to see all the incredible items that showcase the amphitheater's contribution to music history.

Related: Top Hiking Trails Near Denver

Clear Creek Bike Path
Golden, CO 80401
www.cityofgolden.net

Clear Creek Bike Path is another smaller trail at about 20 miles. It follows the stunning Clear Creek from the South Platte River up to the city of Golden. You'll stay near the creek as you take this ride, offering the whole family plenty of stunning views of this picturesque neighborhood. You can also check out the three buttes along this trail, which offer dirt mountain biking trails and huge, sweeping views of the Denver metro area. Keep in mind that these buttes are very rocky and steep, so they are best left to more experienced and older riders.

Deborah Flomberg is a theater professional, freelance writer and Denver native. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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