High Line Canal Trail

Denver

A long-distance recreational path following an irrigation canal.

Hiking Easy

Distance: 105 km
Ascent: 274 m
Descent: 313 m
Duration: 1 day +

Low Point: 1.6 km
High Point: 1.7 km
Gradient: 1˚

The High Line Canal was originally built in 1883 for agricultural irrigation, but in recent decades, one of the best recreation trails in Denver has been built along the banks of the canal. The trail is officially 71 miles long end-to-end, but shown here is a 65-mile link-up of the bulk of the trail.

Photo from High Line Canal Trail — Photo: Susan Hodgson, Shutterstock

Description

This mammoth urban trail runs through a vast array of suburbs and different regions in the Denver Metro Area, although it passes to the south of downtown Denver.

This mostly-paved greenway path is perfect for all types of trail users, ranging from road cyclists (both recreational cyclists and commuters) to walkers/hikers, runners, skaters, and more. However, note that there are some gravel, dirt, and road sections used to connect the segments of paved path.

Sources: https://highlinecanal.org/guide/