Even for seasoned road runners, trail running is a totally different experience with a whole new set of challenges. If you’re looking to get off the pavement and maybe gain some elevation, here are eight excellent Colorado trails.
North Table Mountain: , this gem has 15 miles of trails around and on top of the mesa. The 500-foot climbs to get up the mesa are steep but worth it.
Green Mountain: The second-largest park in Lakewood with more than 2,400 acres of open space, Green Mountain has , offering panoramic views of the metro area.
Bear Creek Lake Park: Located just as well as asphalt roads and concrete bike paths (and a swim beach). Paths along the creek offer some shade. Entering the park via vehicle costs $10, but most people wanting to run or bike park just west of C-470 at Morrison Road, across the street from the gas station, and run or ride into the park for free.
Mount Falcon Park: This park has 12.2 miles of trails of arduous climbs with a 2,000-foot elevation gain. Be forewarned: It can be hard to get a parking space.
Matthews/Winters Park: and bordering Red Rocks Park, Matthews/Winters has a challenging but rewarding trail. There are switchbacks that rise to a wide shelf across from Dakota Ridge before dropping into Red Rocks Park. Some runners combine those trails with the Dakota Ridge hogback across the highway, a run of about 7 miles in total. Or you can connect to the roads and trails in Red Rocks Park. Parking can be an issue.
Flatirons Vista/Greenbelt Plateau: There is some outstanding trail running south of Boulder on either side of the intersection where Colorado highways 93 and 128 meet. On the west side of 93, park at and roam trails heading toward the mountains with great views of the Flatirons and Eldorado Canyon. On the east side of 93, park at the , then run east on rolling terrain toward Superior or north to Marshall Mesa.
White Ranch Park: Located northwest of Golden on the west side of Colorado 93, White Ranch has 20 miles of trails and is the largest park in the Jeffco Open Space system.
Elk Meadow Park: Located , you just might see herds of elk while running here. There are 14 miles of trails, including a 2,100-foot ascent to the summit of Bergen Peak.