The best walks and hikes around Northglenn
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Hiking around Northglenn, Colorado, is characterized by an extensive network of paved greenway trails that connect local parks and nature areas. The terrain is predominantly flat, making it suitable for accessible walks and family outings. The city's trail system links to larger regional routes, including the Big Dry Creek and South Platte River trails, offering options for longer excursions. Northglenn features several nature areas like Oscar Arnold Nature Area and Croke Reservoir Nature Area, which provide immersive natural experiences with diverse wildlife habitats.
Best hiking trails around Northglenn
- The most popular hiking route is Westminister City Park to Metzger Farm Open Space via Big Dry Creek Trail, a 7.6 miles (12.3 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 10 minutes to complete. This route follows a section of the well-known Big Dry Creek Trail.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Valente Lake via South Platte River Trail — Thornton, Colorado, a moderate 8.7 miles (14.0 km) path. The trail follows the South Platte River and provides access to the lake area.
- Local hikers also love the Broomfield County Commons Open Space loop, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail leading through a large park, often completed in about 1 hour.
- Hiking around Northglenn is defined by paved greenway paths, riverside trails, and routes through city parks and nature preserves. The network offers a variety of easy and moderate routes suitable for different fitness levels.
- The routes in Northglenn are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from a number of reviews. More than 150 hikers have used komoot to explore Northglenn's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
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3.29km
00:50
10m
10m
Embark on the Carpenter Park Loop for an easy hike through Margaret W. Carpenter Park and Open Space. This route offers pleasant views of the park's serene lakes, where you can often spot migrating birds in spring and fall, or even turtles and raccoons near the water's edge. Covering a gentle 2.0 miles (3.3 km) with only 32 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, you can complete this family-friendly loop in about 50 minutes. While some parts of the trail might have background noise from 112th Avenue, the paved path ensures a smooth and accessible experience for everyone.
Planning your visit to Carpenter Park Loop is straightforward. The trail is open every day, from 6 AM until 11 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a morning stroll or an evening walk. You will find parking generally available within the park, making access convenient for drivers. Even in winter, the paved sections of the loop are plowed, ensuring that you can still enjoy this easy route even after snowfall. This makes it a reliable option for outdoor activity year-round.
This loop is a great choice for a quick outdoor escape within a developed recreational area. The park's lakes are a highlight, providing a habitat for various wildlife, including migrating birds and small animals like turtles and raccoons. It offers a simple, accessible way to connect with nature without venturing far from urban conveniences. Consider this route for a relaxed outing that caters to all ages and fitness levels.
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1.27km
00:19
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Embark on the Hunters Glen Lake Loop for an easy hike that circles the peaceful Hunters Glen Lake. This short route offers a relaxing stroll through a residential community, providing a pleasant escape into nature. You will cover 0.8 miles (1.3 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 8 feet (3 metres), making it perfect for a gentle walk. Expect to complete this easy loop in about 19 minutes, enjoying the quiet atmosphere as you go.
This easy route is readily accessible within Hunters Glen Park, making it a convenient option for a local outing. You will find parking generally available in the surrounding residential area, so planning your arrival is straightforward. There are no permits or fees required to enjoy this community amenity, allowing for spontaneous visits. It is an ideal spot if you are looking for a quick and accessible outdoor experience without any hassle.
Beyond just hiking, Hunters Glen Lake offers opportunities for non-motorized watercraft, allowing you to enjoy the water from a different perspective. You can also try your hand at fishing in the lake, adding another recreational dimension to your visit. This trail stands out as a versatile community amenity, providing a peaceful setting for various outdoor activities right within the residential area.
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6.95km
01:46
10m
20m
The South Platte River Trail offers a refreshing, easy escape into nature right within the city. This 4.3-mile (6.9 km) hiking route is mostly paved and flat, with a gentle 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect choice for a leisurely 1 hour and 45 minute stroll. You'll follow the river, enjoying views of the water and passing through pleasant green spaces like the Elaine T. Valente Open Space, home to Valente Lake.
Accessing this urban greenway is straightforward, with various parking access points available along its length. Given its easy nature and urban amenities, it's a great option for a quick walk or bike ride any time of year, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures. You'll find frequent rest stops and even cafes nearby, making it easy to extend your outing.
This section of the South Platte River Greenway is part of a much larger network, connecting to other regional trails like the Cherry Creek Trail. It's a fantastic example of urban revitalization, offering a chance to see wildlife in a riparian environment and providing a family-friendly activity. You might even catch glimpses of city landmarks like Empower Field at Mile High from certain viewpoints along the trail.
14.6km
03:45
60m
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Hike the 9.1-mile Big Dry Creek Trail, a moderate route through open spaces and riparian corridors with urban wildlife sightings.
7.64km
01:58
50m
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The Denver Orbital Trail - Segment 24 offers a refreshing urban hike, guiding you along greenway corridors that blend natural beauty with city convenience. You'll experience a gentle journey past serene blue ponds and through the expansive Walnut Creek Open Space, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed outing. This easy 4.7-mile (7.6 km) route, with a minimal 166 feet (51 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a leisurely walk or a quick escape into nature, taking approximately 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is conveniently located at both ends of the segment. If you prefer not to drive, one end of the trail is also accessible via public transportation, offering flexibility for your trip. This segment is enjoyable throughout the year, providing a pleasant experience whether you're looking for a morning stroll or an afternoon adventure.
As part of the larger 177-mile Denver Orbital Trail, this segment showcases how Denver integrates natural waterways into its urban environment, providing valuable recreational opportunities. The trail system, conceived by Michael Tormey, aims to make thru- and section hiking more accessible, allowing you to enjoy quality outdoor experiences without needing to drive far into the mountains. It's a testament to the city's commitment to connecting communities with nature.
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Tips from the Community
The Big Dry Creek Trail is located in Westminster and spans 12 miles from Interstate 25 to Standley Lake. The multi-use trail features a mostly flat terrain with occasional moderate uphill, passing through open spaces, parks, and neighborhoods. It includes a short on-road section near 99th Street and connects to the US 36 Bikeway, which links Denver and Boulder. Due to the Big Dry Creek stream bank restoration project, there will be periodic closures through fall 2024, and a section will remain closed through summer 2025, with detours available.
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Valente Lake serves as the centerpiece of Elaine T. Valente Open Space Park. The park features a couple paths that loop around the reservoirs, and the trails also connect over to the super popular South Platte River Greenway.
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Despite its name, Big Dry Creek isn't always dry. The creek receives water from several municipalities, ensuring a consistent flow. It starts its journey in the foothills of Jefferson County, Colorado, at a cool 8,000 feet elevation, before joining the South Platte River near Fort Lupton.
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Valente Lake serves as the centerpiece of Elaine T. Valente Open Space Park. The park features a couple paths that loop around the reservoirs, and the trails also connect over to the super popular South Platte River Greenway.
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To the west of the Platte River and its popular trail, you can discover this peaceful park, which is usually not very crowded. Here, you'll find a lovely and serene lake that you can cycle around on the trails. Additionally, there are restrooms, a gazebo area, and if you wish to take a break, you can also relax on the benches by the water.
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This memorial is dedicated to all those who have served in any branch of the armed services. It features a water fountain, benches, granite pillars, and unique statues of soldiers.
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The Big Dry Creek Open Space boundary actually follows a semi-narrow corridor along the Big Dry Creek waterway. The Big Dry Creek Trail is the most popular within the Nature Reserve and follows the heart of the entire area that the reserve covers.
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One of the many open spaces within the city of Westminster, Walnut Creek connects to a trail network of over 120 miles. Included in these trails is the 16-mile US 36 Bikeway, a paved bike path that runs from Boulder to Westminster.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails in Northglenn suitable for families with children?
Yes, Northglenn is an excellent choice for family outings. The terrain is mostly flat, and the city features an extensive network of paved Greenway Trails that are perfect for strollers and little legs. Parks like E.B. Rains, Jr. Memorial Park offer trails around Webster Lake, along with playgrounds. For a dedicated nature walk, the Broomfield County Commons Open Space loop is a short and easy trail through a large park.
Can I take my dog on the trails around Northglenn?
Absolutely. Most of the trails in Northglenn's parks and greenways are dog-friendly, as long as your dog is kept on a leash. The paved paths of the Greenway Trail system are particularly good for walking with your canine companion. A great option is the Big Dry Creek Trail to College Pond loop, which offers a pleasant walk along a well-maintained path.
Are there any paved trails for walking or running?
Yes, Northglenn is known for its extensive network of over 35 miles of paved Greenway Trails. These paths are well-maintained and weave through the city, connecting numerous parks and nature areas. They are ideal for walking, running, and cycling. A significant portion of this system follows the Farmers' Highline Canal Trail.
Does Northglenn have any challenging mountain hikes?
Northglenn itself is characterized by flat, accessible trails within its parks and greenways. You won't find rugged mountain hiking within the city limits. However, its location in the metro area provides easy access to more challenging terrain. A short drive will take you to the foothills of the Rocky Mountains for more strenuous mountain adventures.
What are some good spots for seeing wildlife or scenic views?
For wildlife and peaceful scenery, visit one of Northglenn's nature areas. The Croke Reservoir Nature Area is a popular spot for birdwatching, with a trail circling the water. The Oscar Arnold Nature Area features wetlands and mature cottonwoods, attracting a variety of birds and small mammals. For a longer walk with river views, consider the Twin Lakes Park to Lowell Ponds Wildlife Area via Clear Creek Trail.
How do Northglenn's trails connect to other regional systems?
Northglenn's Greenway Trail system serves as a hub, connecting to several major regional trails. You can easily access the Big Dry Creek Trail, which runs through Westminster, and the South Platte River Trail, which extends through Thornton and beyond. These connections allow for much longer hikes or bike rides, expanding your options into neighboring communities.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, you can find several enjoyable loop trails. These are great for when you want to end up back where you started without retracing your steps. A highly-regarded local option is the trail at Eastlake #3 Park & Nature Preserve, which offers a scenic loop around the lake. Mushroom Pond Trailhead also features a pleasant gravel loop trail.
What should I wear for hiking in the Northglenn area?
For hikes on Northglenn's paved trails, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are usually sufficient. Because Colorado weather can change quickly, it's always wise to dress in layers. A light jacket, sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and carrying water are recommended, even for shorter walks.
Are the trails accessible for hiking in the winter?
Many of the main paved Greenway Trails in Northglenn are maintained and cleared of snow, making them accessible for walking year-round. However, natural surface trails in the nature areas may become icy or muddy. Always check conditions before you go and consider wearing shoes with good traction or microspikes if it's icy.
Where can I find a quieter, less-crowded trail?
For a more peaceful experience, try exploring some of the local nature preserves. Eastlake #3 Park & Nature Preserve is often described by locals as a hidden gem with great scenery and opportunities for birdwatching. Similarly, the Signal Ditch Trail in nearby Thornton is a well-regarded green space that tends to be less busy than the major regional trails.
How many hiking routes are available around Northglenn?
There are over 45 hiking routes to explore in and around Northglenn on komoot. The selection is dominated by easy, accessible trails, with about 35 marked as easy and 10 as moderate, ensuring plenty of options for different fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Northglenn?
The trails around Northglenn are well-regarded by the komoot community, which has given them an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paved paths and the easy access to nature within a suburban setting.
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