The best running trails around Lakewood

Lakewood offers a diverse network of trails for runners. Our guide features 12 distinct running routes, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various fitness levels. The city itself boasts over 240 miles of trails across its extensive park system.

Lakewood's trails offer a wide variety of terrain. You'll find mostly paved and flat surfaces suitable for all skill levels, as well as uneven terrain with small hills. For more advanced runners, there are even steep sections with rocks and roots, particularly in areas like William Frederick Hayden Park on Green Mountain. This diversity allows you to choose routes that match your preference and fitness.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, areas like William Frederick Hayden Park on Green Mountain offer rewarding workouts with steep sections and significant elevation changes. The region's elevation, around 6,400 feet, also adds an extra challenge and training benefit to your run. One difficult route is the Rocky River Reservation – Rocky River Nature Center loop from Rocky River, which features over 110 meters of elevation gain.

Many trails in Lakewood, especially those on Green Mountain, offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Denver skyline and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. You can also enjoy scenic reservoir loops at Bear Creek Lake Park and Crown Hill Park. For urban landmarks, consider routes near the Cleveland Script Sign - Edgewater Park or Edgewater Beach.

Yes, many of Lakewood's trails are designed as loops, perfect for a continuous run. For example, the Seltzer Sculpture Garden loop from Lakewood is a moderate 12.2 km route. Crown Hill Park also features a 1.3-mile trail loop around Crown Hill Lake, offering pleasant views.

The running routes in Lakewood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Runners often praise the diverse landscape, the extensive park system, and the stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. The variety of terrain, from easy paths to challenging ascents, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Lakewood offers several easy and beginner-friendly options. Bear Creek Lake Park, for instance, is known for its easier, flatter terrain with paved and dirt trails. Crown Hill Park also provides over 10 miles of trails suitable for leisurely jogs. Our guide includes one route specifically rated as easy, and seven routes are considered moderate, offering accessible options for most runners.

Lakewood is generally dog-friendly, with many parks and open spaces welcoming leashed dogs. Crown Hill Park, for example, is a popular spot for dog walkers and runners. Always check specific park regulations and trail signage for any restrictions before heading out with your furry companion.

Lakewood is suitable for running year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer mornings and evenings are ideal to avoid the heat. Even in colder months, trails like Green Mountain and Bear Creek remain popular, transforming into 'winter wonderlands' after snowfall, suitable for activities like cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, and often still runnable. Be mindful of icy patches in winter, especially on higher elevation trails.

Lakewood's trail system is generally well-connected, and many parks are accessible via public transport routes. While specific public transport details for each trail are not provided in this guide, the city's location just 20 minutes west of downtown Denver makes it quite accessible. We recommend checking local RTD schedules for the most up-to-date information on bus stops near your chosen starting point.

Yes, most major parks and open spaces in Lakewood, such as William Frederick Hayden Park on Green Mountain, Bear Creek Lake Park, and Crown Hill Park, offer designated parking facilities for visitors. It's always a good idea to check the specific park's website or signage for parking availability and any potential fees before your visit.

Yes, Lakewood's trail system is well-connected. The Bear Creek Trail within Bear Creek Lake Park, for instance, connects to Denver's wider trail network, allowing for longer runs and extended exploration beyond the immediate Lakewood area.