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United States
Colorado
Denver County
Denver

Bluff Lake Nature Area – Bluff Lake Park loop from Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Routes
United States
Colorado
Denver County
Denver

Bluff Lake Nature Area – Bluff Lake Park loop from Denver Museum of Nature and Science

Easy

3.3

(8)

66

riders

Bluff Lake Nature Area – Bluff Lake Park loop from Denver Museum of Nature and Science

01:57

36.3km

110m

Gravel riding

Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: June 8, 2026

Tips

Temporary access restrictions

Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.

After 32.7 km for 76 m

Customers only

Waypoints

A

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1

4.98 km

Westerly Creek Park

Highlight (Segment) • Structure

2

9.42 km

Bluff Lake Nature Area

Highlight • Lake

Bikes are not allowed on the trail but there is a place to lock them up. Also no dogs

Tip by

3

9.57 km

Bluff Lake Park

Highlight • Lake

Bluff Lake is the largest natural open space in Denver. This park is managed as a wild habitat to allow the fauna and flora to flourish there. You can also …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

4

14.7 km

The Morrison Nature Center is one of the most beautiful sections of the Sand Creek Greenway. Here, at the banks of Sand Creek, you can spot all kind of wildlife throughout the year.

Tip by

15.2 km

Morrison Nature Center

Nature Reserve

6

18.0 km

Sandy Creek Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Sandy Creek Trail is a 13-mile path connecting Aurora, Denver, and Commerce City. The path is a mix of pavement, crushed gravel, and dirt. It is popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Tip by

7

21.3 km

Morrison Nature Center

Highlight • Natural

The Morrison Nature Center is one of the most beautiful sections of the Sand Creek Greenway. Here, at the banks of Sand Creek, you can spot all kind of wild life throughout the year.

Tip by

8

27.7 km

View of Sand Creek

Highlight • Viewpoint

Great turn around point at the bridge to connect paved and gravel section of Sand Creek Trail.

Tip by

9

29.8 km

Central Park

Highlight • Natural

Central Park is an 80-acre park with miles of paved paths to choose from. There is also an amphitheater, playground, fountain, and a picnic area.

Tip by

B

36.3 km

End point

Bus stop

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

19.1 km

10.6 km

4.68 km

1.55 km

226 m

153 m

Surfaces

11.0 km

8.78 km

7.86 km

7.38 km

936 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (1,660 m)

Lowest point (1,600 m)

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Weather

Powered by Foreca

Today

Thursday 25 June

23°C

15°C

86 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Description

If you're looking for an easy gravel biking route that offers a taste of Denver's urban greenways and views toward natural areas, the Bluff Lake Nature Area – Bluff Lake Park loop from Denver Museum of Nature and Science is an interesting option. This route, rated easy, covers 22.6 miles (36.3 km) with a gentle 376 feet (115 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hours and 56 minutes. It's ideal for a relaxed ride exploring the city's bike-friendly paths, though it's crucial to note that bikes are not permitted inside the Bluff Lake Nature Area itself.

What to expect on Bluff Lake Nature Area – Bluff Lake Park loop from Denver Museum of Nature and Science

This gravel biking route primarily navigates the areas surrounding the Bluff Lake Nature Area, offering a blend of urban landscapes and expansive parks. You'll encounter a mix of smooth dirt, crushed gravel surfaces, and some paved sections as you ride. While you can't bike directly through the wildlife refuge, you can enjoy views of the Bluff Lake Nature Center, an urban wildlife refuge known for its abundant animals and native plants, from its perimeter or nearby trails. The ride is mostly flat with gentle grades, making it suitable for all skill levels looking for a leisurely outing with distant views of the Rocky Mountains.

Planning your visit

Before you head out, be aware that the Bluff Lake Nature Area explicitly prohibits bikes to protect its sensitive habitats. If your route takes you to the Nature Area, you'll need to park your bike at designated racks and explore on foot. The broader Denver area is recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Community, so you'll find plenty of connecting multi-use paths. Parking is available near the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, and public transportation options are also accessible in this urban setting. This route is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures.

Trail details

  • Distance: 22.6 miles (36.3 km)
  • Elevation gain: 376 feet (115 metres)
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Estimated time: 1 hours and 56 minutes

Nearby routes

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3.8

85

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Perimeter Trail

03:58h

43.4km

130m

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