The South Platte River Greenway is a lovely paved path surrounded by a picturesque urban landscape. The well-maintained pathway is a perfect getaway from the bustling Denver city. It meanders around the Platte river, right at Denver’s heart, where all the history happened. The trail was declared a national recreational trail in 1978, a few years after the Platte river was rehabilitated from pollution.
The trail suits all biking skill levels, including beginners, intermediate, and professional bikers. It has notable city attractions surrounding it and various amenities including local parks and commercial districts.
The South Platte River Greenway is 30 miles long. The trail starts at Denver’s farthest south, paralleling the Platte River and ends at Elaine T. Valente Open Space in the Northeastern part of the city. The trail's south section usually has more traffic and an industrial setting than the North. It connects to other trails like Sand Creek, Cherry Creek, and Clear Creek.
We began riding at Confluence Park. If you are downtown, get to the main entrance of REI Denver flagship store and keep east. The hardest part of the route is north of the trail, between 20th street and Confluence. The route is wide enough but could be wider without the painted dividing lines and bollards on some of its sections.
Some of the interesting spots the trail passes include:
Keep left to cross over to the eastern side of the river. Ride north of the trail as far as you can go. You will come by another confluence between Clear Creek and the South Platte River.
The South Platte River Greenway has a couple of interesting features. For coffee or lunch, make a stop at fuel café by exiting the trail at 31st street. Ride across to the west bank then keep north.
You can also stop and view the historic Riverside cemetery north of Race Street. Exit at Franklin Street, ride east, and then go north on to Race Street.
The stockyards complex north of Arkin Street is another exciting destination on the trail. Exit Globeville and keep north.
The South Platte River Greenway has plenty amazing sights. The old-time stock bridge that leads nowhere on 49th avenue is one of the catchy sights. We highly recommend stopping at Globeville and Argo parks to have a look at Denver’s former industrial center. You can also ride to the 104th avenue to see the small water projects and fishing holes that were formerly gravel mining operation areas.
Besides the notable city attractions, we found the high grasslands and sceneries of plains and rocks pretty impressive. The urban jungle is home to various animals like ducks, herons, muskrat, beavers and otters.
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