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Best Denver Nature Walks

When it comes to preventing and even treating heart disease, exercise is a key component. And, if you can also get outside and enjoy nature, you can also feel more relaxed and less stressed. As your Denver cardiologist, this is what we call a “win-win” for your heart health.

Fortunately, we all live around Denver, a place where many people come for vacations and taking in our natural beauty. So, why not get out and enjoy a little bit of it while the weather is warm? Today, we take a look at some of the best Denver nature walks.  Most of these walks are rated as “easy,” but they do take some time to complete. As a result, please consult with your doctor to ensure you are physically able to spend a few hours walking.

Sloan’s Lake Loop

Sloan’s Lake Loop is a top Denver nature walk and is considered as easy at 2.6 miles with an estimated time of a little over an hour to complete. Again, this is subjective and will depend on your physical health, so we would gage about 2 hours to be safe. After all, you will want to take in the surrounding natural scenery and the lake! Also, it is in the heart (pardon the pun) of the city, so it is easily accessible.  The walk itself provides lovely views of the Denver skyline and the mountains to the west. The one downside, the trail can be crowded at times, so try and do morning or evening times. We have heard there are lovely sunset views if you choose the evening!

Writer’s Vista Park Trail

Just around the corner from our office, this is a beautiful short trail at only 1.3 miles and lightly trafficked. This trail is excellent for all skill levels and starts right at Writers Vista Park off of Mineral, west of Broadway. The path skirts the north edge of McLellan Reservoir and takes you to South Park Pool. Then, you simply return the way you came, back to Writer’s Vista Park.

High Line Canal Loop Trail

Here is another popular Denver nature walk in Littleton. It starts and ends on Orchard Road, about a half-mile west of Holly. This loop is 4.2 miles and, like Writers Vista, is relatively flat. Some reviewers do mention there is not much shade on this trail, so you may want to tackle this one in cooler morning hours before the heat of the day. But, it is still scenic as you wander through open meadows and amongst large homes. The trail does feature a lake as you reach the most northern section of the loop, making for a very scenic and peaceful nature walk.

Green Mountain and Hayden Trail Loop

Staying in the south metro area, the Green Mountain and Hayden Trail loop is off of Alameda Parkway, west of Mississippi. This trail is a little more moderate than the others but still rated as easy. There is an incline to start the path, which can be a bit surprising. But, after the incline, it becomes relatively flat. The loop itself is 3.2 miles and features wildflowers and a great view of the surrounding area and foothills.

Regardless of what nature walk you decide upon, be sure to use sunscreen, wear good shoes, and have a couple of bottles of water with you. While you are just walking, you will be burning calories, which means hydration is essential. In the summer months, we do recommend trying to avoid crowds and the heat of the day, so do plan for mornings or late afternoon.

South Denver Cardiology
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