9 Creeks Loop Invites You (The Backstory!)

Getting a chance to walk in Denver in good conditions on an award-winning trail system must be the luck of a lottery ticket draw. I can’t believe Denver has such a wonderful treasure right under our noses, and so many have yet to discover this amazing 9 Creeks Loop. Chris walked this 42-mile circumference over eight hot summer days, and I am thrilled to share it with you. I have visions that the 9 Creeks Loop will become a vacation destination for walking travelers once the word gets out about the variety, the adventure, and the ease of use this tremendous Loop presents.

Why Go to the Rockies When You Can Stay in Denver?

Chris originally dreamed up the idea when she heard some hikers as they arrived at the Denver airport. Packed up with their 40-pound packs, they were headed to the Colorado Trail for a multi-day walking vacation. Despite their worry about the altitude of the Colorado Trail and their access to provisions, their excitement built around the beauty they hoped to encounter.

Then it struck her.

Why couldn’t you have a fabulous walking vacation right here in Denver and take advantage of all of Denver’s bounty and beauty without 10,000-14,000 feet of elevation? Thousands of travelers bypass Denver for the Rockies; what about our own Denver residents? Are they even aware of the great walking and trekking right here in Denver? Thus, the 9 Creeks Loop idea was born.

The 9 Creeks Loop is a great way for locals and visitors to get their high-altitude chops at a lower altitude. Hikers can acclimate on the 9 Creeks Loop at the high altitude of 5280 feet before they head off to the higher elevations in the Rocky Mountains.

9 Creeks Loop Is Born

After pulling out her Denver Regional Trail System maps, it became clear that an accessible loop around Denver’s perimeter could be established. This journey crossing 9 creeks while venturing through urban and suburban areas, offers some amazing wildlife, including deer, beavers, egrets, prairie dogs and perhaps even a bison. Just the type of urban hike that might actually draw locals, tourists, and travelers alike. Thus, the 9 Creeks Loop passing the watersheds of First Creek, Second Creek, Sand Creek, Coal Creek, Cherry Creek, Dry Creek, Toll Gate Creek, High Line Canal, and Platte River came alive.

Let the Miles Begin

To read about each mile of the trip and how to actually walk the 9 Creeks Loop, start with this post, 9 Creeks Loop Segment 1, Sand Creek Greenway Segment 1 Miles 0-5. Tell me about your adventure by tagging your pictures and posts with #9creeksdbf.