Feeling Footloose? The 5 Best Walking/Running Trails Near Johnstown and Denver

Walking and running are perfect physical activities for any lifestyle. They can be done year-round and the only cost is a sturdy pair of shoes.

Enjoy some fresh air and spectacular scenery at these great trails near our Springs Denver luxury apartment communities.

Longmont-to-Boulder Regional Trail
1800 Creekside Dr., Longmont
303.678.6200
4.9 miles from Springs at Sandstone Ranch

The Longmont-to-Boulder Regional Trail, or LoBo as it's referred to by residents, is a 12-mile system that connects the two cities. LoBo Trail is largely unpaved, with a few points where you pass along local streets to reach the next trail section. Take in the beautiful views of Indian Peaks, local parks and grasslands along the way. LoBo Trail is also open to mountain biking. In Longmont, access the trail at Lefthand Creek Park. Trail hours are sunrise to sunset.

Golden Ponds Nature Area
2651 - 3rd Ave., Longmont
303.651.8418
4.9 miles from Springs at Sandstone Ranch

Four ponds covering 56 acres give this park a feeling of serenity. Wildlife sightings, particularly waterfowl such as great blue herons and cormorants, are common along the 2.6 miles of trails. Don't miss the bronze sculpture just west of the parking lot depicting Vern Golden — who donated the land to Longmont — teaching a young boy to fish. Daily hours are one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset.

Devil's Backbone
1725 Hidden Valley Dr., Loveland
970.498.7000
10.0 miles from Springs at 2534

This devilish-sounding open space is actually more than 2,000 acres of some of the most stunning scenery in the area. The 12 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails pass by wildflower-filled grasslands, dramatic rock formations and the Devil's Backbone itself. Check out the parking lot webcam online to see how busy the trail is. Hours are sunrise to sunset, and leashed dogs are welcome.

Poudre River Trail
6371 E. County Rd. 32 E., Windsor
970.336.4044
8.1 miles from Springs at 2534

This 21-mile trail takes its name from the majestic Cache la Poudre River that serves as the centerpiece. The trail spans Greeley to Windsor and it's open to running, walking, cycling and rollerblading. Leashed dogs are allowed, and there's an off-leash dog park just off the trail in Greeley. Access the trail at River Bluffs Open Space trailhead. Hours are sunrise to sunset.

Cherry Creek State Park
4201 S. Parker Rd., Aurora
303.690.1166
12.1 miles from Springs at Eagle Bend

Want to include some variety in your activities? Cherry Creek is the place for you. In addition to 12 miles of multi-use trails that accommodate hiking and running, bicycling and horseback riding, the park offers seasonal facilities for fishing, volleyball, sledding, cross-country skiing, boating, swimming, picnicking and even model airplane flying. Leashed dogs are permitted on several of the trails, and there is also an off-leash section. Park hours are 5 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily.

Do you have a favorite walking and hiking spot to add to this list? Share it with us in the comments!