Piney Creek Trail

This komoot route, spanning over 44 kilometers, is rated as difficult due to its significant length and duration. While sections of the Piney Creek Trail itself are paved and generally easy, this particular route combines multiple trails, making it a challenging endeavor suitable for experienced hikers or cyclists.

The estimated duration for this extensive route is approximately 11 hours and 35 minutes. This time can vary based on your pace, the number of stops you make, and whether you are hiking or cycling.

The komoot route for Piney Creek Trail is quite long and can be accessed from various points. A common access point for the paved Piney Creek Trail is near its dedicated trailhead in Aurora, which often includes parking facilities. Given the route's length, consider parking at one end and arranging transportation, or utilizing parking within Cherry Creek Park, which the route connects to.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Piney Creek Trail and within Cherry Creek Park. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Specific off-leash areas might be available within Cherry Creek State Park, but always check local signage.

The Piney Creek Trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while fall provides beautiful foliage. Summer can be hot, so an early start is recommended. Winter hiking is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice, especially on unpaved sections.

Since a significant portion of this route connects to and passes through Cherry Creek Park, you will likely need to pay an entrance fee for the state park. Daily passes or annual passes are available. Check the official Colorado Parks and Wildlife website for current fee structures and any specific permit requirements for certain activities.

This extensive route offers diverse terrain. It includes sections of the paved Piney Creek Trail, which winds through residential areas and parks. However, given its 'difficult' rating and length, it also incorporates unpaved sections, possibly with loose rocks or uneven surfaces, especially where it connects to other trails like the Cherry Creek Trail or other segments of the Denver Orbital Trail.

The route offers diverse scenery, including views of distant mountains on clear days, open green spaces, and passages through parks like Red-Tailed Hawk Park with its wetland boardwalk. It also connects to Cherry Creek Park, providing access to its amenities and natural beauty.

Yes, this extensive route incorporates sections of several other trails. It primarily follows the Piney Creek Trail (61%) but also includes parts of the Denver Orbital Trail - Segment 13 (8%), High Plains Trail (5%), Cherry Creek Trail (8%), and Sampson Gulch Trail (2%).

While sections of the paved Piney Creek Trail are easy and suitable for families, the overall komoot route is rated as difficult due to its length and duration (over 11 hours). It is not recommended for young children or beginners to attempt the entire route. Consider shorter, easier segments of the paved trail for family outings.

Along the Piney Creek Trail and within Cherry Creek Park, you might spot various birds, including waterfowl near the creeks and wetlands. Smaller mammals like rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs are also common. Keep an eye out for local flora, especially during spring and summer.

Given the route's length, facilities are available, particularly within the parks it passes through, such as Cherry Creek Park. The dedicated trailhead for the paved Piney Creek Trail also offers amenities like a bike pump station. However, it's always wise to carry sufficient water and plan your stops, especially for the longer, more remote sections.