Sports and Recreation: Active Denver Entertainment Options

Denver, Colorado, known as the Mile-High City, is a haven for sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. With its stunning mountain backdrop and many parks, trails, and sports facilities, Denver offers endless opportunities for active entertainment. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to keep you engaged and fit. From traditional sports to unique recreational experiences like axe throwing, here’s a comprehensive guide to Denver’s best sports and recreation options.

Hiking and Biking Trails

Denver offers an array of scenic hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts. These trails provide stunning views, diverse terrains, and a great way to explore the area’s natural beauty.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its iconic natural amphitheater, it also boasts some of the best hiking trails in the area. Trails like the Trading Post Trail offer stunning views of the red rock formations and the surrounding landscape. The park is also a popular spot for mountain biking, with trails catering to beginners and experienced riders.

Cherry Creek Trail

The Cherry Creek Trail is a 40-mile pathway from downtown Denver to Franktown. It’s perfect for hiking and biking and offers scenic views of Cherry Creek and the city skyline. The trail is well-maintained and features numerous access points, making it convenient for a quick workout or a longer excursion.

Mount Falcon Park

Just a short drive from Denver, Mount Falcon Park offers a variety of trails that range from easy to challenging. Hikers and mountain bikers can explore the lush forests and open meadows, with trails leading to historic ruins and breathtaking vistas of the Front Range. The Castle Trail is particularly popular, offering a moderate hike with rewarding views.

Water Sports and Activities

Denver’s water sports and activities offer a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors. From kayaking and paddleboarding to boating and fishing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on the city’s lakes and rivers.

Confluence Park

Confluence Park, located at the confluence of Cherry Creek and the South Platte River, is a hub for water sports in Denver. Thanks to the park’s easy access to the river, kayaking, paddleboarding, and tubing are popular activities. The park also features a sandy beach area and plenty of green space for picnics and relaxation.

Chatfield Reservoir

Chatfield Reservoir, located in Chatfield State Park, is a great spot for various water sports. Boating, fishing, and jet skiing are popular here, and the reservoir also has a marina where equipment can be rented. The park offers camping facilities and a network of hiking and horseback riding trails, making it an excellent destination for a weekend getaway.

Sloan’s Lake

Sloan’s Lake, Denver’s largest lake, offers plenty of recreational opportunities. The lake is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. The surrounding park features a 2.6-mile trail perfect for walking, running, or biking. Sloan’s Lake also hosts various events and festivals annually, adding to its vibrant atmosphere.

Winter Sports and Skiing

Denver’s proximity to the Rockies makes it a prime destination for winter sports. Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are exhilarating activities in the nearby mountains.

Echo Mountain

Echo Mountain is one of the closest ski resorts to Denver, making it a convenient option for a quick winter getaway. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, with terrain suitable for all skill levels. Echo Mountain also features night skiing, allowing you to enjoy the slopes under the stars.

Eldora Mountain Resort

Located about an hour from Denver, Eldora Mountain Resort is a local favorite for its family-friendly atmosphere and diverse terrain. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Eldora’s Nordic Center has over 40 kilometers of groomed trails, providing a serene escape into the snowy wilderness.

Winter Park Resort

Winter Park Resort, located about 90 minutes from Denver, is one of Colorado’s premier ski destinations. The resort boasts over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, with runs for all abilities. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Winter Park offers snowcat tours, tubing, and ice skating. The resort’s charming village features shops, restaurants, and après-ski activities.

Team Sports and Facilities

Denver offers numerous facilities for team sports, including soccer fields, basketball courts, and baseball diamonds. These venues host leagues and recreational activities for all ages and skill levels, fostering a strong community spirit.

Denver Parks and Recreation

Denver Parks and Recreation operates numerous sports facilities and programs throughout the city. From basketball and volleyball courts to soccer fields and baseball diamonds, there are plenty of options for team sports. Many parks also offer leagues and classes for youth and adults, making staying active and meeting new people easy.

City Park

City Park, one of Denver’s largest and most popular parks, offers a variety of sports facilities. The park features tennis courts, soccer fields, and a golf course. It’s also home to the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, providing plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

Wash Park (Washington Park)

Wash Park is another favorite among Denver residents. It is known for its beautiful gardens and recreational facilities. The park features two lakes, tennis courts, and a large recreation center with an indoor pool and fitness classes. The expansive lawns are perfect for soccer, frisbee, or a casual game of catch.

Unique and Exciting Activities

Denver has various unique and exciting activities beyond the usual recreational options. From axe throwing to rock climbing and skydiving, these experiences offer thrilling adventures for those seeking something different.

Axe Throwing

For a unique and thrilling experience, try axe throwing. This rapidly growing sport combines skill, precision, and a bit of adrenaline. Many venues offer a fun and safe environment to learn and practice axe throwing. It’s a great activity for groups, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for something different to do.

Rock Climbing at Movement Climbing + Fitness

Denver is a hotspot for rock climbing, and Movement Climbing + Fitness offers top-notch facilities for climbers of all levels. With multiple locations around the city, Movement provides bouldering and rope climbing, fitness classes, and yoga. The gyms have state-of-the-art climbing walls and routes regularly updated to challenge and inspire climbers.

Skydiving With Mile-Hi Skydiving Center

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, consider skydiving with Mile-Hi Skydiving Center. Located just outside Denver, this center offers tandem skydives with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Experienced instructors ensure a safe and exhilarating experience, making it a perfect adventure for thrill-seekers.

Golf and Disc Golf

Denver’s golf and disc golf courses provide beautiful settings for traditional and disc golf enthusiasts. Enjoy well-maintained greens, scenic views, and challenging layouts that cater to players of all skill levels.

City Park Golf Course

City Park Golf Course, located in the heart of Denver, offers a scenic and challenging 18-hole course. With views of downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains, it’s a favorite among local golfers. The course features well-maintained greens, a driving range, and a clubhouse with dining facilities.

Kennedy Golf Course

Kennedy Golf Course is one of Denver’s premier golfing destinations, offering 27 holes of championship golf. The facility includes a par-3 course, a driving range, and a mini-golf course, making it suitable for golfers of all ages and skill levels. The lush fairways and picturesque setting provide a relaxing and enjoyable golfing experience.

Paco Sanchez Park Disc Golf Course

For those who prefer disc golf, Paco Sanchez Park offers one of the best courses in the city. The 18-hole course features a variety of challenging holes set amid rolling hills and mature trees. Disc golf is a fun and affordable way to enjoy the outdoors, and Paco Sanchez Park’s course is well-regarded by casual and competitive players.

Fitness and Wellness Centers

Denver’s fitness and wellness centers offer various activities and services to help you stay active and healthy. Many options suit your fitness needs, from state-of-the-art gyms and yoga studios to community recreation centers.

Denver Recreation Centers

Denver’s network of recreation centers offers a wide range of fitness and wellness programs. Facilities include weight rooms, swimming pools, basketball courts, and group fitness classes. With locations throughout the city, Denver Recreation Centers make it easy to stay active and healthy year-round.

Colorado Athletic Club

Colorado Athletic Club is a premier fitness center with multiple locations in the Denver area. The club offers state-of-the-art fitness equipment, personal training, and a variety of group classes, including yoga, Pilates, and cycling. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, spa services, and social events, providing a comprehensive wellness experience.

Yoga on the Rocks

At the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Yoga on the Rocks is a unique and inspiring fitness event. Practicing yoga in this stunning outdoor setting, with the sun rising over the red rock formations, is an unforgettable experience. The event attracts yoga enthusiasts of all levels and offers a sense of community and connection with nature.

Family-Friendly Activities

Denver provides a variety of family-friendly activities that ensure fun for all ages. From amusement parks and botanical gardens to aquariums and interactive exhibits, there’s always something exciting for families to explore together.

Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park

Elitch Gardens Theme and Water Park is a favorite destination for families in Denver. The park features thrilling roller coasters, family rides, and a water park with slides and wave pools. Special events and entertainment shows add to the fun, making it a perfect place for a family adventure day.

Denver Botanic Gardens

The Denver Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful and educational escape in the city. With 24 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, including a children’s garden, it’s a great place for families to explore. The gardens host various events and programs throughout the year, including concerts, art exhibits, and gardening workshops.

Downtown Aquarium

The Downtown Aquarium in Denver is a fun aquatic wonderland for all ages. The aquarium features a variety of exhibits showcasing marine life from around the world, including a walk-through tunnel and interactive touch tanks. The facility also includes a restaurant, where you can dine with views of the aquarium’s largest tank.

Denver’s Diverse and Dynamic Active Entertainment Scene

Denver’s active entertainment options are as diverse and dynamic as the city. From the thrill of axe throwing to the tranquility of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to stay fit, try something new, or have fun, Denver’s sports and recreation scene offers endless possibilities.

Visit our Propel Axe blog for more ideas and tips on active entertainment in Denver. Stay informed and discover the best ways to enjoy this vibrant city’s offerings.