To explore the High Line Canal, an impressive greenway stretching over 71 miles, one must first venture through Littleton’s Waterton Canyon, where nature thrives and outdoor enthusiasts escape the daily grind.
The journey begins on a wide dirt road for a two-mile trek filled with sights and sounds of nature, including the melodic calls of yellow warblers flitting among the cottonwood trees.
Upon reaching the South Platte River, you stand at the official Mile 0 of the High Line Canal trail, a significant historical spot where a dam and a long tunnel were constructed in the late 1880s to supply water to pioneers during the Gold Rush.
This remarkable canal, which surpasses even New York City’s Central Park in area, meanders through 11 jurisdictions and crosses various highways on its route from Waterton Canyon to Aurora, nearly touching Denver International Airport.
Historian Tom Noel explains that the canal embodies the transformation of the “great American desert into a major metropolis,” highlighting its significance in the development of the region.
Originally built to deliver irrigation water to neighboring farms, the High Line Canal has transitioned over time into a recreational sanctuary for thousands of residents living nearby.
Yet, despite its potential, the trail has faced challenges due to its lack of thoughtful design, which has led to navigational difficulties, disconnections, and deviations along the route.
The High Line Canal Conservancy, created eleven years ago, is leading efforts to evolve the once utilitarian passageway into a vibrant recreational trail and stormwater management corridor for the Front Range.
With plans for more than $100 million in investments over the next five years, enhancements will focus on increasing access points, improving signage, enhancing safety at crossings, restoring natural habitats, and adding community-focused amenities.
Over 60 percent of these funds are earmarked for segments in the northeast that have historically received minimal investment due to the lack of water reaching those areas and socioeconomic factors.
As community input shapes the upcoming initiatives, Suzanna Fry Jones, the conservancy’s chief programs and impact officer, emphasizes the goal of creating a more welcoming and comfortable environment for community enjoyment.
Interestingly, many Coloradans remain unaware of the High Line’s expansive beauty, even those who consider it their local backyard trail.
Now is the perfect time to discover the scenic, historical, and recreational journey the trail offers, with various sections appealing to different interests.
### History of the High Line Canal
The roots of the High Line Canal date back to 1881 during a population boom in the Front Range fueled by the Gold Rush.
Pioneers James Duff and Benjamin Harrison Eaton recognized an opportunity to generate revenue by diverting water from the South Platte River to local farmers, paving the way for the canal’s construction financed by British investors.
By 1883, the painstakingly hand-dug canal was completed, utilizing an engineering principle driven by gravity to navigate the region’s changing terrain.
In 1924, ownership transferred to Denver Water for $1.05 million, vastly benefiting agricultural productivity by irrigating over 20,000 acres at its peak.
The High Line Canal faced a significant shift in the years that followed, with the utility allowing recreational activities like walking and cross-country skiing along the canal, leading to designations that recognized its historical significance.
In 2014, the establishment of the High Line Canal Conservancy marked the beginning of efforts to preserve and enhance the canal’s route, and by 2024, a portion of the canal will be protected as open space.
However, water delivery remains a challenge, as Denver Water has not run water through the canal since 2021, mainly due to diminishing water rights and significant evaporation losses.
The canal, once deemed inefficient for modern water delivery, offers unique recreational opportunities for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers alike.
### Best Parts of the High Line Canal
The journey along the High Line Canal reveals numerous noteworthy segments and features that enhance the experience of traversing this historic route.
**Mile 0** begins at an impressive diversion dam that has shaped the region’s water management for over 145 years.
**Mile 6** takes visitors past the Denver Polo Club, where horseback riders share the path with trail users, adding to the scenic charm of the route.
At **Mile 14**, the trail features three wooden flumes, historical structures showcasing innovative engineering that once facilitated water transport over lower elevations.
**Mile 14.5** is particularly delightful in the fall, as fruit trees bear edible treats along the path, inviting hikers and bikers to enjoy seasonal snacks.
Between **Miles 23 and 24**, the charming Imagination Tree offers a whimsical destination, inspiring creativity and storytelling among families and children.
One of the most picturesque spots on the canal is found at **Mile 26.25**, where a bench designed to resemble a wagon seat provides an ideal vantage point for observing local wildlife like eagles and great horned owls.
Visitors can discover remnants of the original 165 head gates controlling water flow at **Mile 30.5**, allowing nature enthusiasts to appreciate the canal’s engineering marvels while enjoying the natural landscape.
Creative public art, such as the “High Line Sunrise” mural at **Mile 38**, adds vibrant culture to the trail, showcasing contributions from local artists.
### Activities and Features Along the Trail
The High Line Canal accommodates a variety of activities, making it a versatile destination for all.
**For history buffs**, the Wild Canyon area at Miles 0–2 provides a glimpse into the historical context of the canal, including equipment used by Denver Water and the historic Kassler Water Treatment Plant.
For birdwatching enthusiasts, the section between **Miles 2 and 23.5**, known as the Rolling Foothills, boasts over 30 birding hotspots; the Platte Canyon Reservoir is particularly renowned for its bird diversity.
Horseback riding opportunities abound in the Wooded Village area between **Miles 23.5 and 37.5**, with ample trail space shaded by lush cottonwoods.
Cyclists will benefit from the hard-surfaced paths in the Urban Refuge segment, from **Miles 37.5 to 60**, which interface seamlessly with various neighborhood and regional trail networks.
Finally, for wildflower enthusiasts, the Prairie Retreat section showcases surprising biodiversity, including newly planted native species at Mile 65.
### Exploring the High Line Canal by Bike
Adventuring along the High Line Canal by bike presents a distinct experience, filled with unexpected challenges and breathtaking scenery.
For one cyclist, the initiation into the journey began in a seemingly mundane suburban neighborhood, later revealing the canal’s winding nature and the necessity for careful navigation through urban crossings.
After covering several miles and encountering obstacles such as dead-ends and water crossings, the enriched experience of discovering the metro area from a fresh perspective added to the journey’s allure.
While biking through parks and residential neighborhoods, riders encountered glimpses of the natural beauty that often goes unnoticed in a bustling urban environment.
The diverse experiences unwrapped throughout the trail foster a connection between cyclists and the landscape, creating cherished memories along the way.
### Tips for Hiking the High Line Canal Trail
For those eager to hike the High Line Canal, there are several practical tips to enhance the experience.
**1. Wear Comfortable Footwear:** While hiking boots may offer support on uneven terrains, sneakers are ideal for the paved surfaces of the canal.
**2. Pack Light:** Focus on essentials like water and snacks rather than hauling excessive supplies, as amenities are accessible along the route.
**3. Familiarize Yourself with the Route:** The canal’s design might lead to occasional confusion. Utilizing trail maps and becoming acquainted with the layout will improve navigation.
**4. Take Advantage of Facilities:** Restrooms are more prevalent on the southwestern end of the trail, so be sure to utilize them whenever available, especially as amenities become less frequent moving northeast.
**5. Enjoy Local Treats:** With numerous bakeries and cafes located nearby, consider indulging in a delightful pit stop during your hike.
### Noteworthy Side Trips Along the High Line Canal
Several exciting side trips enrich the High Line Canal experience, enabling adventurers to make the most of their visit.
For a refreshing swim, the stunning Waterton Canyon is a perfect retreat, with opportunities to cast for local fish or enjoy a leisurely splash in the water.
Families can find playgrounds near the canal in accessible parks, while disc golf enthusiasts can enjoy the challenging course at Expo Park.
Horseback riding adventures are available through local stables, providing historical insights and a unique experience along the scenic trail.
### Improvements on the High Line Canal
Significant developments are on the horizon for the High Line Canal, with several projects aimed at enhancing accessibility and preserving the natural environment.
The addition of student amenities near **Miles 57–59** will create inclusive educational spaces, while flood mitigation efforts across the canal will improve safety and ecological health.
Plans for safer road crossings will promote safety for trail users, particularly at busy intersections, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the canal.
Ongoing studies aim to resolve a long-standing gap at **Miles 9.75–11**, enhancing the trail’s continuity and enabling uninterrupted exploration.
As interpretive signage is developed, users can better understand the canal’s historical significance and appreciate its rich narrative.
### Supporting the High Line Canal
Community involvement is essential for the ongoing success of the High Line Canal.
Individuals can participate in organized cleanups, conduct pedestrian safety evaluations, or attend fundraising events to bolster support for this cherished resource.
By joining hands with the High Line Canal Conservancy, community members can play an integral role in preserving and enhancing the beauty of this unique trail for generations to come.
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