Unique Things to Do in Denver
Denver's most unique experiences include running the 315 steps at Red Rocks Amphitheatre (free, 6,450 ft elevation), Confluence Park where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte for urban kayaking, and Carla Madison Rec Center's rooftop pool with mountain views.
7 places · 5 free · Updated Oct 2026
315 steps across 69 rows, 145 feet of elevation gain at 6,450 feet. People run stairs here year-round. Trading Post Trail is a 1.4-mile easy loop, Red Rocks Trail is a 6-mile loop with 1,300 feet of gain. Stairs close during concerts and events.
40-mile paved trail from Confluence Park in LoDo southeast to Cherry Creek State Park. The popular 11-mile stretch from Confluence Park to the reservoir is flat and heavily used by cyclists, runners, and skaters. Connects to the Platte River Trail for a 100+ mile network.
284 acres around Denver's largest lake. 2.6-mile flat paved loop for running, walking, biking. Tennis courts, basketball courts, soccer fields, two playgrounds, and kayaking/paddleboarding on the lake (non-motorized boats allowed).
18-acre park where Cherry Creek meets the South Platte in LoDo. The 16th Street Wave is a man-made whitewater feature for kayaking, river surfing, and SUP. Confluence Kayaks (2301 7th St) rents gear nearby. Free to visit.
28-mile paved trail along the South Platte from Chatfield State Park through downtown to Brighton. Connects to Cherry Creek Trail at Confluence Park for 100+ miles of trails. Flat, good for cycling, running, skating. Free. Downtown section goes past REI and several breweries.
2,600 acres with a swim beach, kayaking/SUP lake, 15 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, horseback riding, archery range, and disc golf. Vehicle entry $10 weekdays, $12 weekends. Kayak and SUP rentals in summer.
Kayak and SUP rental shop near Confluence Park. Single kayak $50/day, SUP $55/day. Also guided river trips, instruction, and tube rentals for floating the South Platte in summer. Right next to Cherry Creek and Platte River trails.