In comparison to some of the lengthy, fantastic trails in the southern suburbs of Denver, the Lee Gulch Trail may not seem like anything special. However, it offers a wonderfully useful off-road connection between the popular Mary Carter Greenway and the backbone of the area's trail system, the High Line Canal Trail. Along the way, it provides local residents with access to numerous destinations, including a bevy of neighborhood parks and schools.

The trail's western end connects to the Mary Carter Greenway at an overlook above the South Platte River, a beautifully preserved area of Colorado grassland that offers gorgeous views of the Rocky Mountains to the west. The trail heads southeast along its namesake gulch, passing through a series of parks and quiet suburban neighborhoods, before it links up with the High Line Canal Trail in Horseshoe Park. Most of the trail is crushed stone, with some sparse tree cover - sunscreen is definitely called for excursions on sunny days. The trail continues on by the Littleton Adventist Hospital, turning south and passing through another park and middle school before coming to an end at S Clarkson Street. Users can also link-up with the C-470 Bikeway by making a very short on-road jaunt down Clarkson Street and across County Line Road, providing another valuable connection.

Parking and Trail Access

Parking is available at the trail's western end via a lot for the overlook off of S Santa Fe Drive, and at Horseshoe Park off of W Dry Creek Ct. Additional parking may be available on-street or at any of the several schools along the route of the trail; be sure to follow any posted signs or warnings.

To reach the western end of the trail from the direction of Denver, take I-25 south towards Littleton, then take exit 207B to get on US-85 heading south. Continue to follow US-85 as it becomes S Santa Fe Drive, and proceed south through Littleton. The parking lot for the overlook will be on the right side about a mile south of the city, just past W Weaver Avenue.