Aurora Reservoir Trail

Illustration of the region, not this trail.

• Distance8.75 mi
• Elevation gain75 ft
• Leash ruleLeash required
• Water on trailReservoir shoreline (dogs are not allowed at the swim beach)
• SeasonYear-round; open 362 days; windy and shadeless
• ParkingLarge paved lots inside the gate; rarely full outside summer weekends
• FeeDaily or annual Aurora reservoir pass required (2026 annual $75 resident / $85 non-resident); state-park passes are not valid
• RestroomsRestrooms at the swim beach and marina
• Managed byCity of Aurora Parks, Recreation & Open Space

The paved 8.75-mile loop around Aurora Reservoir is the longest uninterrupted flat walk on the east side of the metro, with the Front Range lined up across the water. It is entirely exposed, so it is a sunrise route in summer and a pleasant one in winter when the wind lies down. Dogs must be leashed (Aurora allows up to 10 feet) and are barred from the swim beach, but there are quiet shoreline spots on the east side for a paddle. Cyclists move fast on the paved loop; stay right. Suits endurance walkers, bike-joring, and dogs who need miles without foothills traffic.

After the hike

More trails near Aurora

• Cherry Creek State Park Dog Off-Leash Area

  Off-leash allowed in designated area (pass required); leash elsewhere in the park
  Aurora
• Sand Creek Greenway from Star K Ranch

  Leash required · 14 mi
  Aurora

All dog-friendly hikes near Aurora → · Aurora dog guide