Sloan Lake is Denver's largest lake and one of the city's most popular urban parks, sitting at the crossroads of the Edgewater and West Colfax neighborhoods. The 177-acre lake offers a roughly 2.7-mile paved loop trail that draws runners, walkers, rollerbladers, and cyclists every day of the week. On clear days, you get sweeping views of the Rocky Mountain front range to the west and the downtown Denver skyline to the east, making this one of the best sunset spots in the metro area.
Walking and running are the primary activities at Sloan Lake, and the flat, paved path makes a full loop in about an hour at a walking pace. The trail is wheelchair accessible and smooth enough for strollers, though it can get narrow and crowded on weekends. Rollerblading and skateboarding are common along the path, but the heavy foot traffic means biking can be frustrating during peak hours.
Sloan Lake is one of the only spots in Denver where boating is allowed. Kayaking and paddleboarding require a permit from Denver Parks and Recreation, and you will regularly see paddleboarders and even the occasional water skier out on the water during warmer months. Sailing has a long history here as well, with locals recalling decades of weekend sailing sessions.
Fishing is permitted at Sloan Lake, and anglers do cast from the shore year-round. Keep in mind that the city has posted water quality advisories in the past, including toxic algae warnings, so always check current conditions before eating your catch. The lake freezes over during winter, which brings a different kind of beauty to the loop but eliminates water activities until spring.
Dog walking is popular along the trail, but dogs must remain on leash at all times. Rangers actively patrol and enforce a $100 fine for off-leash violations. The park includes a beach area, multiple playgrounds, open green spaces for picnicking, and trash and recycling bins stationed around the loop.
The Edgewater strip along Sheridan Boulevard sits just west of the lake and offers quick access to restaurants, coffee shops, and breweries like Joyride Brewing and Odell's Brewing. Sloan Lake also hosts the annual Colorado Dragon Boat Festival, one of the largest Asian American cultural events in the region. Parking lots are located on the north and south sides of the lake, though spots fill up fast on sunny days. Restroom facilities have been under renovation, so expect portable toilets in some areas until construction wraps up.