300 Days of Sunshine: Why Denver Students Live Outside (And Where to Find Apartments Near the Best Trails)

Ask any University of Denver student what surprised them most about moving to Colorado and you will hear the same thing. Denver is sunny almost every day, even in winter. That sunshine becomes a lifestyle. Students hike between classes, run through Washington Park, study on the grass, or hop on a quick weekend trail without much planning. The outdoors becomes part of your daily routine the same way a gym or coffee shop would be in another city.

For students like Riley, who wants more independence and a place that feels like home, choosing the right neighborhood often comes down to one question. How close is it to the good trails?

This guide breaks down why Denver students live outside, which trails are most popular, and where to find apartments that put you close to all of it.

1. Why DU Students Fall in Love with Denver’s Outdoor Lifestyle

The sunshine really is endless

Denver averages about 300 days of sunshine per year, which means students can be active outside year round. Even snowstorms melt quickly and warm days pop up in the middle of winter. The weather supports hiking, biking, running, or just lounging in the sun whenever you feel like it.

Nature is incredibly accessible

You can finish a class on Friday morning and be at a trailhead with a mountain view by the afternoon. Students love the balance of city life with quick access to nature.

Outdoor activities are free or affordable

Hiking, trail running, hammocking, biking, longboarding, and park hangouts cost almost nothing. This is ideal for students trying to stay within budget.

It builds instant community

Whether you join a hiking group, go skiing with friends, or meet people at Washington Park volleyball courts, outdoor activities help you bond quickly. Riley fits in easily because the vibe is inclusive and relaxed.

2. The Best Trails and Outdoor Spots DU Students Use Most

These are the places students mention again and again when talking about why they love Denver.

1. Washington Park (Wash Park)

A favorite for DU students.
Perfect for: running, walking, hammocking, picnics, volleyball, and group hangouts
Why students love it: two lakes, huge grassy fields, a paved loop for biking or skating, and a fun, social energy

This is the park closest to DU that actually feels like a destination, not just a green space.

2. the High Line Canal Trail

A long, winding trail that runs through south Denver and is great for long runs, walks, and cycling. It feels peaceful and safe for solo outings.

3. Observatory Park

A smaller neighborhood park near campus. Popular for quick study breaks outdoors, casual frisbee, and morning runs.

4. Cherry Creek Trail

A paved path that runs through the city and is perfect for biking to different neighborhoods or just getting movement in without heading into the mountains.

5. Red Rocks Trails

Students love the Trading Post Trail, Morrison Slide Trail, and South Table Mountain. These give mountain views without driving too far.

6. Green Mountain

Close enough for a half-day hike. This trail is perfect for beginners who want great views without intense elevation.

Together, these trails form the foundation of the DU outdoor lifestyle. If you choose the right apartment, many of these become part of your weekly routine.

3. Best Neighborhoods for Students Who Want Fast Trail Access

Riley cares about neighborhood safety, convenience, and proximity to DU. Here is where outdoor lovers usually choose to live.

University Park

Closest to DU, walkable, and full of student-friendly apartments.
Best for: short commutes, quiet streets, close access to Observatory Park and the High Line Canal

Washington Park

Higher demand but ideal for active students.
Best for: direct access to the park, running loops, lakes, and group activities

Platt Park

A mix of residential streets and small shops along Pearl Street.
Best for: cozy neighborhood feel, quick bike ride to Wash Park, access to the light rail for heading downtown

South Broadway (SoBo)

A trendy, energetic area with restaurants, live music, and quick access to bike paths.
Best for: students who want both nightlife and outdoor access

Baker and Capitol Hill

More urban and a bit farther from DU but still popular.
Best for: students who want quick access to Cherry Creek Trail and city bike routes

Not every DU student wants to live in the mountains. Many simply want a neighborhood where stepping outside means you can walk or bike to a trail in minutes.

4. Apartments Near the Best Trails for DU Students

Here is what Riley usually looks for when searching for a place near trails:

• Easy access to bike lanes
• Walkable distance to Wash Park or High Line Canal
• Quick ride to the foothills
• Safe, well-lit streets
• Storage for bikes or outdoor gear

Apartments near Wash Park

Great for students who prioritize running, walking, or weekend picnics. Expect a social energy, especially in warmer months.

Apartments in University Park

These give Riley the best combination of safety, affordability, and convenience. A short walk to DU plus access to parks and trails equals the best of both worlds.

SoBo apartments

Perfect if you want both trails and nightlife. SoBo has bike paths that connect to Cherry Creek Trail and is minutes from several smaller parks.

Why FindMyPlace helps Riley pick the right option

The platform shows:

• Verified student reviews about noise, safety, and parking
• Photos that are not filtered or overly staged
• Transparent pricing including fees
• Contract takeovers to save money
• Search filters for walkability and bike access

Instead of guessing which apartments are near trails, Riley can see exactly where each building sits and what other students experienced living there.

5. The Outdoor Lifestyle Helps Students Manage Stress

Outdoor access is one of the biggest mental health perks of living in Denver.

Students say that trails help with:

• Stress relief
• Anxiety and burnout
• Staying active without feeling pressured
• Breaks from studying
• Feeling connected, especially if you moved from out of state

Riley relies on hiking, walking, and being in the sun as a simple way to feel grounded while navigating housing stress, academics, and social life.

6. How to Stay Safe on Trails and in Parks

Safety matters, especially for students new to Colorado.

Simple rules DU students follow:

• Go with a friend for unfamiliar trails
• Tell someone where you are going
• Bring water, especially in summer
• Check weather changes
• Wear sunscreen even on cold days
• Stick to well-lit, populated areas at night

Denver is safe overall, but students should stay smart when exploring.

7. How to Choose the Right Apartment Based on Your Outdoor Lifestyle

Here is how Riley usually decides:

If you run or bike daily

Choose something walkable to Wash Park or Cherry Creek Trail.

If you hike often

Select apartments near the light rail for easy access to the foothills or choose neighborhoods closer to the west side of the city.

If you love quiet mornings outside

University Park and Platt Park are great for peaceful sunshine and wide sidewalks.

If you love being social outdoors

SoBo and Wash Park are the most lively, especially in spring and summer.

If you want affordability near outdoor spaces

Look at smaller apartment buildings in Platt Park or south University Park where prices are slightly more manageable.

Final Thoughts

Denver gives students something few cities can offer: year round sunshine, endless trails, and a lifestyle that encourages you to be outside as much as possible. Whether you are hammocking in Wash Park, biking the canal trail, or heading to the foothills for a quick hike, outdoor life becomes part of your identity.

Choosing an apartment near the right trail or park helps Riley feel connected, safe, active, and grounded in a new city. With tools like student reviews and transparent listings on FindMyPlace.co, finding that perfect spot becomes much less stressful.