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Morrison Nature Center
4.8 ★★★★★ 185 Google reviews · Running trail in Aurora, Colorado · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Morrison Nature Center's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Morrison Nature Center
“There is so much to do, the staff is fantastic, it's clean, it's got live animals/bugs, and all sorts of things to keep your kids learning (and occupied).”
“We loved learning about wildlife including beavers, salamanders, bullsnakes, and turtles while wandering through the beautiful nature center.”
“The outdoor park and play area, thoughtfully created with repurposed natural materials, was both creative and peaceful.”
Hands down one of the best experiences I have had while hiking trails and birding. I am a flight attendant and when on layovers; I visit parks, nature centers, etc…the staff at Morrison Nature Center made my experience that much better. They were insightful, knowledgeable, friendly, helpful and generous.
Spontaneous adventure today! We haven’t been here in 20 years! Even though it’s only 7 miles from home, we just don’t think about it! Well, haven’t. We will now! We back to open space but sometimes it’s nice to see and walk a different path. And pretty flat paths at that! The Nature Center itself is small but nice.
We love the Nature Center! We come here all the time to visit and play. The indoor center is filled with fun toys, learning, and cool activities. Outside has beautiful trails and landscaping. I planned my daughter’s 2nd and 3rd Birthday Party here and it was so lovely.
What a special place to explore and connect with nature! We loved learning about wildlife including beavers, salamanders, bullsnakes, and turtles while wandering through the beautiful nature center. The staff is polite and knowledgeable. This place is perfect for shade and enjoying the outdoors too.
Trail conditions & character
“We loved learning about wildlife including beavers, salamanders, bullsnakes, and turtles while wandering through the beautiful nature center.”
“The outdoor park and play area, thoughtfully created with repurposed natural materials, was both creative and peaceful.”
“Amazing park, me and my wife and kid come and walk the trail all the time, way better than the over priced cherry creek dog park, would recommend this over that nasty place ANYDAY!”
Plan your run at Morrison Nature Center
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- LightingRunners report lights on the path — useful for pre-dawn and after-work miles. Lighting and opening hours are separate things, so check both.
- At the trailheadparking, restrooms — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteauroragov.org
- Phone+1 303-326-8445
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | Closed |
| Wednesday | 12–4 pm |
| Thursday | 12–4 pm |
| Friday | 12–4 pm |
| Saturday | 9 am–4 pm |
| Sunday | 9 am–4 pm |
Running trails near Aurora
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Star K Ranch
4.7 ★★★★★ 382 reviews
This park offers hiking trails, wildlife & picnic tables & is home to the Morrison Nature Center.
High Line Canal Trail East Start
4.6 ★★★★★ 10 reviews
Sand Creek Park
4.5 ★★★★★ 955 reviews
This city greenspace features a system of scenic trails for hiking & biking, plus nature viewing.