High Line Canal Conservancy

Our work to ensure the High Line Canal is accessible and safe for all users and connect the diverse communities of the region is more important than ever. In 2026 and beyond, we have ambitious plans to deliver on the Denver metro community's vision of trail improvements and projects along the Canal. With your help, we can make it happen.

We can build a better trail, together. 

A 71-mile Canal?

The High Line Canal was hand-dug in the 1880s to bring irrigation water from the Rocky Mountains to farms along Denver's front range. Today, it's one of the longest urban trails in the country. The 71-mile Canal, which stretches from Waterton Canyon to just a few miles south of Denver International Airport, threads together communities from Colorado's most populated and diverse region, and is used by over 1 million people annually.

 Explore the Trail

Who We Are

In 2014, the High Line Canal Conservancy was formed to lead a regional effort to preserve, protect and enhance the Canal for future generations. Working closely with our partners, including Denver Water and the 11 jurisdictions along the Canal’s reach, the Conservancy provides leadership, comprehensive planning, programs and initiatives to ensure that the Canal is protected and enhanced for future generations. 

Read the Plan for the High Line Canal

What We Do

The Conservancy is committed to preserving and enhancing the Canal with projects and programs that improve quality of life and the environment and provide measurable benefits for all people. The Conservancy is working with its partners to:

• Ensure permanent protection of the 71-mile Canal with sustainable funding and enhancements
• Enhance public use of the Canal through improved access, safety and quality of visitor experience with improvements and on-Canal public programs
• Improve environmental health for the Canal with region-wide benefits through stormwater management, care for over 23,000 trees, plantings, and other ecological enhancements

2024 Annual Report

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Testimonials

"The High Line Canal surpasses the scale and impact of any similar existing or proposed initiative in the U.S. today. The High Line Canal is Denver's opportunity to create a significant enduring recreation and cultural greenway legacy, which physically connects people, while reflecting a variety of values and the unique characteristics of the individual communities to be experienced along its path - celebrating the rich and diverse physical and social mosaic that we call Denver." 

► Tony Pickett, Grounded Solutions Network, Former High Line Canal Conservancy Board Member

"We need many more opportunities for kids and all people to experience nature.  Research shows the closer the park or open space is, the more likely people are to use it. The High Line Canal is an ideal resource to use as we plan for how to get people into the out of doors. After all, it borders multiple neighborhoods stretching 71 miles and encompasses almost a thousand acres.  I would hate to think what we might spend to create such a resource.  With strong commitments and planning our High Line Canal will be a connection to nature that makes a difference for millions of people for years to come."

► Harriet Crittenden LaMair, Former High Line Canal Conservancy CEO

"I have volunteered a few times with the High Line Canal Conservancy, and I love the feeling of doing something great for the community and making it a better place to live. As a retiree who uses the Canal trail for walks or bike rides, I feel proud and happy to maintain the beauty of the Canal for all who use it."

► Conservancy volunteer