Denver’s Dark Side and True Crime on 2 wheels

Denver’s Dark Side and True Crime on 2 Wheels: A Unique Way to Discover the City

If you’re looking for a way to see Denver that’s a little different from the usual sightseeing, this bike tour focused on true crime and dark history might just be your thing. We haven’t personally taken this ride, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a mix of storytelling, urban exploration, and a good dose of spooky tales, all while getting some fresh air and some exercise.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines history with storytelling—it’s like listening to a true crime podcast, but you’re actually biking through the city. Plus, it covers a manageable 12 miles, which makes it accessible for those with a decent level of fitness. The second highlight is the variety of stories and locations: from notorious crimes to historical scandals, there’s a sense of discovery at every turn.

One thing to consider is that this tour is quite active; you’ll need a good physical fitness level, especially since it’s about 12 miles of biking. The pace and distance could be a challenge if you’re not used to cycling or if you have mobility concerns. Still, for those who enjoy active tours and are curious about Denver’s darker chapters, this may be just the ticket.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, and adventurous travelers who enjoy biking and want a different take on a city tour. It’s also appealing if you’re interested in stories most locals might not even know.

Key Points

• Unique mix: Combines true crime stories with urban exploration on a bike ride.
• Scenic route: Circles through Denver neighborhoods, parks, and historic sites.
• Active experience: About 12 miles on bikes, suitable for those with good fitness.
• Educational yet entertaining: Hear wild tales and uncover Denver’s lesser-known scandals.
• Tour length: 4 hours, making it a good half-day adventure.
• Small group: Max of 10 travelers, which means more personal attention.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This adventure isn’t your run-of-the-mill city sightseeing. Instead, it offers a narrative-driven journey through Denver’s darker past, all while you cycle through some of its most interesting neighborhoods. We love the way it transforms a typical urban bike ride into a storytelling experience that feels both informative and a little thrilling.

Starting in the vibrant Five Points neighborhood, the tour quickly takes you through downtown, the Highlands, and along the Platte River — all spots tied to infamous crimes, scandals, and historical figures. It’s like piecing together a true crime puzzle while taking in the city’s sights from a different perspective.

The stories are quite compelling. For instance, you’ll visit the site of a dramatic 1991 bank robbery, hear about the Brown Palace murder scandal, and learn about the assassination of Union officer Silas Soule, who testified against the Sand Creek Massacre. These stories aren’t just dates and names—they’re told with enough detail to give you a real sense of the drama and the dark corners of Denver’s past.

In Larimer Square, you’ll get a dose of the city’s more nefarious history—William Larimer’s threats to seize land, and how Denver’s political landscape was won through clever and sometimes shady tactics. Riding into the Highlands, you’ll hear about the Denver Spider Man, a bizarre tale of living in an attic before committing a murder. At Riverside Cemetery, you’ll visit the graves of notable figures like Silas Soule, which adds a touch of somber reflection to the tour.

The Highlights (And a Few Considerations)

1. Well-Planned Route: The 12-mile ride is a good length for a sightseeing tour—long enough to explore key sites but manageable for most active travelers. Bikes are available in both regular and e-bike varieties, giving options depending on your fitness or preference.

2. Rich Stories and Landmarks: Each stop offers a story that’s often little-known outside local circles. For instance, the connection to Joseph Corbett Jr., who was involved in the Coors murder case, or the tragic 2021 Denver mass shooting, give the tour a contemporary edge.

3. Authentic Local Tales: One review mentions thanking the guide for his experience and knowledge, indicating that the storytelling is engaging and well-informed. This personal touch makes the tour more memorable.

4. Food & Comfort: The tour concludes at Denver Central Market with pizza—perfect after a physical ride and a chance to decompress with some good local eats.

However, a word of caution: because it involves cycling for about four hours, you should be comfortable on a bike and have a good fitness level. If you’re not used to biking or have mobility issues, this may not be the best fit.

What to Expect

Starting at 675 29th St, the tour kicks off with a brief introduction and safety instructions. From there, you’ll cycle through Denver’s historic neighborhoods, with stops at significant sites linked to crime, scandal, and major events.

Throughout the ride, you’ll hear about notorious cases like the 1991 bank robbery, the Brown Palace murder scandal, and assassination stories—details most travelers probably don’t know. The guide is knowledgeable, making complex stories engaging without feeling rushed.

As you bike into different neighborhoods, you’ll see landmarks and hear stories about local figures and events that shaped the city’s reputation. The highlight is learning about Denver’s most shocking and eerie episodes, all while enjoying the city’s scenic views.

The tour wraps up back at the starting point, where you can relax with pizza—an ideal way to recharge after covering 12 miles.

Price and Value

At $95 per person, this tour offers a mix of history, storytelling, and physical activity that’s quite different from typical city tours. Considering the small group size (max 10 travelers) and the inclusion of bike rental (regular or e-bike), it provides a personalized experience.

Compared to classic city sightseeing tours, the value lies in the storytelling angle and the active nature—it’s perfect if you want more than just photos and facts. Plus, the tour’s flexibility—offering pickup and small-group intimacy—adds to its appeal.

Final Thoughts

This bike tour is ideal for travelers who want a more immersive and active way to explore Denver’s dark corners. It’s a good pick for those who enjoy true crime stories, are comfortable cycling, and love learning about the city’s lesser-known tales.

The stories are compelling, the route scenic, and the overall experience memorable. The pizza at the end is a friendly touch that helps you wind down after a 4-hour adventure. While it’s not suitable for those who dislike biking or have limited mobility, it offers a fresh perspective on Denver that most visitors won’t find in typical guided tours.

If you’re curious about Denver’s shadowy past and enjoy stories that keep you on the edge, this tour might be just the right pick for your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Not quite. It requires a strong physical fitness level since it involves cycling about 12 miles. It’s best for active travelers comfortable on bikes.

Are bikes provided?
Yes. The tour offers both regular bikes and e-bikes, so you can choose based on your comfort level.

What’s the tour duration?
It lasts around 4 hours, providing a nice balance of sightseeing and storytelling.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 675 29th St, Denver, and concludes back at the same location.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical demand suggests it’s best for adults or older teens comfortable with cycling.

What kind of stories will I hear?
You’ll hear tales about infamous crimes, scandals, and notable figures from Denver’s dark past, including cases like the Coors murder, the 1991 bank robbery, and more.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there group discounting?
The tour offers group discounts, making it ideal for friends or small groups traveling together.

How many people will be on the tour?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

If you’re after a combination of history, thrill, and physical activity in Denver, this dark side bike tour could be just what you need. It’s a chance to see the city from a different angle—literally—and hear stories that might just surprise you.