The High Line Canal is embedded in the memory of so many who were raised in the Denver Metro area. From using the Canal to irrigate land to splashing around in the water on hot days. This treasured asset can be celebrated with the stories of those who remember it fondly. Hear from Amy Atwell on what the Canal means to her.

 I grew up in what is now Centennial, Colorado, and the High Line Canal was a central feature in my childhood. From a young age, my two older sisters and I, led by our parents, would bike 15+ miles along the Canal. Those long bike rides gave us a chance to enjoy time together as a family and they are cherished memories.

For me, those days represent some of my earliest experiences connecting more deeply with nature. We would stop in the shade of the old-growth cottonwoods and listen to the birds and the breeze in the trees. I remember vividly the feeling of fresh air and sunshine as our bike tires bumped along the dirt trails.

As a teenager, I often walked along those same trails with my camera, shooting assignments for my photography classes. To this day, I stop by the Orchard Road trailhead whenever I can and revel in the stillness and grandeur of the old trees and shaded path.

One year ago, I launched my business, Personal Nature Project, in an effort to help adults spend more time in nature as a form of self-care. I still walk nature trails almost daily, with my camera, and I know that the High Line Canal was instrumental in helping me forge a deep and lifelong connection with nature and wildlife.

Thank you, Amy for sharing your story! If you too want to share your Canal story visit our History & Stories page to share your tail.