Tag Archives: Denver

Denver 3-Day Route Preview 2024

Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, Denver is a bustling metropolis with a unique mix of natural beauty and urban energy. Situated at an elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level, the Mile High City offers stunning views of the Rockies and enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year. Its historic Old West roots combined with its modern, forward-thinking spirit, have created a community that celebrates creativity, innovation, and the outdoors. As you embark on your 20-, 40-, or 60-mile walk through Denver for the Susan G. Komen 3-Day®, you’ll experience iconic landmarks, cultural sites, and green spaces. Whether you’re a Colorado native or visiting for the first time, this walk will give you a fresh perspective on the Mile High City. 

Day 1 

After a touching Opening Ceremony at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel, you’ll set out on your journey in the crisp morning air as the city is just beginning to stir. You’ll pass by the Big Blue Bear, an iconic symbol of Denver’s playful spirit before heading toward Coors Field, where you’ll feel the energy of one of the city’s most beloved sports venues, even if the stands are empty. Continuing, you’ll get a glimpse of the Fillmore Auditorium and the Denver Turnverein Dance Center, two spots that capture the cultural heartbeat of the city. Both locations have rich histories and are well-loved by the community, making them perfect places to pause and soak in the local vibe. 

As you approach the Smith Mansion & Carriage House, you’ll be transported to another era. This historic building stands as a reminder of Denver’s storied past, contrasting with the modernity of the city around it. From there, it’s a short walk toward the Denver Zoo and the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, where the wonders of the natural world meet cutting-edge technology. Your march continues through residential neighborhoods, giving you a glimpse of everyday life in Denver. 

To wrap up your first 20 miles, you’ll stroll through some of Denver’s most picturesque areas, including James N. Manley Park and the stately Governor’s Residence at the Boettcher Mansion which offer serene, tree-lined paths. With just a few miles to go, witness the Governor’s Residence at the Boettcher Mansion, built in 1908 in a combination of Georgian Revival and Colonial Revival architectural styles. Snap a picture in Civic Center Park which features various sculptures, the Pioneer Monument Fountain, and the iconic Greek amphitheater. Return to camp to recharge and refuel for the evening with some delicious food and Bank of America massage chairs! To wrap up the evening, we’ll celebrate our top fundraisers and randomly select five participants to win $250 toward their 2025 3-Day fundraising and a swag bag courtesy of Bank of America at our Celebration of Champions. 

Day 2 

After fueling up with a hearty breakfast, Day 2 will begin with a bus ride to Boulder for a never-before-seen Komen 3-Day route! Just 25 miles northwest of camp, Boulder has more than 45,000 acres of protected land, making it a leader in sustainability and a model for other cities.  

Your journey begins at East Boulder Park, a tranquil spot surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views providing the perfect ambiance to ease into your day. Then you’ll make your way towards the 29th Street Shops, a lively area where you’ll find a mix of retail stores, cafes, and local businesses. Continuing on, you’ll reach Growing Gardens, a non-profit urban farm that showcases Boulder’s commitment to sustainability and community agriculture. This beautiful space, filled with blooming flowers and fresh produce, is a perfect place to pause and take in the sights and scents of the garden. 

As you progress towards Eben G. Fine Park, you’ll notice the landscape transitioning from urban to more natural surroundings. Located at the base of Boulder Canyon, this park is a gateway to outdoor adventures, offering access to trails, picnic areas, and the soothing sounds of Boulder Creek, a highlight of the route. The creek’s clear, rushing waters and tree-lined banks offer a refreshing and serene experience, making it a perfect photo opportunity. As you continue toward the vibrant heart of Boulder, you’ll find yourself downtown and at the Pearl Street Mall, both of which are must-visits in this stunning city!

You’ll find yourself passing the Dushanbe Teahouse, a unique and ornate building gifted to Boulder by its sister city in Tajikistan. This cultural gem is a perfect spot to admire the intricate artwork and perhaps enjoy a cup of tea if you’re feeling a bit posh! Close by, the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art offers a glimpse into the city’s thriving art scene, with rotating exhibits that challenge and inspire. As your walk continues, you’ll pass through the University of Colorado Boulder campus, where Mackey Auditorium and Old Main stand as testaments to the university’s long history and academic excellence. Finally, your trek then leads back towards East Boulder Park, where your route began, as you climb aboard a 3-Day® bus to return to camp for a touching Honor Ceremony. 

Day 3 

As your final day begins, you’ll find yourself walking through the heart of downtown Denver. You’ll soon be greeted next by the vibrant energy of the RiNo (River North) Arts District, an eclectic neighborhood known for its thriving art scene, creative energy, and unique blend of industrial history with modern culture. Located just north of downtown Denver, RiNo has transformed over the years from a gritty warehouse district into one of the city’s most dynamic areas, attracting artists, entrepreneurs, and visitors alike. 

Continuing, you’ll head towards the Denver Millennium Bridge, a striking piece of architecture that offers panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the confluence of the Platte River and Cherry Creek, a scenic spot where two of Denver’s waterways meet. It’s a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city, perfect for a brief pause to enjoy the natural beauty that envelops the landscape. Nearby, you’ll have the chance to see some exciting exhibits at the Downtown Aquarium such as tigers, koi, river otters, and various birds that are visible from outside. Grab a snack at the Farmer’s Market at Highlands Square before continuing toward Sloans Lake, where The USS Grayling Memorial is a reminder of the city’s connection to its military history. 

As you near the end of your voyage you’ll pass by Gateway Plaza before exploring the Sports Walk at Mile High Stadium, a must-see for any sports fan. As you complete the Denver 3-Day, wrap up the 60-mile journey at the Finish Line Festival on Tivoli Quad and take in the mountain landscape one last time. Breathe in the fresh air surrounding you and celebrate your momentous achievement both personally and in the fight against breast cancer.  

We can’t wait to see you in Denver, Colorado for the 3-Day! Are you walking 20, 40, or 60 miles? 

June Pink Bubble Story of the Month: Tammy Z. 

Tammy Z. participated in her very first Susan G. Komen 3-Day® in 2005 when a friend dared her to walk. She doubted she could walk 60 miles in three days, but Tammy had just turned 40 and thought it would be nice to set this goal. With three school-aged children and a demanding full-time job, training and preparing for the Komen 3-Day became her “me-time” while rallying around a good cause. Once she set foot into the Pink Bubble, Tammy was hooked for life. She’s since walked in Tampa Bay, New England, Seattle, Chicago, Denver, and San Diego, with this year marking her twentieth walk in Dallas/Fort Worth. She is so dedicated to the 3-Day® that when the event was cancelled in 2020 due to COVID-19, Tammy and her team raised the funds and walked 60 miles together in St. Petersburg, Florida.  

Some of Tammy’s favorite memories in the Pink Bubble include family members participating with her in Tampa Bay. In 2007, her mom joined her for all 60 miles and returned the following year with Tammy’s daughter to serve as crew members. In 2013 Tammy’s daughter returned to the Crew with her boyfriend, now husband, as Lunch Team Crew captains at the young age of 21. To this day, Tammy recalls them being the superstars of the Tampa Bay Lunch Crew and claims they had the most efficient lunch setup in any of the 3-Days that she has participated in. 

On top of the incredible memories that come with each event, Tammy remains dedicated to the cause with hopes that the cures are close. Her Co-Captain and another dear friend both had metastatic breast cancer. Because of their incredible attitudes despite the battles they continue to face, Tammy commits to the 3-Day to fight for them and so many others until there are cures. She motivates her team by reminding them that it could be their dollar raised that pushes the science discovery over the edge. Her team refers to themselves as professional yard sale hosts, organizing two per year which raise around $1,500 each time. Their friends and neighbors are always very generous by donating great treasures for the sales and shoppers look forward to seeing what they bring each year. They have found that when you are holding a sale to raise money for breast cancer research, shoppers typically keep negotiations to a minimum. She recalls one year when her team held three yard sales in one weekend, encouraging healthy competition amongst the team members on which location could raise the most money. She recommends that all fundraisers host a yard sale and not be shy when asking around for donations since most people are generous to contribute to a good cause.  

Tammy has recently been inaugurated into the Lifetime Commitment Circle by raising a personal total of $100,000 for the breast cancer cause. She spent the last 20 years focused on ensuring all her team members reach their fundraising goals so they can participate with the team on the 3-Day. Having begun her 3-Day journey by setting a goal to walk 60 miles, she continues her goalsetting by committing to get her team, C-Side Sisters, to the $1 million mark. At just about $700,000, Tammy is confident that her small team will get there, one dime at a time! 

For those who’re interested in the 3-Day but haven’t yet registered, she encourages everyone to take her approach and just try it. With sweep vans plentiful on event, there’s always an option whenever you find yourself struggling to walk. By registering for the 3-Day, you are joining the Pink Bubble, a community who comes together with a common purpose amongst a sea of pink; though her team typically opts for a different color to easily identify one another in the crowd!