Welcome to pickleball! This fast-growing sport combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong into an accessible, fun game for all ages. The Denver metro area is one of the best places in the country to learn—with over 195 courts and a thriving community of players at every skill level.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a paddle sport played on a badminton-sized court with a modified tennis net. Players use solid paddles to hit a perforated polymer ball over the net. It's easier to learn than tennis but offers plenty of depth for competitive play.
Basic Rules
- Games are typically played to 11 points, win by 2
- Only the serving team can score points
- The serve must be underhand and below waist level
- The ball must bounce once on each side before volleys are allowed (double bounce rule)
- No volleys are allowed in the "kitchen" (7-foot non-volley zone near the net)
Want the full breakdown? Check out our complete rules guide.
Essential Equipment for Denver Players
- Paddle: Start with a mid-weight paddle ($30-80). See our paddle guide for recommendations.
- Balls: Outdoor balls (smaller holes) for most Denver courts. Indoor balls for gym play.
- Shoes: Court shoes with lateral support are essential. Running shoes can cause ankle injuries. Check our shoe guide.
- Sun protection: Colorado's 300+ days of sunshine means sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are must-haves for outdoor play.
- Water: The altitude and dry air mean you'll dehydrate faster. Bring more water than you think you need.
Best Courts for Beginners in Denver
Not all courts are equal for learning. Here are beginner-friendly options:
- Washington Park Rec Center — Central location, friendly community
- Apex Center (Arvada) — Indoor/outdoor courts, day passes available
- Epic Pickleball Club — Offers beginner clinics and lessons
- Central Park Rec Center — Multiple courts, often has open play
Browse all 195 courts in the Denver metro to find one near you.
Denver Altitude Considerations
Playing at 5,280 feet affects the game:
- Ball flies faster: The thinner air means less drag. Expect faster play.
- You'll tire quicker: Less oxygen means your lungs work harder. Take breaks.
- Stay hydrated: You lose moisture faster at altitude, even when it's not hot.
Where to Learn in Denver
Ready for structured instruction? Denver offers many options:
- Recreation center clinics: Denver Parks & Rec offers affordable beginner classes
- Private lessons: Available at most dedicated pickleball facilities
- Beginner drop-in sessions: Many courts designate times for new players
- YouTube: Free tutorials to learn basics before hitting the court
See our Denver pickleball lessons guide for specific recommendations.
Tips for Your First Game
- Keep the ball in play — Don't try to hit winners. Just get it back over the net.
- Practice the dink — Soft shots near the net win points. Power comes later.
- Watch experienced players — Court positioning matters more than power.
- Call the score before serving — It's your score, opponent's score, then server number (in doubles).
- Have fun — Everyone was a beginner once. The pickleball community is welcoming.
Next Steps
Once you've got the basics down:
- Join a Denver pickleball league for structured play
- Find open play sessions near you
- Upgrade your paddle as your skills improve