While our snowfall is notorious for hitting hard in late April, we are also lucky enough to get the beautiful, warm spring days in between. And, our falls tend to be an extension of summer, which allows for hiking late into the year. Our city has tons of fabulous spring activities to offer, but amongst the favorites is hiking. Finding kid friendly hikes that your whole family will enjoy will get everyone outdoors, which will help ward of sickness and result in a good time for all. Healthy, outdoors, free and open to people of all different abilities, Colorado hosts some of the best kid friendly hikes around. Keep reading for some of our favorite trails!
Kid Friendly Hikes the Whole Family Will Enjoy
Lookout Mountain Hiking Trails – Many consider these trails to be the “perfect family hike”. If you have kids under the age of five or are new to the sport, this is a great trail to get started! Located about 30 minutes from Denver, these trails are beautiful, accessible and even offer a nature center. This is the first of our kid friendly hikes. Difficulty = Easy
Clear Creek Trail in Downtown Golden – This hike is amongst the easiest of the group (make it one of the best hikes for kids), offering shade, a bike path and an ending that takes you through downtown Golden. The town of Golden also has some great kid-friendly spots, such as Table Mountain Inn or Woody’s. At just 30 minutes away from Denver, you could be back home before lunch! Difficulty = Easy
The Bluffs Loop South of Denver – Good for all skill levels, this hike is located near Lone Tree and has some breathtaking wild flowers along the way. Deer and meadowlark sightings are common, the panoramic views of Colorado’s Front Range are breathtaking at sunset. Added bonus – this hike is stroller friendly! Difficulty = Easy to Moderate
Fountain Trail – Considered to be the “Garden of the God’s” of Denver, Fountain Valley Trail at Roxborough State Park is definitely one to add to your list. The hike distance is a 2.3 mile loop, and should take you about 1.5 hours to complete. The first part of the trail is handicap accessible, too! Difficulty = Easy
Bear Creek Trail at Lair o’ the Bear Park– If you’re looking for a scenic drive, stress-free parking and some epic picnic spots, this is the hike for you. This hike is heavily shaded and has the beautiful sounds and sights of water. It is an out-and-back hike that is about 1.6 miles long, and it open to leashed dogs and bikers. Difficulty = Easy
Georgetown Railroad Hike (and train ride!) – For parents of train lovers, this is a hike that simply can’t be beat. While it takes a little more planning to participate in this hike (it’s actually a guided historic tour meets hike + a train ride), it’s worth the time and effort. Hikers are taken in groups of 10, and families are lead through everything from scenic views to an overgrown cemetery to the remains of mining equipment. And just when you think the fun is about to end…you pop on a 45-minute train ride back to your car. Difficulty = Easy
Flatirons Vista Trail– A flat hike that is fairly easy and near boulder, The Flatirons Vista Trail is a great one to choose if you aren’t sure how long your kids will make it. If you just want to get out for a quick walk, take the 1.9 mile loops. Really enjoying yourselves? Try the 3.3 mile loop. Keep an eye out for a pond towards the end of the trail; there are often cows drinking out of it! Difficulty = Easy to Moderate
Best Hikes for Kids to Get Outdoors
Kid friendly hikes in the Denver are are abundant and beautiful. And, hiking with your kids will benefit them academically, too. Getting outdoors and enjoying nature is crucial for the well-being of children. Many studies have shown that kids who “play outside are smarter, happier, more attentive, and less anxious than kids who spend time indoors” (source). If you’re looking for kid friendly hiking near me, and the best hikes for kids – look no further. This list has hikes for everyone, with beautiful scenery and trails that your whole family will enjoy. Fall is a beautiful time to get out and enjoy the weather and see the changing leaves before winter! Keep this list on-hand for fun Earth Day activities as well.
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