While our snowfall is notorious for arriving hard in late April, we are also fortunate enough to experience the beautiful, warm spring days in between. And, our falls tend to be an extension of summer, allowing for hiking late into the year. Our city offers tons of fabulous spring activities, but among the favorites is hiking. Finding kid-friendly hikes that your whole family will enjoy will get everyone outdoors, which helps ward off sickness and results 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!
Best Hikes for Kids to Get Outdoors
Denver offers numerous kid-friendly hikes that are both abundant and beautiful. Hiking with your kids can also benefit them academically. 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).
The 7 Best Kid-Friendly Hikes Near Denver
Fall is a beautiful time to get out and enjoy the weather and see the changing leaves before winter! If you’re looking for the best kid-friendly hiking trails in Denver, look no further. This list features hikes for everyone, offering beautiful scenery and trails that the whole family will enjoy.
1. Lookout Mountain Hiking Trails
Difficulty = Easy
Many consider these trails to be the “perfect family hike”. If you have children under the age of five or are new to the sport, this is a great trail to get started on! Located approximately 30 minutes from Denver, these trails are beautiful, accessible, and feature a nature center. This is the first of our kid-friendly hikes.
2. Clear Creek Trail in Downtown Golden
Difficulty = Easy
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!
3. The Bluffs Loop South of Denver
Difficulty = Easy to Moderate
Good for all skill levels, this hike is located near Lone Tree and has some breathtaking wildflowers 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!
4. Fountain Trail
Difficulty = Easy
Considered to be the “Garden of the Gods” of Denver, the 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 also handicap accessible.
5. Bear Creek Trail at Lair o’ the Bear Park
Difficulty = Easy
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 a 1.6-mile out-and-back hike that is open to leashed dogs and bikers.
6. Georgetown Railroad Hike (and train ride!)
Difficulty = Easy
For parents of train lovers, this is a hike that simply can’t be beat. While it requires a bit more planning to participate in this hike (it’s actually a guided historic tour that combines a hike with a train ride), it’s worth the time and effort. Hikers are taken in groups of 10, and families are led through a variety of sites, including scenic views, an overgrown cemetery, and 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.
7. Flatirons Vista Trail
Difficulty = Easy to Moderate
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!
