After a couple of decades of living in the Denver area, we have enjoyed some of the best hikes the Front Range has to offer. But our favorites hikes are hands-down the trails we have discovered and explored with our kids.
These are NOT challenging day-long hikes, Fourteeners, or advanced trails. These are all relaxed, fun hikes along the Foothills that the whole family can do and have fun together. The time will differ from about an hour to a few hours as well as just about a mile to several miles. Whenever you’re hiking we always suggest bringing bear spray (more because of mountain lions than bears) though we’ve never had to use it and plenty of water no matter the time of year. All of the following links are to All Trails because it’s the best for getting up-to-date information on trail conditions and reviews.
1.Best hike near Denver for views
Chautauqua Park - hiking along Boulder’s iconic flatirons is a bucket list moment for many nature lovers. Bring along a lunch or dinner picnic to munch on after your hike, while enjoying Chautauqua’s beautiful lawns and old trees.
2. Best hike near Denver for little kids
South Valley Park - this small trail system in South Denver is perfect for little ones that are just finding their own hiking legs. You’ll find small hills, interesting rock features, some wildlife, and sweeping views. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging head a little further up the road to Deer Creek Canyon (get here early for parking).
3. Best hike near Denver for exploring
Forgotten Valley - this quiet hideaway tucked into Golden Gate Canyon State Park is Buffalo Trail to Forgotten Valley. Kids enjoying exploring this old settlement cabin and surrounding farm. This is one of our many favorite trails within Golden Gate, there are many more awesome trails in the park so please continue to explore.
4. Best hike near Denver for options
Roxborough State Park - this state park features several trails for differing abilities and each of them comes with gorgeous views of the area. It’s a great place to take visitors because the easier trails won’t leave them winded from the altitude.
5. Best hike near Denver for experienced hikers wearing kids
St. Mary’s Glacier - this is a fantastic hike if you’re still carrying your little one in a hiking pack on your back. The hike up is quick but filled with rocks and trees making it harder for kids. But the fun at the top is ideal for toddlers and kids. There’s a meadow, lake, and “glacier” to explore. Parking can be hard, go early. We wrote more about it here.
6. Best hike near Denver for elementary kids
Dinosaur Ridge - pretty much every kid I’ve ever known loves learning about dinosaurs, head to this trail if you have dinosaur lovers too. You’ll see different fossilized footprints during a nice hike along the hogback. Bonus: This area of Morison also offers a variety of areas to visit if your kids have just recently learned about how Colorado was formed - volcanoes, oceans, and such. It’s a great way to show them history and geology in person.
There are literally hundreds of hikes along the Front Range to explore. If you have any other kid-friendly favorites you think we should visit please let us know! Send us an email or leave a comment below!
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