Best Kid-Friendly Hikes along Denver’s Front Range
What you need: Water, Snacks, and a good attitude! (AllTrails is linked for each)
Elk Meadow, Evergreen
Flat and easy, Elk Meadow provides little feet lots of places to explore. The hike we do most often is a 2.3 Mile loop: Sleepy S Trail, Painters Pause, and Noble Meadow Loop which begins at the Elk Meadow Park East Trailhead. It’s full sun, full fun, and with a wide, flat trail, perfect for exploring.
Pence Park, Indian Hills
There are two great hikes here: Independence Mountain Trial and Bear Creek Trail. Independence Mountain Trail is 2.1 miles - 1 mile up to a gorgeous rockoutcropping overlooking Evergreen and Kittredge. Bring a picnic. The Bear Creek Trail across from the Pence Park parking lot gives big mountain views and is approx 3 miles. If you’re a bit more aventurous, , park your car at Corwina Park (or safely along Highway 74) and do a 5.5 mile hike - all down hill - beginning at Bear Creek Trailhead at Myers Gulch, wandering up and over the mountain.
Mt. Falcon, Indian Hills
Mount Falcon is a great place for kids - and our fav place to bring visitors. The wide paths are great for all physical abilities. The Trail Hiker’s Dream via the Castle, has wonderful views of the white-capped mountains, the Denver Skyline, and views of Red Rocks Amphitheater. As the name implies, there are building ruins along the way. This loop is 3.1 miles, but there are 16 Trails at this Park, connecting the Mt. Falcon Park West Trailhead in Indian Hills to the Mt. Falcon Park East Trailhead in Morrison.
Chief Mountain Trail, Idaho Springs
One of my favorite “best bang for your buck” hikes. Chief Mountain Trail is a 2.8 mile roundtrip hike just outside of Evergreen and gives sensational views. It’s switchbacks all the way up - but only 1.4 miles! Pack a lunch and plan to hang out at the top to take it all in.
Evergreen Lake Trail, Evergreen
Hiking Evergreen Lake Trail is quick, convenient, and has a lot to enjoy: wildlife, a rushing dam, locals fishing. The 1.4 mile trip around the lake boasts beautiful views. My kids’ favorite part? Ending the hike at Baskin-Robbins for some icecream!
North Table Mountain Park, Golden
Great area to explore with many options for extended adventures. Amazing views and only 1.6 mile to the top of Lichen Peak of surrounding Golden, the beautiful Front Range, and Denver in the distance. We typically park at the West Trailhead to explore North Table Mountain Park.
As always, Pack In / Pack Out (yes, even food), + check out Colorado Parks & Wildlife for the best information.
