If your hiking companions happen to be kids, you probably know from experience that getting outside and exploring nature with little ones who are so full of curiosity and wonder can be really awesome. But, you are probably also aware that little legs tire quickly and sometimes attention spans run short. So, if the mountains are calling, try these short and sweet hikes near Denver that promise wonderful outdoor adventures that the entire family can enjoy.

1. Lair o' the Bear Park - Castor Cut-off Trail
Lair o’ the Bear Park, 22550 CO-74, Idledale, CO 80453, USA
All Trails/Laura Freese
This popular park just outside of Morrison offers hiker-only trails that even the tiniest of hikers can enjoy. The Castor Cut-off Trail is a .7 mile loop where little outdoor enthusiasts may get a bit muddy as they make their way along the creek side trail that includes bridges to cross and encounters with small creatures. Your little ones will relish in this time outdoors as you get to soak in the beautiful surroundings of this wonderful hiking area found about 30 minutes from Denver. AllTrails has more information.
2. Bear Lake Nature Trail
Bear Lake, Colorado 80517, USA
Flickr/www.bhattacherjee.com
Bear Lake is a popular destination within Rocky Mountain National Park for obvious reasons (see photo above). Kids and adults alike will love this .7 mile loop trail around this gorgeous lake where you will not only take in beautiful vistas, but there's a good chance you will spot some interesting wildlife as well. Snag all the details on AllTrails.

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3. Lookout Mountain - Meadow Loop Trail
Meadow Loop Trail, Colorado 80401, USA
Trip Advisor/bobcolo
This .8 mile loop trail takes little hikers on a wonderful walk that offers spectacular views. Follow up your hike with a visit to the Nature Center where you will have fun exploring and learning more about the animals you may have seen on the Meadow Loop Trail. Learn more on AllTrails.
4. Genesee Park - Braille Trail
ehttps://foursquare.com/v/alderferthree-sisters-park/4bd491c47b1876b0ce4e8986?openPhotoId=53a4516e11d26276b08147c5lo
26771 Genesee Ln, Golden, CO 80401, USA
Foursquare/Jeremy D.
This one mile loop was originally a trail for the blind and is flanked by a guideline as it winds down into a forest. Your littlest explorers will love this tree-covered hike that is definitely do-able for even the littlest nature lover in your life. Get the technical details on Hiking Project.
5. Alderfer 3 Sisters Park - Wild Iris Loop
Alderfer/Three Sisters Park East Trailhead, 30357 Buffalo Park Rd, Evergreen, CO 80439, USA
Foursquare/Daniele N.
This .7 mile flat prairie loop will allow you and your little ones to encounter an abundance of wildlife and beautiful wildflowers along the way. This stunning setting is found in the foothills near Evergreen. Believe it or not, this is also one of the best hikes you can do during the winter, too.

Do you have a favorite trail to hike with little ones? Please share in the comment section! If you don’t have kiddos in tow, you might be interested in These 10 Epic Hiking Spots Around Denver Are Completely Out Of This World.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes In Denver

Tori Jane | March 25, 2022

Where are the best easy hikes in Denver?  

Denver is something of an underappreciated hikers’ paradise; it’s the capital of Colorado, and Colorado is easily one of the most beautiful places in the entire country (though we could be biased). You know what this means: plenty of epic hikes to choose from, many of which are nice and easy. Some of our favorites include the amazing Colorow Mountain Forest and Meadow Loop, which can be found west of Lookout Mountain. It’s 1.6 miles long and features truly awesome mountain views. Then, check out the Arch Rocks hike at Rocky Mountain National Park; that one is three miles long and follows along parts of the Big Thompson River. It’s also a great trek for anyone interested in geology, as there are some fascinating formations along the way. Next, while we're still at Rocky Mountain NP, there’s the awe-inspiring Dream Lake, Nymph Lake, Emerald Lake, and Lake Haiyaha hike; it’s easily one of the most scenic alpine lake hikes of all time and, at 3.6 miles long, makes for a great workout. Finally, check out the hike to Sprague Lake, which is short and sweet (0.8 miles). Want more inspiration? Check this article out. 

What are some of the most popular kid-friendly hikes around Denver?  

With easy hikes come kid-friendly hikes, too! There is no shortage of easy, short hikes perfect for the whole family – even families with small children. Among our favorite hikes around Denver are gems like the Clear Creek Trail, in downtown Golden; it’s 1.8 miles round-trip and bike-friendly, too. We also enjoy Bear Creek Trail at Lair O’the Bear Park. That one is 1.7 miles long and features views of Bear Creek, as well as countless excellent spots for a good old-fashioned picnic. One more: be sure to look up the amazing Evergreen Lake Trail. It’s a 1.3-mile loop near Denver that you’re sure to fall in love with. Colorado is amazing; get out and explore and you’ll see! 

 

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