Looking for a fun, affordable way to spend time outdoors with the family this summer? These 10 family-friendly hikes, all within an hour of Denver, offer scenic views, gentle terrain, and just the right amount of adventure. Whether you’ve got toddlers in tow or teens who need to unplug, there’s a trail here for every kind of explorer.
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1. Lair o’ the Bear Park – Bear Creek Trail to the Castle
📍 Idledale, CO | 35 min from Denver
🟢 Easy | 2 miles out & back
This easy 2-mile out-and-back trail near Idledale is perfect for a quick hike with the family (including leashed pups!). It takes about 45 minutes to complete and is popular for birding, hiking, and even horseback riding. While you can’t access the castle itself—it's on private property—you’ll still catch a great view of it along the way. Open year-round and beautiful in every season!
2. Lookout Mountain Nature Center & Preserve - Colorow Mountain Forest and Meadow Loop Trail
📍 Golden, CO | 30 min from Denver
🟢 Easy | Multiple short loops
This easy 1.3-mile loop starts at the Lookout Mountain Nature Center and takes about 30 minutes to complete. It winds through forested areas and opens to a great view of Denver. The trail combines the Lookout Mountain, Meadow Loop, and Forest Loop trails. It’s dog-friendly (leashed) and best hiked April–December—just watch for muddy spots!
Before or after your hike, stop by the Lookout Mountain Nature Center. Kids love the hands-on playroom and exhibits, and visitors of all ages can enjoy free nature programs and trails through the preserve.
3. South Valley Park – Coyote Song Trail
📍 Littleton, CO | 35 min from Denver
🟢 Easy | 2.9-mile loop
This easy 2.9-mile loop near Littleton is great for a casual hike, walk, or even beginner trail running. It takes about 1 hour and is open March through January. The trail is mostly exposed, so bring sun protection and water—but the valley views at the end are worth it! Dog-friendly (leashed) and perfect for a family outing.
4. Alderfer/Three Sisters Park - Brother's Lookout via Sisters and Ponderosa Loop
📍 Evergreen, CO | 45 min from Denver
🟢 Moderate | 2-mile loop
Looking for summit views without a long trek? This 2-mile loop in Evergreen is a great moderate option, taking about 1 hour to complete. Starting from Buffalo Park Road, you’ll head north on the Sisters Trail to reach both the Brother’s Lookout and Three Sisters summits. Expect some elevation gain, popular trails, and great views—especially between April and October. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the trail is also popular with runners and mountain bikers.
5. Bluff Lake Nature Center Loop
📍 East Denver | 20 min from downtown
🟢 Easy | 1.5-mile loop
This easy 1.5-mile loop near Denver's Central Park neighborhood takes about 30 minutes to complete and is great for a quick hike, jog, or some peaceful birdwatching. Open year-round, it offers quiet prairie views and a chance to enjoy nature close to the city. While it’s a popular trail, you can still find moments of solitude—just note that dogs aren’t allowed on this one.
6. Mount Falcon Lookout Trail
📍 Indian Hills, CO | 45 min from Denver
🟢 Easy | 1.5 miles out and back
Just a short drive from Denver, this easy 1.5-mile out-and-back trail offers big views in under 40 minutes. Starting at the Mount Falcon Park West Trailhead, the well-marked path winds through scenic foothills to the Eagle Eye Shelter—an ideal spot to rest and take in sweeping valley views. Open April through October, it’s great for hiking, birding, and running. Keep an eye out for deer, chipmunks, and wildflowers along the way. Leashed dogs welcome!
7. Red Rocks Trading Post Trail
📍 Morrison, CO | 25 min from Denver
🟢 Moderate | 1.6-mile loop
This scenic 1.6-mile loop near Morrison takes about 50 minutes to complete and is a moderately challenging favorite for hikers and runners alike. Open March through November, the trail winds past striking rock formations and offers sweeping views, with a few stair sections for added elevation.
Looking to switch things up? You can easily customize your route using connecting trails for a longer or shorter adventure. Just be sure to access the trail through designated entry points—no access is allowed through Red Rocks Elementary School. Dogs are welcome on a leash!
8. Fountain Valley Loop – Roxborough State Park
📍 Littleton, CO | 45 min from Denver
🟢 Easy | 2.6-mile loop
This stunning 2.6-mile loop near Louviers, CO takes about an hour and is a must-do for fans of geology, wildlife, and history. Open year-round, the trail winds through dramatic Fountain and Lyons rock formations with moderate elevation changes and sweeping views.
Along the way, spot mule deer, foxes, and soaring golden eagles. Near the top of the loop, explore historic buildings from the early 1900s built by Henry S. Persse, who once dreamed of turning the area into a resort.
Note: No dogs or bikes allowed—this peaceful park is all about preserving nature.
9. Bear Creek Trail to Stone House Trail Loop - Bear Valley Open Space
📍 Lakewood, CO | 25 min from Denver
🟢 Easy | 3.1-mile loop
This easy 3.1-mile loop near Denver takes just under an hour and offers a peaceful walk, run, or ride alongside Bear Creek. The main path is paved, with a softer dirt trail nearby for those who prefer a natural surface.
It’s a shared trail used by both pedestrians and cyclists, so keep an eye out and enjoy the flow! Shade is limited, so summer hikers should start early. Restrooms are available at the Bear Creek Trail parking lot off South Estes Street. Open January through November and dog-friendly (on leash), this is a great local option for an easy nature break.
10. Matthews/Winters Park – Red Rocks Trail to Cherry Gulch Loop
📍 Morrison, CO | 25 min from Denver
🟢 Easy | 2.9-mile loop
This 2.9-mile loop offers an easy, scenic hike with beautiful views and minimal elevation gain. Starting at the Matthews/Winters Trailhead, you'll follow the popular Red Rocks Trail before looping back on the Cherry Gulch Trail. The route is mostly flat, making it great for all skill levels and a solid option for a casual run or walk.
The trail is dog-friendly (leashes required) and typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. If you're up for more of a challenge, continue past the loop for an uphill extension. It’s a popular area, so expect some company on the trail, especially on weekends.
Pro Tip: Use the AllTrails App
Want even more options? Download the AllTrails app to find hikes based on distance, difficulty, stroller-friendliness, and more. It’s like having a trail guide in your pocket. You can read reviews, get directions, and even filter for kid-friendly hikes near you.
Tips for Hiking with Kids in Colorado:
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Go early to beat the heat and crowds
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Bring way more snacks than you think you'll need
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Let them lead—it turns the hike into an adventure
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Have a reward waiting (ice cream after is a classic move - check out our favorite ice shops HERE.)
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Always pack sunscreen, water, and layers
- Check the weather forecast - when in doubt, save it for another day!
📸 Tag Us!
Exploring with the fam? Tag @thedenverdeal or @thedenvergroup and use #TheDenverDealHikes so we can feature your Colorado adventures!
