10 Epic Hikes for Denver Families with Kiddos

Finding hikes that work for kids is harder than it sounds. Too long and they'll complain, too boring and you're back at the car in ten minutes. I've tested these 10 trails with my four daughters (ages 4-13). They all have what kids actually care about: rocks to climb, creeks to splash in, wildlife to spot, and enough interest to forget about screens for an hour.

Each trail includes quick facts, difficulty ratings, and what makes it worth the drive.

1. Red Rocks Park – Trading Post Trail

Massive red rock formations kids can climb on, scramble around, and pretend are dinosaur bones. The 1.4-mile loop is short enough for little legs but interesting enough that nobody whines. Terrain is mostly flat with gentle ups and downs, and the views across to downtown Denver are legitimately impressive on clear days.

The rocks heat up fast in summer, so go early or late. Minimal shade means bring water and sunscreen. The Trading Post parking lot fills by 9am on weekends—arrive early or plan for the overflow lot and a short walk in.

2. Cherry Creek State Park – Cherry Creek Reservoir Loop

Fully paved trail perfect for families who need flexibility. Walk as far as kids can handle, then turn around. The surface works for strollers, bikes, scooters, and training wheels—zero technical difficulty, just flat walking with water views. Wildlife spotting keeps kids engaged: ducks, geese, turtles, and frequent dog-watching.

Multiple access points mean you can start from different parking lots. Bring bikes if you have them—kids cover way more distance on wheels. Restrooms and water fountains available at main areas. The trail gets busy on nice weekends, which works in your favor because kids enjoy watching other families and dogs.

3. Lair o' the Bear Park – Creekside Loop

Shaded creekside trail that's a lifesaver on hot summer days. The canopy keeps things cool while the creek runs alongside most of the trail. Kids love the wooden bridges, creek access points for rock throwing, and abundant wildlife—squirrels, chipmunks, ducks, and occasional deer. Gentle terrain with minimal elevation gain.

Parking fills up fast—only 20 spots available. Arrive by 9am on weekends or plan for a wait. No restrooms at the trailhead. The 1.8-mile loop takes most families 45 minutes to an hour with wildlife observation breaks. Several spots where kids can safely get close to water for splashing or rock collecting.

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4. Waterton Canyon (Chatfield State Park)

Wide flat gravel road following the South Platte River into a dramatic canyon. Go as far as kids can handle, then turn around. Most families with younger kids do 2-3 miles roundtrip, while older kids on bikes can cover serious ground. Bighorn sheep on canyon walls, deer in meadows, tons of birds along the river.

Bring bikes—the road is perfect for cycling. No shade, so sunscreen and plenty of water essential. The canyon stays cooler than Denver but can still heat up in summer. Works year-round with less snow than higher elevation hikes. River provides fishing opportunities (Colorado license required).

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5. Alderfer/Three Sisters Park – Alderfer Trail

Variety that keeps kids interested: meadows, rock formations, ponderosa pine forests, and mountain views. The 2.8-mile loop has some elevation gain but nothing brutal. Rocky sections are fun for kids who like scrambling, while meadows provide easier walking and wildflower viewing in summer. Deer sightings common in early morning or evening.

This trail gets you into mountain terrain without extreme elevation. Good step up from easier trails for families ready for something more challenging. Noticeably cooler than Denver, so bring layers. Small parking lot fills quickly on weekends.

6. Golden Gate Canyon State Park – Meadow and Forest Loop Trails

Short interconnected loops you can customize based on kids' energy. Meadow Loop is wide and gentle, perfect for little ones. Forest Loop adds slight elevation through aspen groves. Both are short enough even toddlers can complete them. Wildflowers in summer, bug hunting year-round. The variety in such short distance makes this ideal for short attention spans.

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7. Staunton State Park – Davis Ponds Loop

Flat half-mile walk around a scenic pond—easiest trail on the list. The appeal is wildlife: ducks, turtles, occasional herons, and visible fish in clear water. Kids can bring bread alternatives (peas, corn, oats) to feed ducks. Works for strollers and toddlers just learning to walk trails. Takes 20-30 minutes at kid pace.

Large picnic area with tables near the pond. The drive is longer than other options, but the park has other trails if you want to extend. Restrooms and water available at parking area. This delivers maximum "we went hiking!" satisfaction with minimum effort required.

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8. Genesee Mountain Park – Panorama Trail

Mountain and valley views that impress even kids. The 1.5-mile trail gains some elevation but rewards effort with scenery. Spring brings wildflowers across meadows, fall offers golden aspen colors. Winter opens it up for sledding near parking area. Buffalo occasionally wander through Genesee Park (separate area), which excites kids viewing from the car on the way in.

Elevation makes this noticeably cooler than Denver—great in summer. Trail is exposed with minimal shade, so sunscreen and water essential. Good "first mountain trail" for families ready to move beyond flat paths. Porta-potties at parking but no running water.

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9. Mount Falcon Park – Red Rocks Trail

For older, more adventurous kids. The 2.5-mile route includes rock scrambling sections with about 700 feet of elevation gain. Payoff is reaching red rocks outcropping at top with panoramic views of mountains and plains. Kids who find easier trails boring will appreciate the added adventure. Rock sections require using hands for balance, which kids generally find fun.

Not a trail for toddlers or kids afraid of heights. Exposed sections can be windy. But for families with older elementary and middle school kids ready for something more adventurous, this hits the sweet spot between challenging and achievable. Plan for 2-3 hours total with plenty of water.

10. Golden Gate Canyon State Park – Panorama Mountain Trail

Most challenging trail on the list—only attempt with older kids who have hiking experience. The 2.9-mile trek to summit gains over 1,000 feet of elevation starting at 9,200 feet. Reward is a 360-degree view from top that's genuinely breathtaking: Continental Divide peaks, valleys, and endless forest stretching in all directions. Kids who make it earn serious bragging rights.

Trail is well-maintained but steep in sections. Plan for slow pace with breaks—most families need 2-3 hours roundtrip. Summit is exposed and often windy, so bring layers even in summer. Don't attempt this as your first family hike. Build up with easier trails first. Proper footwear essential—trail runners or hiking boots, not sneakers. Bring twice as much water as you think you need.

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Quick Tips That Make the Difference

Start early. Parking fills up fast at popular trailheads, mornings are cooler in summer, and kids are fresher. Aim for 8-9am on weekends. Bring way more snacks than seems necessary—hungry kids are miserable kids. Pack variety: salty, sweet, protein. Let kids carry small backpacks with their own snacks and water to build ownership of the experience.

Denver's altitude affects kids differently. These trails start at 5,280 feet and go higher. Kids may tire faster, feel short of breath, or get headaches. Go slower than you would at sea level. Weather changes fast in the mountains—bring layers even if Denver is warm. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so plan to be off exposed trails by noon. Most importantly, make it fun, not a forced march. Let kids set some of the pace, stop to look at bugs, throw rocks in streams. The point is getting them to enjoy being outside, not crushing miles.