Are you a pet-loving adventure-seeking family in Colorado, or perhaps you're planning a trip to see the breathtaking landscapes outside of Denver? With the great outdoors beckoning, the Centennial State is a natural playground for families looking to spend quality time in nature. But with so many trails to choose from, it’s imperative to find the ones that cater to every member of your pack, including those with four legs.
We'll lead you through the top 10 pet-friendly trails in the Denver metro area, each handpicked to ensure a fun, safe, and invigorating outdoor experience. Whether you're an experienced Colorado local or a visitor planning a memorable family vacation, these trails are the perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and pet-friendly convenience.
Introduction
Family outings are evolving, with the rising trend of 'Adventure Parents' who swap screen time for green time, encouraging their kids to explore the great outdoors. Colorado, known for its endless mountain vistas and sky-high summits, is a haven for such pursuits. However, not all trails are the same, and it's critical to choose those that sync with your family's skill level and interests.
In this post, we'll explore not just the beautiful scenery that Colorado's Denver metro area offers but also the factors that make these trails ideal for families. We'll assess the level of difficulty, the security and convenience of pets and kids, facilities, and the proximity to major cities. In doing so, we hope to equip you with the information necessary to make family outdoor excursions an unbridled joy.
Top 10 Pet-Friendly Trails in Colorado's Denver Metro Area
Trail 1: Bear Creek Trail
Description: This trail is a serene escape, cutting through Bear Creek Lake Park, offering a mix of prairie vistas and thickets leading to panoramic scenes of the Rocky Mountains.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with some inclines that could challenge younger hikers.
Recommended Age for Kids: 5 and above with good physical abilities.
Distance from Major Cities: A 30-minute drive from Denver.
Considerations for Families: Due to the proximity to water, it can be muddy; good walking shoes are a must.
Best Times to Visit: Spring to autumn is ideal for the best weather, though note it can get crowded on weekends.
Ideal Duration: A 2 to 3-hour round trip.
Cost Considerations: Park fee of $10 per vehicle.
Facilities Available: Restrooms and picnic areas at trailheads.
Trail 2: Lair o' the Bear Trail
Description: Winding along Bear Creek, this trail is shaded by lofty cottonwoods and filled with the sound of the rushing waters.
Difficulty: Intermediate, with steep portions.
Recommended Age for Kids: 7 and above with some hiking experience.
Distance from Major Cities: Half an hour from Denver.
Considerations for Families: Keep pets leashed to avoid distractions on this busier trail.
Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Ideal Duration: A 2 to 3-hour moderate trek.
Cost Considerations: Free parking.
Facilities Available: Pit toilets at trailhead.
Trail 3: Green Mountain Trail
Description: This ridge hiking trail presents 360-degree views, from the Great Plains to the Continental Divide.
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult, with extended climbs.
Recommended Age for Kids: 10 and above with substantial hiking experience.
Distance from Major Cities: Slightly over 30 minutes from downtown Denver.
Considerations for Families: Ensure adequate hydration and weather-appropriate clothing for exposed conditions.
Best Times to Visit: Early morning for sunrise hikes or late evenings for sunset views.
Ideal Duration: A 3 to 4-hour trek.
Cost Considerations: Free parking.
Facilities Available: None, so pack-in, pack-out for waste.
Trail 4: High Line Canal Trail
Description: A repurposed irrigation canal route, this extensive trail spans many miles but has numerous access points.
Difficulty: Easy, with a gentle slope.
Recommended Age for Kids: All ages, including stroller accessibility.
Distance from Major Cities: Within Denver city limits.
Considerations for Families: This trail is urban adjacent, so plan for sudden weather changes and carry water.
Best Times to Visit: Weekdays are less crowded, especially in the morning.
Ideal Duration: A 1 to 2-hour stroll or bike ride.
Cost Considerations: Free parking at various trailheads.
Facilities Available: Some trailheads have restrooms and water fountains.
Trail 5: Cherry Creek Trail
Description: A scenic route along the Cherry Creek river path, with downtown Denver landmarks visible and plenty of greenery.
Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat with paved pathways.
Recommended Age for Kids: All ages, with stroller and wheelchair accessibility.
Distance from Major Cities: Central Denver.
Considerations for Families: The urban setting means checking the local authorities' website for trail events that could affect traffic or access.
Best Times to Visit: During city festivals or events to join in the community fun, or quieter mornings for a peaceful walk.
Ideal Duration: A 1 to 2-hour outing, or longer if stopping at City Park for a picnic.
Cost Considerations: Free parking and access.
Facilities Available: Numerous parks, restrooms, and amenities along the route.
Trail 6: Mount Falcon Trail
Description: A historic trail with remnants of President Theodore Roosevelt's Summer White House and stunning viewpoints, including Red Rocks amphitheater.
Difficulty: Moderate, with some rocky terrain.
Recommended Age for Kids: 8 and above with prior hiking experience.
Distance from Major Cities: About 45 minutes from Denver.
Considerations for Families: Trekking poles can be handy, especially on the ascent to the lookout points.
Best Times to Visit: Weekdays to enjoy a more serene atmosphere.
Ideal Duration: Half a day, with plenty of stops to rest and explore.
Cost Considerations: Free parking.
Facilities Available: Pit toilets at the trailhead and picnic areas.
Trail 7: North Table Mountain Trail
Description: An enchanting plateau hike boasting rare ecosystems atop a lava-flow mesa.
Difficulty: Moderate, with uneven terrain and some steep sections.
Recommended Age for Kids: 10 and above with some hiking experience.
Distance from Major Cities: Less than an hour from Denver.
Considerations for Families: Strong sun and winds are common, so pack sunscreen and hats.
Best Times to Visit: Spring and early summer for the best wildflower displays.
Ideal Duration: A 3-hour, 7-mile circumnavigation of the plateau.
Cost Considerations: Free parking.
Facilities Available: Portable restrooms at the trailhead.
Trail 8: Matthew/Winters Park & Red Rocks Trail
Description: This combination trail links two parks and offers the eye-catching geological formations and the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with a mix of wide paths and rocky ascents.
Recommended Age for Kids: All ages, with some sections more challenging for younger children.
Distance from Major Cities: About 45 minutes from Denver.
Considerations for Families: Hiking boots with good traction are advisable.
Best Times to Visit: Evenings for stunning sunsets over the rocks.
Ideal Duration: A 1 to 2-hour jaunt for beginners, or more for those including Red Rocks.
Cost Considerations: Free parking.
Facilities Available: Restrooms and picnic areas at both park entrances.
Trail 9: South Platte River Trail
Description: A meandering path alongside the river, dotted with wetland and prairie habitats.
Difficulty: Easy, mostly flat and linear.
Recommended Age for Kids: All ages with stroller and wheelchair accessibility.
Distance from Major Cities: Runs through metro Denver and its suburbs.
Considerations for Families: Perfect for bird-watching, but keep an eye out for snakes near marshy areas.
Best Times to Visit: Early mornings for the best wildlife sightings.
Ideal Duration: A leisurely 1 to 2-hour stroll.
Cost Considerations: Free parking and access.
Facilities Available: Restrooms at various parks and trailheads.
Trail 10: Bluffs Regional Park Trail
Description: A network of interconnecting trails through diverse landscapes ranging from dense juniper forest to open prairie.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with some grade changes.
Recommended Age for Kids: 7 and above with some stamina.
Distance from Major Cities: South of Denver, around a 20-minute drive.
Considerations for Families: Be aware of rattlesnake alerts in the hot seasons, and dress appropriately in high grassy areas.
Best Times to Visit: In the evening, when the setting sun paints the bluffs in a golden hue.
Ideal Duration: A 1 to 2-hour exploration of the park's different vistas.
Cost Considerations: Free parking.
Facilities Available: Restrooms and drinking fountains at the trailhead.
Tips for Enjoying Family Adventures in Colorado
Ensuring a smooth and enjoyable outdoor experience with your family in Colorado requires a little preparation and some well-thought-out packing. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind:
- Pack Right: From sunscreen and bug repellent to ample snacks and water, packing the right gear can turn a potentially exhausting outing into a refreshing one.
- Safety First: Prioritize the safety of your children and pets by familiarizing yourself with trail guidelines and rules, bringing a fully stocked first-aid kit, and ensuring they're wearing identification.
- Planning is Key: Check the weather, trail status, and any alerts or advisories before your departure. Always inform someone of your intended route and expected return.
- Leave No Trace: Educate the family on 'Leave No Trace' principles - keeping the trails clean and respecting wildlife and habitats ensures future generations can enjoy these same vistas.
Conclusion
Venturing out onto nature's paths is not just about the physical escape; it's an opportunity for bonding and growth, for both body and spirit. Colorado’s Denver metro area is filled with trails that offer these exact experiences to families while accommodating furry members without compromise.
These 10 trails are the first steps in unfolding the endless possibilities for unique and joy-filled family outdoor adventures. They are the gateway to a wider world waiting to be explored, where skiing and snowboarding give way to lush paths and alpine scents, inviting you to create cherished memories.
In your quest to find the perfect trail, be sure to share your experiences with others - fellow outdoor enthusiasts, and future families on a similar quest to connect with Colorado's natural splendor. And remember, while we cherish the marvels of nature, it's our collective responsibility to preserve them, ensuring that the generations to come will find the same wonder we do today.
Start preparing for your next family outdoor adventure - gear up, leash the pets, and lace up your hiking boots. Your next memorable trail lies just beyond the horizon. Happy trails to you and your family!
