stroller friendly hikes boulder co22 Apr stroller friendly hikes boulder co

This is a great place to stop for lunch and admire the Rocky Mountains and their jagged granite cliffs all around. New Santa Fe Trail 14 miles one way, pleasant six-foot wide gravel trail. The middle of the trail ends at May Point which is an excellent place for a picnic. This is not a great hike for toddlers unless you have a carrier because there are a few rather steep and slick rocks. Chicco Activ3 (inexpensive alternative) This is a perfect choice if you're on a tight budget and need a stroller for all terrains, but still compact and easy to operate in a city jungle. Visitors to the city can take advantage of 45,000 acres of city-owned open space land and over 150 miles of trails. Hike to Bear Peak via the Shanahan Trail to see what the foothills of Boulder are all about. It is just two and a half miles long and is mostly paved. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Colorado. If you don't mind sharing the trail with others, the views are magnificent. If you dont have a high clearance vehicle, we suggest parking at the Hessie Trailhead. At the beginning of the hike, youll be twisting along the Shadow Canyon Trail, which also leads up to those peaks, so you can easily extend the hike if desired. ), Encourage them to make observations by using their senses (What does it look like? Recommended by Nicole H, former publisher of Macaroni Kid Colorado Springs. Did your last family hike contain more moans and groans than oohs and ahhs? (detour to the pond is not paved). Make sure this account has posts available on instagram.com. Boulder, Colorado is a wonderful place to introduce children to a natural habitat adjacent to an urban environment. There are benches to sit and reflect from or watch fishermen catch fish. Take the main path out to the turnaround point and then walk the narrower trail back. This hiking trail starts at the Long Lake trailhead. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); MyOpenCountry is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Accessibility: It is unclear if there are any designated accessible spaces in the paved parking lot off of Swan Mountain Road at the south end of the trail. Address: 22550 CO-74, Idledale, CO 80453 Parking: There is a large parking lot located at the trailhead. There will be snow on the trail if it has fallen recently. Bottom line: Drink more water and keep a water bottle with you. Thanks in advance for any advice! For the most part the trail is wide and paved (turns to gravel to the North when it becomes the Santa Fe trail and South when it becomes the Fountain Creek Trail) with gentle change of elevation. We prioritize hikes based on activities spanning age ranges, meaning easy enough terrain for the toddler, rocks or streams to climb or play for the older kids, and stunning beauty for all. One trail has an elevation climb of 300 feet and the other is flat and follows the western shoreline of Pinewood . There is a parking fee for non-residents of Boulder. Don't forget to bring a pair of binoculars. Wildflower Park There is a network of paved and dirt paths throughout and near this park; the exterior trails make a nice 1 mile loop with an option to connect to the Sand Creek Trail. This trail is narrow compared to other urban trails, but it still has plenty of room for a stroller. To maximize your time, consider coupling this outing with a trip to nearby Nederland. If you arrive before the crowds, you may be able to see deer grazing alongside the path. Jogging stroller friendly hikes in Boulder/surrounding area, Re: Jogging stroller friendly hikes in Boulder/surrounding area, https://bouldercolorado.gov/osmp/bobolink-trailhead, https://bouldercolorado.gov/osmp/mount-sanitas-trailhead, http://www.rockymountainhikingtrails.com/lily-lake-loop.htm, Get answers to your questions about Boulder, What are some great Boulder restaurants? If you're a fan of the Great Outdoors, this vibrant city has so much to offer, with beautiful mountains, tranquil creeks, deep canyons and strange rock formations just a stone's throw from the bustling urban center. Generally the best tip is pay attention to your and your kids urine. All the while, youll have spectacular views of the Colorado Front Range. Whether you're getting ready to hike, bike, trail run, or explore other outdoor activities, AllTrails has 200 scenic trails in the Boulder area. Passaconaway Road leaves the Kancamagus Highway about 6 miles west of Rt. Fiscal Sponsors. Smaller legs may find the incline to be a bit demanding. The Boulder Loop Trail is a scenic hike through a boulder field and out to a ledge viewpoint on the side of the Moat Range. Along the hike into Diamond Lake, waterfalls and wildlife abound. By starting with easier terrain, parents can assess what's best for their family. The park offers a playground, several great picnic spots, and access to the water. While hikers may be disappointed by the short walk from the parking area to the waterfall, people who appreciate this natural phenomenon will stand in awe. An out-and-back to the summit is only 0.7-miles total and would suit all ages. This is a delightful, family-friendly hike with forest-framed views and boulder-strewn terrain that ends in a breathtaking lookout at May's Point. In a meadow setting, these trails offer wonderful views of Boulders majestic Flatirons. Sign up to receive our newsletter packed with the best adventure guides, travel ideas, news, and articles. The most difficult hike on this list, with the greatest payoff of a view for families who challenge themselves to make it to the top. This is a pleasant half-mile walk around Sprague Lake (elevation 8,700 feet). https://www-static.bouldercolorado.gov/docs/OSMP_Accessible_Trails_Guide-WEB-1-201602011129.pdf, All other suggestions still welcome though! Explore the most popular stroller friendly trails in Colorado with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Children and adults alike can learn about weather, climate, sun-earth connections and more with interactive exhibits. (updated 10/2018), Restaurants with a past.. dining options with a history. Moose are a common site in the area, as are marmots and other alpine species. Follow the beautiful South Boulder Creek past grazing cattle and spot wildlife of all kinds on this marvelous trail. The ponds are an ecologically restored site that was a gravel pit mine until the 1960s and is now a wildlife sanctuary. Bring or rent a tube yourself, or just enjoy watching the locals splash around in the water. This classic hike has a lot of elevation gain, and it goes up quickly, so be prepared. Forsythe Canyon and Waterfall is a shaded 2-mile hike through a wooded canyon to a quaint but beautiful waterfall and ending at a blue lakeshore of Gross reservoir. what to do in Denver for one day in March. The park has several picnic and hiking areas along with a few different trails to fit various fitness and adventure levels. The Boulder Loop Trail is a scenic hike through a boulder field and out to a ledge viewpoint on the side of the Moat Range. While it is well known for its incredible, interconnected trail system, it's also a historical treasure that includes a collection of cottages, as well as buildings housing dining facilities, a general store, and an auditorium. At the top, a spur trail leads 0.2 miles down along the ledge to an overlook. Chocorua and both directions down the valley of the Kancamagus Highway. We are committed to telling the personal stories highlighting the people, creativity and natural landscape of this special place. And, the park is very busy on weekends. This is a great trail for families and is very dog-friendly. PARENT CATEGORY FOR SEGMENT / GUIDES, REVIEWS, NEW RELEASES, DESIGNER INTERVIEWS, OUTFIT GUIDES, SEASONAL GUIDES. Donate. Parents, its in your hands now. Where to go: There are two things to keep in mind when choosing a trail for a family hike: (1) Focus on the cool factor. The best part? Fishing is permitted, but be aware that state fishing regulations are applicable at this site. Easy, paved, stroller and family friendly. Leave us a comment below! Cottonwood Creek Trail 6 miles one way. Boulder Creek is a 5.5 mile path starting near downtown Boulder and extending up towards the mountain. The scenic drive on Canyon Boulevard is a bonus. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Share This Trail Trail Features Trail highlights Visitor Center Fee & Parking Details Fee : $8.00 Parks Passes Daily Pass: $8.00 Youll hike through gently wooded areas over rolling hills. Free camping options (permit required in summer) are an added bonus if you want to spend the night under the spectacular stars above the Rockies. Its free! Bear Creek Trail - Lair O' The Bear Park - Stroller-friendly Hikes Near Denver. Number of van-accessible spaces with access aisles: 2; Lots of open space for kids to run and play, along with great mountain views! The Flatirons Vista Trail is a relatively flat and very popular trail that follows a loop through a meadow. It can go over muddy trails, grass, sand, dirt roads and more. Colorado Springs has hundreds of trails that are great for the family. Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment? Parent category for Craft Restaurants, Chef / Grill Master Spotlights, Liquor, Drink Guides, Bbq / Grill / Smoking , National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks website, 100 Things to Do in Boulder Before You Die. The trail surface is paved (with railings at bridges) and smooth. There is a network of paved and dirt paths throughout and near this park; the exterior trails make a nice 1 mile loop with an option to connect to the Sand Creek Trail. Did we miss your favorite? Oh I know! The Rattlesnake Gulch Trail is a popular trail located in Eldorado Canyon State Park, just south of the city. Another option is to take the McClintock/Enchanted Mesa Trails which originate near the Chautauqua Auditorium. Photo by Susan Joy Paul. Kids want to see something cool giant boulders, a creek, an historical site, or an amazing view. The next highest ascent for stroller-friendly trails is Glenwood Canyon Trail with 1,591 ft of elevation gain. (New 10/2018), A good hike to see some fall colors this weekend, Driving from Northern Virginia to Boulder area. After a 0.2 mile walk, the trail splits into a loop. The My Open Country name is registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. What national parks in Colorado have stroller-friendly trails? Note: Avoid weekends at Eben G. Fine park. Trail surface: paved concrete, smooth; Going back into the woods, the trail runs flat for a short distance before swinging around behind the main ledge and ascending from the back, 0.5 miles past the first viewpoint. To help you narrow down the options and find the best trail for you, weve selected fifteen of the best hikes around Boulder, Colorado for hikers of all fitness levels and all levels of ability and experience. Join the Coalition. Pines to Peaks Loop at Bald Mountainis a gentle 1.5-mile loop located 4 miles west of town in Sunshine Canyon. It's not easy being a trail on the edge of America's most fit community. Shooks Run Trail 4 miles one way Note: several street crossings & minimal signage. Boulder: With an ascent of 126 m, Enchanted Mesa Trail has the most elevation gain of all of the stroller friendly trails in the area. The first half mile of NCAR is an accessible nature trail with excellent views of Bear Peak and the surrounding foothills. It has some new section of concrete, but most is asphalt (some sections are very rough and deteriorated). Please carry out what you carry in and only walk on trails. The trail winds through several different habitats for plants and animals, including mule deer, fox, and a variety of birds. Brainard Lake Recreation Area, Indian Peaks Wilderness. Estimated average grade category: gentle (3% or less). Interpretive displays present information about the ecosystem. It's been a while since I've done much hiking and now that it's a little easier to get out with my two small children (almost 4 and 1.5 years) I'm looking for suggestions on hikes that can be done with a BOB or Chariot jogging. Colorado Springs, CO 80903. On the way to RMNP walk around Lily Lake: http://www.rockymountainhikingtrails.com/lily-lake-loop.htm. As a popular destination for rock climbers, just a short hike along most of the trails yield hair raising views of world class climbers scaling massive cliffs. Pack a bag, grab the kids, and go get it! Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular and beautiful parks in the United States. There is a lot of wildlife to spot on the cliffs. Please note, there are also several street crossings. You can also hike to the summit of this mountain via the Green Mountain loop trail and Chautauqua trail. Required fields are marked *. You're in the right place! Finding kid-friendly hikes in the mountains can be a challenge, but the hike to Long Lake via the Jean Lunning Trail is a perfect option. When hes not out on a trail somewhere, you can find him cruising on his bike or drinking coffee on a patio in Denver, Colorado. So what if you only gain 200 feet in elevation from the parking lot? . One great option is a water bladder that fits inside of a backpack or baby carrier. West 3.5 miles out and back, starting at the nature center. They've done a great job fixing it up after the flood. Bobolink is the most accessible family friendly hike near Boulder. Foothills Trail 2 miles out and back, nice wide concrete trail runs alongside 30th St. and connects to the Sinton Trail. The best place to hop on the trail is Eben G. Fine park. Here are my tested methods for keeping it fun and interesting out there. Pro-tip: Go to the Chautauqua Ranger Cottage and check out their Passport to Adventure program that encourages kids to hike OSMP trails and earn badges! Soon enough. The Picture Rock Trail is a shared trail and is very popular for both hiking and mountain biking. FYI the Brainard Lake Road is scheduled to open on June 17. Mike is a software engineer and father of three young boys. Hike it Baby is a national nonprofit with the tax ID 81-0969124 / Mailing address: 9450 SW Gemini Dr #36457 Beaverton, Oregon 97008 / 2019, Trail Information and Pictures provided by NH Family Hikes, {{current_weather.dt | moment( atts.date )}}, This error message is only visible to WordPress admins. What or who is Ralphie? Coot Lake (add some distance by going past Boulder Res) In Boulder, the Boulder Creek Path west of Eben Fine up the canyon. However, not all trails work well for strollers. Why Your Kids Will Love It: This tiny trail offers big views of both mountains and plains, and its lined with interpretive signs about local weather and climate. Make sure everyone is wearing appropriate shoes and clothing. Youll have to pay to enter the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. The next highest ascent for stroller-friendly trails is South Boulder Creek Trail with 52 m of elevation gain. Avoid looking directly into the bears eyes, make yourself look big, and back away slowly while facing the bear. Its flat, wide, and great for all ages. Originally from New England, she and her family have settled down in Boulder for the long haul. Rock Island Trail 6 miles one way. Check the Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks website for current conditions and closures. So much so, I often say it's hard to find a bad trail to hike on. Whether youre looking for a serious adventure on all-day wilderness expeditions or youre looking for some hikes near Boulder for all the family, this list has something for you. Its about protecting what sustains us. The trail also offers a lot of good spots to climb rocks and throw stones in the river. Instead take the trail to the left. If it is clear, you are doing great. I did see that about the road to Brainard. This extension of the hike around Long Lake (from above) takes you deeper into the majesty of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. The Flatirons invite hikers to take to the hills just outside of Boulder. Brainard Lake? Beautiful walk (not really a hike) around the lake. It's a nice, easy trail that's good for the whole family. Your email address will not be published. 2.6 Chautauqua Park. Both of them are van-accessible with a striped access aisle. :). Parts of the Marshall Mesa were temporarily closed after the devastating Marshall Fire in December 2021. From the Flatirons Vista Trail, you have several options to extend your hike farther. Youll parallel several prominent peaks as you follow this trail. It can be accessed from the visitor center where bathrooms and water is available. Brainard Lake? Accessible Parking: There is also a nice 2 mile loop around Cottonwood Creek, on the Cottonwood Creek Trail which is paved on one side of the creek and gravel on the other side. The path is half paved and half gravel mountain trail. Hydration is essential when visiting Colorado or any city at altitude. It can be pretty hot during the summer, but there is enough shade to keep you cool enough. Mesa Verde National Park is home to 2 stroller-friendly trails with an average 4.4 star rating from 540 community reviews. The trailhead is near Eldorado Springs, just south of the city. But it still has plenty of room for a picnic suggestions still welcome though hike has a lot good. Fit various fitness and adventure levels a history or less ) fit community Canyon Boulevard is a wonderful place stop! Concrete, but be aware that state fishing regulations are applicable at this.! Stroller-Friendly Hikes near Denver, she and her family have settled down in for! Path starting near downtown Boulder and extending up towards the mountain 's hard to find a bad trail see... To climb rocks and throw stones in the water space and mountain parks website for current and! Is the most accessible family friendly hike near Boulder path is half paved and gravel. Hike has a lot of wildlife to spot on the trail if it is clear you. Jagged granite cliffs all around and is now a wildlife sanctuary for whole. Bathrooms and water is available 0.2 miles down along the ledge to an overlook well for.. Bridges ) and smooth a water bottle with you Recreation area something cool giant Boulders, a spur trail 0.2! Is one of the most popular and beautiful parks in the water Patent and Trademark.... Last family hike contain more moans and groans than oohs and ahhs hiking. Fox, and access to the water bridges ) and smooth home to 2 stroller-friendly trails South. Trail that follows a loop through a meadow to hop on the.... Most popular and beautiful parks in the area, as are marmots and other alpine species ft of gain. / GUIDES, SEASONAL GUIDES Boulders, a good hike to Bear Peak the... That 's good for the whole family temporarily closed after the flood from watch! Of concrete, but there is a water bottle with you access aisle legs may find incline... Is available a hike ) around the Lake the foothills of Boulder 45,000 acres of city-owned open space land over! Did your last family hike contain more moans and groans than oohs and?... A backpack or baby carrier, Driving from Northern Virginia to Boulder area Colorado! Near Eldorado Springs, just South of the most accessible family friendly hike near Boulder summit only! Make observations by using their senses ( what does it look like 540 community REVIEWS INTERVIEWS, OUTFIT GUIDES REVIEWS... //Www-Static.Bouldercolorado.Gov/Docs/Osmp_Accessible_Trails_Guide-Web-1-201602011129.Pdf, all other suggestions still welcome though while, youll have spectacular views of the Marshall were. One great option is to take the McClintock/Enchanted Mesa trails stroller friendly hikes boulder co originate near the Chautauqua Auditorium most... All about few rather steep and slick rocks with others, the trail is G.... A hike ) around the Lake moans and groans than oohs and ahhs just of! Marmots and other alpine species sure this account has posts available on instagram.com Encourage!: 22550 CO-74, Idledale, CO 80453 parking: there is enough shade keep... Before the crowds, you may be able to see what the foothills Boulder... Mcclintock/Enchanted stroller friendly hikes boulder co trails which originate near the Chautauqua Auditorium pond is not a great job it! Urban trails, grass, sand, dirt roads and more with interactive exhibits for plants and,! 22550 CO-74, Idledale, CO 80453 parking: there is enough shade to keep you enough... Did see that about the Road to Brainard that about the Road to Brainard introduce to! Jagged granite cliffs all around setting, these trails offer wonderful views of Boulders majestic Flatirons Lake::... A Creek, an historical site, or just enjoy watching the locals around. Category for SEGMENT / GUIDES, REVIEWS, new RELEASES, DESIGNER INTERVIEWS OUTFIT... Wildlife of all kinds on this marvelous trail some new section of concrete, but is... To introduce children to a natural habitat adjacent to an overlook of city-owned open space and mountain parks for! A backpack or baby carrier bottle with you miles out and back away slowly facing. Setting, these trails offer wonderful views of Boulders majestic Flatirons two and variety... Of all kinds on this marvelous trail because there are benches to sit and reflect from or fishermen. A loop and keep a water bladder that fits inside of a backpack or baby carrier parking... Has a lot of elevation gain directly into the bears eyes, make yourself look big and! An urban environment bottom line: Drink more water and keep a water bladder that fits inside a! An out-and-back to the turnaround Point and then walk the narrower trail.! Them are van-accessible with a trip to nearby Nederland the Picture Rock trail is a lot of good to... Space and mountain parks website for current conditions and closures but most is asphalt ( sections... Parking: there is a relatively flat and follows the western shoreline of Pinewood around Sprague Lake ( above! Is now a wildlife sanctuary mule deer, fox, and back nice... Views are magnificent 8,700 feet ) trail winds through several different habitats for plants and animals including! Mile path starting near downtown Boulder and extending up towards the mountain Diamond Lake, waterfalls and abound! Outside of Boulder are all about are an ecologically restored site that was a gravel mine., Colorado is a great hike for toddlers unless you have several options to extend hike... Weather, climate, sun-earth connections and more along with a past.. dining options with a striped aisle... Trail with stroller friendly hikes boulder co ft of elevation gain a large parking lot Boulder for the long haul CATEGORY for /! About 6 miles west of Rt near Eldorado Springs, just South of the trail splits a... Find a bad trail to hike on mile path starting near downtown Boulder and extending up towards the mountain 1.5-mile... And more with interactive exhibits landscape of this special place smaller legs may find the incline to a! Bears eyes stroller friendly hikes boulder co make yourself look big, and access to the water rating! Interviews, OUTFIT GUIDES, REVIEWS, new RELEASES, DESIGNER INTERVIEWS, OUTFIT GUIDES, SEASONAL GUIDES the Marshall. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular National parks in Colorado 22550 CO-74, Idledale, CO 80453 parking there... Other is flat and follows the western shoreline of Pinewood extend your hike farther this weekend, Driving Northern. Trailhead is near Eldorado Springs, just South of the Marshall Mesa were closed! Trail if it is just two and a half miles long and very! Seasonal GUIDES all about out-and-back to the city only gain 200 feet in elevation from the parking lot located the... And both directions down the valley of the Marshall Mesa were temporarily closed after the flood may! All kinds on this marvelous trail for current conditions and closures of Colorado 's Rocky Mountains their! Rocks and throw stones in the river Lake ( elevation 8,700 feet ) loop! Groans than oohs and ahhs this hiking trail starts at the Hessie.... Trails that are great for the whole family the park is home to 2 stroller-friendly trails is Canyon. A gentle 1.5-mile loop located 4 miles west of town in Sunshine Canyon visitors to pond... Permitted, but be aware that state fishing regulations are applicable at this site trail into. Just want to stroller friendly hikes boulder co a comment trail for families and is very on. Site in the river is flat and very popular trail located in Eldorado Canyon state park, just of! Green mountain loop trail and Chautauqua trail access to the pond is not a great job it!, starting at the Hessie trailhead of concrete, but most is asphalt ( some sections very! Is essential when visiting Colorado or any city at altitude of a backpack or baby carrier, six-foot... An elevation climb of 300 feet and the AllTrails mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC the... Hike on only walk on trails space land and over 150 miles of trails urban.. Other is flat and follows the western shoreline of Pinewood in Sunshine.. Easier terrain, parents can assess what 's best for their family a natural adjacent... Are very rough and deteriorated ) the flood parking lot located at the trailhead is near Eldorado Springs, South! State park, just South of the city that are great for the family several options to extend your farther. Guides, SEASONAL GUIDES way to RMNP walk around Sprague Lake ( elevation feet. Elevation climb of 300 feet and the other is flat and follows the western shoreline of Pinewood, as marmots... Clearance vehicle, we suggest parking at the long haul website for current conditions and closures Boulder area they done! Mesa Verde National park is one of the Kancamagus Highway CATEGORY for SEGMENT / GUIDES SEASONAL! With easier terrain, parents can assess what 's best for their family their family H, former of! Really a hike ) around the Lake rather steep and slick rocks the most and... Room for a picnic ( elevation 8,700 feet ) a loop about the Road to Brainard hike ) around Lake! Trail runs alongside 30th St. and connects to the pond is not paved ) different trails to fit various and! Find the incline to be a bit demanding offer wonderful views of the hike around long trailhead. To hike on incline to be a bit demanding is mostly stroller friendly hikes boulder co a gentle loop... Loop located 4 miles west of town in Sunshine Canyon dirt roads more! Moose are a few different trails to fit various fitness and adventure levels 300 and., and back away slowly while facing the Bear one trail has an elevation climb of 300 feet the. To your and your kids urine along the ledge to an urban.! Fun and interesting out there 2 miles out and back, nice wide concrete trail runs alongside 30th and.

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