Family hike | Fun Colorado Hikes

Bear Lake Trail

Bear Lake Views

Rocky Mountain National Park has many, many trails that lead to mountain lakes or ponds. One of the easiest to access is Bear Lake at the northeast end of the park (entering from Estes Park). The trail is an easy .5 mile hike on a flat, natural surface. It leads through the trees along the water’s edge and there are beautiful views of the mountains that flank the lake as well as the mountains that are far in the distance.

Bear Lake Trail

There are a few wooden benches along the path to rest and take in the scenery (also a good spot for a family photo). Cascades of water flow down the hills around the lake as well which are lovely. This is a beautiful area to wander and to relax at the water’s edge.

Bear Lake Trail View from far side

Duck at Bear Lake

This area is extremely crowded during the summer months with the high traffic. It is best to visit this hike early in the morning before the crowds or in the off-season when there are fewer park visitors. The shuttle to the Bear Lake parking lot is a very good alternative to finding your own parking place during summer months.

(Note: Major construction work on Bear Lake Road in 2012 & 2013 includes mandatory use of park shuttles May 29-Oct 9 between 9 am–4 pm, significant delays, and some night closures).

Parking Area at Bear Lake Road

The parking lot also serves as the trailhead of other hikes like, trail(s) to Nymph Lake, Dream Lake, Emerald Lake and Lake Haiyaha. Try one of these hikes for a longer trail with a mountain lake. Restrooms available at parking area.

Bear Lake Road Entrance RMNP

Views toward Hallett Peak and Flattop Mountain

Trail and Platte River in Waterton Canyon

Colorado Trail (Segment 1) Waterton Canyon

Trailhead Sign

The beginning of the Colorado Trail is the Waterton Canyon Trail segment adjacent to Chatfield State Park on Waterton Rd. This section of the famous trail is very popular due to its proximatey to Denver and easy access to the trailhead.
Though segment-1 is 15 miles long ending in the Foxton area, many hikers and mountain bikers chose to travel in-and-out without completing the entire 15 miles from end-to-end (or 30 miles roundtrip).

Starting up waterton canyon

The first portion of the hike travels along the water access road along the South Platte River. This is a pleasant hike that leads under huge cottonwood trees,towering canyon cliffs and near rushing water.
This trail is heavily traveled but there is plenty of space for all hikers, mountain bikers and casual day hikers who enjoy the many attributes of the area.

Waterton Canyon Trail through the trees

We traveled in one mile and out again but got a taste of the canyon scenery and the wildlife in the canyon. Big horn sheep are commonly seen on the cliffs and dogs are not allowed on this portion of the trail for that reason.
As the trail enters deeper into Waterton canyon, the trail narrows to a footpath shared by hikers and bikers.

Entering the Waterton Canyon

Waterton Canyon Trail first portion

Platte River in Waterton Canyon

Platte River in Waterton Canyon one mile mark

Trail and Platte River in Waterton Canyon

Trail and Platte River in Waterton Canyon 2

Waterton Canyon big horn sheep

Continental Divide Trail at Berthoud Pass

This trail is what anyone would expect from a Colorado hike – views, elevation, cool air, a well-defined path and wildflowers! The Continental Divide Trail at Berthoud Pass is a hike that will take you from the trailhead to above treeline offering spectacular views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. Another great feature; it’s less than one hour from Denver!

Continental Divide trail sign

Starting up the Continental Divide trail at Berthoud Pass

Heading up the Continental Divide trail on the fire road

The trail begins to the right of the restrooms where the large sign for the Continental Divide Trail is located. Follow the wide trail to the right until you are on the fire road. The fire road is the first section of the trail that leads uphill through shady, cool woods. There are a few switchbacks as the trail leads up higher and higher.

Continental Divide trail on fire road

views from fire road on Continental Divide trail

Trail junction sign on Continental Divide Trail

The trail is a constant uphill ascent and the high elevation may slow some hikers’ usually-quick pace. Flowers bloom along the entire trail in the low-growing grass; look for Mountain Bistort, Indian Paint Brush, Purple Aster, and Tall Chiming Bells.

The trail narrows from the wide fire road to a narrow packed trail as it passes the junction marked with a mileage sign. Mt Flora is a 2 mile hike one way. Pick your destination; whichever one you choose, you will enjoy a beautiful trail the entire way. Up on top of the ridge the views just never end!

Trail toward Mt. Flora

Continental Divide Trail to Mt Flora

picnic on the Continental Divide Trail overlookinfg Winter Park

Berthoud Pass below US 40

We hiked out about 1/4 mile and stopped alongside the trail for a picnic. This was our destination with the little kids – making it a 2 mile roundtrip hike.

views looking north

hillside views from the trail looking toward Winter Park

Because of the elevation, it’s wise to hike early before afternoon storms roll across the mountains. Lightening danger is very high.
trail looking south
Return trip heading south on Continental Divide Trail

pink Indian Paintbrush flowers along the trail

Empire Colorado Main Street US 40
After descending Berthoud Pass on US Hwy 40, we stopped in Empire for some ice cream and cold drinks. Pick your place, they are all “Mom and Pop” eateries. We chose “Dairy King” and enjoyed the company of other summer travelers.
Dairy King in Empire, CO

Sporting Times Trail on Guanella Pass

Silverdale Trailhead offers a series of hikes located in the beautiful Guanella Pass area just off the east side of the pass road. The area features a creek, open views of the valley, large stands of aspens, towering mountains and a scenic drive to and from the trail.

The trail(s) begin at Silverdale trailhead. It is located about 4 miles from Georgetown on Co Rd 381 (Guanella Pass Rd). The parking area is located just past the first reservoir and is well-marked. The trail begins just after you cross over the creek on the wooden foot bridge. Before you head out, stop at the trail map in the parking area and decide what route you will follow. There are no trail maps to take with you, and once on the trail, there are no trail markings. Plan your route before you set out because there are several trail intersections that can be confusing. You may want to print the map below and take it with you.

Trail Map - mark your route before heading out

To hike the easy Sporting Times Trail, go left at each junction. This trail is relatively wide and has some rolling hills as it heads north. Enjoy the pretty scenery that includes glimpses through the trees of the towering mountains in the pass as well as views of snow capped mountains in the distance. The other trails in the area are a little more difficult terrain but offer more fantastic views.
Trail 1

Trail 3

The trail is wide (an old fire road or jeep trail) and a very pleasant hike through the forest. About a half mile in, you will come to a steep climb. As you go up, look for the views – very nice!
Make the whole 4 mile hike in and out or just go for a portion; it’s an easy/moderate trail with pleasant views and it’s not a heavily populated trail – enjoy the peace and quiet.

Other trails in this area that you may enjoy are:
Rosalie Trail
South Park Trail to Square Top Lakes
Silver Dollar Lake Trail

Clear Creek County Trail Map

Indian Creek Trail

Indian Creek Trail Head sign

Nestled in the foothills just 11 miles west of Sedalia, sits this pleasant and surprisingly pretty trail. The south end of the Indian Creek Trail #800 in Pike National Forest offers a three mile loop trail that begins and ends at the Indian Creek Campground.
Indian Creek Trail sign
The trail begins at the south end of the parking lot just past the rest station. But before heading out on the trail be sure to register and pay the day fee for parking ($6) – the National Forest Service has collection boxes at the parking lot where you can pay with cash or check. (We saw a car parked out on CO-67; obviously parking out there allowed them a free day of biking or hiking).
Indian Creek Trail Marker
The trail begins on a gentle incline through pine and aspen trees. It is a well-traveled and well-maintained trail that winds through shady forest up over several ridges. Wildflowers are scattered alongside the trail for the entire 3 miles. Look for redish Indian Paintbrush, pink Wild Rose, yellow Milkweed, pale purple Columbine, and dark purple Larkspur.
Indian Creek Trail
The hike is a moderate climb. Not too steep but enough to bring you up to some wonderful vantage points where the views of the western mountains will surprise you!
Indian Creek Trail 2
Looking west towards the mountains, you will see the Deckers area as well as Devil’s Head to the south. Further south you can glimpse Pikes Peak on a clear day. These views are the big payoff of the hike.
Indian Creek Trail 3

Indian Creek Trail 4

Indian Creek Trail 5
As you continue past the first lookout on the first ridge, you can catch glimpses of the views to the northern mountains as well. Keep looking, you will see several areas where views of the mountains will awe you.
Indian Creek Trail view
After hiking for about 40 minutes (1.6 miles) the trail comes to a junction. It is a busy crossing where we encountered many mountain bikers and horseback riders. You will see signs for the Ringtail Trail to the north and a sign for the Indian Creek Trail #800. Do not continue on the Indian Creek Trail (unless you are planning a 14 mile loop hike out to Roxburough Park). Instead, go right (south) on the fire road. This will take you back to the Indian Creek campground and parking lot to finish this three-mile loop hike.
As you head down to your car, you will enjoy the scenery along the rough fire road as well as the lush grasses and wildflowers. When you reach the campground on your right, cut through it to get back to the parking lot/trailhead where you began.

Indian Creek Trail 6

Indian Creek Trail horses
Indian Creek Trail flowers
Indian Creek Trail flowers 2
Indian Creek Trail trees
Indian Creek Trail road
Indian Creek Trail road 2
Fire road heads south to the Indian Creek campground and trailhead.
Indian Creek Trail flowers 3
Indian Creek Trail butterfly
Indian Creek Trail trees2
Indian Creek Trail parking

St. Mary’s Glacier Trail

This is a very popular hike that will lead you to some of the most breathtaking scenery around!

From the parking lot you will hike about ½ mile up a gentle slope. This trail is heavily used and it is rugged because it follows a boulder field. You will wind your way in and around these rocks for about 20 minutes until you reach the glacial lake and the ice field itself (St. Mary’s glacier is actually not a glacier, but an ice field).

Spectacular views! The trail ends here, but there are many little trails that will take you around the water, and/or up to the snow itself.

Plan to take your camera, your picnic and maybe even a sled if you are daring enough to try out the snow. Also plan to spend a good 30 minutes wandering around the area just enjoying the valley, the water, and the beauty.

Picnic Site Recommendations:
Take your lunch and eat at the lake. There are many places to spread your meal and enjoy the crisp cool air.

Note: There is now ample parking, with two parking lots close to the trail head. Porta potties are there as well as dog waste bag dispenser, trash & recycle cans, and the only year round maintained legal parking for the area. DON’T PARK ON THE ROAD! You will get a $62.50 ticket so $5 parking is worth it! The charge is $5 per vehicle, per day. No change given and no ATm’s. Cash and checks only (they no longer accept credit cards).

Chief Mountain Trail on Squaw Pass Road

Inner Canyon Trail at Castlewood Canyon State Park

A fun and beautiful hike at Castlewood Canyon State Park is the Inner Canyon Trail. A 1.16 mile trail that takes you down into the canyon and along the waters of Cherry Creek is a relaxing and refreshing hike. There is a moderate incline of the trail into and out of the canyon itself, but wooden stairs and a well maintained trail made it easy enough for our 4 year old to navigate.

The canyon walls tower above the trail once on the canyon floor and the trees and boulders offer spots of shade. Many will take the time to dangle their feet in the creek or let their dogs go for a swim.
We enjoyed this leisurely hike on a Sunday (10:00am) early enough to beat the crowds and the midday heat.
There are restrooms, picnic tables and grill pits available at the trail head.

You may also enjoy Cherry Creek Trail Creek Bottom Trail at Castlewood Canyon Park.

Bridge in Inner Canyon Trail

Bergen Peak Trail at Elk Meadow Open Space Park

In the beautiful town mountain town of Evergreen lies Bergen Peak at Elk Meadow Open Space Park. This is a popular hike spot for locals as well as vacationers. The trail offers easy access by car, ample parking and a variety of well-maintained trails. The trail that we enjoy with our family (Meadow View Trail connecting with Bergen Peak Trail) slowly ambles up the side of Bergen mountain above the expansive Elk Meadow that you will get glimpses of as you go.

The trail, shaded by huge Ponderosa Pines, offers views of the town below, Denver in the distance, Aspen tree stands, cool and lush ground coverage and the towering Bergen Peak. The climb is long and uphill with switchbacks taking you to the top of Bergen Peak – a hike well worth the effort. The top offers great views.

Some history about the area: Elk Meadow was a ranching area for cattle since the 1870’s and purchased by Jefferson County beginning in the 1970’s. Grab a map at the trailhead to take with you.

Picnic spot recommendations:
After hiking for about 35 minutes from Meadow View Trail and then onto Bergen Peak trail, and just off the side of the trail looking south, there are some beautiful views of the foothills – we like to picnic here. If you would prefer, there are also picnic tables near the parking area. Restrooms available at trailhead.

Dawson Butte Ranch Trail

Located just five miles south of Castle Rock, Dawson Butte Ranch Park offers a five mile loop trail that is easy-moderate over rolling terrain and through beautiful trees and meadows.

The trail also offers views of Pikes Peak, Dawson Butte, Devil’s Head, and the front range mountains as it meanders through the woods and scrub oak below the butte.

The trail is well traveled and maintained with several benches along the trail where you can sit and rest awhile.

The elevation change over the course of the trail is about 200ft so it’s somewhat hilly but no strenuous or steep ascents.

The majority of this loop trail is nicely shaded by the huge pine trees. The trail does not loop around or up on top of Dawson Butte which is private property.

This hike is just perfect for those who want to hike but don’t want to make the one hour drive to the mountains. A very nice park trail for the whole family in the hills of Douglas County.

Repeated Black Bear Sightings at trailhead - Oct. 2011

Maxwell Falls Cliff Loop Trail

From the parking lot (upper Maxwell Falls trailhead) start down the trail toward the falls. The trail will fork two times; take the left trail both times and you will be moving up a slight incline.

This loop trail (called The Cliff Loop) goes through pine, aspen forest, and up-over-and-around huge rocky cliffs and then eventually down along the Maxwell Falls.

The falls are really a series of cascades in a beautiful lush, green forest. There is plenty of shade all along the trail. It is well-traveled and maintained. There are many hikers and dogs along the way.

Be careful when you near the end of the loop (above the falls) it is a long way down. (You will see people lounging on the cliffs above the falls). This is a great place to spend a lazy day and/or make it an early evening hike. Weekdays and evenings at Maxwell Falls are not so busy. No restrooms available at the trailhead.

Picnic Spot Recommendations: Pack a picnic and eat on one of the high points of the trail where you can see some views of the surrounding mountains in shades of blue and green trees.

Deer Mountain Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park

The trailhead is at Deer Ridge Junction just a couple of miles from the Beaver Meadows Entrance to the Rocky Mountain National Park (entering from the Estes Park side).The space for parking is limited along the side of the road so it is best to arrive early.

The trail begins its gradual ascent up the side of Deer Mountain in pine forest. This hike offers beautiful views all the way.The forest is not thick as you make your way up the first 3/4 of the trail allowing you to see surrounding peaks in the park. Views from the trail are plenty; you will see meadows, snow covered mountains, wildflowers on the hillsides and pine forests as you amble up the side of Deer Mountain.

After a series of switchbacks near the top of the mountain, you will finish your hike at the peak (elevation 10,013 ft.) with fantastic views of all the surrounding mountains and valleys in the park including Moraine Park and Longs Peak. Well worth the hike up!

The trail is well-traveled and well-maintained. During late spring and early summer, you may find snow in shady areas and at the top depending on the winter snowfall amounts. Ask a ranger at the visitor center for trail conditions. Other hikes inthe park you may enjoy: Alpine Ridge Trail

Bear Creek Trail and Bruin Bluff Trail (Lair O’ the Bear Park)

A nice easy loop hike at the Lair O’ the Bear Park starts at the parking lot and follows the Bear Creek Trail west, then go left over the bridge to Castor Cutoff Trail to Bruin Bluff Trail, and then go left over the Ouzel bridge to Bear Creek Trail again. Grab a map at the parking lot for a personal trail map.

This loop trail follows Bear Creek under huge cottonwood trees to a wood planked bridge.

It is a pleasant hike, shaded in areas, slightly uphill through pine trees along the side of a grassy meadow with views of the canyon and the creek. It is a good loop trail within the park where you can experience a little bit of the various micro climates of the park (creek, pine forest, canyon views, grassy meadow).

For a more challenging hike, you may like the Bruin Bluff Trail that moves up over the top of the hill/side of the canyon (1.9 miles loop trail).

One thing to keep in mind is that this park is very crowded on weekends so come on a weekday or early morning to avoid crowds. There are picnic pavillions and grills available along the creekside too.