Even when the trailhead at the base of the mountain at Chautauqua Park is packed with day hikers and climbers, Lost Gulch always turns over enough to offer prime parking. The trail winds through several different habitats for plants and animals, including mule deer, fox, and a variety of birds. It climbs alongside the cliff before making a few short switchbacks and heading straight uphill. From the split, you will start to see many small boulders along the trail. If you want to live the dream, your best chance is to start with optimal conditions. One trail has an elevation climb of 300 feet and the other is flat and follows the western shoreline of Pinewood . This is a great hike to take your dog since youll pass by the city off-leash dog park. If you have only a few days in Boulder, it can be challenging to select the best trails from the long list of options. The trail surface is paved concrete, gravel, or a natural (dirt and rock) surface. By starting with easier terrain, parents can assess what's best for their family. Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular and beautiful parks in the United States. 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. If you can, plan your trip to hike the Eldorado Canyon Trail during the week. Bobolink Trail: https://bouldercolorado.gov/osmp/bobolink-trailhead, Mt. The steepness of the trail makes it a worthy accomplishment for kids and the views make it all the more impressive. Goose Gossage Youth Sports Complex & Park, Sinton Trail about 3 miles one way, trail starts just north of Gossage Youth Sports Complex on Mark Dabling Blvd and flows along side a small drainage canal. From the trailhead, you get a mile or so of smooth trail before it gets very steep to Royal Arch. Alli Fronzaglia is a hiking guide, naturalist, and community volunteer. Here are a few of the best stroller-friendly hikes in the Denver metro area! Your email address will not be published. Youll start at a small trailhead along Flagstaff Road, where youll inevitably see a road cyclist or two grinding up the pavement. Stroller Friendly Trails. What is the longest stroller-friendly trail in Colorado? FYI the Brainard Lake Road is scheduled to open on June 17. 3. Oh I know! 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. 1st time in Colorado. The scenic drive on Canyon Boulevard is a bonus. Nature is simply more enjoyable when you can relax and take the time to enjoy it. After living as an international teacher in Bangalore, India, Sandy published an award-winning book, May This Be the Best Year of Your Life, as a resource for people contemplating an expat lifestyle and living outside their comfort zone. Workplace Giving. More info: evergreenrecreation.com. A bonus for this hike is the location of the trailhead, tucked away on the backside of Chautauqua, where you can often get lucky finding a parking spot instead of parking along Baseline Rd with crowds of others. Join the Coalition. You can find lots of other strenuous hikes in this area. Boulder. 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. Our guide has something for everyone, from short-distance saunters within Boulder city limits to all-day epics. Hike details are sourced and have been hiked by families who participate in our community. It can be accessed from the visitor center where bathrooms and water is available. What or who is Ralphie? Again, this one is very busy. Pikes Peak Greenway 2 miles one way to get to our beloved Popcycle Bridge at the northern end of Monument Valley Park! (New 10/2018), Is it CU or UC? From the parking lot follow Longmont Dam Road pass Longmont Reservoir until you reach Ralph Price Reservoir. The bonus appeal is the visitor center and exhibits that are open to the public (except not right now, thanks COVID.). TOSC is a 501(c)3 organization, tax ID #84-1156471. . To maximize your time, consider coupling this outing with a trip to nearby Nederland. DIFFICULTY: EASY STROLLER FRIENDLY: NO Lichen Loop Trail is a quick and easy 1.3-mile loop that is part of the Heil Valley Ranch open space in Boulder County. Accessible Parking: The rocky cliffs and coniferous trees offer a magnificent backdrop for the 70-foot-high waterfall. A popular yet wildlife-filled day hike in the mountains awaits summer visitors to Mitchell Lake + Blue Lake in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Youll see Ponderosa Pine Forest, towering granite peaks, alpine meadows, and plenty of stunning rock formations. It doesnt have to be this way. Generally the best tip is pay attention to your and your kids urine. Colorado Springs, CO 80903. 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. South Boulder Creek via Bobolink Trailhead. However, there is a shuttle you can take from town to avoid having to wait for a parking spot at this state park. As far as your kids are concerned, its a SUMMIT! Don't forget your sturdy shoes, layers, snacks, and plenty of water! According to AllTrails.com, the longest stroller-friendly trail in Boulder is Boulder Creek Multi Use Path. There are a couple street crossings, but when you travel through Douglas Creek Open Space you are surrounded by lush greenery, youre able to forget you are in the center of the city. Many trails include stretches of full sun, which can be especially draining at high altitude. Weather conditions can change quickly. Check the Boulder Open Space and Mountain Parks website for current conditions and closures. Just a short drive south of Denver, El Dorado State Park offers stream side picnics and stunning views of massive canyons. What's Happening This Weekend in Boulder? It's open with not much shade. The Flatirons Vista Trail is a relatively flat and very popular trail that follows a loop through a meadow. After a 0.2 mile walk, the trail splits into a loop. Delivered to your inbox every Friday! Front Range Trail Pikes Peak Greenway aka Front Range Trail is about 16 miles total. Widefield Community Park 0.5 mile loop around the park, trail transitions from pavement to gravel. Hiking in Boulder is fantastic. Mesa Trail 2 mile loop in the off-leash/dog run area. This is a pleasant half-mile walk around Sprague Lake (elevation 8,700 feet). If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. This trail is narrow compared to other urban trails, but it still has plenty of room for a stroller. Note: Avoid weekends at Eben G. Fine park. 2.5 Flagstaff Realization Point. Originally from New England, she and her family have settled down in Boulder for the long haul. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Malaysia. The trail is also wheelchair accessible. The trail loops around Wonderland Lake and is great for bird-watching. Thank you for the other suggestions! Also, the tires come air-filled for that all-terrain experience. Last update on 2023-03-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. 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. Coot Lake (add some distance by going past Boulder Res) You do have to pay an entrance fee to get into Eldorado Canyon State Park. Also, use for a maximum height of 44 inches. Brainard Lake? This trail sits in east Boulder, between the Boulder Community Center and the Baseline Reservoir. Even if you live in Colorado like we do, there are too many hikes to choose from. Shooks Run Trail 4 miles one way Note: several street crossings & minimal signage. Turn right to stay on Passaconaway Road, then immediately turn right again into the parking area. 1h 0m This is a very easy walk in the plains by the foothills of Colorado. South Boulder Creek Trail at Bobolink Trailis a 1.5-mile trail (between Baseline and South Boulder Roads) that runs along South Boulder Creek. It's possible to extend this short adventure by taking the Cherryvale Trail or the South Boulder Creek Trail. This trail is very popular with swimmers and college kids who want to party on the water in the summertime. Why Your Kids Will Love It: The creek provides endless entertainment. For more information on Boulder, check out Sandys second book, 100 Things to Do in Boulder Before You Die. Even better, the stroller uses Lunar ultra-reflective fabric for safety, even in the dark. According to AllTrails.com, the longest stroller-friendly trail in Boulder is. Huge THANK YOU to Hike it Baby for providing information for this page! This moderate distance hike climbs through Ponderosa Pine forest at the beginning. Sinton Trail connects to the Pikes Peak Greenway and the Foothills Trail. Moose are a common site in the area, as are marmots and other alpine species. 16 and 29.2 miles east of Rt. Start at the East Boulder Rec Center -> Bobolink->South Boulder Creek Path. lovely flat-ish trail that goes out to Marshal Rd. On the way to RMNP walk around Lily Lake: http://www.rockymountainhikingtrails.com/lily-lake-loop.htm. Dogs are only allowed on part of this trail. Black Forest Section 16 4 mile square loop in the woods. As soon as you turn onto Eldorado Canyon road youll be surrounded by dramatic, striated rock walls. As children explore the terrain, they experience the biodiversity of different ecosystems. The Fountain Valley Trail is a 2.3-mile loop that winds through the Fountain and Lyons rock formations with a moderate change in elevation. One of our other favorite trails in this area, the Lichen Loop Trail, will hopefully be reopened soon. Dont forget to download a Chautauqua map before heading out. Neither of them are van-accessible with a striped access aisle. Passaconaway Road leaves the Kancamagus Highway about 6 miles west of Rt. The best part? 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. According to wheelchairtraveling.com: The park has 15 miles of trails, but the best one for people using wheelchairs is the Perkins Central Garden Trail, an easy loop with a level concrete surface and not much elevation change as it meanders among the highest rock formations. Another one of the best family-friendly hikes near Boulder is the Bobolink Trail. Facebook@TrailsAndOpenSpaceCoalition . Turn right to stay on Passaconaway Road, then immediately turn right again into the parking area. Summiting from this side is longer and involves more ascent. 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 challenging hike, which is the highest summit in the area, welcomes leashed pups that will enjoy the mostly shaded trail. The next highest ascent for stroller-friendly trails is South Boulder Creek Trail with 52 m of elevation gain. The trail is wheel chair accessible and completely flat. It's not easy being a trail on the edge of America's most fit community. First, BOB's Flex stroller supports up to 75 pounds instead of 65. With a moderate climate and 300 days of sunshine, most of Boulder's trails can be accessed year-round. But instead of hiking back over all those peaks a second time, you can take the Boulder Mesa Trail. Thanks in advance for any advice! Memorial Park 1 mile loop around Prospect Lake. Visitors to the city can take advantage . After 0.6 miles of climbing (since the loop junction), the trail comes out to a small ledge from which you can look up at your destination. The view itself includes some minor rock scrambling that the kids will love. Trails adjacent to Boulder Creek showcase different types of flowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees than the rockier trails at higher altitudes near NCAR or Flagstaffs summit. Trails located within a Park or Open Space, John Venezia Park 2 miles of interior sidewalks. Check out the suggested hikes below to find the best fit for your group. The Chautauqua Trail is a fun, short hike with great views of the Flatirons. Hiking Bear Peak from this side would be an 8-mile out-and-back hike. We are committed to telling the personal stories highlighting the people, creativity and natural landscape of this special place. This trail can be taken as an out-and-back route to the overlook about 100 yards to the west along the trail, or users can continue to do the full loop. From spring to late fall the valley is sprinkled with gorgeous wildflowers. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This guide cuts to the chase, covering the very best hiking trails near Boulder to help you make the most of your time in this pristine wilderness region. It is also possible to reach Gregory Canyon via the Bluebell-Baird Trail. From the parking area, cross the road and head into the woods. Re: Jogging stroller friendly hikes in Boulder/surrounding area 6 years ago Save Start at the East Boulder Rec Center -> Bobolink->South Boulder Creek Path.. lovely flat-ish trail that goes out to Marshal Rd. Colorado Springs has hundreds of trails that are great for the family. It joins up with the Mesa Trail and others if you want to extend your adventure. 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. While reaching the summit of many of the peaks require some climbing or mountaineering experience, Bear Peak is a strenuous but accessible option. AllTrails provides an extension option on the trail but our kids honestly end up in the spot we highlight in the photo. It is typically at least 4 feet wide with some wider passing spaces. #1 - Button Rock Dam via Sleepy Lion Trail. This trail is accessible all year, but in the winter we recommend bringing some microspikes. Sanitas Valley trail https://bouldercolorado.gov/osmp/mount-sanitas-trailhead, Enchanted Mesa and McClintock Nature Trails Loop @ Chautauqua. The structure houses the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), a world-class research facility specializing in earth system science. Pack a bag, grab the kids, and go get it! Colorado: With an ascent of 1,797 ft, C-470 Trail has the most elevation gain of all of the stroller friendly trails in the area. This is a loop hike through the woods with lots of large, interesting boulders. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Hike it Baby is a platform that helps connect families to federal, state and local parks nationwide. Hiking is a way of life for most locals, but with so many options its hard to narrow down the most amazing family friendly hikes near Boulder. There is a small lake near the end of this trail. This popular multi-use trail that runs north to south across the whole city of Colorado Springs. Accessible Parking: Driving South on Highway 93, visitors will spot the parking lot and trailhead for Flatiron Vista. So much so, I often say it's hard to find a bad trail to hike on. Which stroller friendly trail has the most elevation gain in Boulder? It has also been a long time since I've been to Chautauqua, so I couldn't remember if there was anything over there that could be done with the jogging stroller. The Evergreen Lake and Trail is part of Dedisse Park, which includes places to fish and rent boats. Along the way, there are plenty of rock outcroppings, boulders, caves, and more to explore. Did your last family hike contain more moans and groans than oohs and ahhs? What is the longest stroller-friendly trail in Boulder? ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. About 6 miles round trip. There is a parking fee for non-residents of Boulder. Beautiful walk (not really a hike) around the lake. From the Red Rocks Trail, you can extend your hike to include climbs up to Reflection Point and Anemone Point. Keeping kids warm during winter adventures, The ultimate rustic weekend in northern Vermont with kids. Go with trails that feature more than one type of ecosystem and at least one point of interest. Looking for the best hikes around Boulder, Colorado? This trail is along a gravel road that follows the river. If you arrive before the crowds, you may be able to see deer grazing alongside the path. Estimated average grade category: gentle (3% or less). The only setback is the long, winding drive up Flagstaff Road, but the payoff is incredible. In this wetland area, just a few miles north of the University of Colorado campus, it is possible to encounter prairie dogs, mule deer, fox, coyote, rattlesnakes, and raptors. Stroll past the Boulder Farmers Market from the first weekend in April through the Saturday preceding Thanksgiving. With that in mind, here are some trail recommendations for family hikes in Boulder: The Walter Orr Roberts Weather Trail at NCARis a relatively flat .4 mile loop thats perfect for the littlest hikers. This partially-paved, family-friendly loop trail has great views of interesting rock formations such as the Siamese Twins. The Boulder Creek Trail, also known as the Boulder Creek Path or Boulder Bike Path, is a mostly paved recreational trail that runs through the city. It is a popular day hike from the city of Longmont. 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. On the way to RMNP walk around Lily Lake: http://www.rockymountainhikingtrails.com/lily-lake-loop.htm. From Boulder Canyon in the west to the Stazio Ballfields in the east, people find access points to explore Boulder at their own pace. Many of Boulder's free guided hikes and nature presentations take place here. This extension of the hike around Long Lake (from above) takes you deeper into the majesty of Colorado's Rocky Mountains. Youll parallel several prominent peaks as you follow this trail. Well-maintained flat loop. Local tip: With your back to the road, everyone hikes straight ahead to the lookout point. The trails are rather short, but are a good distance for those not accustomed to longer hikes or for those who want immediate gratification of a stunning view. This is not a great hike for toddlers unless you have a carrier because there are a few rather steep and slick rocks. Shame because we had family visiting and I wanted to take them there last weekend. Informative signs spaced along the trail share information on the flora, fauna, and human history. Download a Hiking App Before You Go. I'm a sucker for any hike that takes me through a giant natural rock arch, and given the popularity of this hike I'm not the only one. They've done a great job fixing it up after the flood. 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. At the top, youll be rewarded with views of the city below and other mountains to the north and west. Also, be sure to bring some trekking poles, because the way down is no joke! This is compounded by the fact that it is often hot and dry in the summer time, so sweat doesnt stick to the body and is not as noticeable as it may be somewhere more humid. We create immersive & educational family travel experiences. If you go on a weekend, we recommend walking to the trailhead because it fills up with cars quickly. Hodgeback Trail 3.5 miles loop Park at 31st, Red Rock Rim Trail/Hogback Valley/Lion Trails/ Red Rock Rim Note: Lion Trails forks and becomes a difficult trail! The best place to hop on the trail is Eben G. Fine park. The views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness from atop Mount Audubon are truly spectacular. South Boulder Creek Trail at Bobolink Trail is a 1.5-mile trail (between Baseline and South Boulder Roads) that runs along South Boulder Creek. The trail mostly follows a wide gravel path and is stroller-friendly. The Eldorado Canyon Trail is another Eldorado Canyon State Park trail that we recommend. This trail sits at the beginning of Boulder Canyon. Trail Details: Unfortunately, some of Heil Valley Ranch was affected by the Calwood Fire in 2020 and is still closed for restoration. Aside from the climbing and the views, one highlight of this hike is that it is one of the less trafficked trails listed. 4 Great Stroller Hikes Near Denver Easy Hikes Moderate Hikes Difficult Hikes By Map By Drive Time About 30 Minutes About 45 Minutes About 60 Minutes About 90 Minutes Worth The Drive By Distance Less Than 1 Mile 1 to 2 Mile Hikes 2 to 3 Mile Hikes 3 to 4 Mile Hikes 4 to 6 Mile Hikes 7 to 9 Mile Hikes 9 Miles + By Beauty Mountain Range Views This trail begins at the 4th of July Trailhead, at the end of the unpaved 4th of July road. 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. School age children may appreciate the signage on the short Walter Orr Roberts Trail and some of the rock filled trails heading toward the foothills. This easy, family-friendly stroll goes around the lake in Sloan's Lake Park. Brainard Lake? Accessibility: Visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or strollers may need all-terrain tires or adaptive/motorized equipment for the surface type and grade. 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. If you have city slicker kids who fancy themselves as rock climbers though, its the perfect hike. The 6-mile round-trip hike with moderate elevation gain is an accessible way to experience the glory of the Rocky Mountains outside of Boulder. The trailhead is near Eldorado Springs, just south of the city. 2.6 Chautauqua Park. Don't forget to bring a pair of binoculars. https://www-static.bouldercolorado.gov/docs/OSMP_Accessible_Trails_Guide-WEB-1-201602011129.pdf, All other suggestions still welcome though! The mornings and just before sunset are also the least trafficked times on the trails. From the Mitchell Lake Trailhead, the hike to the summit of Mount Audubon is a more strenuous hike that gets you above 13,000 feet. 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 stroller. With a limited number of parking spots at the trailhead on Baseline Road, consider arriving early on weekends and during summer months. Garden of the Gods is home to several gorgeous hikes, but one of the most memorable of them all might just be this 4-mile loop around the park. Getting here requires braving a long and bumpy gravel road, but once you've made it, the trail is great. When hes not staring at a screen trying to figure out why a semicolon is causing an entire system to malfunction, he enjoys spending time with his family outdoors immersed in culture and nature. This short hike just outside downtown leads to some cool red rock sandstone formations. Golden hour photos are mind boggling. These scenic places are habitats for a variety of local and migratory birds, as well as small and large mammals. The trail surface is paved (with railings at bridges) and smooth. The views from atop are spectacular. And the area is known for its wildlife, as well as its domestic animals (the trail is adjacent to farmland). (New 10/2018), A good hike to see some fall colors this weekend, Tent camping around Boulder or Estes Park. For your family adventure, consider childrens ages, athletic ability, and capability to adapt to a higher altitude. There are several spots to stop along the creek for a picnic or a dip. Enjoy the dramatic views of Long's Peak, Mt. Smaller legs may find the incline to be a bit demanding. Boulder Valley Ranch (can be combined with Coot Lake but you will have to walk down a rural road at one point to connect the trails). You may see a golden eagle soaring over the hogback hunting small mammals, snakes, or birds. In a meadow setting, these trails offer wonderful views of Boulders majestic Flatirons. Connects to Briargate trail (along Briargate Parkway). Parking will be a premium at the Flagstaff Summit, so start early. Bring your camera because these views are stunning. To reach Realization Point, drive up Baseline Road and navigate a series of switchbacks and hairpin turns. Part of the Colorado Front Range Trail, this section beginning at Palmer Lake, passes through the Air Force Academy (be sure to stay on trail, please do not trespass), then connects to Cottonwood and/or Pikes Peak Greenway Trails. Parts of the Marshall Mesa were temporarily closed after the devastating Marshall Fire in December 2021. Rocky Mountain National Park has 11 stroller-friendly trails with an average 4.4 star rating from 5,858 community reviews. The Perkins Central Garden Trail is a 1.5-mile wheelchair- and stroller-friendly concrete walkway in the center of the park that loops around the base of the highest, most breathtaking rock formations in the park. In Boulder, the Boulder Creek Path west of Eben Fine up the canyon. This trail leaves from the edge of town, meaning you could conceivably walk from downtown shops right into the beauty of the Front Range on this hike. 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? 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. 4.5 miles one way, connects to the west end of Palmer Park. This 1.4 mile loop trail is all-terrain stroller friendly and has great views of rock formations.
Fulton County, Ny Delinquent Tax List,
Milo And Otis Deaths Fact Check,
Articles S
