Easy Hikes Near Denver – Family-Friendly Options

Denver might be famous for its 14ers and epic alpine lakes, but sometimes you just want a gentle morning stroll through sun-dappled meadows or behind shady trees—especially if you’re hiking with little ones (or grandparents, or anyone who just wants to take it slow). Here’s a friendly guide to easy hikes near Denver that everyone in the crew can enjoy, from toddlers waddling on strollers to grandparents looking for a peaceful nature break.

Why Choose Easy Hikes Around Denver?

Sometimes a 14-mile summit push just isn’t on the agenda. Easy hikes are perfect for…

• All ages and abilities. These trails welcome kids, grandparents, beginners—anyone who wants fresh air without steep switchbacks.
• Quick escapes. Got a free morning or a half-day? You can be on the trail, exploring, and back home for lunch (or nap time) in just a few hours.
• Scenery without strain. Expect dramatic rock formations, babbling creeks, rolling meadows, and skyline views—without leaving you out of breath.
• Family bonding. Pack a picnic (and maybe a surprise snack for the little ones), point out wildlife, and let curiosity lead the way.

If you’re looking for more challenging adventures, don’t forget to bookmark our Top Hiking Trails Near Denver for Day-Hikers guide for later.

Best Easy Hikes Near Denver

Red Rocks Trading Post Trail (Morrison)

Distance: 1.4 miles loop

Drive Time: 25 minutes from downtown

Highlights: Iconic red sandstone formations, wide paths, historic Trading Post building

This loop is one of the most recognizable hikes near Denver, thanks to those fiery red rocks climbing out of the earth. The trail weaves around the famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre, so you’ll feel like you’re walking through a giant, open-air cathedral. Kids love scrambling on the smaller boulders (just keep an eye on them), and the built-in benches make perfect snack spots.

Bear Creek Trail (Lair o’ the Bear Park)

Distance: ~1.6 miles out-and-back

Drive Time: 30 minutes west of Denver

Highlights: Gentle riverside path, shaded forest, picnic areas

Bear Creek Trail is a dreamy riverside wander with plenty of shade under aspen and cottonwood trees. Strollers handle the well-groomed path just fine, and a few wooden bridges crossing the creek keep things interesting for kids. There are picnic tables near the trailhead, so pack sandwiches or grab a to-go pizza in Morrison before you set off.

Clear Creek Trail (Golden)

Distance: Customizable, paved sections of 1–3 miles

Drive Time: 25 minutes to Golden

Highlights: Riverside trail, wildlife spotting, historic downtown Golden nearby

Clear Creek Trail hugs the banks of its namesake creek on a smooth paved surface—ideal for strollers and bikes. You can pick your own adventure length, turning around whenever you like. After the hike, stroll into Golden’s charming main street for ice cream or a root beer float at one of the local breweries (kids love the root beer taps).

South Valley Park Trails (Littleton)

Distance: 1.2–2.2 miles, network of loops

Drive Time: 25 minutes south of Denver

Highlights: Dramatic red rock formations, wide-open spaces, fewer crowds

South Valley Park feels like a mini-Garden of the Gods without the bus tours. You’ll spot towering crimson rocks rising from grassy fields, often with practically no one around. The shorter loops wind around the base of these formations; longer loops peek into adjacent open space areas. It’s a photographer’s dream, but easy terrain keeps it family-friendly.

Alderfer/Three Sisters Park (Evergreen)

Distance: ~2 miles easy loop

Drive Time: 40 minutes west of Denver

Highlights: Rolling meadows, wildflowers in season, light forest cover

If you crave more greenery, Three Sisters Park delivers. There’s a short loop that skirts babbling brooks and low hills, perfect for spotting wildflowers in late spring and early summer. Kids can clamber on fallen logs and search for frogs in puddles. Evergreen’s small-town vibe offers coffee shops nearby for a latte or hot chocolate afterward.

Lookout Mountain Trail (Golden)

Distance: ~1 mile out-and-back

Drive Time: 20 minutes from Denver

Highlights: Panoramic city views, picnic nooks, educational signs

Technically a trail, but it feels more like a pleasant walk. Lookout Mountain’s easy path climbs gently to sweeping vistas of Denver and the plains beyond. Historical markers tell the story of Buffalo Bill’s grave, which you can visit at the summit. There are grassy spots perfect for a small picnic and binoculars for bird-watching.

Tips for Hiking with Kids & Families Near Denver

• Best Times of Year: Spring for budding wildflowers but watch for mud; summer mornings for cooler temps and maximum daylight; fall for golden aspens and smaller crowds.
• Safety Essentials: Everyone drinks more when it’s dry—and Denver is dry. Pack hydration packs or big water bottles for both adults and kids. Sunscreen and hats are non-negotiable.
• Keep It Fun: Turn the hike into a mini-hunt: look for different leaf shapes, collect smooth stones, spot wildlife. A small prize at the end (like a special snack) keeps motivation high.
• Rest & Snacks: Plan for breaks under shade. A quick nibble of energy bars or fruit saves the day.
• Educational Element: Point out local plants (aspens, cottonwoods, pines) and talk about altitude (the city is already a mile high!). Kids soak up those facts like little sponges.

Other Easy Hikes Worth Mentioning

• Roxborough State Park – Fountain Valley Trail (1-mile loop, dramatic red rocks)
• Washington Park (Urban Option) (1–3 miles, paved lakeside loops)
• Matthews/Winters Park – Village Walk (1.5 miles, forested creek path)

For more moderate or challenging options, see our main guide to Top Hiking Trails Near Denver for Day-Hikers.

Essential Gear for Family-Friendly Hiking Near Denver

• Footwear: Waterproof sneakers or lightweight hiking boots—kids need grip too.
• Sun Protection: Hats, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen for everyone’s skin.
• Hydration: Leak-proof water bottles or hydration packs; consider a small filter for creek water in a pinch.
• Snacks & Picnic Gear: Small insulated packs, reusable utensils, easy snack bars.
• Daypack: Adjustable straps, room for layers and snacks, plus a clip for kids’ gear.

Final Thoughts – Family Hiking Adventures Near Denver

Easy doesn’t mean boring. Denver’s close-in trail network gives you vibrant red rocks, shady riverside paths, and gentle mountain meadows—all within an hour of the city. Start small, keep it playful, and build confidence for bigger adventures down the road.

Ready to level up? Check out our other posts:

• For best hikes near Denver with kid, head here: https://outdoorholiday.com/best-hikes-near-denver-kids
• If your pup’s tagging along, don’t miss dog-friendly hikes near Denver: https://outdoorholiday.com/dog-friendly-hikes-near-denver
• And when you’re ready for more challenging terrain, explore moderate hikes near Denver for adventure seekers: https://outdoorholiday.com/moderate-hikes-near-denver-adventure

See you on the trail!