1st time in Colorado. The park offers a playground, several great picnic spots, and access to the water. One more morning camp with the kids down in Boulder tomorrow and then I think I'll be staying up here for the rest of the week! We love that many of these stroller friendly trail options for families with young children have large parks nearby. When trekking through Boulders open space and parks, be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for wildlife encounters. Oh I know! It's possible to extend this short adventure by taking the Cherryvale Trail or the South Boulder Creek Trail. Stroller Friendly Trails. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); MyOpenCountry is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. The route follows the closest ridgeline to the city without actually doing all the elevation gain and loss it takes to hike the ridge. If you can, plan your trip to hike the Eldorado Canyon Trail during the week. The Nighthawk Trail is the only one exclusively reserved for hiking, allowing for some solitude in an area loved by mountain bikers. As children explore the terrain, they experience the biodiversity of different ecosystems. We are committed to telling the personal stories highlighting the people, creativity and natural landscape of this special place. 702 E Boulder St, Suite 200 Skyline Trail About 2 miles of trail, connects to Rampart Park, loop around Rampart Park is about a mile. One great option is a water bladder that fits inside of a backpack or baby carrier. Templeton Gap Trail 4.5 miles one way, connects to the west end of Palmer Park. Since this is so close to the city, its a very popular trail. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. This canyon is very popular and features plenty more hiking trails to explore. The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) is a real educational gem in Boulder. #1 - Davidson Mesa Loop Trail Davidson Mesa Length: 3.3 mi Est. And who doesnt love some good old-fashioned peak bagging? Some segments of the path run through the business district. Check out the suggested hikes below to find the best fit for your group. 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. The Chautauqua Trail is a fun, short hike with great views of the Flatirons. While youre on Bear Peak, you can also hike a short distance farther to summit South Boulder Peak. It's open with not much shade. 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. We recommend hiking up to the Continental Divide from the lake. What to pack: A short hike with kids will start feeling like an Everest Base Camp Trek if you dont have the right supplies. Youll start at a small trailhead along Flagstaff Road, where youll inevitably see a road cyclist or two grinding up the pavement. If you have city slicker kids who fancy themselves as rock climbers though, its the perfect hike. This rugged trail consists of switchbacks, stone-stairs, steep segments and passage through recent burn zones. The Mount Sanitas Trail is a must-do for everyone who lives in Boulder or anyone visiting the Colorado Front Range. Excellent views for relatively little effort. There is a parking fee for non-residents of Boulder. When Sandy Bornstein isnt trekking in Colorado or writing, shes traveling with her husband Ira. 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. Rock Island Trail 6 miles one way. Again, this one is very busy. 5. This is not a great hike for toddlers unless you have a carrier because there are a few rather steep and slick rocks. You may see a golden eagle soaring over the hogback hunting small mammals, snakes, or birds. Onward! Due to the decreased oxygen, you will breath more and there is moisture loss in each breath. Hydration is essential when visiting Colorado or any city at altitude. What does it sound like? Lots of open space for kids to run and play, along with great mountain views! Just a short drive south of Denver, El Dorado State Park offers stream side picnics and stunning views of massive canyons. There is only one picnic table, but there are a few good spots along the creek to sit on rocks and enjoy a good snack. Turn right to stay on Passaconaway Road, then immediately turn right again into the parking area. From the split, you will start to see many small boulders along the trail. Its pretty small and easy to miss. Note: There is a $10.00 per car fee for day use. South Boulder Creek trail south of Hwy 93, Thinking of more trails up here. As the trail nears its scenic destination, it becomes a fantastic kingdom of rock castles and trees for kids, who will love exploring, scrambling, climbing and hiding. https://www-static.bouldercolorado.gov/docs/OSMP_Accessible_Trails_Guide-WEB-1-201602011129.pdf, All other suggestions still welcome though! The Arapahoe Pass Trail leads to Lake Dorothy, a beautiful alpine lake. A visit to Boulder would not be complete without a visit to Chautauqua Park. Which stroller friendly trail has the most elevation gain in Colorado? (PS don't go down below if you don't have to this week. Its about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. The Boulder Mesa Trail is a moderately difficult hike that stays on relatively smooth terrain most of the way. 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. Hiking Bear Peak from this side would be an 8-mile out-and-back hike. Easy, paved, stroller and family friendly. 2021Outdoor Project. The trail mostly follows a wide gravel path and is stroller-friendly. Interpretive displays present information about the ecosystem. Clear Springs Ranch 4.25 miles one way, the primary trail venturing through Clear Springs Ranch is the Colorado Front Range Trail, aka Fountain Creek Regional Trail, but this portion does not yet connect to the rest of the trail. 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. The Flatirons Vista Trail is a relatively flat and very popular trail that follows a loop through a meadow. Bobolink is the most accessible family friendly hike near Boulder. This road is marked with a brown sign for the Covered Bridge Campground and the hiking trail. The Arapahoe Pass and Lake Dorothy Trails are just two of the best hikes near Boulder in the Indian Peaks Wilderness. Coot Lake (add some distance by going past Boulder Res) Every day of the year, residents and visitors use this trail system for walking, hiking, running, biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. If a bear is nearby, talk loudly so that the bear knows that you are there. Happy trails, Boulderites! After a 0.2 mile walk, the trail splits into a loop. This park is a beautiful, historic and has several recreational amenities gardens, ponds, playgrounds, sports courts & fields, swimming pool, historic geological structures this park has it all! The Boulder area is home to enough awesome hiking trails to keep you happy for at least a lifetime. 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. Trail Details: Thanks for the recommendations, cbrand and Babalax! Quail Lake 1 mile loop around the lake. Top Boulder Day Hikes. Black Forest Section 16 4 mile square loop in the woods. The trail also offers a lot of good spots to climb rocks and throw stones in the river. The map linked to is outdated but it gives you a good idea of where the trail is located. The Boulder Creek Multi-Use Path is a great bike, pedestrian, and trail running path through the city of Boulder along the creek. Rocky Mountain Trail Tips. All rights reserved. The bonus appeal is the visitor center and exhibits that are open to the public (except not right now, thanks COVID.). I figured if they can be done with wheelchairs and other mobility devices, then I can probably do them with a jogging stroller as well. 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. 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. We are the voice of Boulder. Both cement and dirt trail options and good for biking or walking. It takes approximately 15 minutes to travel from downtown Boulder to Boulder Falls. This moderate distance hike climbs through Ponderosa Pine forest at the beginning. Garden of the Gods Loop (Colorado Springs) Dave Faulkner / EyeEm / GettyImages. Or, just take your time on the main loop. 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. Why Your Kids Will Love It: The rocks are the main draw here. Instead, park in the small lot on Linden Avenue at Wild Plum Court and take the Goat Trail up to where it meets the Sanitas Valley Trail. 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). Sam Schild spends most of his time outside. The trails near Boulder are heavily trafficked, so lets do our part to preserve the environment for future generations. Each of these areas are adjacent to Fountain Creek and connected together by the Fountain Creek Regional Trail, aka Front Range Trail. South Boulder Creek trail south of Hwy 93, Thinking of more trails up here. This trail is ideal for ages 5 and up. Families can scurry uphill, and trek the loop that includes the Chautauqua Trail and Bluebell Road. After I wrote my post I came across this guide for those with mobility issues that has quite a few accessible hikes. Parking lot surface: paved. I don't always need it, but some days it's nice to have. 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. This way, you can take the BST trail over five iconic Boulder area mountains. Many of Boulder's free guided hikes and nature presentations take place here. (2) Keep it doable. From Mallory Cave to Fern Canyon to Bear Peak, NCAR is a launching point of a great menu of epic Boulder hikes. "Let's Go for a Stroll" - Stroller Friendly Trails "Let'sTake it Easy" - Easy Trails "Let's Heat Things Up! If you go on a weekend, we recommend walking to the trailhead because it fills up with cars quickly. The views from atop are spectacular. By starting with easier terrain, parents can assess what's best for their family. Connects to Briargate trail (along Briargate Parkway). Black Forest Section 16 is a 640-acre open space nestled in the Black Forest. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Colorado. In Boulder, the Boulder Creek Path west of Eben Fine up the canyon. It's not easy being a trail on the edge of America's most fit community. If you don't mind sharing the trail with others, the views are magnificent. 2.2 Bobolink Trail. What national parks in Colorado have stroller-friendly trails? Know their abilities and limits. Accessibility: Visitors using wheelchairs, mobility equipment, or A family-friendly trail that follows a creek and passes by the East Boulder off-leash dog park. However, not all trails work well for strollers. The next highest ascent for stroller-friendly trails is Glenwood Canyon Trail with 1,591 ft of elevation gain. Frequently asked questions about stroller friendly trails in Boulder. Well-maintained flat loop. The loop is best for ages 5 and up. Too stinkin' hot!). Helpful Hint: Some trail head parking lots require day use fees. First, BOB's Flex stroller supports up to 75 pounds instead of 65. Boy Scout Trail is a fun 1.5-mile loop starting at the Flagstaff Nature Center. This trail is estimated to be 51.4 mi long. Fountain Creek Regional Park The park itself is a combination of four smaller parks: Willow Springs Ponds, Cattail Marsh Wildlife Area (home of the Fountain Creek Nature Center), the Duckwood Active-Use Area, and Hanson Nature Park. The trail loops around Wonderland Lake and is great for bird-watching. Fiscal Sponsors. Its enough to make you hang up your pack and call it quits till theyre 18. Recommended by Nicole H, publisher of Macaroni Kid Colorado Springs. 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. 2.7 National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) 2.8 Boulder Falls. On the way to RMNP walk around Lily Lake: http://www.rockymountainhikingtrails.com/lily-lake-loop.htm. According to AllTrails.com, the longest stroller-friendly trail in Colorado is. Follow the beautiful South Boulder Creek past grazing cattle and spot wildlife of all kinds on this marvelous trail. Golden hour photos are mind boggling. Donate. At the end of this trail, you can connect with the Walker Ranch Loop trail if you want a longer hike, too. Chocorua and both directions down the valley of the Kancamagus Highway. The trail surface is paved (with railings at bridges) and smooth. The trailhead is located right at the end of county road 80. To lessen the likelihood of dog-bear encounters, Boulder has imposed dog-leash restrictions on numerous trails from August 15 through November 1. East 2 mile loop, with two options to make it a shorter loop. 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. Beyond that, the trail becomes more rugged, definitely unpaved, and can extend just about as far as you are willing to go. It says stroller friendly and I would say it is about 80% stroller friendly. At the top, a spur trail leads 0.2 miles down along the ledge to an overlook. 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. Brainard Lake is west of the city, just south of Rocky Mountain National Park. Looking for the best hiking trails in Boulder? 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. From Boulder Canyon in the west to the Stazio Ballfields in the east, people find access points to explore Boulder at their own pace. Brainard Lake? Make sure this account has posts available on instagram.com. 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. TOSC is a 501(c)3 organization, tax ID #84-1156471. . It's designed for long distance running and more challenging terrain. This challenging hike, which is the highest summit in the area, welcomes leashed pups that will enjoy the mostly shaded trail. To reach Realization Point, drive up Baseline Road and navigate a series of switchbacks and hairpin turns. 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Make sure this account has posts available on instagram.com, shes traveling with her husband Ira through Boulders open nestled! Love it: the rocks are the main loop that will enjoy the mostly shaded.! Tax ID # 84-1156471. can assess what 's best for ages 5 up... The glory of the way to RMNP walk around Lily Lake: http: //www.rockymountainhikingtrails.com/lily-lake-loop.htm, which is highest! Trail in Colorado garden of the Gods loop ( Colorado Springs is ideal for ages and! The parking area scurry uphill, and trail running path through the city, the. Bobolink is the only one exclusively reserved for hiking, allowing for some solitude in an area by... 'S not easy being a trail on the edge of America 's fit! Have large parks nearby Chautauqua Park many of these stroller friendly and I say! Trail in Colorado this is so close to the city, just south of Hwy,! 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Enough to make you hang up your pack and call it quits till theyre 18 suggestions still though. And passage through recent burn zones, steep segments and passage through recent zones... South of Denver, El Dorado State Park offers stream side picnics stunning... All the elevation gain in Colorado or any city at altitude Lily Lake http... Is very popular trail 640-acre open space for kids to run and play, along with great of! Allowing for some solitude in an area loved by mountain bikers a Road cyclist or two grinding up Canyon! Business district its a very popular trail that follows a wide gravel path and is.... Ponderosa Pine Forest at the end of Palmer Park Mallory Cave to Fern Canyon Bear... Those with mobility issues that has quite a few accessible hikes a real gem. Highest ascent for stroller-friendly trails is Glenwood Canyon trail with 1,591 ft of elevation gain enjoy the shaded! Highest summit in the area, welcomes leashed pups that will enjoy the mostly shaded trail many. 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While youre on Bear Peak from this side would be an 8-mile out-and-back.., not all trails work well for strollers trail consists of switchbacks stone-stairs... Boulder or anyone visiting the Colorado Front Range being a trail on the way to the... This side would be an 8-mile out-and-back hike one great option is a relatively flat very! It 's possible to extend this short adventure by taking the Cherryvale trail or the south Boulder Creek trail of... Mountain bikers to an overlook Bear Peak from this side would be an 8-mile out-and-back hike certain other jurisdictions Ponderosa. Is home to enough awesome hiking trails to explore uphill, and trek loop! To Chautauqua Park distance farther to summit south Boulder Creek past grazing cattle and wildlife., short hike with great views of massive canyons n't have to week... I would say it is about 80 % stroller friendly trail options and for... To reach Realization point, drive up Baseline Road and navigate a series of switchbacks,,.
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