Heres a suggested list of items to keep everyone happy and safe out on the trails. On any given day he's either backpacking, bikepacking, trail running, or thinking about the next time hell get out there. Soon enough. 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). Parts of the Marshall Mesa were temporarily closed after the devastating Marshall Fire in December 2021. I don't always need it, but some days it's nice to have. 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. 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. Youre envisioning an idyllic afternoon of physical activity, educational enrichment, and maybe even a photo for that holiday card. Be sure to bring a daypack with extra trail snacks and water bottles. Looking for the best hikes around Boulder, Colorado? Most folks are also more active when visiting a city like Boulder than at home. The trails near Boulder are heavily trafficked, so lets do our part to preserve the environment for future generations. In this guide, we will be covering the following: If youre visiting Colorado, the number of hikes to choose from can be overwhelming. Its an iconic playground for climbers, adventurers, photographers, and families. This trail is rocky and challenging. 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. Accessibility: There are 2 designated accessible spaces in the small paved parking lot off of West Byron Place at the northwest end of the trail. It's not easy being a trail on the edge of America's most fit community. What to do: Kids are naturally inquisitive and love to explore, but theyre not known for their patience or their attention spans. What to pack: A short hike with kids will start feeling like an Everest Base Camp Trek if you dont have the right supplies. To reach Realization Point, drive up Baseline Road and navigate a series of switchbacks and hairpin turns. Trail Details: On a clear day, dont miss the opportunity to capture wonderful images of Boulder and the surrounding area. 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. Note: Do not confuse this hike with the Red Rocks amphitheater south of Boudler. Explore one of 76 easy hiking trails in Boulder or discover kid-friendly routes for your next family trip. Instagram. Number of van-accessible spaces with access aisles: 2; 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. Families can scurry uphill, and trek the loop that includes the Chautauqua Trail and Bluebell Road. 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. You can also hike to the summit of this mountain via the Green Mountain loop trail and Chautauqua trail. I don't always need it, but some days it's nice to have. In this article, we cover top restaurants to try the best Chinese food in Boulder. Connects to Briargate trail (along Briargate Parkway). Templeton Gap Trail 4.5 miles one way, connects to the west end of Palmer Park. (PS don't go down below if you don't have to this week. Its about building relationships with the outdoors and each other. This is also a very popular route for bike commuters to use on their way to and from work. We would be remiss not to include this point on every single post about hiking and enjoying the outdoors. If you dont have a high clearance vehicle, we suggest parking at the Hessie Trailhead. Mount Audubon Hike 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. Brainard Lake? Youll have to pay to enter the Brainard Lake Recreation Area. 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! They've done a great job fixing it up after the flood. #1 - Button Rock Dam via Sleepy Lion Trail. (updated 10/2018), Restaurants with a past.. dining options with a history. 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. It is typically 3 to 6 feet wide (with some wider passing spaces). If a bear is nearby, talk loudly so that the bear knows that you are there. Delivered to your inbox every Friday! Looking for the best hiking trails in Boulder? It is estimated to take 3.5 to 4.5 hours. This true gem of Boulder hiking is right outside of town, but because of its location it can get pretty crowded. This is also a great option to turn an epic out-and-back hike on the Boulder Skyline Traverse into a loop. Coot Lake (add some distance by going past Boulder Res) 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. But if you're new to the area or looking for family-friendly options that are good for all ages, these are15 of my favorite places to go. (New 10/2018), A good hike to see some fall colors this weekend, Tent camping around Boulder or Estes Park. (detour to the pond is not paved). Also, use for a maximum height of 44 inches. #1 - Davidson Mesa Loop Trail Davidson Mesa Length: 3.3 mi Est. Then reality sets in and youre dealing with nonstop protests, multiple meltdowns, and a massive headache. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has 4 stroller-friendly trails with an average 4.2 star rating from 321 community reviews. Did we miss your favorite? This trail is narrow compared to other urban trails, but it still has plenty of room for a stroller. Less a hike than a place to stroll in nature, Walden Ponds is a great place to enjoy watching birds and other abundant wildlife. At the top, a spur trail leads 0.2 miles down along the ledge to an overlook. About 6 miles round trip. Which stroller friendly trail has the most elevation gain in Colorado? The first half mile of NCAR is an accessible nature trail with excellent views of Bear Peak and the surrounding foothills. It's quieter than other nearby trails, but sadly, dogs are not permitted. There is one short but steep climb up to the rocks. 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. We love that many of these stroller friendly trail options for families with young children have large parks nearby. Start at the East Boulder Rec Center -> Bobolink->South Boulder Creek Path. lovely flat-ish trail that goes out to Marshal Rd. Sanitas Valley trail https://bouldercolorado.gov/osmp/mount-sanitas-trailhead, Enchanted Mesa and McClintock Nature Trails Loop @ Chautauqua. Make sure everyone is wearing appropriate shoes and clothing. 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. The scenic drive on Canyon Boulevard is a bonus. ), Use the nature tools and scavenger hunts to stave off boredom and distraction, Use phone apps or books to identify plants and animals, Let them take photos of things they want to remember, Take frequent breaks that include rest, food, and water, Set aside time during the hike or right after to record what they saw (older kids can do the writing themselves, and younger kids can add sketches to your writing). 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. Hikers on AllTrails.com recommend several popular national parks in Colorado. Good boots or hiking shoes are recommended. The trail soon turns a corner to face an enormous cliff. With a limited number of parking spots at the trailhead on Baseline Road, consider arriving early on weekends and during summer months. 1st time in Colorado. Boy Scout Trail is a fun 1.5-mile loop starting at the Flagstaff Nature Center. There is still a missing section (about a mile) between the Northern and Southern segments at Stetson Hills; 5 miles refers to only the Southern Section. A few areas with rocks and also a small stream to cross.. a bit bumpy. (updated 10/2018), Restaurants with a past.. dining options with a history. He has logged over 10,000 miles bike touring all over the United States, too. This is a commuting corridor, so expect to share the trail with runners and bikers. 2021Outdoor Project. He works closely with a study abroad program at a large university in New York City, so he gets a healthy dose of culture at home and gets to travel to amazing places for work. More info: evergreenrecreation.com. Facebook@TrailsAndOpenSpaceCoalition . Another option is to take the McClintock/Enchanted Mesa Trails which originate near the Chautauqua Auditorium. It's open with not much shade. Coot Lake (add some distance by going past Boulder Res). This moderate distance hike climbs through Ponderosa Pine forest at the beginning. The Boulder Mesa Trail is a moderately difficult hike that stays on relatively smooth terrain most of the way. 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? Neither of them are van-accessible with a striped access aisle. You do have to pay an entrance fee to get into Eldorado Canyon State Park. And the seasonal ditch is a great place to cool off on the way down. Bring your camera because these views are stunning. 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. Youll pass Long Lake, then Lake Isabelle as you climb up a valley towards the Continental Divide. Decades after I first came to this college town as a student, I still stop on trails to capture images. This 1.4 mile loop trail is all-terrain stroller friendly and has great views of rock formations. At the end of this trail, you can connect with the Walker Ranch Loop trail if you want a longer hike, too. Adams Open Space & Metcalfe Park 2.5 miles out and back. 702 E Boulder St, Suite 200 Colorado Springs, CO 80903. South Boulder Peak and Bear Mountain Trail South Boulder Peak and Bear Mountain Trail in Boulder, CO, is a dog-friendly, 5.6 mile hike that generally takes about 6 hours to complete. It is typically 2 to 5 feet wide (with some wider passing spaces). Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. It says stroller friendly and I would say it is about 80% stroller friendly. Trailhead and parking area are on Passaconaway Road in Albany, NH. Summiting from this side is longer and involves more ascent. There is another equally stunning lookout that usually has a fraction of the crowd. You get a lot of use. After visiting these trails countless times with our children and grandchildren, I'm sharing some of our favorite family-friendly trails. What is the longest stroller-friendly trail in Colorado? 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. The only setback is the long, winding drive up Flagstaff Road, but the payoff is incredible. Devil's Head Lookout may not be the most scenic hike in . Boulder Recreational Marijuana Dispensaries: UPDATED! Seasonal closures may occur due to muddy conditions. 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. Instead take the trail to the left. Parents pushing strollers or walking with preschoolers share this mostly paved path with bicyclists, walkers, rollerbladers, and runners. Here are a few of the best stroller-friendly hikes in the Denver metro area! Directions Share Activity Difficulty Length Suitability More filters 1 Top trails ( 6) Easy 4.4 (865) #1 - Boulder Creek Multi Use Path This is not a great hike for toddlers unless you have a carrier because there are a few rather steep and slick rocks. Creeks and bike parks are an added bonus to taking a nature walk with your baby or toddler. Garden of the Gods Loop (Colorado Springs) Dave Faulkner / EyeEm / GettyImages. The loop is best for ages 5 and up. It is typically at least 4 to 6 feet wide (with some wider passing spaces). To avoid the hassle of looking for a parking spot on summer weekends, the city runs a free shuttle from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Aside from making mountain gear magic in our offices and warehouses, the terrain that engulfs the city is an absolute must-see for outdoor e. Parent category for Checklists, Listicles, Outdoor Activities, Survival. When Sandy Bornstein isnt trekking in Colorado or writing, shes traveling with her husband Ira. :). Your dream of enjoyable family hiking can be a reality. The Arapahoe Pass Trail leads to Lake Dorothy, a beautiful alpine lake. Lots of open space for kids to run and play, along with great mountain views! It joins up with the Mesa Trail and others if you want to extend your adventure. Pack a bag, grab the kids, and go get it! Both of them are van-accessible with a striped access aisle. Thanks for the recommendations, cbrand and Babalax! Stroll past the Boulder Farmers Market from the first weekend in April through the Saturday preceding Thanksgiving. Monument Valley Park Mild 5 mile loop around Monument Valley using the Pikes Peak Greenway which transitions between pavement and gavel, and travels on both sides of Monument Creek. $0.00, Hike it Baby Family Trail Guide is an online resource to help families with children source trails that little legs can hike and parents can feel comfortable with. Which stroller friendly trail has the most elevation gain in Boulder? , 5.3 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail transitions between pavement and dirt. 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. Briargate Trail 1.25 miles one way, connects to Candleflower Park. Generally the best tip is pay attention to your and your kids urine. How to Pack a Backpack Are You Doing it Right? 4. Length: 3.10 mi. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. This is a pleasant half-mile walk around Sprague Lake (elevation 8,700 feet). Perfect for a stroller walk. Hiking Bear Peak from this side would be an 8-mile out-and-back hike. You could also walk along the roads. It's flat, wide, and great for all ages. This trail is very popular with swimmers and college kids who want to party on the water in the summertime. Boy Scout Hike at Flagstaff Nature Center ~ Boulder DIFFICULTY: EASY STROLLER FRIENDLY: NO. Informative signs spaced along the trail share information on the flora, fauna, and human history. And who doesnt love some good old-fashioned peak bagging? The trail itself follows one side of the canyon, steadily climbing and then descending. 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. While it may be tempting to stray off trails to look at something unique, please stay on designated paths and off designated habitat conservation areas. This self-guided hike takes you through some of the most magnificent lands in the park. It can go over muddy trails, grass, sand, dirt roads and more. 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. 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. Fun nature tools like a magnifying glass, kid-sized binoculars, a small container for rocks & flowers, etc. Turn right to stay on Passaconaway Road, then immediately turn right again into the parking area. 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