Growing up at my dad's house I used to hike every single day, during the summer, on the cliffs behind his house. Now that I have kids that are old enough to hike I would love to get them into it as well. Problem is I have no idea where to go here in Colorado. I live in Aurora, but I don't mind driving a couple of hours to a great kid friendly trail. Anyone have any suggestions on where to go?
Thank you all so much! I totally forgot about Castlewood Canyon! A friend of ours got married there a few years ago and I remember how beautiful it was there. I will be going there as soon as the snow melts, but I will also be checking out the other places as well. I can't wait til my husband is home and we are all able to join it as a family!!!
I use www.localhikes.com and filter on Colorado. People who have hiked the trails rate them as "easy", "moderate", etc.
Hi M. - Our kids are a little smaller but we like to hike in Castlewood Canyon just south of Franktown. It's easy to get there - Parker Rd. the entire way. You might also like Hidden Mesa down south as well.
On the west side, there are a ton of trails better suited for older kids and adults. You might consider Golden state park in Golden.
Lost Lake up near Boulder is beautiful as well. There is a campground and hiking trails all around.
Hope you have a terrific time!!
We use this book to find good hikes for families "Best Hikes With Children in Colorado" by Maureen Keilty.
Hi M.,
I love to hike the loop around Red Rocks. It's not hard, but it's beautiful and maybe a great starting point!
Castlewood Canyon outside of Parker is a great place to go and is pretty close to you. Just take Parker Road, which is Hwy 83, through Parker and Franktown. You will see the signs for the park shortly after that. It's maybe 2 miles or so past Franktown. I could be a little off on the distance but not too much. Happy hiking and a big thanks to your husband for his service and to your family also.
