Best kid-friendly trails in Boulder

Don’t miss out on hiking the Flatirons if you’re near Boulder, Colorado. This loop offers a taste of the Colorado wilderness with beautiful views of the irons, mountains, meadows, and boulder fields. Although it's a relatively short hike, be prepared for slippery and rocky sections, especially at the top. Wearing hiking boots and using trekking poles are recommended. Hiking spikes are also highly recommended in icy and snowy conditions. The trail is mostly exposed, but you'll find some nice...

The Green Mountain West Trail is one of the most popular trails in Boulder Open Space. The trailhead is located on Flagstaff Road. There are beautiful wildflowers and lush evergreen forest along the route. From the summit of Green Mountain, you'll enjoy 360-degree views of Bear Peak, South Boulder Peak, and the famous fourteeners to the west. If you’d like to continue your hike, you can take the Green Bear Trail towards Bear Canyon. Otherwise, you'll continue straight back to the parking...

The Chautauqua Trail takes you through the meadow just below the famous Flatiron formations. This route can be hiked as a standalone route as an out-and-back. It is also often used as a jumping-off point to many other popular hikes in the park, such as the Flatirons and Royal Arch. It is wide, well traveled, and slightly inclined, with valley vistas, wild flowers, and great views of the jagged Flat Irons.

Don’t miss out on hiking the Flatirons if you’re near Boulder, Colorado. This trail takes you across a large meadow before leading up to a short loop where you'll enjoy views of the irons, mountains, meadows, and boulder fields. Although it’s a relatively short hike, be prepared for steep, slippery sections and rocky parts, including some scrambling. Wearing hiking boots and using trekking poles is recommended. In icy and snowy conditions, hiking spikes are highly recommended. The trail is...

The Flatirons Vista trail lives up to its name: it features some of the best views of the Flatirons outside of Boulder, Colorado. Keep your eye out for birds of prey hunting along the grasslands and woodlands below the mountains. Some of the best views of the mountains are at sunset. Hike to the overlook for the best photo opportunity locations. The trail can be rocky in sections.

For more information about new regulations pertaining to the Anemone Loop Trail, please visit https://bouldercolorado.gov/news/city-open-new-anemone-loop-trail-during-evenings-and-weekends Enjoy bird watching and full sun while hiking the 4.4 mile Anemone Loop Trail. This loop can be accessed either from The Peoples' Crossing Trailhead or from the Centennial Trailhead. Keep dogs on leash, and anticipate icy conditions October through April. Please remember to stay on the trail, as new...

This trail takes you up through the open space along Shanahan Ridge. A North and South Fork allows for loops of various length, so if you're looking for a longer or shorter trip, you should be able to create the hike you want. The trail system intersects with South Mesa Trail and provides access to the Shadow Canyon and Fern Gulch trails to Bear and South Boulder Peaks.

This loop is part of the Mesa trail system within the City of Boulder's Open Space and Mountain Parks. It's a less travelled option, perfect for those looking to escape the busier paths in the area. You'll find plenty of shady spots and stunning Flatirons views along the way. Although the trail is relatively short, you can easily extend your hike by connecting to nearby trails.

Located within the Eldorado Canyon State Park, this trail leads you to the Continental Divide Overlook and Crag Hotel Ruins. It features a gradual climb with dry and rocky sections. The trail has beautiful views and interesting rock formations. This area is also home to wildlife such as mountain lions and eagles.

Dogs are prohibited on the McClintock Trail but permitted on the Enchanted Mesa Trail.