The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Larimer County

Larimer County offers a fantastic selection of outdoor adventures for families. You'll find over 200 family-friendly hiking routes, with more than 140 of them rated as easy, making it simple to find a suitable path for all ages and skill levels.

Yes, Larimer County has several enjoyable loop trails perfect for families. For a scenic and relatively easy option, consider the Emerald Lake Trail, which offers stunning alpine lake views. Another great choice is the Glacier Gorge, Lake Haiyaha and Emerald Lake Loop, providing a slightly longer adventure through beautiful mountain scenery.

Many family-friendly trails in Larimer County lead to or pass by notable natural attractions. Within Rocky Mountain National Park, you can hike to beautiful spots like Bear Lake, Emerald Lake, and the picturesque Alberta Falls. Outside the park, areas like Devil's Backbone Open Space feature impressive rock formations, and Horsetooth Mountain Open Space offers views of Horsetooth Rock.

For families with toddlers, trails that are relatively flat, well-maintained, and shorter in duration are ideal. The path around Bear Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park is a popular choice, offering easy access and beautiful scenery. Similarly, the Sprague Lake loop is another gentle option with boardwalk sections, perfect for little legs or strollers.

Dog policies vary significantly across Larimer County's diverse trail systems. While dogs are generally not permitted on trails within Rocky Mountain National Park, many county open spaces and natural areas do allow leashed dogs. Always check the specific regulations for your chosen trail or park, such as those for Larimer County Natural Resources, before heading out.

The best time for family hiking in Larimer County is typically late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, wildflowers are blooming, and most trails are free of snow. Summer offers warmer temperatures and full access to higher elevation trails, while fall brings stunning aspen foliage. Winter hiking is possible on lower elevation trails, but requires appropriate gear for snow and ice.

Absolutely! Alberta Falls in Rocky Mountain National Park is a fantastic and easily accessible waterfall hike for families. It's a relatively short walk from the Glacier Gorge Trailhead, making it a rewarding destination for children.

The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Larimer County, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of landscapes from alpine lakes to open prairies, and the well-maintained paths that make hiking enjoyable for all ages. The accessibility to iconic locations like Rocky Mountain National Park is also frequently highlighted.

Many trails in Larimer County provide incredible views with manageable difficulty. The Nymph, Dream, Haiyaha, Mills, and Jewel Lake via Emerald Lake Trail offers a series of breathtaking lake views amidst mountain scenery. For views of the foothills and Horsetooth Reservoir, trails within Horsetooth Mountain Open Space are excellent choices, often with rewarding vistas for moderate effort.

Many popular trailheads, especially within Rocky Mountain National Park, have designated parking areas, though these can fill up quickly during peak season. Some areas, like Lions Open Space, offer peaceful walks along the Poudre River and connect to paved trails, often with convenient parking. For RMNP, consider using the park's shuttle system to access trailheads and reduce parking stress. Always check specific trailhead information for parking availability and any required reservations.

Yes, permits or fees may be required depending on your chosen hiking location. Rocky Mountain National Park requires an entrance fee and, during peak season, a timed entry reservation system may be in effect. Some Larimer County Open Spaces may also have day-use fees or require a pass. It's always best to check the official websites for the specific park or open space you plan to visit before your trip to understand any entry requirements.

While many trails in Larimer County are rugged, some areas offer paved or well-maintained, flat paths suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. The loop around Bear Lake and Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park are known for their accessibility. Additionally, paved sections along the Cache la Poudre River, such as those near Lions Open Space, provide smooth surfaces for easy enjoyment.