Colorado Hikes Perfect for Families with Littles

Hiking with little ones can feel intimidating at first - but it’s one of the best ways to get kids moving, curious, and in love with the outdoors. Fresh air, little legs exploring, and wide-open skies? It’s an instant reset for the whole family. The key? Start young, keep it fun, and yes… pack plenty of snacks.

Now if you don't consider yourself the "hiking" type, don't worry, because I don't either. My husband is the hiker - goal oriented to the point that it doesn't count unless you reach the top. But what I've learned from endeavoring to take my own babies hiking is that the joy is in the journey because with little kids, hikes are more like...nature walks.

But even short hikes (aka nature walks) are packed with benefits: children build strength, coordination, problem-solving skills, and confidence while developing a deep appreciation for nature. Plus, being outdoors together creates lasting family memories - and teaches kids patience, curiosity, and resilience…plus it builds your patience as a parent too. 

Expect hikes to take twice as long as you think they will, but embrace the slower pace as your children teach you to - quite literally - stop and smell the wildflowers. 

Below are some of our favorite easy enough hikes in the mountains that are totally achievable with littles.

*Full disclosure - While I have personally hiked every one of these trails, I haven’t taken my kids on every single one, although we've done most. Based on my own experience, I’d feel confident taking my baby and toddler along with me on any of these...maybe with the exception of #13. I'm not sure I'm brave enough for that yet, but if you are, send me a picture!

13 Colorado Hikes Perfect for Families with Littles

1. Rainbow Lake – Frisco

A gentle trail with beautiful lake views, perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. The lake is a serene spot for a picnic and a little splash. Heavily trafficked but a great introduction to hiking with your kiddos.

2. Fish Creek Falls – Steamboat Springs

A short, accessible hike to a stunning waterfall. Kids love the roar of the falls, and it’s a great spot to practice listening skills and noticing nature’s small details. 

3. St. Mary’s Glacier – Idaho Springs

Moderate trails lead to an alpine lake and a small glacier. Rocky terrain makes it a fun adventure for tiny hikers ready for a little challenge.

4. Mayflower Gulch – Leadville

Wide paths, wildflowers in summer, and dramatic mountain views. A gentle climb keeps little legs busy, and the scenery is worth every step.

5. Lily Pad Lake – Frisco/Silverthorne

A family-friendly loop with a lake full of lily pads. You can approach from the Frisco or Silverthorne sides for slightly different experiences. Perfect for kids to explore while learning about plants and wildlife.

6. Bear Creek Falls – Telluride

This pretty hike (in arguably the prettiest area of Colorado) features small waterfalls and forested paths — ideal for letting little ones explore creek edges (with supervision!).

7. Rifle Falls Coyote Trail – Rifle

Easy, shaded trail with waterfalls along the way. Great for sensory exploration: the sound of rushing water, moss underfoot, and wildlife spotting. Located in Rifle Falls State Park with plenty of other options.

8. Nymph Lake & Emerald Lake – Rocky Mountain National Park

Iconic alpine lakes that are doable with young kids when you start early. Perfect for practicing trail etiquette, noticing animals, and taking breaks to enjoy scenery. Nymph lake is a short and easy hike, but you can continue on to the picturesque Emerald Lake if you’re willing to keep going.

9. Lower Cataract Lake – Heeney

Gentle loop trail around a scenic mountain like and plenty of open space for kids to run safely. Perfect for a half-day adventure. Pack a picnic to sit beside the lake when you’re finished or bring your kid’s fishing poles to try their hand.

10. Upper Piney River Falls – Vail

Moderate trail leaving from Piney River Ranch. A long and scenic drive to the trailhead. The creek crossing is a fun mini-challenge for kids to practice balance and you end at a beautiful waterfall.

11. The Grottos Trail – Aspen

Short, easy shaded trail with caves and rock formations. Kids love exploring nooks and crannies, and parents love the mix of history and natural beauty.

12. McCullough Gulch Trail – Breckenridge

Moderate climb to an alpine lake with waterfalls along the way. Perfect for slightly older kids ready for a full adventure. Views of Quandary, a local 14er. 

13. BONUS - Mount Bierstadt - Georgetown

Ready to really commit?! Take your kids on their first 14er! (If you’re not from Colorado or aren’t familiar with the lingo, that’s a mountain over 14,000 in elevation and the state has 54 recognized peaks). Recommended for slightly old kids (or prepared to carry your littles A LOT), prepare for a full day experience and check off a bucket list item by tackling what’s considered to be the easiest and most achievable of the 14ers. 

5 Must-Pack Essentials for Hiking with Littles

1. Snacks – Trail mix, granola bars, or fruit. Frequent snack breaks keep energy up and moods happy. Overpack. You never want to be without snacks when kids are involved.

2. Water – Hydration is key, especially in higher altitudes. Reusable water bottles or hydration packs work great.

3. Weather-Appropriate Clothing – Layers are a must; mornings can be chilly, afternoons warm. Snow and rain can come out of nowhere. Don’t forget hats and rain jackets if needed.

4. Comfortable Footwear – Sturdy sneakers or toddler hiking boots. Little feet get tired quickly!

5. Adventure Essentials – Sunscreen (our mountain sun can be INTENSE even when its cold), a small first-aid kit, binoculars, and most definitely your camera (or cell phone) to document the journey.

Tips for Hiking with Littles

• Go slow and follow their pace – the hike isn’t a race, and curiosity often leads to the best memories.

• Engage the senses – look for tracks, listen to birds, smell wildflowers, and touch rocks.

• Make it playful – scavenger hunts, leaf collecting, or “I spy” games keep little minds engaged.

• Celebrate milestones – whether it’s reaching a log, a creek crossing, or the top, encourage and cheer them on!

• Enjoy the journey - hiking takes longer with kids. Always. So even if you don’t reach the destination and ultimately turn around and head back to the car, enjoy these fun moments with your kids anyway.

One Final Encouragement

Beyond this short list of Colorado hikes for families with littles, the mountains are filled with beautiful trails for all confidence levels and this is by no means an exhaustive list. If you’re visiting a different mountain town or live on the Front Range, a quick Google or All Trails search will find dozens of local trails perfect for your family and their skill level. 

Outdoor adventure doesn’t have to be complicated, exhausting, or reserved for adults and “big kids.” With the right mindset, a bit of planning, plenty of snacks, and more than a little patience, hiking with littles becomes a fun activity your family will cherish for years to come. Remember the joy of the journey and the flower picking, log climbing, pond splashing fun along the way.

So grab your backpack, lace up the tiny boots, and hit the trail — adventure is waiting.