High Country’s Top Family-Friendly Hiking Trails
There is an impressive variety of family-friendly hiking trails available, from scenic alpine lakes to historical parks – there is sure to be an option that your entire group will appreciate!
This ridge walk offers stunning high country views off Tioga Road. Perfect for both kids and those wanting an easier introduction into peak-bagging!
1. Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain State Park abuts the west bank of the Hudson River and offers lake and river fishing, hiking, biking, cross-country ski trails, swimming pool, zoo, community carousel rides and overnight accommodations at Bear Mountain Inn and Overlook Lodge. Seasonal activities include an outdoor ice skating rink (open late October to mid March) as well as climbing Perkins Memorial Tower for panoramic views over Bear Mountain State Park and Hudson Highlands beyond. It also contains Iona Island/Doodletown Bird Conservatory which is National Natural Landmark as well as Wildflower Preserve.
Bear Mountain Loop is one of the area’s most beloved hikes and lives up to its reputation with stunning short trails such as its 4.2 mile route combining Major Welch and Appalachian Trails for some challenging terrain yet is easily manageable by children. Other family-friendly options at the park include the Sprague Lake Loop, Adams Falls and Copeland Falls hikes.
After hiking, children will likely want something relaxing to do; an outdoor community pool (open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for a small fee) offers them this chance. Be sure to arrive early as it can become busy very quickly!
Keep an eye out during your hikes for squirrels, White-tailed deer, turtles, beavers, and other forms of wildlife that inhabit Bear Mountain Park. Bear Mountain boasts an impressive diversity of plants and animals; be sure to visit its Trailside Museum and Zoo while there. Pets are permitted so long as they remain on leashes no longer than six feet – these rules do not extend into buildings, picnic areas, bathing areas, walkways, bathing pools, bathing pools or bathing pools; additionally its Trailside Zoo hosts animals such as otters, coyotes and beavers from natural habitats!
2. Fay Canyon
Red Rock Country offers many wonderful hikes for exploring, such as Devil’s Bridge and Cathedral Rock, which often dominate Instagram snapshots. But other trails like Fay Canyon Trail provide excellent alternatives that offer family-friendly activities – making this trail an excellent place to hike for families in Red Rock Country.
On the west side of Sedona is this stunning trail featuring towering red cliffs in a narrow box canyon. Perfect for families with young ones and doggies alike, this hike is kid friendly and dog-friendly and best explored during spring and fall when vibrant greenery complements deep red sandstone canyon walls beautifully.
Along the trail, you will come across various rock formations and an impressive sandstone arch. Just under one mile into your hike is a side trail leading up to Fay Canyon Arch (rock piles on either side make it easy to spot), one of several natural arches in the region that may not be as dramatic but nonetheless makes an impressive sight to behold.
Consider, however, that this arch isn’t technically a natural bridge as it’s not connected to its back wall of cliffs. If you see the “wine glass” rock formation in front of you, that means you have passed by it and should backtrack a few feet if necessary. The trail is well maintained and should take no more than an hour; should you wish to extend your trek even further, the Doe Mountain Trail connects at the end of canyon for even further adventure!
3. Bell Rock
This short and straightforward hike is suitable for both families and beginners, especially without adding on the Bell Rock climb. This trek allows visitors to experience Sedona’s iconic red rock formations alongside stunning views of Courthouse Butte.
The trail winds its way around three lakes and is shaded by pine, river birch, sweetgum, and oak trees – providing ideal conditions for families with young children or strollers to stroll. Plus there’s the added opportunity for birdwatching; look out for all those migrating birds that call the area home!
After touring, take time for a picnic or quick swim in one of three lakes nearby – each offers fresh, cool water with sandy bottoms – fed by a stream that provides amphibians a home.
Experienced hikers may wish to continue climbing up the sandstone towards a popular overlook. This part of the trail is not marked, and involves simple scrambling and use of your hands. Please be aware that this hike should only be attempted by individuals comfortable with such types of hiking activities.
This hike is sure to enchant at any time, but particularly spectacular during winter and early spring months. Be sure to bring a camera equipped with wide-angle or panoramic mode – you’ll have ample opportunities for stunning shots! For even greater effect, visit during sunset: the light will bathe the rocks in glorious shades of orange and crimson while many believe this area contains energy vortexes which may provide therapeutic healing properties.
4. Bear Creek Falls
At Bear Creek Preserve, this roadside waterfall provides the ideal setting for families to cool off and take photos. From Telluride, take West Colorado Avenue (Main Street) to South Pine Street and park nearby for a short hike to its trailhead – here you will enter the preserve! You will enjoy easy hiking with gorgeous views of natural gorges and falls, as well as access to other trails nearby – truly making this trail an essential sight when visiting Telluride! This trail should not be missed.
A five-mile roundtrip trek to this lovely waterfall is one of the most beloved family-friendly hikes in the region. Along its path are stunning cliffside vistas lining Canyon Street and vibrant aspen groves in fall – offering ample opportunity to discover nature with your kids!
This easy hike features stunning waterfalls and lakes as its highlights, providing an idyllic spot for exploring, playing games and picnicking – but don’t forget to pack plenty of water so everyone stays hydrated.
The moderate 3.5-mile hike to this waterfall is not for beginners. The trail features rocks and some steep sections, as well as being situated within prime bear and wildlife territory. But this rewarding walk promises spectacular alpine views as well as a gorgeous waterfall at its conclusion.
This park features miles of scenic hiking trails and is also an excellent place for kids to ride their bikes. There is something suitable for cyclists of all levels here – even an advanced trail! Wide-open playfields, two tennis courts and a pickleball court provide additional playtime opportunities while there is also an equestrian skills course and archery range located here.
5. Aster Park
This family-friendly hike located in the northern section of state park system starts near Adirondack Loj and loops around Heart Lake, providing stunning scenery along its route with cascades, rivers and woods – not forgetting Lone Star Geyser which erupts approximately every three hours!
This moderate 3.2 mile trek features an elevation change of over 400 feet. While climbing may test your legs and lungs, the climb will reward you with stunning lake views, wildflowers and history – plus you can extend this hike by visiting Emerald Lake and Holzwarth Historic Site as well.
On this family-friendly hike, you’ll cross Stock Creek and arrive at the Natural Tunnel. After exploring its impressive cave system, continue down the trail to discover other historic landmarks like Carter Cabin and Lovers Leap.
This scenic and easy-to-follow hike provides great opportunities for nature photography and birding, with pine, river birch and cedar trees dotting the trail under shaded forest floor conditions. Additionally, enjoy listening to clear rushing water soundscapes.
An adventure in nature can bring families closer and strengthen relationships, especially when there’s stunning landscape to discover. These precious moments create lifelong memories and strengthen bonds. To prepare for your hike, wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately. Bring along maps, water, a raincoat or poncho, extra food items, insect repellent and first aid supplies as well as first aid kits to make sure all essential needs are covered. Make sure someone knows where and when you plan to return; and always notify someone beforehand regarding local trail conditions and area closures before setting out.