Feeling cooped up this winter? Need a breath of fresh air and a change of scenery?
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Golden, Colorado is the perfect place to shake off cabin fever and embrace the beauty of the great outdoors! With crisp mountain air, snow-dusted landscapes, and plenty of sunshine, it's the perfect time to bundle up and hit the trails. Whether you're pushing a stroller, holding little hands, or letting your kids burn off some energy, these family-friendly hikes and walks will make your winter days unforgettable.
Here are some of the best kid-friendly winter hikes in Golden, complete with links to AllTrails so you can check trail conditions before you go!
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1. Clear Creek Trail
Check trail details on AllTrails
A true local favorite, the Clear Creek Trail is a paved, mostly flat path that follows the rushing waters of Clear Creek through downtown Golden. It’s perfect for strollers, little bikers, and toddlers who love to explore. Bonus: Stop for a warm drink at a local café or stop by the chicken coop to feed the chickens!
2. Terry Park at Clear Creek
Check trail details on AllTrails
This little gem is perfect for families with young kids who want an easy, fun outdoor adventure! The Terry Park Trail is a short, gentle loop where little legs won’t tire out too quickly. There are great spots to watch the creek, look for birds, and maybe even spot a friendly squirrel or two! The trail is accessible year-round, making it a great winter option for families.
3. Peaks to Plains and Welch Ditch Loop
Check trail details on AllTrails
If your crew is up for a slightly longer adventure, this 2.4-mile loop is a fantastic choice! The trail follows the scenic Clear Creek Canyon, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and river below. Kids will love spotting ice formations on the rocks and watching the creek rush by. Just make sure to wear sturdy shoes in case of icy spots!
4. Colorow Mountain Forest and Meadow Loop Trail
Check trail details on AllTrails
This quiet and peaceful trail is a great place to let kids explore nature without the crowds. The mix of forests and open meadows makes it an exciting place to spot birds and maybe even a deer or two! If it has recently snowed, this trail transforms into a magical winter wonderland—perfect for a mini snowball fight along the way!
5. Rawhide Trail and Wranglers Run Trail
Check trail details on AllTrails
For families with slightly older kids who love to explore, the Rawhide and Wranglers Run Trail offers just the right mix of adventure and easy-going hiking. The trail loops through rolling hills with gorgeous views, and in the winter, it's a great place to see snow-covered foothills without venturing too far from town.
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Tips for Winter Hiking with Kids:
✅ Dress in layers—Colorado weather can change fast!
✅ Bring snacks, water, and a thermos of hot cocoa for a trailside treat.
✅ Wear waterproof boots with good traction—snow and ice are common.
✅ Check AllTrails or local park websites for trail conditions before heading out.
✅ Pack extra mittens, because snow-covered trees are very tempting!
Winter hiking in Golden is an amazing way to spend quality time outdoors as a family. So grab your warmest gear, lace up those boots, and hit the trails for an unforgettable winter adventure!
Know of another great family-friendly winter hike in Golden? Email Cate at catherinec@macaronikid.com with your pick—I'd love to hear about your favorites and add to our list!
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This article was written with the help of ChatGPT.
