3 Best Hiking Trails in Lakewood, CO

“William Frederick Hayden Park covers 2,400 acres offers a scenic mountain view and is home to various wildlife species. There is a multi-use trail system for visitors to explore. The trail's elevation gain ranges from 63 to 515 meters, making it an easy to moderately challenging route. From the trail, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the Denver metro area to the east and the high mountain ranges to the west. The park is well-maintained, with numerous entry points for visitors to access the trail. During winter, visitors can snowshoe the trail. Dogs are allowed on the trails but must be leashed in certain areas. William Frederick Hayden Park is home to diverse wildlife, including coyotes, hawks, rattlesnakes, bluebirds, rabbits, mule deer, and occasionally mountain lions.”

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“Belmar Park is a beautiful park that spans 132 acres and is decorated with lush trees and expansive grasslands. The park holds historical significance from the 20th century. The trail stretches for 4.7 km, offering an easy and enjoyable route. With an elevation gain of 37 meters, the trail forms a loop, allowing hikers to complete it in approximately 57 minutes. It encompasses miles of well-paved pathways, and 17 acres of water add to its allure. Explorers can immerse themselves in the creek's beauty, observe a variety of waterfowl and native plants, and delight in the presence of historic buildings, lakes, and birdlife. Belmar Park is also a cherished venue for community celebrations. Visitors can appreciate the park's numerous attractions and the abundant wildlife it hosts. Dogs are welcome on the trails but must be kept on a leash in certain areas. The park's staff is cheerful, and the park is very well maintained. Additionally, there is ample parking available.”

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“Bear Creek Greenbelt Park is home to wetlands, fishing ponds, riparian woods, and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. The trail is 6.0 km long and is generally considered an accessible route. The elevation gain of the trail is 21 meters. The park is an out-and-back trail. It takes approximately 1 hour and 7 minutes to complete the entire trail. Bear Creek Greenbelt Park is a 379-acre preserve parallel to Bear Creek. Numerous trail connections along the picturesque floodplain lead to Denver, Bear Creek Lake Park, and the foothills beyond. The trail is ideal for hiking, birding, and running. While dogs are allowed on the trails, they must be leashed in some areas. Overall, the experience of hiking on this trail is simply unique.”

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