Easy hikes and walks around Lakewood

Lakewood offers a good selection of easy hiking trails, with 9 routes specifically categorized as easy. In total, the area features 13 hiking routes, providing diverse options for accessible outdoor exploration.

Easy hikes in Lakewood are set against the stunning Rocky Mountain foothills, offering diverse natural features. You'll find expansive open spaces, rolling grasslands, and several attractive water bodies like Bear Creek Lake, Harriman Lake, and Kendrick Main Reservoir. Many trails wind through Cottonwood forests and past wetland ponds, providing a sense of wilderness close to the city.

Yes, Lakewood features several easy circular routes perfect for a relaxed outing. Popular options include the Brick Reservoir Loop, a 1.6-mile path offering reservoir views, and the Lake Carasaljo Loop, a scenic 3.6-mile walk around the lake. The Riverwood Park Loop Trail is another easy circular option.

Many easy trails in Lakewood are suitable for families. The Brick Reservoir Loop is a short, gentle path perfect for all ages. The Kendrick Main Reservoir Loop, while not listed in the guide's routes, is known for being family-friendly, offering reservoir views and xeric gardens. These paths generally have minimal elevation gain and well-maintained surfaces.

Lakewood is generally dog-friendly, with many open spaces and trails welcoming leashed dogs. While specific dog policies vary by park, the expansive open spaces and rolling grasslands often provide great opportunities for walks with your canine companion. Always check local park regulations before heading out.

Yes, even on easy hikes, you can enjoy scenic views and interesting landmarks. Many trails offer panoramic views of the Denver skyline to the east and the majestic Front Range to the west. While not directly on an easy trail in this guide, nearby Dinosaur Ridge features a prominent outcrop of the Morrison Formation with dinosaur fossils and tracks, recognized as North America's top dinosaur track site. You can also explore the Manasquan Reservoir, a beautiful lake highlight in the area.

Lakewood offers pleasant hiking conditions for much of the year. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer mornings and evenings are also ideal to avoid the midday heat. Even winter can offer accessible paths, especially on lower elevation trails, though conditions can vary.

Easy hiking trails in Lakewood vary in length, catering to different preferences. You can find shorter routes like the Brick Reservoir Loop at 1.6 miles (2.6 km), which takes about 38 minutes. Longer easy options include the Lake Carasaljo Loop and the Forest Resource Education Center Trails, both around 3.6 miles (5.8 km), typically completed in 1 to 1.5 hours.

The easy trails in Lakewood are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessible paths, scenic views of the reservoirs and foothills, and the peaceful atmosphere of the open spaces. Many appreciate the variety of landscapes, from lakeside strolls to paths through Cottonwood forests.

While popular spots like William F. Hayden Park on Green Mountain can see more visitors, many of Lakewood's expansive open spaces and numerous trails offer opportunities for a quieter experience. Exploring trails during off-peak hours (early mornings or weekdays) can also help you find more solitude. The Forest Resource Education Center Trails might offer a more serene experience.

Lakewood has a public transport system, and some parks and trailheads may be accessible via bus routes. However, direct public transport access to every trailhead can vary. It's recommended to check the local RTD (Regional Transportation District) schedules and routes to plan your journey to specific trailheads.

Most major parks and open spaces in Lakewood, such as Bear Creek Lake Park and William F. Hayden Park on Green Mountain, offer designated parking areas at their trailheads. For routes like the Brick Reservoir Loop or Lake Carasaljo Loop, you'll typically find parking available nearby. Always look for official parking lots to ensure convenience and compliance with local regulations.

Given Lakewood's urban-adjacent setting, you'll find various coffee shops and cafes within a short drive of many trailheads. While not directly on the trails, areas surrounding major parks and residential zones offer options for a post-hike refreshment. It's a good idea to check local listings for establishments near your chosen hiking area.