Colorado has no shortage of beautiful hikes.!
Between Rocky Mountain National Park, the Roosevelt National Forrest, and all of the state and county parks, you can find a hike through the mountains, the plains, and everywhere in between.
However, not all of the hikes are family-friendly. Some are several miles long up high elevations. Others may be out where there is limited to no shade, making a warm summer day feel even hotter.
Even though we love those types of hikes, sometimes you want to get out with the kids for a quick trek between breakfast and lunch. Boulder Falls is one of those hikes! It’s an easy hike in Boulder for kids. Even grandparents would enjoy this trail.
This short, clear hike makes for a perfect morning out. For more information about this family-friendly hike near Boulder, keeping reading below.
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Where is Boulder Falls?
Located within the Roosevelt National Forrest, the Boulder Falls trailhead is right off of Boulder Canyon Drive, about halfway between downtown Boulder and Nederland town.
Boulder Falls is a short drive from downtown Boulder, Colorado and the University of Colorado. The drive shouldn’t take you more than 20 minutes from downtown Boulder.
Parking at Boulder Falls
There is limited parking at the Boulder Falls trailhead. Along Boulder Canyon Drive, there is a small parking lot is opposite the trailhead. During popular times that can get filled up quickly.
Some people will also park on the side of the road, though that parking is also limited. As always, be careful when crossing the street from the parking lot. Boulder Canyon Drive is windy, and it may be difficult to see oncoming traffic.
Best Time to Visit Boulder Falls
Boulder Falls is one of the easiest hikes for kids near Boulder, so it is very popular. If you’re spending the weekend in Boulder, arrive early or late in the afternoon, as the parking area gets crowded.
If you can do this easy hike during the week, you’ll encounter fewer people. We visited the Tuesday after Labor Day, and there were a few families on the trail when we arrived, and then a few arriving as we were leaving.
Keep in mind, during the summer months and holiday weekends this trail will be especially busy!
An Easy Hike For Kids Near Boulder
The Boulder Falls trail is very short! At .3 miles one way, it won’t take you and your family very long to reach the waterfall.
The hike itself is very easy, with stone steps at the entry and a packed, clean trail for the remainder. The path is lined with a chain to ensure all visitors stay on the trail. There are several signs along the path reminding visitors not to stray!
The Boulder Falls trail is an easy in-and-out trail near Boulder. This trail shouldn’t take you more than 10 minutes to reach the waterfall. We spent about 30 minutes total at Boulder Falls, and some of that time was spent taking photographs and eating a light snack.
What to Expect at Boulder Falls
Once you arrive at the waterfall, take your time to enjoy the views! Boulder Falls is a beautiful, large waterfall. The rock formations above it are equally gorgeous. Don’t forget to turn around -the views into the canyon and breath-taking. I would imagine in the fall, it would be even more beautiful.
What You’ll Need for the Boulder Falls Hike
Due to the clean trail, you won’t need any special footwear for the Boulder Falls Trail. Sneakers would be best, but visitors can even get away with supportive sandals like Teva or Keens.
A water bottle and a light snack are always a good idea on a hike, no matter how short. There are plenty of large rocks to sit on for you to take a minute to eat, drink, and indulge in the views.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Places like Boulder Falls are popular with visitors, which can bring trash and other issues. We all need to do our part to keep our parks clean and enjoyable for all. Remember to pack out all trash (including those fruit peels), and leave behind what you found. Leave no trace so we all can enjoy these parks for years to come.
Other Hikes Near Boulder For Kids
If the Boulder Falls trail wasn’t enough adventure for you and your family, there are some other hikes nearby that are also good for families.
- Sugarloaf Mountain: A .5-mile in and out trail located at Sugarloaf Mountain Road and Switzerland Trail
- Flagstaff Mountain Ute Trail: Designed to be wheelchair accessible, this .7-mile in and out trail has slightly graded elevation and a wide, cleared path.
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