These towns offer the best of both worlds: easy access to the city and the great outdoors
If your perfect weekend includes family hikes, bike rides, kayaking trips, or skiing adventures, these Denver suburbs are for you. Close enough to the city if you’re commuting (or just want to have city access for nights out and other fun events), but close to the best mountains, trails, and rivers around, these Denver suburbs are perfect for families who want it all.
#1. Westminster
Just 10 miles north of Denver, Westminster is a go-to for young professionals. With a quick commute, tons of entertainment options including the Westminster Promenade, and loads to do when you want to get out, you’ll get it all — plus amazing views, no matter where you land.
For outdoorsy families, Westminster offers more than 150 miles of hiking and biking trails including the local favorite Big Dry Creek Trail. There’s also Standly Lake Regional Park for fishing, canoeing and paddle boarding. Dog lover? Check out Westminster Hills Dog Park for 420-acres of off-leash space, perfect for running, biking, or hiking, together, all within the stunning foothills.
#2. Greenwood Village
This town is known for the open-air Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre. Pack a picnic and settle in for live performances with Rocky Mountain views in the background. That, though, is just the beginning. Greenwood Village is home to 40 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding and biking. The popular High Line Canal Trail surrounds Marjorie Perry Nature Preserve, which is a relaxing spot to bird-watch. Alternatively, take a short drive to the neighboring town of Aurora to check out Cherry Creek State Park, a top destination for camping, fishing and boating.
#3. Lakewood
With 7,200 acres of open space and 240 miles of trails, there’s always some to do in Lakewood. The sprawling Bear Creek Lake Park is a popular go-to, offering space for everything from mountain biking to windsurfing to camping. Hikers and trail runners head to William F. Hayden Park to tackle the 6,800 ft summit of the Green Mountain Trail.
Throughout Lakewood, you’ll also find multiple outdoor fitness centers where residents can take classes or use exercise equipment while getting fresh air. Plus, there are a few outdoor pools and golf courses in the ‘burb so you’ll be able to make the most of sunny days.
#4. Golden
A well-known brewery town, Golden is also a popular spot for outdoor-loving families who want top-rated schools and access to both the city and the Rockies. Residents spend their free time kayaking in the Clear Creek White Water Park, biking up Lookout Mountain trails and hiking in the foothills. After working up a sweat — and an appetite — head to Golden’s historic downtown to grab a bite at Golden City Brewery or Woody’s Wood Fired Pizza.
#5. Ken Caryl
From the center of Ken Caryl, you’re just minutes to Deer Creek Canyon Park for hiking, biking and wildlife viewing, or to Chatfield State Park for camping, boating and horseback riding. Locals also take advantage of the nearby hidden gem Hildebrand Ranch Park — grab your dog, your mountain bike, or both and hit the trails.
Throughout the year, residents of all ages can help out with the Community Garden or take Environmental Education workshops. When it snows, Ken Caryl Sledding Hill becomes the local hotspot, with amazing hills for all ages.
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