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Top Hiking Trails in Park County, Colorado: From Easy Family Hikes to Epic 14ers

  • Writer: Cody Penfold
    Cody Penfold
  • Aug 1
  • 2 min read

Whether you're staying at South Park Cabin or just exploring the region, Park County, Colorado, offers incredible hiking for all skill levels. From toddler-friendly wildflower strolls to summit scrambles above 14,000 feet, this guide highlights the area's most scenic trails—including a few we've personally hiked (with photos to prove it!).


Family-Friendly Hikes Near Jefferson and Fairplay

Beaver Creek Trail – Fairplay, CO

An easy out-and-back trail perfect for families with young kids. This peaceful creekside hike winds through shady forests and open meadows—a wildflower lover’s dream in early summer.


Mom and toddler picking wildflowers along Beaver Creek Trail in Fairplay, Colorado—an easy, family-friendly hike near South Park Cabin.
Picking wildflowers along Beaver Creek Trail in Fairplay, Colorado.

Limber Grove Trail – Near Fairplay

A short and sweet 1.5-mile hike showcasing rare bristlecone pines—some over 1,000 years old. With minimal elevation gain and beautiful views of the Mosquito Range, it’s a great option for young hikers or a quick nature break.


Moderate Trails With Big Views

French Pass Trail – South Park Region

A local favorite (and one we personally love!), this 6.2-mile out-and-back trail begins in a shady forest and opens into vast alpine meadows. In summer, the wildflowers are stunning, and the panoramic views at the top are unforgettable.

Hiker with child and dog overlooking alpine valley at French Pass, Park County, Colorado.
View from the summit of French Pass

Challenging High-Altitude Hikes

Decalibron Loop – 4 Summits in 1 Day

This legendary loop includes Mount Democrat, Mount Cameron, Mount Lincoln, and Mount Bross—all over 14,000 ft. It’s a big day, but totally doable for well-prepared hikers with an early start.

Hikers with dogs holding a summit sign at 14,148 feet on Mount Democrat, part of the Decalibron loop in Park County, Colorado.
Summiting Mount Democrat as part of the Decalibron loop.

Mount Sherman – Easiest 14er Near South Park

A great first 14er for adventurous hikers. The trailhead starts high, so you’re above treeline quickly, and the route offers wide-open views of the Arkansas and South Park valleys.

🏡 Staying at South Park Cabin?

Many of these hikes are within a 15–45 minute drive from South Park Cabin. Whether you're looking for a casual nature walk or planning a summit day, you'll have a cozy basecamp nearby—plus a wood-burning stove and stargazing hot cocoa when you get back.


✅ Hiking Tips at Elevation

  • Start early to avoid afternoon storms.

  • Bring layers—weather can change fast.

  • Hydrate and acclimate before attempting 14ers.

  • Leave no trace—pack out all trash and stay on trail.

 
 
 

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