Fall Family Trip to Colorado With Toddlers

Question

Hello! 👋 My family (two adults and two toddlers) will be traveling to Colorado the last week of September for 6 days. Our first night will be in Idaho Springs, and then we plan to drive through Breckenridge down to Fairplay, where we’ll stay the rest of the trip.

My husband would love to do some hiking, but since we have two toddlers, it needs to be family-friendly and not too strenuous. We’re also hoping to mix in some fun activities the little ones will enjoy.

Does anyone have recommendations for:

Easy hikes or trails suitable for toddlers

Scenic drives or short stops along the way

Family-friendly activities in Idaho Springs, Breckenridge, Fairplay, and surronding areas.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Answer

Visiting Colorado in late September with toddlers can be an amazing experience! The fall colors are typically stunning at this time, and there are plenty of family-friendly options that allow you to enjoy hiking, scenic drives, and small-town charm without overexerting the little ones.

For easy hikes and toddler-friendly trails, you want routes that are short, mostly flat, and have interesting scenery or natural features to keep the kids engaged:

Idaho Springs: Look at the St. Mary’s Glacier Trail (about 1 mile round trip to the overlook). It’s steep in spots but manageable with toddlers in backpacks or strollers designed for trail use. The views of the glacier lake are rewarding.
Breckenridge: Try the Mohawk Lakes Trailhead access for a short hike or Breckenridge Recreation Path, a mostly flat paved path that winds through town and nearby forested areas. Easy for toddlers to walk or scoot along.
Fairplay & South Park: The South Park City Historic Museum is a fun outdoor/indoor walking experience with minimal elevation gain. Also, Alma Lakes Trail near Fairplay is gentle and scenic for a family stroll.

Scenic drives and short stops along the way will let you enjoy Colorado’s fall foliage without long hikes:

Idaho Springs to Breckenridge: Take the Loveland Pass scenic route for mountain views, colorful aspen groves, and pull-offs for photos.
Breckenridge to Fairplay: The Hoosier Pass and Boreas Pass roads offer gentle scenic drives with overlooks and picnic spots ideal for a toddler break.
Optional detours: Stop at Como Lake or Hoosier Pass Vista for a short stroll and wildlife watching.

Family-friendly activities in each area:

Idaho Springs: Try the Argo Gold Mine and Mill tour, which is engaging and short; soak in the Indian Hot Springs pools if toddlers are comfortable.
Breckenridge: Ride the Breckenridge Gondola for views without hiking; the Recreation Center has toddler pools and play areas; stroll along historic Main Street for shops and ice cream.
Fairplay/South Park: Visit South Park City Museum; explore the Arkansas River for easy nature walks; drive nearby backroads to spot wildlife like elk or deer.

Additional tips:

Pack a toddler backpack carrier or sturdy stroller for mixed terrain hikes.
Bring layers, as Colorado fall mornings and evenings can be chilly while midday is warmer.
Allow flexibility in your itinerary, especially with toddlers, so you can stop at scenic overlooks, playgrounds, or short nature walks as needed.

With these hikes, drives, and activities, you’ll be able to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty while keeping your toddlers happy and safe. The combination of short hikes, historic towns, and scenic stops should make for a relaxed yet memorable family trip.

Fall Family Trip to Colorado With Toddlers

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