William Frederick Hayden Park

William Frederick Hayden Park offers families an accessible mountain adventure right in Lakewood, with easy summit trails that even young hikers can conquer. Kids will love spotting wildlife, discovering colorful wildflowers, and earning those incredible panoramic views of the Denver metro area and Rocky Mountains from the top.

• ✓Summit panoramic views showing downtown Denver, the mountains, and on clear days, Pikes Peak
• ✓Wildlife spotting including deer, rabbits, hawks, and various songbirds
• ✓Wildflower meadows bursting with color in spring and early summer
• ✓Multiple trail options from easy loops to the summit challenge
• ✓Educational opportunities to teach kids about Colorado ecosystems and mountain environments

1. 1.Start early morning (by 7-8 AM) to avoid afternoon heat and catch the best wildlife viewing when deer and birds are most active
2. 2.Park at the main Green Mountain Trailhead lot off Rooney Road for the shortest, most kid-friendly route to the summit (about 1.5 miles)
3. 3.Bring plenty of water and snacks,there are no facilities at the trailheads, and the elevation (6,800 ft summit) can tire kids out faster than expected
4. 4.Look for the rock cairns along the trail and let kids add a stone,it's a fun tradition that keeps them motivated on the climb
5. 5.Download an offline trail map before you go, as cell service can be spotty on the mountain

Visit on weekday mornings or early weekend mornings (before 9 AM) to avoid crowds and heat. Spring (April-June) offers stunning wildflower displays, while fall (September-October) provides cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage without summer crowds.

The park is free to visit with ample parking at multiple trailheads. There are no restrooms, water fountains, or food vendors, so come prepared with all supplies and plan bathroom stops before arriving.

Spring (April-June) brings peak wildflowers but can have muddy trails after rain. Summer offers long daylight hours but gets hot,go early. Fall provides perfect hiking weather with beautiful colors. Winter trails remain open but can be icy; microspikes recommended and check conditions before visiting.

Head to Chick-fil-A (5 minutes away on Alameda) for a quick, kid-friendly meal, or try MOD Pizza on Wadsworth Boulevard where kids can customize their own pizzas after working up an appetite on the trails.