Going for a walk is a great way to get the American Heart Association’s recommended 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days per week. It is also a great activity to do with friends, family, neighbors, and grandkids. Staying active and staying social can make you feel happier and is just plain fun. Jefferson County has a wide variety of trails and paths throughout the county for all skill levels and abilities. Below is a short list of parks with trails that are wide, mostly flat, great for varying abilities, and perfect for Fall. For more information on these and other parks in Jefferson County, contact Jefferson County Open Space.
Before visiting one of these or any park for a walk, remember to wear sunscreen, carry water, and leash your four-legged friends.
• South Valley Park. The Swallow Trail (0.08 miles one way) affords great views of the area’s famous red rocks on a more level and wide trail. Create a longer loop by connecting to other park trails.
• Crown Hill Park. While there are many wide and easy to follow paths at Crown Hill Park, the paved Lake Loop Trail (1.2 miles) is a great choice any time of year.
• Clear Creek Canyon Park. Follow Clear Creek up the canyon and enjoy the sound of rushing water and creek access points to dip your toes in the water. There are multiple trailheads along the 3.75 mile (one way) trail for easy access.
• Mount Falcon Park. When accessed from the upper parking lot, the trails at Mount Falcon are wide, rolling and provide excellent views of green valleys and mountains. For the more energetic, park at the lower lot in Morrison for a strenuous hike up hill.
~ Aging Well in Jefferson County is a strategic planning project focused on developing and implementing strategies to create inclusive, livable communities through sustainable partnerships and integrated services. For more information, contact the Aging Well coordinator, by emailing us AgingWell@Jeffco.us, visit our website www.Jeffco.us/Aging-Well