Bear Creek Lake Trail

The Bear Creek Trail is a go-to for many Denverites and Morrison locals. Without having to travel far, hikers can enjoy a lovely nature trail near their home base. This path reveals sights of the Front Range foothills, the red sandstone ridges, and views of the cityscape. The initial section of this path travels alongside a busy road, so be prepared for some noise! The ruckus doesn’t last long because the path will open into the park, rewarding hikers with the greenspace oasis and shimmering lake.

Beginning from the trailhead, track the Bear Creek Trail alongside the roads, nestled between towering ridges. Follow this path along the creek and over the highway before entering the park. Once you enter the park, trek the Owl Trail east. You will eventually meet an intersection, turn left here and you will be diverted onto the Mount Carbon Loop Trail. Hike this path through the coverage of golden aspens and towering pines. As you travel further into the park there will be several merging and intersecting paths, make sure to keep along the Mount Carbon Loop Trail. Trek along the babbling creek before you will be guided up an exposed, rocky ridge. Hike along the ridge, which reveals sights of the lake and borders a golf course (keep an ear out for the word “fore”).

Ascend the ridge and you will be led up to the summit of Mount Carbon. Revel in the expansive views from atop the mountain and as you descend the peak you will be guided along the shores of Bear Creek Lake. Follow the Mount Carbon Loop Trail back through the sparse tree coverage, away from the lake and past an archery range. Soon the route will deliver you back to the intersection with the Owl Trail. From here, take the Owl Trail left before merging back onto The Bear Creek Trail. Simply retrace your footing along this path all the way back to the trailhead.