This is some of the easiest hiking that we've done in the front range. My two-year-old hikes most of these trails on her feet. There is less than 200 ft of elevation gain on any of these trails. Most of the trails are multi-use, so watch for cyclists and people on horseback (and the inevitable droppings of the horses).
Most of the park is raparian zone ecology, so there is an increased diversity of wildlife compared to other alpine and sub-alpine zone hike common to the front range. Look for reptiles, amphibians and insects in the spring and summer months. Year round, you'll see deer, elk and small mammals, as well as numerous birds and waterfoul. Look for the beaver colony from the creekside trails.
There's plenty of plant diversity as well, which makes the hike a pleasant combination of sights and smells throughout the spring, summer and fall.
Since Bear Creek Canyon is surrounded by mountains east and west, sunset is early and sunrise is late. Fall hiking can get chilly after the sun dips behind the hills.
The main Bear Creek Trail runs the entire length of the park and connects with O'Fallon (Denver Mtn) Park to the west and Little (Denver Mtn) Park to the east.
Lair O' the Bear Park is open year-round and there is no cost to enter the park. The hiking is family friendly for all ages, but keep an eye on the little ones near the creek. Download the trail map at http://co.jefferson.co.us/jeffco/openspace_uploads/lairmap.pdf.
Have fun!
