One of the biggest reasons people choose Lakewood isn’t just its proximity to Denver, it’s the access to the outdoors. Here, hiking trails, bike paths, lakes, and open space aren’t reserved for weekend trips. They’re part of everyday life.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging foothills climb, a peaceful loop for a morning walk, or a scenic place to ride your bike, Lakewood offers a wide range of parks and trail systems that make staying active easy. Here’s a closer look at some of the best spots in the area, organized by activity and atmosphere.
For Scenic Hiking & Foothill Views
If you’re craving elevation gain and wide-open views, Lakewood delivers.
Green Mountain (William F. Hayden Park)
Green Mountain is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the area, and for good reason. With multiple trailheads and loop options, you can tailor your hike to your energy level. The climbs are steady but manageable, and once you reach higher points, the views stretch across Denver to the east and the foothills to the west.
It’s a favorite for sunrise and sunset hikes, trail running, and mountain biking. If you’re looking for something that feels adventurous without requiring a long drive into the mountains, this is it.
Bear Creek Trail Connections
While Bear Creek Lake Park is known for its water access, the surrounding trail network also offers scenic, gently rolling routes that are ideal for longer hikes without intense elevation. You’ll pass meadows, small creeks, and views of the surrounding hills, perfect for days when you want movement without a steep climb.
For Biking & Multi-Use Trails
Lakewood is extremely bike-friendly, with paved and natural-surface trails that connect neighborhoods, parks, and even extend toward Denver.
Bear Creek Lake Park
This park is a go-to for cyclists. Paved loops around the lake make it easy to log miles, while dirt trails offer more variety for mountain bikers. The terrain is approachable enough for beginners but still interesting for more experienced riders.
Many locals use Bear Creek for weekend rides, but it’s also common to see people fitting in shorter weekday loops before or after work.
Lakewood Gulch Trail
If you’re commuting by bike or simply want a longer paved route, the Lakewood Gulch Trail connects Lakewood to Denver. It’s a practical option for cyclists who want to combine fitness with transportation and it gives you a scenic alternative to driving.
For Relaxed Walks & Everyday Movement
Not every outing needs to feel like a workout. Lakewood has plenty of parks that are ideal for casual strolls, dog walks, and low-key outdoor time.
Crown Hill Park
Crown Hill is known for its peaceful atmosphere and flat loop trail around a scenic lake. It’s a popular spot for birdwatching, jogging, or simply clearing your head after a long day. The path is wide and well-maintained, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
If you prefer a calmer environment compared to busier trail systems, Crown Hill is a reliable choice.
Sister City Park
For quick outings closer to residential neighborhoods, Sister City Park offers open space and accessible walking paths. It’s ideal for shorter walks when you don’t have time to commit to a longer trail system.
For Water Access & Outdoor Variety
One of Lakewood’s biggest advantages is its mix of trail access and water recreation.
Bear Creek Lake Park
Beyond hiking and biking, Bear Creek Lake Park offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. On warmer days, it becomes a gathering place for families, runners, cyclists, and anyone looking to spend time outside.
Having a park that supports so many types of recreation in one place makes it easy to plan spontaneous outings. Whether you want to hike, bike, picnic, or simply relax near the water, Bear Creek covers it.
For Mountain Biking & Trail Running
Lakewood’s proximity to the foothills means you don’t have to drive far for more technical terrain.
Green Mountain Trail System
Beyond hiking, Green Mountain is a favorite among mountain bikers and trail runners. The varied elevation and terrain keep things interesting, and the multiple connecting trails allow you to customize distance and difficulty.
Because the trail network is extensive, it’s easy to return multiple times without repeating the exact same route.
Parks That Support Everyday Life
What makes Lakewood’s park system stand out isn’t just the headline destinations, it’s how interconnected everything feels. Smaller neighborhood parks, bike lanes, and walking paths link to larger systems, making outdoor access part of your routine rather than something you plan days in advance.
That connectivity is one of the reasons people choose to live here. You can head out for a quick walk after dinner, hop on your bike for a short ride, or plan a longer Saturday hike, all without feeling like you’re leaving town.
Living Close to the Trails
When parks and trails are this accessible, where you live matters. Being close to major roads, neighborhood paths, and outdoor spaces makes it easier to actually use them.
At The Hamptons, you’re positioned to take advantage of Lakewood’s outdoor network while still enjoying a comfortable residential setting. After a ride at Bear Creek or a hike on Green Mountain, coming home to amenities like a 24-hour fitness center, relaxing swimming pools, and an on-site dog park makes it easier to stay active without overcomplicating your routine.
Having both outdoor access and convenient community features creates balance, you can push yourself on the trails and still unwind close to home.
Why Lakewood’s Outdoor Access Stands Out
Lakewood offers something unique: variety without distance. You don’t have to choose between paved paths and mountain trails, quiet lakes and challenging climbs. It’s all here, often within a short drive (or bike ride) of each other.
For hikers, cyclists, runners, families, and pet owners, that flexibility makes a real difference. Outdoor recreation becomes part of your lifestyle instead of something you squeeze in occasionally.
Make Lakewood Your Home Base
If access to parks and trails is high on your priority list, Lakewood offers some of the best outdoor variety in the Denver metro area. And living at The Hamptons puts you close to it all while giving you a comfortable place to recharge.
Explore our photo gallery to see the community, browse available floor plans to find a layout that fits your routine, and when you’re ready, apply online to make The Hamptons your next home.