Soda Creek is the answer.

This beautiful trail undulates through dense pine forest before breaking out into beautiful wide-open meadows filled with wildflowers and views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is never steep or technical, making it the perfect family-friendly outing in the mountains.

Of course, like any good Colorado trail, you can make the route much, much longer and much more difficult if you so desire. Just keep heading south toward the Colorado Trail if you want to add on tons more mileage.

But for those who want to keep it simple and make sure that everyone in the family has a good time, this short lariat hike can’t be beat!