The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Virginia Lakes

The Virginia Lakes area offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features 6 routes, with 4 of them rated as easy and 2 as moderate, making them suitable for various family abilities.

You can expect stunning alpine landscapes, with prominent peaks like Dunderberg Peak and Black Mountain forming a dramatic backdrop. The trails often traverse high alpine meadows, lush forests, and serene lake basins. The region is known for its exceptional 'scenery per mile,' with numerous picturesque lakes, including Big Virginia Lake, Red Lake, and Blue Lake, being a constant highlight.

While many trails are family-friendly, the terrain around Virginia Lakes is generally rugged and at high elevation, making most routes unsuitable for strollers. However, trails like Green Creek Trail to Blue Lake are relatively short and easy, making them more manageable for young children who can walk or be carried in a carrier.

For an easy and rewarding experience, consider the Big Virginia Lake to Frog Lakes trail. It's just under 2 miles round trip with minimal elevation gain, leading to beautiful alpine lakes. Another great option is the Green Creek Trail to Blue Lake, which is even shorter at less than a mile and offers lovely lake views.

Yes, the area is rich with natural beauty. Many trails lead to or pass by beautiful alpine lakes. You might encounter Blue Lake (Hoover Wilderness), Cooney Lake, and Upper Frog Lake. The Virginia Lakes Trailhead itself provides access to several lakes, with the first lake directly at the parking lot.

The best time to visit Virginia Lakes for family hiking is typically from late spring through early fall, once the snow has melted and before winter conditions set in. Summer offers pleasant temperatures and full access to all trails, making it ideal for families. The high elevation means cooler temperatures even in summer, providing a comfortable hiking experience.

The Virginia Lakes area is generally dog-friendly, as it provides access to the Hoover Wilderness. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations and ensure your dog is on a leash to protect wildlife and other hikers. Remember to pack out all waste.

Yes, the main Virginia Lakes Trailhead offers parking, which is a convenient starting point for many of the area's hikes. Given the popularity of the region, especially during peak season, it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot.

While many trails in the immediate Virginia Lakes area are out-and-back to specific lakes, longer options like the Shamrock Lake – Excelsior Lake loop (4.3 miles) exist for families seeking a circular route. For a simpler out-and-back that feels like a journey, the Green Creek Trail offers varied scenery through aspen groves.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning alpine scenery, the abundance of beautiful lakes, and the quiet, cozy atmosphere that makes it an ideal escape from crowds. The 'scenery per mile' is frequently highlighted as a major draw.

The isolated location of Virginia Lakes, tucked beneath Dunderberg Peak and Black Mountain, generally contributes to a quieter atmosphere compared to more heavily trafficked areas. To avoid crowds, consider hiking early in the morning or later in the afternoon, especially on weekdays. Exploring some of the slightly longer, moderate trails might also lead to a more secluded experience.