Mount Carbon Loop – Bear Creek Lake Park

Illustration of the region, not this trail.

• Distance6.6 mi
• Elevation gain273 ft
• Leash ruleLeash required
• Water on trailBear Creek and Turkey Creek run through the park; dogs are not allowed at the swim beach
• SeasonYear-round; cottonwood shade along the creeks, exposed on Mount Carbon
• ParkingMultiple lots inside the park; summer weekends back up at the entrance station
• FeeVehicle entrance fee charged by Lakewood (daily or annual park pass; check the Bear Creek Lake Park page for current rates)
• RestroomsRestrooms at the visitor center and picnic areas
• Managed byCity of Lakewood (Bear Creek Lake Park)

Bear Creek Lake Park is 2,600 acres of creek bottom, prairie and a small reservoir tucked behind the Bear Creek dam, and the 6.6-mile Mount Carbon Loop strings together the best of it: shaded creekside trail, a short climb to the 5,780-foot Mount Carbon overlook, and a cruise along the lake. Dogs stay leashed (Lakewood rules) and out of the swim beach, but Bear Creek itself has plenty of wading spots. The park is a multi-use place with cyclists, horses, archers and campers, so expect company. Gentle grades make it a good long walk for older dogs; the creek stretches are the move on hot days.

After the hike

More trails near Lakewood

• Green Mountain Loop – William F. Hayden Park

  Leash required · 6.6 mi
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• Trading Post Trail – Red Rocks Park

  Leash required; no dogs on the Mount Morrison Trail · 1.7 mi
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All dog-friendly hikes near Lakewood → · Lakewood dog guide