Lair o’ the Bear Park - Idledale, CO
Lair o’ the Bear Park: A Dog-Friendly Haven in Idledale, Colorado
Located just off Highway 74 in scenic Idledale, Lair o’ the Bear Park is a favorite destination for dog owners seeking pet-friendly trails and ample natural beauty. The park offers a variety of hiking options, from easy paths along Bear Creek to more challenging trails like Bruin Bluff, making it perfect for both casual strolls with your pup and more active adventures. With accessible picnic tables, creek access, and beautiful wildflower displays in the spring, it’s a great spot to spend the day enjoying the outdoors with your furry friend.
The park is known for its welcoming atmosphere for families and dogs alike. Dogs are permitted on-leash throughout the park, and there are plenty of areas to relax or enjoy a picnic. Amenities such as wheelchair-accessible entrances, public restrooms, and designated picnic areas near Bear Creek make this park user-friendly for all. Whether you’re looking for a scenic picnic, a fun hike, or a peaceful spot to wade in the creek, Lair o’ the Bear Park stands out as one of the best dog-friendly parks near Denver and Idledale.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs must remain on-leash while visiting Lair o’ the Bear Park.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced dog area at this park.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are public restrooms (outhouses) available in the park.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, the park offers wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking lots.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there are picnic tables and various seating spots throughout the park.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features several interconnected hiking trails with a range of difficulties.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, you’ll find plentiful tree-lined paths and shaded picnic spots.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, picnics are encouraged, and there are picnic tables available near Bear Creek.
- Is there a swimming area for dogs? While there is creek access and wading areas, there is not a specific designated swimming area for dogs.
- Is the park good for kids and families? Absolutely! The park offers kid-friendly hikes and activities for all ages.
- How busy does the park get on weekends? The park can be busy but is usually spacious enough for visitors to spread out and enjoy the trails.
Reviews
Busy but spaced out people. Was a beautiful trail though. Can hike many options from this trail head. Went to Cowina and hiked to panorama point. Easy signs to follow.
We had a nice hike on Sunday the 25th . About 2 hours. There are several trails to hike. We chose a smaller, less used trail. Lots of wildflowers blooming. Nice creek access. It started thundering when we were done hiking so no fishing this time. We will go back again for sure.
A really nice park right off of 74, with several trail options for hiking and biking. Dedicated picnic areas near Bear Creek, and a wading area for the kids.
There are outhouses, but no sinks or clean water available.
This is a great park for kids/families or anyone looking for a fun trail that is easy to moderate. My 3 year old was able to hike Bear Creek Trail and Bruin Bluff.
Bear Creek Trail is scenic and goes along the water, it’s good for kids. There are also plenty of picnic table stops along the trail. Bruin Bluff has more incline, rocks and narrower paths. I wouldn’t recommend for littler kids unless they hike a lot. The view at the top of Bruin Bluff is really beautiful.
This park has more pollution than others that I’ve been to in Colorado. I’m not sure if that has to do with it being off the highway or just getting a lot of visitors.
Certainly a beautiful place to spend the day!
Truly, a beautiful place! Visiting, in the springtime, was magical; everything was in bloom. We found wild rose hips, mullen, dandelions, etc; it is a foraging paradise.
I really love the diversity of the landscape, with the river and a tree-lined path that leads to a stunning grassy hilltop.
This is a great place to visit alone or with family/friends. Good for picnics and exploring. I highly recommend a visit here!