Tallman Ranch via Bridge Creek
Type … Hike
Highlights … Views, Lake, Aspens, Wildflowers
Seasons … Late Spring to Fall
Difficulty with Kids … Moderate due to some short steep sections + sun exposure
Trail Details … 3.1 Miles, Out and Back (AllTrails) but easily made shorter
Closest Town … Golden or Blackhawk depending on where you depart from
Shade … Some
Parking Situation … Limited (go early or late in the day especially on weekends)
Potty Situation … Pit toilets at trailhead
Until recently, we hadn’t been to Golden Gate State Park in a while - mostly because thinking about the park gives me heart palpitations because of how crowded it is during the fall colors. However, the late spring/summer is a totally different story, especially during the week! I honestly don’t know how I heard about Tallman Ranch, but holy hidden gem… this hike has all the perfect components for a kid friendly hike - there’s water (a creek and lake), wildflowers, historic buildings, and frequent moose sightings! We were lucky enough to see one approach the lake while we were the only people there and it was one of the coolest wildlife encounters I’ve ever had.
While there are a few steep sections to this hike, they are totally doable for little ones of all ages. There are plenty of shaded, flat sections in between to help cool down during snack break.
TRAIL TIPS
State park pass (or day pass) required. Before you continue to the trailhead, you’ll need to stop at the Golden Gate Visitor Center to pick up a day pass for your car - $14 per vehicle. There is a cool trout pond and wildlife info in the visitor center if you want to make a quick pit stop!
Picnic Tables. There are a few picnic tables within the first 1/4 mile of the hike (on the other side of the creek from the trailhead) - these would make for a great picnic spot after your hike.
No swimming! You can’t swim at the lake, so water shoes, etc aren’t necessary. Maybe an extra pair of socks if your kiddo might find their way into the water anyway.
Historic Ruins. Make sure to check out the historic ruins on one end of the lake. There is a fun porch swing to sit on for a snack break.
Moose sighting. If you check out the AllTrails comments, you’ll see moose sightings are frequent so keep your eyes peeled and make sure your kiddo knows ahead of time what to do if you spot one.
MAKE A DAY OF IT
Blackhawk Bean & Cream. If you’re coming back through Blackhawk, we love this ice cream & coffee shop.
Views and wildflowers
Most peaceful lake ever!
Historic Tallman Ranch Ruins
Moose sighting!
