Looking at a 4 mile loop trail with moderate elevation gain. We've done easier hikes but nothing this ambitious. Should we plan for snack breaks? Will they get bored? What's reasonable to expect for their age? Don't want to ruin it by pushing them too hard or being unprepared.
Expect at least one complaint about legs hurting but honestly kids are tougher than we give them credit for. The moderate elevation should be fine if they've done some easier stuff first.
We did a similar hike last month with our kids around those ages. Expect to go slower than you would normally, take lots of breaks, and let them set the pace. The elevation gain is the real challenge, not the distance. But it's totally doable and they'll feel proud after.
We do a lot of hiking in Denver with two kids around that age. Bring way more water than you think you need and maybe some kind of reward at the summit. Our kids did great once they knew there was ice cream at the top.
Moderate elevation is the wild card here. I'd say do it but pack snacks for days and make sure they're wearing good shoes. Stop whenever they need to, no shame in taking it slow. The views are worth it though.
Four miles with elevation gain at those ages is totally doable. We did a similar hike last summer with our 7 and 9 year old. Pack extra snacks, take breaks, and the scenery keeps them distracted.
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Four miles with elevation gain is definitely doable for that age but you might want to break it up more than usual. My 9 year old can handle it but she still gets pretty tired. Bring extra snacks and water, more than you think you'll need.