Best Dog Friendly Hikes In Colorado – Denver is a great city for dog parks and dog-friendly neighborhoods, but sometimes a fenced-in area with lots of other dogs and people just isn’t right for you and your pup. Dogs need adventure, change of scenery and time, and so do we. One of the biggest benefits of owning a dog is an excuse to have fun exercising instead of being busy at the gym. But it’s not always possible to go on a very long hike just to give your dog the physical activity it deserves. Don’t worry, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to take your pet within a reasonable distance of downtown Denver. Try these dog-friendly walks to add some fun to your K9’s training and stay fresh and healthy.
Located up a hill from the rest of Elk Meadow Park, this place can be difficult to find at first (tip: turn into the only Taco Bell in Evergreen and go that way), but once you do, it will be worth it. This trail is as much fun for people as it is for dogs, with some cool rocks to climb, nice benches, and great views of the 14s and foothills. Best of all, it doesn’t require a leash. As long as your pup has the proper shots and is comfortable around people and dogs, you can walk the trails without worrying about having to supervise your dog on a leash at all times. The park also has several different options, including several trails and a fenced field if you want to play fetch and have more of a classic dog park experience. And the icing on the cake? This location is only a 25 minute drive from downtown South Broadway.
Best Dog Friendly Hikes In Colorado
While Red Rocks isn’t Denver’s top entertainment destination when it comes to music, it’s also a great place to work out and hike. While it may not be as much fun as off-leash, there are many different trails you can follow, whether it’s an athletic runner with a labrador puppy or a relaxed couple with an old basset hound. Plus, the views are just stunning and you’re really in the middle of nowhere – you’re right next door to Morrisons where you can stop for a bite to eat before heading back into town.
Colorado Dog Hikes: Lake Dorothy
If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge and a slightly longer drive into the Boulder area, this hike is worth it. You have to work hard to reach the top, but when you do, you are greeted with a fantastic view of the fantastic and majestic plateaus. Even better, this trailhead is right outside of Boulder, so you can grab lunch and head to the dog park before your hike to make hiking with an already tired pup even easier.
Snow-covered Park of the Gods in Colorado Springs, at the base of 14,000-foot Pikes Peak. Image via Thinkstock.
This one is probably the furthest away, being all the way to the Springs, but all Coloradans should experience the glory that is the Garden of the Gods, the famous stone landmark. Across from the garden is another fantastic park, Red Rocks Open Space. This is a must-stop for all dog lovers, not only because it’s a little less touristy, but it also offers an off-leash trail unlike GOTG. Yes, enjoy the majesty of Colorado’s red rocks and blue skies while your dog happily runs around your feet. The only downside: be prepared to bring trash bags with you, as there are only trash cans at the entrance to the park.
Although it’s not an off-leash trail, it’s still a great opportunity to explore with your furry friend. The various trails you can take here will keep them going for hours, and the beautiful scenery will keep you entertained. Plus, dogs love water, and the added stream along the trail is a great way for them to cool off during the warmer months. The park also has some nice picnic areas and some open areas to explore so you can stay all day. Best of all, it only takes half an hour to get to the city.
Dog Friendly Hikes: Shrine Ridge Trail In Red Cliff, Co
This hike is one of the closest hikes to the city while allowing you to enjoy the wonder and grandeur of Jefferson County, the foothills and the beautiful nature surrounding Denver. Located in Jefferson County Open Space, this trail is a slightly longer hike that crosses a creek and offers great views of the mountains and foothills. With plenty of picnic spots and other quick stops along the way, it’s perfect for a dog who needs to use up a lot of energy outdoors without venturing too far from his backyard.
Even more than six, this trail is perfect for a dog who needs to walk all day when you don’t have time to leave the city. This trail is located in Denver on the Platte River in Adams County, which was once the agricultural center of Denver. You can still spot a few rustic homesteads, and not only is it a nearly five-hour hike, but if you decide to do it all, you’ll get the added benefit of a walk on the beach and some time by the water. It’s perfect for a day off when you’re short on gas money or don’t have a car but still want to spend quality time with your pet. And of course, you don’t have to drive the entire trail, so you can just take a short walk and not have to go too far from home.
Like the third, it offers great views and time spent exploring the Flat Irons, and is a great stop if you plan to visit Boulder. Try walking your pet the full three miles, enjoy the view, and once you’ve completed the trail, you’ll be ready to relax on the town or head home just like your fur baby.
Also known as the Arapahoe Greenway, this trail is located in Littleton, a 15-minute drive from the city. There are many different paths you can take with your pet and plenty of opportunities to burn off some energy. Plus, you can practically still see the city. This is a great option if you have limited time but lots to explore.
Hikes To Take With Your Dog Near Denver
Located in the beautiful Golden Gate Canyon State Park, this four-hour hike offers four different trails for different skill levels and incredible views of nearby and distant mountain peaks, the beautiful surrounding forests and majestic meadows that run through the park. Your dog will enjoy the space to run and play, while you can enjoy the lush nature, all just a few steps from the city center. From majestic mountains to scenic trails, Colorado Springs has plenty of dog-friendly hiking spots that will keep you and your furry friend wagging their tails. In this blog, we travel the best dog-friendly hiking trails in Colorado Springs where you and your canine friend can immerse yourself in the wonders of nature.
The Garden of the Gods Loop Trail is an iconic, world-famous, and must-see spot in Colorado Springs. This unique urban park boasts stunning sandstone formations that rise dramatically against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Fortunately, dogs are allowed on leashes on designated trails. The Central Garden Trail and the Perkins Central Garden Trail are two popular dog-friendly trails where you and your dog can enjoy the unique beauty of this geological wonder.
Palmer Park is a favorite with dog owners for its diverse trail system and stunning views. With more than 25 miles of interconnected trails, you and your dog can hike through meadows, rocky ridges, and wooded areas. The Palmer Park Loop Trail is particularly popular and offers different levels of difficulty to suit different walking needs. Be sure to keep your pup on a leash and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during your adventure.
Red Rock Canyon Open Space offers you and your dog the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature. With several dog-friendly trails, including the Red Rock Canyon Trail and the Contemplative Trail, you can explore the stunning red rock formations and enjoy a panorama of the Colorado landscape. Don’t forget to follow along
