Luckily, there are many different dog-friendly hikes in Colorado. If you have a furry friend, there are plenty of places you can adventure outdoors with your canine. While different trails have different regulations, there are quite a few leash-required trails you can enjoy.
Because each trail does have different rules, be sure you check the regulations before you go.
The 8 Dog-Friendly Hikes in Colorado
1. Garden of the Gods
- This is a National Natural Landmark, featuring stunning rock formations and views.
- Offers a total of 21 miles of trails.
- Visitor and Nature Center available.
- Park also offers other recreation activities, including rock climbing, Segway tours, and yoga classes.
2. Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
- This park includes some very high sand dunes, up to 750 feet.
- Diverse landscapes to hike through, including grasslands, wetlands, and alpine lakes.
- Dogs only allowed in some sections, so be sure to check.
- Designated as an “International Dark Sky” park.
3. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Park features steep cliffs, old rocks, and spires.
- Many hiking opportunities, on top of scenic drives and overlooks.
- Designated as an “International Dark Sky” park.
4. Cheesman Park
- Historic Park that was once a cemetery.
- Features a 1.5-mile loop trail, as well as playgrounds and picnic areas.
- Neoclassical marble pavilion hosts many different events.
- Park has a haunted reputation.
5. Lily Mountain Trailhead
| ️ Address: |
Estes Park, CO 80517 (on the west side of Colorado Highway 7 about 6 miles south of Estes Park) |
| Open Times: |
Year-round (but does get covered with ice) |
| Cost: |
Free |
| Off-leash allowed?: |
No |
- Strenuous hike that leads to a summit.
- 4 miles roundtrip with a 1,180-foot elevation.
- Trail passes through a pine and aspen forest.
- Popular spot for birdwatchers, as there are many rare species.
- Known for its wildlife sightings.
6. Royal Arches Trail
- Challenging hike that leads to a natural rock arch.
- 4-mile roundtrip with a gain of 1,469 feet.
- Dogs aren’t allowed at the arch itself.
- Mule deer, squirrels, and chipmunks are common.
7. Spruce Creek Trail to Mohawk Lakes Trail
- Challenging hike that leads to several lakes and waterfalls.
- 4 miles roundtrip that gains 2,106 feet in elevation.
- Through forests of spruce and fir trees.
- Offers scenic views.
8. Waterdog Lakes Trail
| ️ Address: |
Colorado 81201 |
| Open Times: |
Daylight |
| Cost: |
Free |
| Off-leash allowed?: |
No |
- Moderate hike that leads to two lakes.
- 2-mile roundtrip that gains 1,062 feet.
- Offers scenic views of surrounding mountains.
- Brook trout in the lakes.
Final Thoughts
There are several different dog-friendly hikes available in Colorado. Some of these are rather easy and suitable for a moderate stroll. Others are more strenuous and only suitable for those that are used to hiking.
Many of these trails are home to diverse wildlife and environments. You can see sand dunes, forests, and lakes, for instance. Be sure to check all the regulations before you go, because each trail has different rules.
Featured Image Credit: Osadcha Olga, Shutterstock
