If you’re a dog owner in Denver, you know that one of the best ways to enjoy the beautiful outdoors with your furry friend is by going on a hike. Luckily, there are plenty of dog-friendly hiking trails in and around Denver that offer stunning views and a chance to exercise, bond, and explore with your pup. Here are 10 wonderful trails for hiking with dogs in Denver. You and your furry friend won’t want to miss out on these beautiful trails!
When hiking with your dog, it’s important to keep in mind some basic safety tips.
Always bring plenty of water for your pup and make sure they are on a leash or off-leash as designated.
Bring doggie waste bags and clean up after your pet to keep the trails clean and enjoyable for everyone.
Also, be aware of your dog’s physical limitations and don’t push them too hard on the trails.
Pay attention to the weather! Bring layers, extra water, and always travel with a first aid kit. If you need a few extra tips for winter hiking check out 7 Helpful Tips for Hiking in Winter With Dogs.
- Mount Falcon Park – Mount Falcon Park is a 2,231-acre park in the foothills of the Rockies, located just 30 minutes from Denver. The park features over 12 miles of trails that are open to dogs on a leash. The park has a mix of easy and moderate trails, so there’s something for everyone. The views from Mount Falcon are stunning, with a panorama of the Front Range, the city of Denver, and the plains beyond.
- Lair o’ the Bear Park – Lair o’ the Bear Park is a Jefferson County Open Space park located in the foothills of the Rockies, just 30 minutes from Denver. The park is known for its beautiful trail along Bear Creek and is a popular spot for dog owners. Dogs are allowed off-leash on most of the trail, so your pup can run and play to their heart’s content. The park also has picnic tables and grills, making it a great spot for a picnic with your pup after your hike.
- Elk Meadow Park – Elk Meadow Park is a 1,143-acre park located in Evergreen, about 45 minutes from Denver. The park offers over 14 miles of trails that are open to dogs on a leash. The park has a mix of easy and moderate trails, so you can choose a trail that suits your fitness level. The park is known for its stunning views of the Continental Divide, and you and your pup will love exploring the park’s meadows and forests.
- White Ranch Park – White Ranch Park is a 5,224-acre park located in Golden, about 40 minutes from Denver. The park offers over 20 miles of trails that are open to dogs on a leash. The park is known for its stunning views of the Continental Divide and Denver, and your pup will love exploring the park’s meadows and forests. Dogs are allowed off-leash on most of the trails, so your furry friend can run and explore to their heart’s content.
- Cherry Creek State Park – Cherry Creek State Park is a 5,000-acre state park located in Aurora, just 30 minutes from downtown Denver. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, as well as a dog off-leash area where your pup can play in the water. The park is known for its prairie and wetland habitats and has a variety of wildlife to see, including pronghorns, coyotes, and raptors.
- Green Mountain Park – Green Mountain Park is a 2,400-acre park located in Lakewood, just 20 minutes from downtown Denver. The park offers over 6 miles of trails that are open to dogs on a leash. The park is known for its stunning views of the city and mountains and is a popular spot for dog owners.
- Matthews/Winters Park – Matthews/Winters Park is a 2,498-acre park located in Golden, just 30 minutes from Denver. The park offers over 4 miles of trails that are open to dogs on a leash. The park has a mix of easy and moderate trails, so you can choose a trail that suits your fitness level. The park is known for its stunning rock formations and views of the Front Range.
- Red Rocks Park – Red Rocks Park is a 738-acre park located in Morrison, just 30 minutes from Denver. The park is known for its iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater, but it also offers over 6 miles of dog-friendly trails. The park has a mix of easy and moderate trails, and the surrounding mountain views and beautiful red rock formations are breathtaking.
- Staunton State Park – Staunton State Park is a 3,908-acre park located in Conifer, about 45 minutes from Denver. The park offers over 3,800 acres of hiking trails that are open to dogs on a leash. The park is known for its stunning scenery, including rock formations, waterfalls, rock climbing, and beautiful forests.
- South Valley Park – South Valley Park is a 900-acre park located in Littleton, just 30 minutes from Denver. The park offers over 8 miles of trails that are open to dogs on a leash. The park is known for its red rock formations and stunning views. The trails are relatively easy and flat, so are great for all levels of hikers and their furry friends. If your dog is reactive, you may want to avoid this trail during busy hiking hours. There is not much room to let others with dogs pass!
Be aware of other trail users and share the space respectfully. Communicate your intentions and pass with care! Many of the other trail users will have dogs, kids, riding bikes, have headphones in, and you may even see horses! Stay situationally aware throughout your adventure.
Denver and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of dog-friendly hiking trails that you and your furry friend can explore together. Whether you’re looking for easy or challenging hikes, you’re sure to find a trail that suits your needs. So pack your hiking boots and hit the trails with your pup for an adventure you won’t forget!
HAPPY HIKING!
