Why just walk your dog to the end of the street when there's an entire state to experience?
Whether you're on two feet or four, Colorado is a vast playground, just begging to be seen. Expand both you and your best friend's world by discovering this vast and varied environment. You can do it all with a sturdy leash (for the dog) and plenty of water (for both of you.)
Here are ten ways to explore canine-friendly Colorado.
DENVER METRO:
- Walk and Shop Littleton’s Aspen Grove:
Aspen Grove provides an extraordinary array of dog-friendly shopping options. 46 stores at this open-air mall invite dogs and their owners to shop together, so you’ll rarely have to leave Rover behind. Just look for the dog-friendly storefront signs and walk right in.
- Paws in the Park With the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field:
Once a year, the Rockies invite dogs and their owners to a summer game. Catch America's pastime with your furry friend — just make sure Sparky doesn't chase after a base hit. Contact the Colorado Rockies for exact game times.
FRONT RANGE:
- Hike the Boulder Flatirons:
Explore the foothills of the famed Rockies, where marked trails cut through gullies and ravines, and along evergreen ridges. You and your companion will enjoy panoramic vistas overlooking the city of Boulder, with the grand Indian Peaks to the west.
SOUTH CENTRAL:
- Great Sand Dunes National Park:
Hike, camp and explore one of the most unique national parks in North America, where seemingly endless dunes roll over the horizon like a great ocean of sand. The rules say you must keep your dog leashed at all times in the park. But one thing that shouldn't be restrained is your sense of adventure, as you summit the tallest sand dunes in the country.
GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Dogs must be leashed at all times in the park. Please pick up after your animals so others can enjoy the unblemished serenity as well.
- Rent a Raft and Shoot the Rapids:
Who says humans are the only daredevils? With a dog life vest (yes, there really is such a thing) firmly strapped on, your canine companion will love a rafting trip. Buena Vista provides great put-in spots for the famous Brown's Canyon and the rapids known as "The Numbers."
GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
While dogs are naturally good swimmers, they may have a hard time keeping afloat without a life jacket or vest. It's highly recommended that one be purchased or rented before your trip.
NORTHWEST:
- Snowshoeing in Frisco:
Take your dog for a hike along the extensive trail network on Mt. Royal, an abandoned mining site in one of Colorado's favorite towns. Those with snowshoes, as well as those with paws, will love the perfect Colorado snow.
GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
A dog's coat doesn't necessarily mean they can effectively cope with cold weather. Be sure to bring plenty of water for your dog during the hike—as with humans, drinking lots of water helps stave off hypothermia. And don't forget a warm towel to dry off your dog after the hike. For extended outings, pick up two pairs of dog booties at your local pet supply or outdoor store.
- Traveling Through Aspen on all Fours:
Outdoor activities abound in Aspen. In winter, you and your dog can amble through town or snowshoe a backcountry trail. After the snow melts, the town's ski runs transform into hiking trails, where you and your dog will have an entire mountain range to explore. Hike among aspen trees and up to the tip of the Rockies. If you’d prefer to skip the trail and stay in town, Aspen offers plenty of pet-friendly shopping, accommodation and dining options.
NORTHEAST:
- Waterfowl Hunting on the Eastern Plains:
It's a waterfowl hunter's delight outside the town of Orchard, located near Fort Morgan. Take your trained retriever out for an extended weekend hunting trip and bag a variety of ducks and geese. But take note: the incredibly picturesque backdrop may take your eyes off the skies.
GOOD TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Many hunting outfitters offer hunting packages and will help you set up licensing and other necessities for your hunt. Call ahead to reserve your place.
SOUTHEAST:
- A Pioneer Dog at Bent’s Old Fort:
Integral to the state’s history, Bent’s Old Fort—located between La Junta and Las Animas—is ideal for experiencing Colorado’s Western past without having to leave your best friend behind. Once used as a trading post and staging area for the “Army of the West” during the U.S.-Mexican War of 1846, the fort was eventually abandoned, then reconstructed for the enjoyment of history buffs worldwide. You and your leashed dog can walk the grounds of the fort and surrounding area, however, the internal rooms of the fort are a no-dog zone.
SOUTHWEST:
- North Fork Valley Bluegrass Festival:
Each summer, Hotchkiss erupts with a mandolin-strumming, banjo-picking bluegrass festival that vibrates from the top of the Rockies. Bring your dog and dance along to the non-stop energy of bluegrass music.