10 Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Denver
Here are some of our favorite Fido-friendly Front Range trails—all less than (or about) an hour’s drive from Denver.
dog-friendly hikes
Snowshoe Hike We Like: Peaks Trail
This challenging trek connects the towns of Frisco and Breckenridge with a scenic trail through the White River National Forest.
Hike We Like: Zapata Falls
Discover a waterfall hidden in the belly of a mountain at this enchanting year-round hike near Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.
Hike We Like: First Creek Trail Near DIA
Despite its proximity to the noisy interstate and the ever-busy DIA, First Creek is a reprieve from the hustle-and-bustle—and a perfect layover for weary travelers and suburbanites alike.
Hike We Like: Mohawk Lakes in Summit County
This choose-your-own adventure offers waterfalls, high-altitude lakes, and plenty of Colorado history.
Hike We Like: Stanley Mountain Trail
This thigh-burner has a little bit of everything that makes Colorado hiking great, but it’s the billowy clouds dancing over the peaks that make it truly unique.
Hike We Like: Monarch Lake in Grand County
This high-elevation stroll near Granby offers a family-friendly way to explore a stunning alpine lake.
Hike We Like: Sleepy Lion Trail in Button Rock Preserve
This mellow trail along the scenic northern foothills of Boulder County is especially enjoyable in fall and spring weather.
Hike We Like: Loch Lomond
If St. Mary’s Glacier is too crowded for you, head to it’s neighbor—Loch Lomond.
Hike We Like: Arapaho Glacier Trail
This out-and-back trek through the Indian Peaks Wilderness’ tundra ends with an overlook of Colorado’s largest “river of ice.”
Hike We Like: The Ouray Perimeter Trail
This incredible six-plus-mile trail has it all—waterfalls, natural pools, old miners caves—as well as extraordinary views of the town dubbed “the Switzerland of America.”
Hike We Like: Herman Gulch Trail
This out-and-back near Idaho Springs leads to an alpine lake that is perfect for cooling off in the dog days of summer—plus you’ll get a great workout with stunning views.
Hike We Like: Mt. Harvard
Fields of wildflowers and panoramic views of the Collegiate Peaks towering over the Arkansas Valley make every step of this straightforward fourteener a rewarding journey.
Hike We Like: The Continental Divide Trail to Fishhook and Lost Lakes
This beautiful excursion to two azure lakes near Steamboat Springs offers a tantalizing taste of Colorado’s portion of the 3,100-mile Continental Divide Trail.
Hike We Like: Crater Lakes
This forested trail through the James Peak Wilderness leads to a pair of sparkling, trout-filled lakes nestled beneath the Continental Divide.
Hike We Like: Eagle’s View Loop
Enjoy green meadows, shady forests, and great views of America’s Mountain along this classic foothills hike near Conifer.
Hike We Like: Red Mountain Trail
Not up for the Manitou Incline’s grueling 2,744 stairs? Try this adjacent 2.6-mile out-and-back trail, with a summit that offers views of Pikes Peak, Colorado Springs, and Garden of the Gods.
Hike We Like: Pulpit Rock Park Trail
The easily accessible route offers surprising solitude, despite its location near I-25.
Hike We Like: Corona Arch Near Moab, Utah
Take in the quintessential vistas of the Moab area while skipping the crowds at Arches National Park (and barely breaking a sweat).
Hike We Like: Stagecoach State Park’s Elk Run Trail
This invigorating stroll skirts the shoreline of a gleaming reservoir located a dozen miles south of Steamboat Springs.