In Colorado's spring, summer and fall months - so many people look forward to getting their dogs out on the trails, including the Noble Beast Dog Training Team!

But what Colorado trails are the best most dog friendly trails and how can I make sure my dog is ready for the adventures?

Lets dive in!

Some tips for going out on the trail with your dog: 

1. Start off slowly: Just like you, your dog will need to get back into hiking shape. Start off with a shorter hike and work up to longer distances. 
2. Clean up after your pet: Take extra bags, and make sure to carry them with you. Don’t just drop them on the trail to pick up later. 
3. Take enough water: It’s better to carry too much than too little. Make sure to bring enough for YOU and FIDO! If carrying everyone’s water is too much for yourself to do, get a doggy back pack and have your dog carry some water too!
4. Follow the leash laws: Keep your dog on leash when in areas that require dogs to be on leash. Many people who are afraid of dogs or who have reactive dogs choose these trails for just that reason. 
5. Make sure to give other dogs space: Before allowing your dog to approach another dog, ask if it’s okay and if they owner says no, make sure to give them space. 
6. If your pup is senstive to other dogs and people, consider taking our reactive dog class, The Prickly Poohc, to ensure you and your pup have tools on the trail you can use!

Now the list of our favorite Colorado dog friendly hiking trails:

(Please make sure to research before you head out as some hikes on this list will be subject to weather.)

• Cherry Creek Trail - 30 miles from downtown Denver – EASY - paved path – 45 miles of trails

The Cherry Creek trail system can be one of the best ways to show your dog all the greatest spots in Denver. Starting at Confluence Park this trail will take you over 45 miles south through the heart of Denver along the Cherry Creek River.

• Red Rocks Amphitheater and Park -19 miles from downtown Denver – MODERATE - steep stairs – mutli-trails.

A must do for any Colorado dog, Red Rocks Amphitheater and Park is known around the world as one of the most beautiful music venues the earth ever made. Did you know that when there isn’t a concert, Red Rocks is open to the public for humans and dogs alike? Bring your furry little friend along to walk the steps of this famous music venue or better yet, explore the natural rock formations on one of the several nearby park trails!

1. The Trading Post Trail (1.5 miles - MODERATE)
2. Mount Morrison South Ridge Trail (3.6 miles - DIFFICULT)
3. Red Rocks to Dakota Loop (6.4 miles - MODERATE)
4. Red Rocks and Morrison Slide Trails (3 miles - MODERATE)
5. Geological Overlook Trail (1 mile - EASY)
6. Mount Vernon Creek Trail Loop (2.3 miles – EASY)

Either way you go, make sure to get plenty of puppy pics against the beautiful red rock formations and the amazing Denver skyline.

• Boreas Pass (Como Side) - 89 miles from downtown Denver – EASY – rail to trail.

Full of old Colorado history, Boreas Pass was once used to transport gold found in Summit County down to Denver via railway. These Days Boreas Pass is used as a scenic hike/drive trail offering some astounding views. One of our personal favorites for sure! We do recommend coming in the Fall to enjoy the colors as the vast groves of Aspen Trees along the trail begin to turn.

• Rito Seco Park - 232 miles from downtown Denver – EASY - single track on a 0.3 – 1-mile loop.

A rare gem off the beaten path, Rito Seco park's new trail systems will get your dog plenty of exercise and amazing pine smells. Use Rito Seco Park as your jumping off point to hit several different easy to moderate trails. If you’re lucky you may be able to catch a glimpse of one of Colorado's infamous beavers at one of the ponds along the creek!

• Conejos River Trail - 280 miles from downtown Denver – MODERATE - single track – 4-miles out and back.

Just outside of Pagosa Springs, the Conejos River Trail will give you a gorgeous scenic hike with your best fur-friend. Most of the trail follows along the Conejos River and is open year-round, however we recommend going late June through September.

• Baby Bathtubs Trail - 183 miles from downtown Denver – EASY - river walk - 0.7-miles.

Bring the whole family along for a nice day trip to Ouray and a hike to Baby Bathtubs! This easy hike should be doable even for young kids and puppies alike who will both enjoy splashing around in the many water-filled nooks and crevasses in the rocks which give the trail its name!

• Devils Causeway Loop Trail - 7 Miles from downtown Denver – DIFFICULT - steep single track -10-mile loop.

A hike for our more seasoned dogs! This round-trip hike can be difficult at times but pays off with some of the most amazing flat top views you can find. Be ready for a steep hike up to the top and some good loose leash walking across the causeway, from there enjoy a nice easy loop hike with plenty to see and smell.

• Zapata Falls -150 miles from downtown Denver – MODERATE - river rock hike - 0.5-mile loop.

Now here is one that should be on everyone's bucket list, Zapata Falls is a quick day hike ending in a gorgeous 25-foot waterfall tucked back in a cave.  Although one of the best hikes to do on a hot summer's day, Zapata Falls is also open in winter months when the falls have frozen over completely, offering spectacular and unique views!

• Inspiration Point Loop - 7.6 miles from downtown Denver – MODERATE - single track - 0.8-mile loop.

This trail will offer inspiring views for you and your pup to enjoy all to yourselves. Bring lots of water and try to complete your trek before the chance of afternoon thunderstorms rolling in.

• Canyon of the Ancients - 411 miles from downtown Denver – EASY to MODERATE – wide open spaces to roam.

Another one of our favorites, this little-known national monument offers amazing canyon views and wide-open spaces. Spend your day exploring the many native dwellings or hiking along the canyon. Bring your tent for free camping under some of the best star views in the state!

• Fraser River Trail – 71 miles from downtown Denver – EASY - paved path and river walk - 6.3 miles.

Connecting the town of Fraiser and Winter Park ski resort, the Fraser River Trail offers an easy riverwalk hike with stunning mountain views. Great for all skill levels, this easy river walk will give your pup plenty to see and smell.

This dog friendly hike list has been carefully curated by the team at Noble beast to show off the beauty of our state, while at the same time providing you will solid and enjoyable dog hiking options!

While not all encompassing, every hike on this list will be a unique and fun experience for you and your pup. All hikes are dog friendly but will always require a leash.

As we wrap up our exploration of Colorado's favorite hiking trails for dogs, we hope you and your furry companions are inspired to hit the trails and create unforgettable memories together. Each trail offers unique experiences, from breathtaking views to the joy of discovering nature side by side with your dog. Remember, these adventures not only provide essential exercise but also strengthen the bond between you and your pet. So pack your gear, grab some treats, and embark on a hiking journey that will keep your dog happy, healthy, and engaged. Happy hiking!

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