Hiking is one of the top activities in Estes Park, Colorado by attracting thousands of outdoor enthusiasts from all over the United States. It boasts over 300 miles of trails with a variety of different levels. Unfortunately, some of them have certain limitations and are not dog friendly. So, if you decide to take your four-legged companion on a hike, you need to know where to go. However, here is good news for you: here is the list with 6 dog-friendly trails in the area that both you and your canine will enjoy.
Kruger Rock Trail, Hermit Park
It is a beautiful, wonderful, and quite a short trail (less than 4 miles long) with magnificent views. It is one of the best and most popular among families with kids and dogs. The trail is relatively flat with only a few steep stretches for a good workout. The trail opened in 2008 winds through woods and leads to the breathtaking view from the craggy 9,335-foot summit.
The 119 Loop, Pierson Park
The moderate 6.5 miles long trail located in Estes Park, Colorado is the trail with a great forest setting. This trail is quiet and double-track, featuring nice meadows, tranquil pond, trail-side streams, and pine stands. It is not as crowded as other trails, so you will be able to spend some quality time with your pooch.
Crosier Mountain, Glen Haven
It is a perfect trail to hike on a clear day. There are three different trailhead options leading you to a peak under 10,000 feet. With a steady elevation and the lower peak elevation, you and your dog will enjoy a great and moderate hike by getting a decent work-out. Along the way, you will have an opportunity to enjoy magnificent windflower views and green meadows frequented by the fauna of this area like elk or mule deer. Depending on the option you choose, the routes are between 7 and 9 miles, ending with a summit of Crosier Mountain.
Buchanan Pass Trail, Roosevelt National Forest
It is one of the longest trails in the area, giving dogs an opportunity of 15 miles to explore. The trail has minimal elevation gain by sneaking along Middle Saint Vrain Creek. Five miles beyond the trailhead, the Buchanan Pass Trail enters the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area. Once you reach its boundary sign, you must keep your dog on a leash. The Indian Peaks Wilderness Area features some dog-friendly paths, including Coney Lake Trails and Saint Vraint Glacier. In the summer period, there are some sleek rocky paths, so make sure that you are wearing shoes and your canine is able to handle it.
Lily Mountain
It is a short (3.6 miles) and steep trail that gives you a good workout and an opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking views of Long’s Peak. The trail boasts a year-round nice wooded trail and spectacular Estes Valley and Long Peak sceneries. The best period to hike is between March and September. It is a perfect route for those who want to have a quick hike and enjoy an afternoon outside with their four-legged friends. Dogs love this trail due to unlimited opportunities to explore. However, owners should remember that they have to keep their pooches on a leash.
Dunraven Trail, North Fork of Bog Thompson River Trail
This 5.5-mile trail will take you about 6 hours to complete, which makes it a great option for a one-day hike with your canine. It is a moderately trafficked out and back trail that is located near Glen Haven. The trail goes along the banks of the river and offers plenty of activity options both for dog owners and their canines. The best time to use the trail is from February until November.
