In the Denver area and looking for a hike for you and your dog? Choose from a variety of trails that promise breathtaking views and incredible natural features, from easy walks to strenuous mountain achievements. Rugged Colorado has it all, and not too far from the city. Click the map below for information about each location and scroll down to read about some of the best and most dog-friendly hikes near Denver.
Top 9 Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Denver
- Argentine Pass
- Reynold’s Park
- Lair o’ the Bear
- Bard Peak
- Mount Falcon Park
- Mount Democrat
- Red Rocks
- Mount Gilbraith
- South Valley Park
1. Argentine Pass
https://www.instagram.com/p/BYYcERtABgf/?taken-at=339351954
- 4.8-mile round-trip hike, with gorgeous views and a rocky path
- a more difficult trail, suitable for experienced hikers
- the road to the trailhead can be rough, so make sure your vehicle can handle it
- best used from April through October
- dress for windy conditions at the pass and bring sun protection when hiking warmer days
2. Reynold’s Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/BYgfbCfnvZ2/?tagged=reynoldspark
- four moderate trails in the park ranging from 2.1 to 4.4 miles and from 7,214 to 8,139 feet above sea level
- enjoy the shadier hikes on hot days
- bring insect repellent—the flies bite
- dogs must be leashed
3. Lair o’ the Bear
https://www.instagram.com/p/BYMHSeGhhMC/?tagged=lairothebear
- 394 acre park with 4.7 trail miles
- all levels hikes range from 0.7 to 2 miles and from 6,541 to 6,735 feet above sea level
- plenty of shade and water for pets who like to swim
- popular with families, lots of picnic tables and fishing opportunities
- dogs must be leashed
- watch out for mountain bikes on the trail
4. Bard Peak
https://www.instagram.com/p/BHrWGGGgqsV/?taken-at=443850944
- a long, steep trail for advanced hikers
- make sure your dog is in good shape before attempting a high altitude hike
- for being so close to the interstate (just 2 miles off I-70), Bard is rarely visited and will almost definitely not be busy when/if you decide to go
- look for cairns marking the footpath
- dress for windy conditions and don’t forget to take a picture at the top to mark your achievement
5. Mount Falcon Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/BY7QoI2Dl8I/?taken-at=433413547019377
- 2,249 acre park, with 12.2 trail miles
- trails for all abilities available, from the 1.7-mile Turkey Trot Trail to the vigorous Castle Trail
- an easy hike for all levels, with stunning views of Red Rocks, Denver, and Chatfield Lake
- hike to historic sights such as the Summer White House and the Walker Home Ruins
- dogs must be leashed
- watch out for mountain bikes on the trail
6. Mount Democrat
https://www.instagram.com/p/BY8axXphedy/?taken-at=311510752
- 7.6 mile heavily trafficked hike, to a 14,152 summit
- be sure you and your dog are in condition for a high-elevation hike
- accessible year-round through the Kite Lake Trailhead
- don’t forget your camera!
- plan your trip on a weekday to avoid crowds
7. Red Rocks
https://www.instagram.com/p/BX-qD9iHL0w/?tagged=redrockstrail
- take the Red Rocks Trail for a moderate 6-mile loop through dramatic geological sights
- trail spans two parks: Red Rocks Park and Matthews/Winters Park
- come prepared for the weather, which can change quickly
- dogs must be leashed
- watch out for mountain bikes on the trail
8. Mount Galbraith
https://www.instagram.com/p/BL7aCKIhrff/?tagged=mountgalbraith
- 800 acre park with 4.6 trail miles
- most trails are steep and rocky, so wear appropriate footwear and be careful!
- hike a 4 to 5-mile loop around Mount Galbraith and enjoy the views of Golden, the plains and the Continental Divide
- the Mt. Galbraith Loop Trail circles 1.6 miles around the top of the 7,260-foot peak
- bring your binoculars because you might see a golden eagle or bighorn sheep
- dogs must be leashed
- watch out for mountain bikes on the trail
9. South Valley Park
https://www.instagram.com/p/BYuWS4lDhfx/?taken-at=217788197
- 995 acre park with 7.7 trail miles
- offers and an assortment of hikes for all levels, especially those who prefer level terrain
- views of sandstone spires, rocky outcroppings, and wildlife
- the Grazing Elk Trail is closed seasonally to protect the ranges of elk and mule deer
- Northwest section of the park is a ‘Sensitive Area’ closed to the public to protect wildlife
- dogs must be leashed
- watch for mountain bikes on the trail
Whether you’re bagging peaks or taking more of a leisurely stroll, we hope you and your dog enjoy your Denver area hiking. As always, Rover is here when you can’t take your pet on a much-needed walk. Our dog-walkers near Denver can help.