Media Contacts: 

Heidi Barfels

Heidi@VisitEstesPark.com

Claire Molle

Claire@VisitEstesPark.com

 

Tails Wagging, Mountains Calling: 

Estes Park Emerges as the Ultimate Dog-Friendly Haven

 

ESTES PARK, Colo., May 22, 2024 – Estes Park, located at the entrance of the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park, is not just a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s also a haven for dog lovers seeking unforgettable experiences with their furry companions. Discover a wealth of pet-friendly activities and attractions that cater to both two-legged and four-legged adventurers, making Estes Park a premier destination for pets and their families.

 

Pawfect Hikes

First, the bad news. Dogs are not allowed to hike with you on trails in the National Park (they are allowed on paved walkways and designated picnic areas — always leashed). The good news? RMNP is far from the only game in town when it comes to spectacular trails in the area for you and your canine companion. In the surrounding forests, there's a trail for every energy level.

  • Kruger Rock Trail, Hermit Park: This short hike pays off in a big way as it winds through ponderosa pines to a 360° view from the craggy 9,335-foot summit. After scrambling past a few boulders, you’ll be met with views of Mt. Meeker, the Continental Divide and Mummy Range, and glittering Dollar Lake to the west. Note: Kruger Rock Trail is closed mid-December through February. 

  • Crosier Mountain, Glen Haven: Climb to a summit just under 10,000 feet and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Estes Valley — and even the Front Range to the plains on a clear day. The trail’s steady elevation ensures that both you and your pup will get an invigorating workout.

  • Buchanan Pass Trail, Roosevelt National Forest: Save this one for summer, when the wildflowers are in full bloom (peaking usually in July and August). Along the way, you’ll also have access to other pet-friendly trails within the Indian Peaks Wilderness Area such as Saint Vrain Glacier and Coney Lake Trails.

 

Note: While exploring, keep your dog on a leash just in case your fellow hikers or local wildlife might be uncomfortable around dogs.

 

Estes Valley Dog Park

Take your furry friend for a lively outing at Estes Valley Dog Park, situated on Community Drive along Highway 36. The park offers ample room for your canine companion to engage in playful activities with fellow dogs, explore an obstacle course and take a refreshing swim in the nearby lake. Noteworthy for smaller breeds, a designated section within the park is exclusively reserved for pups weighing under 30 pounds, providing them a serene space to frolic without the presence of larger breeds. With Estes Park’s typically beautiful views, the Estes Valley Dog Park guarantees a great time for all.

 

Pampered Pets at Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Enjoy a cozy stay at one of Estes Park's pet-friendly accommodations. Many hotels welcome pets with open arms, guaranteeing a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both pets and their people. Your options include:

  • Trailborn Rocky Mountains: Just minutes from downtown and the National Park, Trailborn Rocky Mountains is a fully renovated flagship hotel that welcomes dogs up to 40 lbs.

  • YMCA of the Rockies: Not only is some of the YMCA’s lodging dog-friendly, but each property boasts several trails where you can hike with your pup on a leash—and dog parks where they can run off-leash. 

  • Holiday Inn Estes Park: Located within easy walking distance of the Estes Park Dog Park this recently remodeled hotel’s West Wing is dedicated to dog-friendly rooms, allowing up to two dogs per room (80 lbs max). 

  • Rocky Mountain Hotel & Conference Center: Your furry friend will be treated like family at this spot, with first-floor pet-friendly rooms and plenty of hotel grounds to allow your pet to stretch their legs outside.

  • Rustic River Cabins: Get a little closer to nature in a Rustic River cabin, in the Big Thompson Canyon just four miles from the center of Estes Park. With seven all-season, pet-friendly cabins on 16 acres, it’s the perfect Rocky Mountain escape.

  • Fall River Village Resort: To give your four-legged friend a taste of luxury, Fall River’s selection of spacious dog-friendly vacation rental units are just the ticket, welcoming dogs up to 70 lbs.  

 

Dine & Drink Al Fresco with Fido

Estes Park boasts a variety of pet-friendly food & beverage options with outdoor seating, allowing you to savor delicious meals while your pet lounges comfortably by your side. Your options include:

  • La Cabana Mexican Bar and Grill: Enjoy authentic Mexican food and some of the best margaritas in town with your pup at your feet. 

  • Rock Cut Brewing Company: After your outdoor adventures in Estes with your four-legged friend, enjoy a refreshing craft beer on Rock Cut’s sun-soaked patio.

  • The Barrel: At this dog-friendly craft beer garden and hall, choose from eighty-four rotating taps focusing on craft beer, whiskey, cider, mead, cocktails and wine.

  • Inkwell & Brew: Grab a cup of coffee or tea and a fresh-baked pastry and find a table on Inkwell & Brew’s patio.

  • Lumpy Ridge Brewing Company: Located in a refurbished gas station on Route 7, Lumpy Ridge delivers some of the Rocky Mountains’ best brews in a laid-back dog-friendly setting.

  • Avant Garde Aleworks: At this beer connoisseur’s favorite, leashed dogs are allowed inside the taproom AND on the patio. Ask your beertender for a water bowl and a dog treat.

 

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About Visit Estes Park

Visit Estes Park is the official Destination Marketing Organization for Estes Park, Colorado. A Destinations International (DI) accredited DMO, Visit Estes Park's mission is to drive sustainable year-round economic growth by encouraging visitor demand. Estes Park, just 90 minutes from Denver, is the basecamp for Rocky Mountain National Park offering outdoor experiences, activities, dining, shopping and an environment that is welcoming and approachable. Known for world-class adventure, resident wildlife and scenic beauty, Estes Park is Co