Where to go and stay with your best friend, aka your dog, in Estes Park.
Hiking
Dogs are not allowed to hike with you on trails in the National Park (they are allowed, leashed, on paved walkways). But Rocky isn’t the only place to hike around here. Dogs are allowed on trails in the National Forest and along the Estes Park Trails system in and around town.
We gathered 5 of the best trails that will help your pup forget about the mailman. Keep your dog on a leash just in case your dog does find a mailman or more realistically: finds people who might be uncomfortable around dogs or wildlife that might not want to be your dog’s bestie.
Maybe your dog’s closest shot at getting a taste of the national park would be the 5+ mile trail at the YMCA. The loop follows the entire YMCA property boundary, borders RMNP, Glacier Creek and has some incredible views. The Y also has a dog park and dog-friendly accommodations. All these great amenities are available to YMCA guests and day pass holders.
Playing
Wear your dog out at the Estes Valley Dog Park, located along Highway 36 on Community Drive. There is plenty of space for your dog to get messy playing with other dogs, trying the obstacle course and swimming in the lake. And attention all small dogs! They opened a portion of the dog park just for those pups under 30 pounds so they can play in peace away from the larger breeds. This has got to be one of the best dog parks in the country.
Sleeping
And maybe the most important factor is finding a place to stay that allows dogs… so head over to our pet-friendly lodging page.
While our hearts do a little dance when we saw all these happy dogs in Estes, we want to make sure they can keep coming back so help us out, do your part and clean up after your dogs and travel responsibly with them.
Drinking and Eating
Bask in the sun on one of the below dog-friendly patios:
- La Cabana Mexican Bar and Grill
- Rock Cut Brewing Company
- The Barrel
- Inkwell & Brew
- Lumpy Ridge Brewing Company
- Avant Garde Aleworks
- The Slab
Map of Dog-Friendly Businesses
This map is inclusive of all retail, restaurants, craft beverage and lodging establishments that will welcome your furry friend.
