Hiking with Your Dog in Fort Collins
Colorado is an amazing place for enjoying outdoor activities with your furry friend! If you live in Fort Collins, odds are you love trying out new adventures with your pup. It’s a great experience for your dog, as they get to see lots of new things, from mountains to flowers to water. As a Colorado resident, you’re probably always looking for a new place to explore or test out! Luckily there are dozens of different trails and new spots to see. Whether you’re looking for a leash-free spot to give your dog some freedom or a trail near water to cool off in, there are plenty of trails to try. Here are some of our favorites that we recommend!
If You Want an Off-Leash Trail
Sometimes your dog truly just needs to get off their leash and have a blast without those restraints. Hewlett Gulch Trail in Fort Collins Poudre River Canyon is the perfect place for them to do this. This spot allows your dog to explore and play off-leash. On top of that, it also isn’t a super hard trail. It is about 3 miles, but if you want to extend it for a longer journey, it can also be 5 miles. It doesn’t have too much elevation gain, so it will be a smooth and carefree hike. Another nice feature is that it follows Gordon Creek, causing most of the trail to run along the water. This is perfect if your dog needs to cool off or just for great views.
Length: 3 or 5 miles
As a word of caution: do not allow your dog to go off-leash unless your dog has excellent recall. Dogs can easily get lost or hurt when off-leash and are nonresponsive to their owner’s command. If you’re not confident in your dog’s recall, work with our professional dog trainers in Fort Collins today.
If You Want a Challenge
Are you and your four-legged friend more experienced at hiking? Then head on over to the American Lakes Trail! It is 7 miles with a 1,430 ft. elevation gain, so be sure that you and your dog are prepped and ready for a challenging day. The hard work you put in will definitely be worth it: there are great views of alpine tundra, wildflowers, an alpine lake, and the continental divide. We guarantee you’ll leave feeling like you got a great workout in, but also a great experience.
Length: 7 miles
If You Want Something Unique
If you’re tired of the same ole boring trail, you have to head to Disappointment Falls in Red Feather Lakes. Even the name is unique! It is also a great choice if you and your pup are beginner hikers, since it is not too challenging. However, what it lacks in difficulty it makes up for in fun! There are rock formations, waterfalls, and so many smaller trails you can try out.
Length: 2 miles round trip
If You Want Something Secluded
Some days you just don’t want to deal with the crowds or the many other dogs on the trails. The Montgomery Pass Trail in Cameron Pass is normally used in the winter for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing, which makes it pretty empty during the summer months! It’s a secret spot if you want a less crowded experience one day this summer. On top of the quiet, your dog is also allowed off-leash!
Length: 4.8 miles
Remember to always stay safe when you’re out on the trail! Bring water, keep your dog close to you, and watch out for signs of overheating in your pup. Of course, be sure to always pick up after your pup. Have a great time exploring the trails!