Dog-Friendly Estes Park, CO
Are you a pet parent looking for a mountain getaway that welcomes your furry friend with open paws? Look no further than dog-friendly Estes Park, Colorado! Nestled in the stunning Rocky Mountains, this charming town offers a plethora of dog-friendly activities and accommodations that will make your vacation unforgettable for both you and your canine companion.
Outdoor Adventures
One of the main draws to dog-friendly Estes Park is the abundance of hiking and outdoor activities available. Below are a few of our favorites, but also make sure to check out our dog-friendly hiking post for tips on finding a trail that fits your needs in the area.
- Rocky Mountain National Park – RMNP is the main attraction for those staying in Estes Park. Check out our Rocky Mountain National Park blog post for a more detailed look at visiting the park with your dogs.
- Lily Mountain Trail – This 3.7 mile trail offers some of the best dog-friendly views in the Estes Park area! Though it’s not that long, it does have decent elevation gain, so make sure it’s suitable for you and your dog.
- Kruger Rock Trail/Hermit Park Open Space – The Hermit Park area is a great place to explore with your pup including many trails. The Kruger Rock Trail is the highlight of the park. It provides great views and diverse terrain over 4 miles.
- Scenic Driving – As detailed in our RMNP post, the park offers some amazing scenic drives. Outside of the park, though, there area also some great drives to enjoy with your dogs. We especially like the route between Estes Park and Loveland on highway 34!
Hitting The Town
When you need a break from our outdoor adventures, there are plenty of dog-friendly stops within Estes Park. There are many food and drink options available along with other activities around town – here are some of our favorites:
- The Barrel – Located in the heart of downtown, The Barrel offers dog-friendly seating both indoors and outdoors. There are great drink selections and often a food truck on site. A popular hangout for dogs and humans alike!
- Avant Garde Aleworks – Avant Garde is our favorite brewery in town. They offer a large dog-friendly patio with plenty of seating and shade options along with a unique selection of beers. There is also often a food truck on site.
- Inkwell & Brew – There are many dog-friendly coffee shops in Estes Park to choose from. Inkwell & Brew is our favorite stop as they offer great drinks as well as a nice shaded patio to relax with your pups. We also chose this location to work remotely from for part of a day and it worked out great.
- Downtown Shopping – The downtown streets of Estes Park are lined with souvenir and specialty shops, many which are dog-friendly. Your pup will enjoy checking out the shops with you and helping pick out some treats for themselves!
- Rock Cut Brewing Company – Rock Cut is another great dog-friendly brewery in Estes Park right off of the main downtown area. They offer a nice covered patio space and make sure to have dog treats and water readily available!
Dog-Friendly Accommodations
Finding a pet-friendly place to stay is a breeze in Estes Park. Many lodges, cabins, and vacation rentals warmly welcome dogs, providing pet amenities and even on-site dog parks. Check out options like the Stanley Hotel, The Estes Park Resort, and numerous cozy cabins that ensure a comfortable stay for both you and your pup. We stayed at the Rustic Acre during our last trip to Estes Park with our dogs and would highly recommend it!
Estes Park is a dog-friendly paradise that offers a memorable experience for both you and your furry friend. With its stunning natural beauty, welcoming accommodations, and a wide range of activities, Estes Park is a must-visit destination for any pet parent seeking adventure in the heart of the Rockies. So pack your bags, leash up your pup, and get ready for a pawsome adventure in dog-friendly Estes Park! Check out our dog-friendly travel posts for more trip ideas and tips.