Has your pup been giving you a “been there, sniffed that,” type of ‘tude in Denver? Perhaps he’s tired of the hustle and bustle of city life and ready to hike his leg on new trees. Put some Spring-er in his step by taking him out on an adventure. Sniff out 5 bitchin’ ideas for day trips from Denver.
1. Fort Collins
An easy hour-long drive from Denver (depending on the yikes traffic factor), Fort Collins is a vibrant, fun college town ideal for a day trip. It’s so dog-friendly that they feature an annual Tour de Corgi every fall!
First stop: Get out the zoomies at the 100-acre Spring Canyon Community Dog Park in the foothills, which boasts a fenced dog park, obstacles, dog pond, water fountain, and trails. Then, experience the glory of the majestic Poudre Canyon by hiking the 7-mile Mount Margaret Trail or taking a drive through the canyon on Colorado Historic and Scenic Byway 14.
Once you’re ready to explore the city, head to the versatile Ginger & Baker, a pie shop, restaurant, teaching kitchen, and retail space. They host dog-friendly events yearround. Thirsty? Hop over to Maxline Brewing to enjoy a craft brew and eat some munchies. There’s even beef jerky for pup.
2. Georgetown
This quaint mountain community loves dogs so much, they have their very own four-legged mayor, Parker the Bernese Mountain Dog. Located about 45 minutes west of Denver, Georgetown is a once-bustling mining town that is now home to breweries, restaurants, and scenic hikes and drives. Before you hit town, be sure to drive up the jaw-dropping Guanella Pass Byway to take in sweeping views of Mount Evans and Bierstadt. If you’re feeling ambitious, check out Guanella Pass Trail.
While dogs aren’t allowed in museums or the Georgetown Railroad, we still recommend checking out the historic mainstreet on foot. Then, head to The Alpine Restaurant and Bar for made-from scratch wings, meatball sliders, brick oven pizza, and more. Pup’ll love their roomy patio with perfect views of the mountains. Next, cozy up on the lake and sip on craft beers and cocktails at Cabin Creek Brewing.
3. Cañon City
For doggos who love to hit the open road, the two-hour drive from Denver to Cañon City will be well worth it! Start your day off by heading to Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, where you and floof can walk across North America’s highest suspension bridge. Note that dogs aren’t allowed on the rides or inside the buildings, but they do offer kennels to board your dog while you enjoy rides and restaurants. Book with Colorado Jeep Tours so your Jurassic Park-lovin’ pooch can pretend like he’s in the movie.
Next, bop over to Canon City Brews and Bikes for classic pub fare and a full bar, featuring many Colorado craft beers and a roomy shaded patio for pup. Before you head back home to Denver, let her stretch her legs or do the agility course at the Arkansas Riverwalk Dog Park.
4. Boulder
Nestled ruffly 45 minutes northwest of Denver, Boulder is a beloved Colorado gem that often ranks at the top of the country’s most livable cities. Let pup stretch his legs (or take an epic climb) at the pupular Chautauqua Park. Chautauqua boasts picturesque views of the Flatirons and trails for all skill levels, ranging from leisurely strolls on flat terrain to strenuous, all-day summit hikes. If you’re a bike lover, head over to University Bicycles for gear, belly rubs, and an in-store museum with bikes that are up to 130 years old.
Once you work up an appetite, grab a cup of coffee, some lunch, or a cold one at The Laughing Goat. Be sure to check out Avery Brewing Company, which features a roomy patio and water bowls for your fren, lotsa love from staff, delish craft brews for pup parents, and a yummy pub fare menu.
5. Colorado Springs
We at SWD are big fans of Colorado Springs and recommend taking a whole fun-filled weekend trip. But if you’re short on time, a day trip will doo. One of our fave places in all of Colorado is Garden of the Dogs (oh, sorry, we mean Gods!). You and woof will be dazzled by the red rocks formations, view of the epic Pike’s Peak, and tons of hiking, like the 4-mile Palmer, Cabin Canyon, Strausenbach, and Central Gardens Trail Loop.
Hiked out or too cold for the great outdoors? No pawblem. Check out Pub Dog, which features a huge off-leash area. And you can’t go wrong with dog menu items like pupsicles, rice bowls, dog beer, and puppy patties.
Grab a beer at one of the best local watering holes, Phantom Canyon Brewery. Finally, If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, wag over to The Shops at Briargate.
What’s your fave dog-friendly day trip from Denver? Woof at us in the comments or in our Dog-Friendly Denver Facebook Group.
Featured photo: Jessica Joccheim
Sidewalk Dog’s mission is to help dog parents spend more time with their puppers by discovering and sharing activities they can do and places they can go—together! Sniff out our award-winning newsletter and Instagram, and join our Dog-Friendly Denver Facebook Group.