The Ultimate Guide to Dog Hiking and Outdoor Adventures

As a dog owner and outdoor enthusiast, I've learned that hiking with your furry friend can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Dogs need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, and hiking provides a great way to get them moving.

Before you hit the trails, make sure to check the weather forecast and trail conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. The best hiking trails for dogs are those with minimal human traffic and plenty of shade.

Choosing the right gear is essential for a successful dog hiking adventure. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a first aid kit, and consider investing in a dog backpack or harness to help your pup stay comfortable on long hikes.

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If you're planning a hike with your furry friend, consider their age and health first. A sweet hike and play date on a trail closest to your home that your dog is sure to love is the 1.5-Hour Hike.

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This hike is great for older dogs in good health who are not up for longer adventures. Riverbend Ponds offer a lot of diversity including a stretch of the Poudre River and seven former gravel mine ponds.

If you're looking for a longer hike, a two hour romp and play date at a trail near your home or one of your choosing is a great option. A tired dog is a happy, healthy dog!

The 2-Hour Hike is a great hike to break up long vacation pet sitting visits, so consider it if you're a pet sitter or just need a break from your regular routine.

All Dog Hiking Amenities Included, where available, so you can focus on enjoying the hike with your dog.

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Preparation is key when it comes to hiking with your furry friend. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, you'll want to pack the right gear. A short heeling leash or a moderate leash under 10 feet long is a better choice than a long leash, as it allows for more control and can be quickly shortened if needed.

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You'll also want to bring a dog brush and/or comb to keep your dog's fur deburred, especially for long-haired breeds that can get knotted and refuse to move if their fur gets tangled. A snug collar with your telephone number, your dog's name, rabies tag, and dog license is also essential.

Here are some must-have items to include in your dog's hiking kit:

To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike with your furry friend, there are a few requirements to keep in mind.

First and foremost, your dog must be in good health. This means they should be physically fit and able to handle the demands of hiking.

Additionally, your dog should be well-trained and obedient to voice commands. This will help prevent any accidents or conflicts with other hikers.

It's also essential that your dog is dog-social and people-social. This means they should be comfortable around other dogs and people, and not show any signs of aggression.

Make sure your dog is current on their vaccines, as this is a requirement for participating in dog hiking programs.

If you're planning to hike during the peak season (April to June), you'll need to obtain a permit. There are two options for obtaining a permit: you can ride the shuttle and receive a permit for $2 round trip, or you can purchase a permit online before you go.

A Northwest Forest Pass is also required to park at the trailhead, and can be purchased online or at the trailhead with $5 cash.

To summarize, here are the requirements for hiking with your dog:

Remember to always keep your dog leashed to protect the sensitive landscape and respect other hikers.

If you're planning to hike Dog Mountain, it's essential to know how to get there. From the intersection of SR 14 and Wind River Highway, drive 6.3 miles east on SR 14 to the large Dog Mountain parking lot and trailhead on the north side of the highway.

Parking can be a challenge, so be aware that tickets are issued and towing happens if you park along SR 14 when the parking lot is full.

Hiking with your dog requires a honest assessment of your fitness level. You need to consider whether you can handle the demands of the trail.

Hiking is more strenuous than walking, with uneven terrain and vertical gain. This means you and your dog need to be in shape to tackle the trail.

If you spend more time lounging around than exercising, chances are good that your dog does too. This can lead to issues on the trail, where your dog may not be able to keep up.

Before you load up your backpack, assess your dog's fitness level as well. If your dog refuses to go further, you'll be the one carrying them out of the woods.

Pay attention to your dog's paws, especially above treeline. Many dogs end up with cut and bleeding paws in these areas.

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Hot weather can be a major concern for dog owners. If the temperature is high and humid, it's best to choose a flat, shaded route to a body of water, like a pond, over a steep, rocky trail.

In extreme heat, it's better to opt out of hiking altogether. This will help prevent heat exhaustion, a serious condition that can be difficult to treat.

Carrying your dog out of a hot area can be a real challenge. It's much easier to plan ahead and choose a cooler activity for the day.

Remember, your dog's safety is paramount. Don't take any risks that could put them in harm's way.

As you prepare for your hike with your furry friend, safety should be top of mind. Fire towers are a no-go for dogs - they're disorienting and cramped, so leave them at the base.

A dog's natural instinct can be a recipe for disaster near cliffs. Keep your dog on a leash and calm them down to avoid any scares or worse.

Hiking trails with ladders are also best avoided. The taller the ladder, the lower the odds of your dog finding an alternate route, and it's just not worth the risk.

Dogs are susceptible to waterborne illnesses, so it's best to discourage them from drinking water along the trail. If possible, guide them to clear, running water, and always carry water and a water dish for your dog.

Here are some essential items to bring along to keep your dog safe:

If you're looking for a dog-friendly hike in the area, there are several options to consider. The Well Gulch Nature Trail, located in Lory State Park, is a 1.2-mile loop that's perfect for a leisurely stroll with your furry friend.

The trail takes you through lush natural foliage, grasslands, and forests, offering great views of the surrounding landscape. You and your dog will enjoy spotting wildlife along the way, including birds, squirrels, mule deer, black bears, and foxes.

The Poudre Trail is another great option, stretching 12.10 miles from Lyons Park to the Environmental Learning Center on East Drake. This scenic trail follows the Poudre River and is incredibly popular with commuters, exercisers, and dog walkers alike.

The Spring Creek Trail is a 6.6-mile paved trail that follows Spring Creek through various parks in Fort Collins, making it a great city trail for dog walking. The trail is maintained year-round by the city and offers good cell phone reception and visibility.

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Riverbend Ponds is a 3.0-mile soft surface trail with loop options and varied habitat that appeals to many hikers and dog-walkers. It's a great place to spot over 200 species of birds, including green herons, ducks, and American white pelicans.

The trail features a boardwalk and natural surface trails, making it a peaceful and calming atmosphere to explore the ponds and wetlands. You and your dog will enjoy the changing sights, sounds, and smells along the various loops.

There are no use fees for this area, making it a budget-friendly option for dog owners. However, be sure to bring plenty of fresh water and food for you and your dog, as well as a pet first aid kit, just in case.

The parking lots are located on Cherly Street, Prospect Street, and Cairnes Street, providing easy access to the trail. You can also access the area from the underpass under Prospect Road/ Running Deer Natural Area.

As you hike, keep an eye out for wildlife, including rabbits, squirrels, beavers, coyotes, foxes, and deer. And don't forget to pack out whatever you bring in, including your dog's waste, to help with restoration efforts.

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The West Valley trail is a hidden gem for dog owners in Fort Collins, offering a scenic and easy walk that's perfect for older dogs or those with respiratory issues.

Located at an elevation of 5,600 feet, this trail is part of Lory State Park's 20-mile trail system and is approximately 2.3 miles long.

The trail is very level and stays at the same approximate elevation, making it a great option for dogs that need a gentle hike.

Dogs must be kept under control with a short lead not to exceed 6’ in length, and it's advisable to have a direct line of sight to the terrain your dog is traversing.

Fresh water is available near the park entrance, so be sure to take advantage of that and bring an ample supply for you and your dog.

The West Valley trail is a great addition to the East Valley trail, providing an enjoyable loop of about 5.5 miles of soft surface.

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The East Valley Trail is a fantastic spot for dog hiking, with a relatively flat and easy-to-navigate path that's perfect for a leisurely walk with your furry friend.

Located in Lory State Park, the East Valley Trail is part of an impressive 20-mile trail system that caters to various outdoor enthusiasts, including joggers, hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers.

The trail's proximity to Fort Collins and other adjoining trails makes it an ideal spot for a dog hike, especially when combined with the West Valley Trail for a 5.5-mile loop.

At an elevation of 5,580 feet, the East Valley Trail is relatively flat and stays at the same approximate elevation throughout its 2.2-mile length.

The trail runs parallel to the main road and branches off into coves in Horsetooth Reservoir and other mountain trails, offering a scenic and varied experience for dog walkers.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike, it's essential to keep your dog on a short lead no longer than 6 feet and maintain a direct line of sight to the terrain.

Fresh water is available near the park entrance, and it's recommended to carry an ample supply for both you and your dog.

As a dog walker, be sure to yield to horseback riders to maintain a harmonious and safe experience for all trail users.

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Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a 2,711-acre park that offers 29 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. The trails connect to the Blue Sky Trail and Lory State Park trails.

The park covers elevations from 5,430 to 7,255 feet, making it a great spot for hikers to enjoy scenic views of the Front Range.

Horsetooth Rock is a local landmark visible from the plains, and Horsetooth Falls is a popular spot to visit in the Spring.

Drinking water is available at the trailhead, so be sure to bring enough for you and your dog. Horsetooth Mountain Open Space requires entrance permits and is open year-round.

The park is located west of Horsetooth Reservoir, 4 miles from Fort Collins and 12 miles Northwest of Loveland.

Horsetooth Falls is a 2.25-mile hike that takes around 1.5 to 3 hours to complete, while the Soderburg Trail to Spring Creek to the end of the Wathen Trail is a 4-mile hike that takes around 2-4 hours.

Mule deer, black bear, bobcat, foxes, and coyotes are common sightings in the area, so it's essential to keep kids close and dogs on leash.

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Maxwell Natural Area is a hidden gem west of CSU's Hughes Stadium in Fort Collins, offering beautiful views of the mountains.

The 1.5 mile dog-friendly trail is part of the 6.8 mile Foothills Trail, which crosses through various lands and connects to other natural areas.

Be prepared for a challenging hike, as the trail is frequently enjoyed by experienced cyclists.

Mule Deer are common in the area, so keep an eye out for them as you hike, especially during the Fall when males can be more aggressive.

A leash is required for your dog's protection, and it's best to keep a short lead with good line-of-sight to the upcoming terrain, especially when using a retractable leash.

Rattlesnakes are common along the trail, so be cautious and bring a pet first aid kit, just in case.

If your dog is in heat, it's inadvisable to bring them to Maxwell Natural Area.

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Pineridge Reservoir is a hidden gem just a short drive from Fort Collins. Located in a foothills natural area, this scenic spot offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding terrain.

The 7 miles of trails at Pineridge are suitable for hikers, bikers, and even equestrians. You can loop around Dixon Reservoir on the 1.8-mile trail, or connect with the 6.8-mile Foothills Trail that spans across Pineridge, Maxwell, and Reservoir Ridge natural areas.

Trail markers are prominent along the trail, making it easy to navigate. You can access the trails via parking lots on County Rd 42C, just south of Hughes Stadium, or at the west end of Horsetooth Road through Spring Canyon Community Park.

Access to the trail is free, but be sure to keep your dog on a leash at all times. It's also a good idea to bring plenty of snacks and water for you and your furry friend, as well as a first aid kit in case of emergencies.

Keep in mind that the trail can be home to snakes and other hazards, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled and your dog on a short leash, especially if you're using a retractable leash.

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The Poudre trail is a beautiful, scenic trail that follows the Poudre River for over 12 miles with easy access from several locations throughout Fort Collins.

One of the most popular dog walking excursions, the trail currently runs between the Overland Trail at Lyons Park and the Environmental Learning Center on East Drake.

The trail is incredibly popular for commuters around town, people exercising, and people who enjoy walking their dogs.

The area from Lions Park to Lee Martinez Park is the most open section of the trail and provides great views of the Poudre River and the mountains to the west.

Cell phone coverage is good and the trail is generally well maintained throughout the winter by the City of Fort Collins.

The city plans to connect up with the 20 miles of the Poudre River Trail that already exists between Greeley and Windsor, which would create over 30 miles of dog-friendly trail connecting all three cities.

This is a very scenic trail to walk your dog with lots of new sights, smells and sounds.

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North Shields Pond is a hidden gem in Fort Collins, perfect for a year-round dog walking adventure. The 1.5 miles soft surface trail is a great way to get some exercise with your furry friend.

The trail is a loop when combined with Sterling Natural Area, creating a "figure 8" loop that's fun to explore. Be sure to bring plenty of fresh water and snacks for both you and your dog.

The area is abundant with wildlife, including 30 species of birds that frequent the spot. You might catch a glimpse of red-winged blackbirds, great blue herons, or even snow geese.

The trail is also popular with anglers and equestrians, so be mindful of horse manure piles along the way. Keep a short lead with good line-of-sight to the upcoming trail, especially with a retractable leash.

The North Shields Pond Natural Area parking lot is conveniently located on Shields Street, north of Vine, on the west side of the road.

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