Denver is a paradise for outdoor lovers, and that includes our four-legged friends! While February may bring chilly temps and snowy landscapes, it also offers some of the most breathtaking and peaceful winter hikes of the year. Whether your pup loves romping through the snow or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air, these trails are perfect for a winter adventure. So leash up, bundle up, and let’s hit the best dog-friendly winter trails in and around Denver! ❄️🐾
📍 Location: Idledale, CO
🐕 Leash Rules: Dogs must be on a leash
🥾 Difficulty: Easy to moderate
❄️ Why We Love It: This scenic riverside trail stays accessible even in winter, with gentle inclines and plenty of places for sniffing and exploring. The frozen creek and snow-covered pines make for a picturesque adventure, and the easy terrain is great for pups of all sizes.
📍 Location: Littleton, CO
🐕 Leash Rules: Dogs must be on a leash
🥾 Difficulty: Easy
❄️ Why We Love It: South Valley Park offers stunning red rock formations dusted in snow, creating a jaw-dropping winter backdrop. Additionally, the wide, well-maintained trails make it an easy and safe hike for both humans and pups, even when there’s a little snow on the ground.
📍 Location: Evergreen, CO
🐕 Leash Rules: Dogs must be on a leash
🥾 Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
❄️ Why We Love It: True to its name, Elk Meadow Park is the most likely place in the Open Space system to view herds of elk. Trail experiences are diverse including the option for the 4.7-mile difficult hike with a 2,100-foot elevation gain from the Stagecoach Boulevard trailhead to 9,708-foot Bergen Peak.
📍 Location: Golden, CO
🐕 Leash Rules: Dogs must be on a leash
🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
❄️ Why We Love It: Nestled near Red Rocks Amphitheater, this trail offers beautiful winter landscapes with snow-dusted foothills and rocky terrain. It’s a great choice for active dogs who love a bit of a challenge, with a mix of uphill climbs and rewarding views at the top.
📍 Location: Golden, CO
🐕 Leash Rules: Dogs must be on a leash
🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
❄️ Why We Love It: North Table Mountain offers wide-open views, gentle switchbacks, and plenty of space for your pup to explore. The mesa’s elevation gives you stunning panoramic views of Denver and the Front Range, especially after a fresh snowfall. While some sections can get icy, the sun exposure helps keep the trails manageable. It’s a great option for dogs who love a good climb but don’t mind a breezy, open landscape!
✔ Check the Weather: Winter conditions can change fast! Be sure to check for snow, wind, and temperature updates before heading out for those winter hikes!
✔ Protect Their Paws: Snow, ice, and road salt can be tough on paws. Consider using dog booties or applying paw balm before the hike.
✔ Layer Up: Short-haired and smaller dogs may need a winter coat to stay warm, especially on longer winter hikes.
✔ Pack the Essentials: Bring water (yes, even in the winter!), dog-friendly snacks, poop bags (leave no trace!), and a towel to dry off snowy paws afterward.
✔ Know Your Pup’s Limits: Some dogs love the cold, while others may be ready to turn back after just a short walk. Pay attention to their comfort level.
Winter hiking isn’t just about exercise—it’s about making unforgettable memories with your furry best friend. Whether you explore snowy foothills, sunny ridges, or off-leash wonderlands, there’s an adventure waiting for every pup in Denver. So this February, embrace the season, enjoy the crisp mountain air, and let your dog experience the magic of winter trails. ❄️🐾
Have a favorite winter hiking spot? Drop it in the comments—we’d love to hear about your go-to trails! Happy hiking! 🚶♂️🐶
All Hike Doggies must meet the following requirements to ensure all our doggies remain safe and have an awesome hike:
If your doggie does not meet these requirements, we recommend neutering/spaying (if you are not planning on breeding your cutie) & do targeted training in any area where he/she may need some help so they can enjoy an enriched lifestyle full of outdoor fun with friends!
