Best Off-leash Dog Parks in Colorado for a Quick Weekend Getaway
Visiting pawsome off-leash dog parks in Colorado is as much part of the Colorado lifestyle as skiing and drinking craft beers.
The good news is that you won’t run out of dog-friendly places to see when you visit The Centennial State. It’s home to beautiful mountains, high altitudes, and ski resorts.
If you’re looking for something new to do with Fido, here’s a list of some of the best canine-friendly places you can visit.
Off-leash dog parks in Colorado you should visit with Fido
1) Bear Creek Dog Park
S 21st St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Bear Creek Dog Park is one of El Paso County’s most visited parks.
This 25-acre dog park in Colorado is open all year round. It features an open prairie, gentle hills, lush woods, and a 1/3-mile-long stretch of Bear Creek.
You’ll also find several walking trails in the area, which include a 3/4-mile primary loop.
Your dog can even wade and play in the creek. Of course, there’s also plenty of space where you can play ball.
Separate areas for small and senior dogs are also available on-site. You’ll also find a piece of agility equipment where your dog can make new friends. There’s also a dog washing area where you can clean up before you head home.
2) Rita Valentine Dog Park
1010 Anglers Dr, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Rita Valentine Dog Park is just a stone’s throw away from Steamboat Springs. So if you’re planning to take your dog swimming, this off-leash dog park in Colorado makes for a nice side trip.
There are 20 acres of space for plenty of activities, too. You can play catch or simply walk around the park.
If you’re planning to visit during summer, you get to enjoy the park’s grassy open fields with excellent trails.
3) Riverbend Dog Park
451 Pendleton St, Palisade, CO 81526
If you’re looking for a quiet weekend with your dog, stop by Riverbend Dog Park in Palisade.
This off-leash dog park is right alongside the Colorado River. There’s a paved trail at the park where you can take a stroll with your dog.
Riverbend Dog Park is also close to dog-friendly breweries and other local businesses.
4) Cherry Creek
4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014
Although you need to pay a small fee to visit Cherry Creek in Aurora, it’s very much worth it.
This 107-acre off-leash dog park in Colorado features water access and beautiful trails.
Boating, camping, and fishing are some of the other things you can do on-site.
5) Chatfield State Park
11500 N Roxborough Park Rd, Littleton, CO 80125
Chatfield State Park is another Colorado destination where you and your fur baby can spend the weekend.
The dog off-leash area on-site is open from 5 A.M. to 10 P.M. There are two water ponds where dogs are welcome to play.
There are also miles of paved and unpaved walking trails in this off-leash dog park in Colorado. Just make sure your dog is trained to follow voice commands so it’s easier for you to control him while you’re at the park.
BONUS: Watering Bowl
5411 Leetsdale Dr, Denver, CO 80246
Not in the mood to explore the great outdoors? You can spend your weekend at the Watering Bowl.
This dog-friendly bar serves mouthwatering pizzas, wings, and tacos. Meanwhile, your dog can hang out at the 9,000-square-feet patio space on-site.
Things to remember before visiting dog parks in Colorado
1) Make sure your dog responds to voice commands
Although exploring the great outdoors can be good for Fido, it can also be hazardous if your dog is not trained to respond to voice commands or if he is not leash-trained.
2) Prepare your canine for the cold
If you’re planning to visit dog parks in Colorado during winter, make sure you prepare your fur baby for the cold weather.
You need to know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite as the risk of these conditions is high when the temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
You need to watch out for signs of a slow pulse, shallow breathing, and disorientation.
These conditions can affect the tips of your dog’s ears and other poorly insulated body parts.
3) Prepare your dog’s essentials ahead of time
Apart from packing a few snacks, plenty of water, your dog’s bowl, poop bags, and toys, you need to pack dog booties and a first-aid kit as well.
Don’t forget to pack your dog’s vaccination record, too, as some dog parks ask for these documents before permitting entry.
Why you should visit these dog parks in Colorado
When you spend plenty of time outdoors with your dog, there’s plenty to gain.
For one, it offers plenty of opportunities for mental and physical stimulation. After all, your dog needs plenty of both to prevent bad behavior, obesity, and boredom.
Which of these Colorado off-leash dog parks have you already visited with your dog?
