The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Guide to Estes Park, Colorado

Your Dog-Approved Itinerary in Estes Park, CO

Whether you're a local or visiting with your dog, Estes Park is full of tail-wagging adventures. From scenic trails and mountain breweries to pet-friendly cabins and cafes, this town has something for every dog-loving traveler.

Pet-Friendly Lodging in Estes Park

The Rustic Acre

• Location: 650 S. Saint Vrain Ave, Estes Park, CO

• Why Stay: A charming collection of cabins and suites that warmly welcome dogs. Guests can bring up to two well-behaved dogs for an additional $30 per night plus tax. The property offers amenities like fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and fully equipped kitchens. Owners William and Jamie Welborn also operate Estes Park Pet Supply and The Estes Paw, ensuring your dog is well-cared for during your stay. 

• View Website

YMCA of the Rockies

• Why Stay: Offers pet-friendly cabins with easy access to hiking trails and outdoor activities. A great choice for families looking to explore the natural beauty of Estes Park with their dogs.

• View Website

Murphy’s River Lodge

• Why Stay: Located along the river, this lodge provides pet-friendly rooms and is within walking distance to downtown Estes Park. Enjoy the convenience of nearby shops and restaurants while staying with your pet.

• View Website

Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails

1. Lake Estes Trail

• Distance: 3.75-mile paved loop

• Leash: Required at all times

• Water Access: Yes (Lake Estes)

• Shade: Minimal

• Why Go: Scenic, flat, accessible trail that’s great for casual walks and easy photo ops

• Map 📍

2. Lily Mountain Trail

• Distance: ~4 miles round-trip

• Leash: Allowed off-leash in some areas under voice control

• Water Access: None

• Shade: Mostly shaded

• Why Go: Quiet forest trail with a rewarding summit view

• Map 📍
  
  

3. Kruger Rock Trail

• Distance: 4 miles round-trip

• Leash: Required

• Water Access: None

• Shade: Partial

• Why Go: Panoramic views at the top and a peaceful trail setting
  

• Map 📍

4. Button Rock Preserve

• Distance: Varies

• Leash: Required

• Water Access: Yes (reservoir nearby)

• Shade: Partial

• Why Go: Low-traffic trails with scenic water views and forested paths
  

• Map 📍

5. Homestead Meadows

• Distance: 5.8 miles round trip

• Leash: Required

• Water Access: Limited

• Shade: Yes

• Why Go: Historic sites, mountain views, and wildflowers
  

• Map 📍

6. Hall Ranch Trails (near Lyons)

• Distance: Varies; Nelson Loop is 2.3 miles

• Leash: Required

• Water Access: St. Vrain Creek nearby

• Shade: Partial

• Why Go: Scenic foothills loop close to Estes with great views
  

• Map 📍

7. Beaver Brook Trail

• Distance: 5.1 miles

• Leash: Required

• Water Access: Yes (creek nearby)

• Shade: Mostly shaded

• Why Go: Quiet forest trail through Roosevelt National Forest
  

•  Map 📍

💡 Pack water, poop bags, and high-protein chews like our Beef Lung or Bison Lung Chews for fuel on the trail.

Off-Leash Dog Parks & Open Spaces

1. Estes Valley Dog Park

Fully fenced areas for small and large dogs, lake access, agility zones, and double-gated entry. Located near Stanley Park. BringFido Listing

2. Stanley Park Open Area

• Leash Policy: Dogs allowed on leash (max 6 feet)

• Off-Leash Zone: Fenced dog park within the area

• Why Go: Easy access, picnic spots, lake access, and mix of open play and quiet paths.

• Park Info

Dog-Friendly Cafes & Restaurants

1. Kind Coffee

• Address: 470 E Elkhorn Ave

• Why Go: Dog-friendly riverside patio and locally roasted coffee. Nearby benches for a peaceful rest stop.

• Maps 📍

2. Bird & Jim

• Address: 915 Moraine Ave

• Why Go: Upscale seasonal fare with a scenic, dog-friendly patio.
  

• Maps 📍

3. The Trailhead Restaurant

• Why Go: Hearty breakfasts and lunches with a relaxed dog-welcoming patio

• Maps 📍

4. Rock Cut Brewing Company

• Why Go: Craft beer + food trucks + dog-friendly beer garden

• Maps 📍

5. Lumpy Ridge Brewing Company

• Why Go: Great views, casual setting, and often rotating food trucks
  

• Maps 📍

6. The Barrel

• Why Go: Outdoor beer garden with shaded tables and space for your pup

• Maps 📍

7. Bob & Tony’s Pizza

• Why Go: Easy, patio-side slice stop after a downtown walk
  

• Maps 📍

8. Mama Rose’s

• Why Go: Ask for a gate-side table and your pup can stay close while you enjoy Italian classics.
  

• Maps 📍

9. Avant Garde Aleworks

• Why Go: Dog-friendly patio with mountain views, water bowls, and complimentary treats.
  

• Maps 📍

Dog-Friendly Shops & Supplies

1. The Estes Paw Company

Home of healthy, single-ingredient dog chews made in Colorado. Browse our chews. Stop in for trail snacks or marrow bones or grab a QR code to access this guide on the go.

• Maps 📍

2. Estes Park Pet Supply

Local shop with food, gear, supplements, and travel essentials.

• Maps 📍

 Plan Your Visit

Estes Park is made for dog-lovers. Hike. Sip. Shop. Stay. And repeat.

📍 Visit The Estes Paw Co. downtown or shop online before your next hike.
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