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Best Dog Friendly Hikes in Colorado Springs

graphic showing dog friendly hikes in colorado springs
Picture of Dr. Rick Coufal, DVM

Dr. Rick Coufal, DVM

Dr. Rick Coufal is the founder and lead veterinarian for Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic. Coufal graduated from State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in May of 2000.

We are proud to call Colorado Springs home. Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Cheyenne Mountain, Manitou Springs: these are some of the most beautiful places in the USA to hike and explore. From the mountains to the lakes, COS is a haven for hiking.

As a veterinarian in Colorado Springs, we not only love the outdoors, but we appreciate how dog-friendly this beautiful state is! We often take hikes with our own family, and we thought that we could share some of our favorites with you. Hiking is a great form of exercise for our furry friends, and it is a great way to appreciate the beauty that CO offers us. Here’s a list of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in Colorado Springs, so both you and your pet can enjoy everything nature has to offer! Read through these amazing hikes and find a map with all their locations!

graphic showing dog friendly hikes in colorado springs

1. Bear Creek Dog Park

This 25-acre park is doggy heaven and a great hiking space for their human counterparts. The park is off-leash for pups and features trails, open areas, and creeks. There’s even an agility course for dogs to run through. Whether you want to let your dog play with others or hike the beautiful terrain, Bear Creek Dog Park has it all.

2. Garden of the Gods

Known to visitors and natives alike, Garden of the Gods is amazingly dog-friendly. Filled with stunning towers of flaming sandstone and the natural beauty of the desert, the park is the perfect place to get some exercise with your dog. Plus, the trails in Garden of the Gods offer a wide range of challenges, from easy-going walking trails to rigorous treks.

3. Seven Falls

The best part of Seven Falls is the view. The butt-kicker hike is totally worth it because you and your dog can see for miles at the top. There are also waterfalls and creeks for your dog to play in. Many people bring their dog up Seven Falls, so your pet can make new friends.

4. Goose Creek Trail

Goose Creek is one of the most popular places for dog owners because of all the water on the hike. The trail follows the creek in and out, with little pools and basins to relax or play in. Goose Creek Trail can be found in the Lost Creek Wilderness area, just outside of Colorado Springs.

5. Rampart Range Reservoir

While there is a $7/day fee, the multitude of day flowers and shady forest paths are perfect to bring your dog. This area includes three main trails, Rainbow Gulch, Rampart Reservoir, and Nichols, which each offer different perspectives and difficulty levels. However, the main attraction is the reservoir itself, where you and your dog can hike around.

6. Gray Back Peak Trail

Just like with Bear Creek, one of the best things with the Grey Back Peak Trail is that dogs can be off-leash in this area. Because the trail is hidden on the Southside of Cheyenne Mountain, there aren’t too many people hiking it, leaving a quiet place for you and your dog to enjoy the wildflowers and serene pines.

7. Ute Valley Park

Ute Valley Park is the perfect blend of convenience and the beauty of the outdoors. Even though the park is in the heart of the city, it feels like the middle of the wilderness. Enjoy getting lost in the intricate trails where you and your dog can enjoy the trails without much of a drive.

8. Section 16 in Black Forest

Black Forest is home to us at Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic. This being said, we love having a nearby trail to take our pets! Section 16 in Black Forest is a four-mile loop that goes around an acre, right off of Burgess Rd and Vollmer Rd. This is a great, easy-to-get-to hike that your pet will love! Keep in mind that there are horses on this trail.

Suggest More Great Dog Hikes! | Ponderosa Vet Clinic

Great food, beer, and quality time with your furry friend are the main ingredients for a fantastic day. If you are looking to enjoy a meal, a beer, and quality time socializing with your dog, consider activities on this list.

We care about you and your dog here at Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic. When you aren’t out exploring the beauty of Colorado, come meet us at the clinic for all your dog’s needs! Our office is located off of Woodman Rd and Powers Blvd in Colorado Springs. You can find directions, or schedule an appointment with us. We look forward to hearing about your Colorado hiking adventures! Please note that for the safety of your dog and others, it is advised to keep your dog leashed in public areas.

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Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic is seeking an enthusiastic and caring veterinarian to work relief, part-time or full-time in our general practice. PVC is a full-service, 3+ doctor, small-animal veterinary hospital. We have established an excellent reputation for developing lasting relationships with our clients and for providing compassionate and quality care to our patients.