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Hiking with your furry friend is a favorite for Coloradans; heading toward the Flatirons without Fido just seems wrong. Fortunately, Boulder and the surrounding areas are full of pet-friendly trails that you’ll enjoy and that your dog will, obviously, love unconditionally. Here are a few of our favorites:
Blue Lake and Little Blue Lake
Blue Lake and Little Blue Lake are located near Ward and offer a route that’s sure to challenge you and wear out your pooch. It’s roughly 6.5 miles round trip (with plenty of altitude) and takes over three hours for the average hiker to complete. It’s a fairly crowded area, so expect to see other outdoor adventurers. To go during optimal times, wait until June.
Walker Ranch Loop
Walker Ranch Loop is a moderate trail packed full of woodsy beauty and canyon creations. At eight miles, it’s not a quick trip but one that’s full of views (for you) and smells (for your dog). When the conditions are right, you might spot a few waterfalls along the trail and you’ll certainly spot people; it’s popular for hiking, biking, bird watching, and general Mother Nature shenanigans.
Wonderland Lake Park
If your dog isn’t among the hardiest of breeds (perhaps they’re a chihuahua, a pug, or a toy poodle) and you don’t have a front pack in which to tote them, Wonderland Lake Park might be a better option. This trail is wide and flat, more of a stroll than a climb. It’s easily accessible from the streets of Boulder, making it an ideal option for those who love the great outdoors as long as the great indoors are nearby.
Royal Arch Trail
The Royal Arch Trail is a difficult steep trail to traverse. It starts at Boulder’s mother ship of hiking (Chautauqua) and goes for four miles. It’s highly popular, so it’s not a perfect option if you or your pup aren’t keen on crowds. The main feature of the hike is a natural arch hard to find elsewhere in the state.
Mount Sanitas
While considered another fairly challenging hike, Mount Sanitas isn’t all that long. At three miles, most people can complete it in roughly two hours. The hike not only allows dogs, but horses as well. It’s full of playful boulders and roaring rock formations. Given its easy access, it’s also full of people. Go during less popular times (such as the middle of the week) if you’re hoping to find some solitude.
Colorado is well known for both hiking trails and dog-friendly places. The two merge together all over the state to offer unique outdoor outings you and your best friend can enjoy together.
The Habitat Apartments is located in Gunbarrel with convenient access to shopping in downtown Boulder and beyond. We offer apartments and townhomes with private patios, a heated pool, outdoor kitchens, pet-friendly perks, and multiple floor plans to choose from. Contact us today to learn why we’re the perfect place to set down roots this spring.