5 Dog-Friendly Hikes in Colorado for Your Four-Legged Friend

A brown dogs noses right up to the camera lens in Grand Lake, his brown eyes gazing lovingly at us.

When you want to explore the great outdoors with your four-legged best friend, Grand County is the place to go. With countless dog-friendly hiking trails and scenic drives located throughout our wilderness areas, you'll never have to leave your furry friends at home again.

Here are some of our favorite dog-friendly hikes in Grand County that feature epic views and unbeatable scenery along the way. Please note that all pets must be leashed and under control when hiking in wilderness areas.

Corona Lake Trail

Distance: 2 Miles | Difficulty: Easy

From Grand County, take a scenic drive along Corona Pass until you reach the trailhead right before Rollins Pass. The Corona Lake Trail has a gradual grade and features streams, a lake, wildflowers and views of the Continental Divide and Winter Park. An AWD vehicle is required to drive Corona Pass.

Elk Mountain Trail

Distance: 3.5 Miles | Difficulty: Moderate

The Elk Mountain Trail located north of Hot Sulphur Springs offers breathtaking panoramic views of Grand County and the Rocky Mountains from the summit. This low-traffic, dog-friendly hiking trail features wildflower meadows in summer and is accessible for low-clearance vehicles as well.

Columbine Lake via Caribou Pass Trail

Distance: 7.3 Miles | Difficulty: Moderate

Starting at the Junco Lake Trailhead near Tabernash, follow the Caribou Pass Trail to reach Columbine Lake. This popular trail in the Indian Peaks Wilderness passes through meadows, streams and forests before reaching a high-alpine at the base of Mount Neva.

Lake Evelyn Trail

Distance: 4.9 Miles | Difficulty: Hard

Located in the Byers Peak Wilderness, the Lake Evelyn Trail follows a series of streams and features wildflowers in summer. Once you reach Lake Evelyn, the trail diverges around the lake so you can find a serene place to enjoy the scenery. This dog-friendly trail has a steep grade and requires an AWD vehicle to access the trailhead.

Mount Flora Trail

Distance: 6 Miles | Difficulty: Hard

Following a portion of the Contintental Divide, the Mount Flora Trail presents hikers with magnificent views of the Rocky Mountains. Start at the Berthoud Pass trailhead just south of Winter Park to summit this nearby 13er featuring diverse tundra and summer wildflowers.

Hiking in Colorado is always more enjoyable with a friend. Explore the forests and streams with your dog on these five dog-friendly hiking trails in Grand County. After a day exploring the Rocky Mountains, don't forget to check out our five can't-miss mountain towns for a bite to eat or a place to stay.