8 Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Denver to See the Fall Leaves

With cooler weather upon us and the leaves changing colors, there is no better time to get outside and enjoy a beautiful hike with your dog. We’ve curated a list of dog-friendly hikes near Denver you will surely fall in love with this autumn. We hope you enjoy these golden views. Happy hiking!

French Gulch Trail
Breckenridge 

Located near Breckenridge, Colorado, you can enjoy this 4.6-mile out-and-back trail with your furry friend. As a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of two hours to complete. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime, especially in the fall months. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.

American Lake Trail
Aspen

Enjoy breathtaking views along the American Lake Trail, which begins and ends on Castle Creek Road. There are some beautiful woods along the way, and plenty of great spots to rest and enjoy the views. Beginning hikers might find this hike a bit challenging depending on the conditions of the trail, but for most experienced hikers, this 6.8-mile out-and-back trail near Aspen will take about three hours.

Booth Falls
Vail

This 3.9-mile out-and-back trail near Vail, Colorado is worth the challenge for you and your dog. Autumnal fall colors are abundant along the Booth Falls Trail in the Eagle’s Nest Wilderness. This is one of the best dog-friendly hikes near Denver that offers incredible views of rivers, valleys, vast aspen grove forests, and the steep rocky peaks of the Gore Range. 

High Line Canal Trail
Denver

Spanning across 860 acres, the High Line Canal Trail is an easily accessible 71-mile trail just south of central Denver. You can start on the trail at any point and see some fall colors along the way! Dogs must be on leash at all times as it is often crowded with runners, bikers, and hikers on the path. 

Mule Deer Trail
Golden

Get ready for a big hiking day along this 9.6-mile loop trail located in Golden Gate Canyon State Park near Golden, Colorado. Dogs are welcome on a leash along this challenging route. You will be sure to find peaceful places to relish the autumnal sights and sounds. 

Kenosha Pass North
Jefferson

If you’re up for another long adventure, this bucket list-worthy hike is located near Jefferson, Colorado in Pike National Forest. Winding through groves of aspen, you will be sure to enjoy this 11.5-mile out-and-back trail with your best buddy on a leash. The best time to visit this dog-friendly hike near Denver is in September and October. 

Jefferson Lake Loop
Jefferson

Looking for an easier hike with stunning views also near Jefferson, Colorado? Be sure to check out this 2.4-mile loop trail that is great for hiking and walking. It’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring, so be sure to soak up the peaceful silence in this memorable place. Of course, dogs are welcome, but they must be on a leash.

Mount Galbraith Loop via Cedar Gulch Trail
Golden

This 4.2-mile loop trail near Golden, Colorado will have picturesque views galore. This hike follows the Cedar Gulch Trail and encircles Mount Galbraith with noteworthy views of Golden and Denver. This moderately challenging route takes over two hours to complete. The best times for you and your pup to visit are now through November.