Winter is just around the corner, so now is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the last few lovely days before the cold returns with a vengeance. Colorado has over 39,000 miles of hiking trails, but did you know that some of the most beautiful are right here in Aurora? Today, we’ll check out six scenic, dog-friendly hiking trails near Aurora, Colorado, perfect for you and your adventurous furball.
Creekside Trail
Our first pick is a 2-mile loop that takes about thirty-seven minutes to complete. This trail is perfect for a stroll with some additional activities. You and Fido will love seeing all the colorful birds soar and may even see some horses, as this trail is commonly used for horseback riding! For pups who struggle around strangers, this secluded trail might be their perfect fit.
This free trail has bathrooms nearby; dogs must be leased while exploring!
Smokey Hill Trail
Next, Smokey Hill Trail is a 2.1-mile out-and-back, with most hikers completing in forty minutes. This is a popular trail, but some days are calmer than others. Located in Cherry Creek State Park, your canine will enjoy hundreds of acres of beauty and plenty of space for picnicking, camping, and exploring with your furry friend.
Cherry Creek State Park requires an entrance fee per vehicle, and dogs are to be leashed throughout the park.
Cherry Creek Dam Trail
This is a simple and popular trail in the Aurora area. The 2.6-mile out-and-back is our third longest trail, taking around forty-six minutes to finish. Also located in Cherry Creek State Park, Cherry Creek Dam Trail follows the nearby dam and provides beautiful water views. This is an excellent trail for fishing and people-watching as it is very popular. Social, well-trained dogs will enjoy this quick walk with stunning views.
There is an entrance fee per vehicle at Cherry Creek State Park. The park requests that dogs stay on their leash while attending.
First Creek Trail
Our next pick is great for dogs wanting to spend quality time with their human counterparts without distractions. First Creek Trail is a 4-mile out-and-back that can be finished in about an hour and thirteen minutes. This trail is best suited for hiking or mountain biking, so if you are not into walks, you could always strap on your dog carrier and enjoy a bike ride instead.
First Creek Trail is free and open year-round. Please note that dogs must stay on their leash at all times.
Aurora Reservoir
This trail is for the more seasoned four-legged friends. Aurora Reservoir is an 8-mile loop with most folks completing in about two hours and twenty-four minutes. This is a very popular route for those who enjoy fishing, and while this trail is open year-round, it’s best to explore with Fido from February to September!
This park charges an entrance fee for vehicles. Your pup should be on a leash while visiting Aurora Reservoir.
Piney Creek Trail
Our last pick to round out this list for the perfect trails to enjoy with your pooch is not for the faint of heart. Piney Creek Trail is great for those who want a longer trail but a simple route. The 16.4-mile out-and-back takes about five hours and five minutes to complete and is excellent for road biking, running with your dog, or a leisurely walk.
Piney Creek Trail is free, and all dogs are welcome on their leash!
Whether you are a hiking pro or just looking for some exercise with your furbaby, any of these six dog-friendly hiking trails will surely scratch your adventurous itch!