Summit County is synonymous with a pup lover’s paradise. Big, fluffy, small, shorthaired, tail or no tail, wet nose or smushed nose; all furry friends are welcomed with open arms in the mountains. Hikes, lakes, parks, trails, shops - even the gondola is dog friendly!
In the holiday season, Breckenridge hosts a dog parade down Main Street before the town lights the tree. When dog owners bring two or more pups, it can feel like there are more dogs than humans present! As long as the dog plays well with others and is not a scrooge, the dog can walk in the free parade.
Aside from dog-focused events during the winter season, the mountain environment invites four-legged friends year-round.
In fact, Breckenridge is completely dog friendly except for only three places around town: Cucumber Gulch (under the gondola), the Breckenridge Golf Course, and Kingdom Park (near the recreation center). For all other locations within local town limits dogs must be on a leash for protection. Owners are also required to do their doo-ty and carry doggie bags at all times.
Spring, summer, fall or winter – it’s always the season for dogs in Summit County!
Starting this May, warmer days beckon boisterous, tail-wagging adventures to Rocky Mountain lakes and breathtaking mountain top viewpoints.
Hiking with Dogs
Summit County consists of miles upon miles of endless trails. The massive network serves as a perfect way to get out and explore Colorado’s beautiful backyard. Side perks are the sights, smells, and exercise that will tire out furry friends too.
Since many trails are outside of town limits, dogs are permitted to roam leash free, as long as they respond to voice command.
A few favorite trails for locals and their dogs are:
Chihuahua Gulch Trail – Dillon, CO
Wheeler Lakes Trail – Frisco, CO
Mohawk Lake Trail – Breckenridge, CO
Of course, this is not an all-inclusive list and there are dozens of dog friendly hikes out the back door of many Summit County homes. Adventure is never far away!
For a more detailed list of where humans and their furry friends can venture together, visit Bring Fido’s website!
Parks with Dogs
Just four blocks east of Main Street Breckenridge, is doggy central, Carter Park. Carter Park is a utopia for dogs. An acre of wide open space invites all four-legged friends to fetch and play with pup friends of all kinds! This is the perfect spot to kill two birds with one stone - locals and visitors can socialize while pups play! All dogs are welcome and there are no “small” or “big” dog separated areas. It is expected that pups behave and play nice with others.
The park is fenced in so humans can relax knowing if they look away for one moment, fido will still be romping around. The park offers four baggy stations and two large barrels to deposit waste or trash. Two picnic tables offer seating to kick back, have a snack, and enjoy the views.
Just behind the back fence of Carter Park is access to Moonstone trail, a short, non-intensive hike for humans and dogs alike.
Gondola with Dogs
A lesser-known fact is that dogs are permitted to take the gondola up to the base of Peaks 7 and 8. Even better, the gondola is completely free all year round!
During summer dogs are welcome to run around on the mountain and sniff all the smells at the base of Peaks 7 and 8.
To top it off, Ski Hill Grill and Sevens have water bowls outside – hydration in Summit County elevation is key!
Keep in mind, the 70+ acres below the gondola, Cucumber Gulch, is a wildlife protected area in which dogs are not allowed.
Adjacent to the base of the gondola is the dog-friendly bike path. The asphalt trail connects Breckenridge to Frisco and is a great spot for leashed dogs to get exercise and take a dip in the Blue River! The path follows the river and offers incredible panoramic views of the mountains.
Shopping with Dogs
Take a stroll down Main Street in Frisco or Breckenridge, it is guaranteed a few dogs will be in sight! Inside town limits, it is required to keep dogs on leash, but they can paw around most anywhere.
Along the main stretches of towns in Summit County, shop owners often keep dog treats and water bowls readily available. Many stores even have their own pup lounging out front or protecting the cash register.
Dining with Dogs
Dogs are members of the family too! Local restaurants and bars recognize the furry friends must be included in toasts, celebrations, or just a casual night out on the town. At any given place in Summit County, the views are breathtaking. Soak it all in on a patio with man’s best friend! A few suggestions to get started:
Bread & Salt: Frisco, CO
Island Grill: Frisco Marina, CO
Broken Compass Brewing Company: Breckenridge, CO
While most patios in Summit County are pet-friendly, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and double check!
Care for Dogs
Not every Summit County home comes equipped with a doggie shower. Not to worry! After a long day of swimming through glassy lakes, exploring trails and or splashing in mud, head to the self-service wash stations at Animal Lover’s Pet supply, or the laundromat on Main Street in Frisco to clean up.
For getaway weekends when Fido can’t come along, take him or her to The Dog House! Services include overnight board, doggie daycare, baths and training. Pups love the friendly staff and on-site dog amenities!
Bring Your Dog to Summit County, Today!
It’s safe to say, the Summit County mountain lifestyle is very inclusive of dogs. Quality of life for both dogs and their humans is unparalleled – a plethora of activities attract many people and their furry friends to the mountains year-round.
After a long day in the great outdoors, your dog will love relaxing on the deck of your mountain home.
Contact us today to find the perfect home in Summit County – current residents, shops, patios and trails can’t wait to meet you and your four legged companion!
By Coldwell Banker
All information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed & subject to change without notice.