Dog-Friendly Guide to Boulder: Things to do in Boulder With a dog

Boulder, Colorado has a great choice of dog-friendly trails, parks, cafes, and activities to explore, meaning pet parents and those house sitting in Boulder will always have something to do. Whether you're a Boulder pet sitter up for an adventurous hike or a loving pet parent looking for a place to have a quiet meal, this dog-friendly guide to Boulder has everything you need to explore the city with your four-legged bestie.

Best dog parks in Boulder

Boulder is home to several fantastic dog parks where furry friends can run free, socialize, and enjoy the great outdoors. Here are a few of the top recommendations:

East Boulder Dog Park

This spacious, fully fenced park features a large area for off-leash play, complete with a pond for dogs to swim. There's also a separate small dog section to ensure safety and fun for all sizes.
Location: 5440 Sioux Dr

Valmont Dog Park

Located within Valmont City Park, this off-leash area has ample space for pups to roam and play. With shaded seating and easy access to nearby trails, it’s a great place to enjoy an afternoon outdoors.
Location: 5275 Valmont Rd

Foothills Community Dog Park

This scenic dog park offers breathtaking mountain views and plenty of open space for four-pawed pals to explore off-leash. There’s also a separate enclosure for smaller pups (a nice touch).
Location: 800 Cherry Ave

Dog-friendly restaurants, Boulder

Boulder’s food scene is as welcoming to dogs as it is to humans, with plenty of restaurants featuring pet-friendly patios and water bowls at the ready.

The Rayback Collective

This hip food truck park and beer garden offers a spacious, dog-friendly outdoor area where you and your pup can relax with great food and drinks.
Location: 2775 Valmont Rd

Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery

A Boulder favorite, this laid-back brewery allows dogs on its outdoor patio. Enjoy craft beer and a hearty meal while your furry friend lounges nearby.
Location: 1535 Pearl St

Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

A fantastic brunch spot with an inviting dog-friendly patio. Your four-legged friend can join you while you enjoy creative pancakes, breakfast burritos, and refreshing cocktails.
Location: 1617 Pearl St

Fun dog-friendly activities in Boulder

Looking for something fun to do with your dog? There are plenty of dog-friendly places in Boulder to keep you both entertained.

Chautauqua Park

With stunning views of the Flatirons, Chautauqua Park is one of the best dog-friendly hikes in Boulder. Dogs are welcome on leashes and can enjoy several scenic trails.

Location: Chautauqua Park, 9th St & Baseline Rd

Pearl Street Mall

Stroll through Boulder’s iconic Pearl Street Mall, where many shops and cafes welcome well-behaved pups. It’s a great place for socializing, people-watching, and enjoying a leisurely afternoon.

Location: Pearl Street

Boulder Creek Path

This popular trail follows Boulder Creek, offering a refreshing and relaxed walk for you and your dog. With plenty of shaded areas and water access, it’s perfect for a warm day.

Location: Boulder Creek Path

Dog-friendly trails, Boulder

Boulder is packed with picturesque hiking trails that welcome four-legged friends. Here are some of the best options for outdoor-loving animals.

Blue Lake Trail

This tough hike is well-worth it for stunning views of alpine lakes and mountains towering in the background. Furry friends are allowed off-leash in certain area.

Location: Ward, CO 80481, United States

Length: 8.7 miles

Green Mountain West Ridge Trail

Another moderately difficult hike, this area is popular with pet parents and pups – who must be kept on the leash. At the summit you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of Bear Peak, South Boulder Peak, and the famous fourteeners.

Location: Colorado 80302, USA

Length: 3.7 miles

Sanitas Valley Trail

A moderately challenging trail with rewarding mountain views. Dogs are allowed off-leash as long as they have good recall skills.

Location: Sanitas Valley Trailhead

Length: 3.3 miles (round-trip)

Flatirons Vista Trail

A dog-friendly Boulder hike with wide-open spaces and gorgeous Flatirons views. Well-behaved dogs are allowed off-leash.

Location: Flatirons Vista Trailhead

Length: 3.5 miles

Royal Arch Trail

A more strenuous trail with breathtaking scenery. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Location:Chautauqua Park

Length: 3.4 miles (round-trip)

The best dog-friendly cafes in Boulder

Need a coffee break? These Boulder cafes not only serve great brews but also welcome dogs warmly.

Trident Booksellers & Cafe

A charming bookstore and coffee shop with a dog-friendly patio, perfect for enjoying a good book and a hot drink with your furry friend.
Location: 940 Pearl St

Ozo Coffee Company

A favorite among locals, Ozo Coffee has an outdoor seating area where dogs are welcome to relax while you enjoy top-notch coffee.
Location: 5340 Arapahoe Ave

Boxcar Coffee Roasters

This artisan coffee shop has a lovely dog-friendly patio where you and your pup can soak up the sunshine.
Location: 1825 Pearl St

Annual dog events in Boulder

Boulder is home to several exciting dog-friendly events throughout the year, giving you and your pup plenty of opportunities for fun and socializing.

Boulder Dog Dayz

A special end-of-summer event where Scott Carpenter Pool is opened exclusively for dogs to swim and play before it closes for the season.
Cost: Varies
Date & time: September
Location: Scott Carpenter Park

Cause for Paws 5K

A charity walk/run event where dogs and their owners can participate together to raise funds for local animal shelters and rescues.
Cost: Registration fees vary
Date & Time: Annually, check listings
Location: Boulder Reservoir

The best dog-friendly bars, Boulder

Enjoy a drink with your pup by your side at one of Boulder’s many pet-friendly bars.

The Southern Sun Pub & Brewery

A relaxed atmosphere, great craft beer, and a dog-friendly patio make this a go-to place for pooch (and pint) lovers.

Location: 627 S Broadway St

Avery Brewing Company

This brewery welcomes dogs on its outdoor patio, making it a fantastic venue to unwind with a beer.

Location: 4910 Nautilus Ct N

Dog-friendly wineries in Boulder

For wine lovers who want to bring their dogs along, these wineries offer dog-friendly outdoor seating and a relaxing atmosphere.

BookCliff Vineyards

A fantastic local winery that welcomes pooch pals on their outdoor patio. Enjoy handcrafted wines with the best company possible.

Location: 1501 Lee Hill Dr #17

Vinnie Fera Winery

This Boulder winery has an outdoor space where pooch pals are allowed, making it an excellent stop for a glass of wine.

Location: 3012 Sterling Cir Suite 100

Tips for pet parents

Exploring Boulder with your pup can be a rewarding adventure, but being a responsible pet parent in this outdoor-loving city requires a little planning. Here are some tips to help you and your furry friend navigate Boulder with ease:

Hit the trails, but know the rules

Boulder is packed with scenic trails, but some require dogs to be on a leash, while others allow off-leash fun with a Green Tag. Popular spots like Chautauqua and Mount Sanitas are great for hiking, but check local regulations before heading out!

Dine with your dog

Many Boulder cafes and breweries welcome four-legged guests on their patios, so you can grab a bite to eat while your friend relaxes.

Stay in a pet-friendly place

Whether you choose a cozy B&B or a pet-friendly hotel, do your research on dog-friendly accommodation in Boulder. Some even offer special treats and amenities for furry guests!

Plan ahead for your travels

If you’re heading out of town, consider finding a trusted pet sitter who’ll take care of Fido in your own home! Discover the peace of mind that comes from finding a loving, in-home sitter with TrustedHousesitters – click on the link below to find out more!

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Tips for pet sitters

If you're pet sitting in Boulder, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the pooch in your care stays happy and safe.

Get familiar with local pet laws

Boulder is packed with dog-friendly places, but leash laws and off-leash areas vary. Some parks require leashes at all times, while others allow off-leash dogs with a Voice and Sight Control Tag. Be sure to check Boulder’s Open Space and Mountain Parks (OSMP) website for up-to-date regulations before heading out.

Prepare for Boulder’s unpredictable weather

Boulder’s climate can shift rapidly. During the summer, always carry extra water for both yourself and the pup, and avoid midday walks when the sun is strongest. In winter, some dogs—especially short-haired breeds—may need a coat to stay warm. Be cautious of icy paths that can be slippery for both pups and walkers.

Watch out for outdoor hazards

While Boulder’s outdoor spaces are stunning, they come with natural hazards. Be mindful of ticks, foxtails, and potential encounters with wildlife like coyotes or rattlesnakes. Keep a close eye on the pup during hikes and avoid tall grasses where pests may be hiding.

Try house and pet sitting

For a more immersive experience, why not try TrustedHousesitters? Exchange home and pet care for a unique place to stay in Boulder – it’s a great way to explore the city like a local, enjoy home comforts, and have a built-in adventure buddy during your stay. Find out more below.