BringFido's Ruff Guide to Colorado

Posted by Jason Halliburton

Thinking of cruising with your Corgi on a trip to Colorado? If so, he’s one lucky dog. The editors at BringFido have dedicated themselves to digging up the dog-friendliest things to do in The Centennial State, as well as the rest of the country. And we've assembled it all in the latest edition of our book, Ruff Guide to the United States.

Now in its second edition, the book features over 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states. Order your copy today and save 50% off the retail price when you use the discount code COLORADO.

For a preview of the book, here are a few of our editors' top picks for dog-friendly things to do in Colorado.

Garden of the Dogs

Colorado Springs, CO
“Is this Mars or is this Colorado?”

Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs is known for its incredible red rock formations, beautiful hiking trails, and breathtaking views of Pikes Peak. Orient yourself with a 45-minute guided walk departing from the Visitor & Nature Center before exploring on your own. In the afternoon, make your way to the 1,000-year-old ruins at Manitou Cliff Dwellings for a look at the fascinating architecture of the ancient Anasazi people. At the end of your day, grab a meal at Pub Dog Colorado, where you can dine indoors with your dog. Food is served counter-service style (in dog bowls!), and the restaurant boasts an impressive canine menu. Fido can burn off the calories at the restaurant’s fenced dog park.

Located seven miles from Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, The Broadmoor defines modern elegance. Spectacular views of Cheyenne Mountain, Cheyenne Lake, or one of three on-site golf courses are available in most suites and cottages. Fido can sample canine cuisine from the gourmet pet menu. Bedding and bowls are provided.

Dude, Where’s My Ranch?

Red Feather Lakes, CO
"Is this seat taken?” Photo by Sundance Trail Guest Ranch

Bring Fido to Red Feather Lakes for an unforgettable experience at the Sundance Trail Guest Ranch. This northern Colorado dude ranch offers a variety of ranch activities, including rifle shooting, archery, roping lessons, rock climbing, hiking, fishing, and horseshoe tournaments. Explore the trails by horseback as Fido comes along for the ride. The ranch caters to a limited number of visitors each week, so all organized activities can be tailored for beginners or those with more advanced experience. Nightly offerings such as square dancing, cowboy poetry, and evening campfires are designed for the whole family to enjoy. Relax after a full day of fun with a soak in the hot tub, a massage, or a good book by the warm fire. Listen to cowboy stories on the expansive front porch in the company of your new friends. Well-socialized dogs can enjoy all of the ranch activities with their humans.

Settle in for the night in a cozy lodge room or spacious cabin at the Sundance Trail Guest Ranch. Cookies, lemonade, and coffee are available any time, and three hearty western meals are served daily. The dinner bell is rung before all meals, so you can enjoy your vacation without a watch.

Choo-Choose Leadville

Leadville, CO
“Sit, stay and trundle.” Photo by @jcpenny.catalog

Bring Fido on board the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad for a scenic ride through the Rocky Mountains. Choose a seat in an enclosed section of the train, or relax in an open-air car and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the Arkansas River Valley as you rise up 1,000 feet from the valley floor. There, you’ll spot two of Colorado’s highest peaks - Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert. On the two-and-a-half hour tour through the breathtaking San Isabel National Forest, the conductor will educate passengers on the history of Leadville and share tales about legendary characters who once called the area home. Refreshments are available from the on-board concession stand, but you are free to bring your own food and drink to enjoy on the journey.

Centrally located in Vail Valley, The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is a luxurious basecamp for your Rocky Mountain adventures. Fido will be impressed with services like in-room doggy massages and pup-friendly guided snowshoe tours. He’ll also be happy to know that the pet menu has been taste-tested and approved by Bachelor, the hotel’s canine ambassador.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to Colorado preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code COLORADO to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

What are your favorite dog-friendly things to do in Colorado? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by Bringfido.com/Christina.