Breckenridge is a dog-lover's dream, with scenic trails, cozy cafés, and snowy adventures made for two. From off-leash fun at Carter Park to dog-friendly breweries and gondola rides, this Rocky Mountain town welcomes every wagging tail.
It doesn't matter the destination, the Rocky Mountains, the shores of Florida, or the beaches of Alabama, bringing your furry friends along makes any vacation more fun.
Thinking about Breckenridge for your next destination? I've got good news for you: Breck, is one of the most pet-friendly destinations in Colorado, offering miles of trails you and Fido can explore, dog parks, and even slopes where you can enjoy the snow together. Besides, several establishments also welcome your pet with open arms, meaning you won't have a bad time looking for a place to grab a bite or a drink without having to leave your doggo home.
Here's a sneak peek just for you:
- Dog-Friendly Trails: Over 100 miles of scenic trails where you and your pup can hike through forests, meadows, lakes, and waterfalls.
- Carter Dog Park: A one-acre fenced park with separate areas for big and small dogs, mountain views, and nearby walking trails for post-play strolls.
- Breckenridge Nordic Center: A winter favorite offering dog-friendly snowshoe and ski trails with panoramic views of the Tenmile Range.
- BreckConnect Gondola: A free, dog-friendly ride over forests and alpine meadows, connecting you to more trails at Peaks 7 and 8.
- Gold Run Nordic Center: Adventure-ready terrain for skiing, snowshoeing, and skijoring lessons so you and your dog can enjoy winter together.
- Blue Moose: Beloved breakfast spot with pet-friendly outdoor seating and hearty mountain fare to start your day right.
In this guide, I've rounded up the most pet-friendly spots in Breckenridge so you and your furry companion can make the most of your time together in this Rocky Mountain playground.
Ready? Let's dive right in!
1. Dog-Friendly Trails in Breckenridge
An extensive network of hiking trails with many opportunities for you and your canine companion to explore.
Breckenridge boasts an extensive network of hiking and biking trails, totaling over a hundred miles, providing many opportunities for you and your canine companion to explore together. These trails cater to various skill levels and offer stunning scenery, from vibrant alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers in the summer to tranquil lakes and cascading waterfalls.
Among the notable dog-friendly trails are:
- Moonstone and Sunbeam Trails: Gentle forested paths with rolling hills and views over downtown Breckenridge. Great for morning walks with your pup.
- Sawmill Trail: An easy, shaded loop ending at a small alpine lake, perfect for dogs who love a cool splash.
- Trail Forest: Quiet wooded route with soft terrain and plenty of shade, ideal for a relaxed stroll.
- Peaks Trail: A classic Breckenridge favorite connecting to Frisco, offering forest scenery, wildflowers, and creek crossings along the way.
- Crystal Lake Trail: A scenic, moderately challenging hike with big mountain views and a sparkling alpine lake reward.
- McCullough Gulch Trail: One of Breck's most beautiful hikes, featuring waterfalls, alpine meadows, and glacier-fed pools.
- Southside Trail (off Boreas Pass Road): Peaceful and less crowded, this trail winds through pine forests and open meadows with wide views of the Tenmile Range.
Heads up: While venturing out on these trails with Fido, it's important to remember to keep your furry friend on a leash for their safety and the safety of others.
2. Carter Dog Park
One-acre park surrounded by mountain views and split into two sections for large and small dogs.
Carter Dog Park is a local favorite for pups and their people to unwind in the heart of Breckenridge. This free, one-acre park is fully fenced and split into two sections for large and small dogs, giving everyone plenty of space to run, play, and make new friends. Surrounded by mountain views, it's a perfect mix of fun for dogs and relaxation for owners, all just steps from downtown.
Here's a tip: Starting just behind the dog park, you can venture into some pet-friendly trails that start from there.
Highlights
- Separate play areas for large and small dogs
- Fenced-in space with grass, dirt, and plenty of room to run
- Water fountain and shared dog bowls
- Tables and benches with mountain views
- Easy access to walking trails, tennis courts, and picnic spots.
3. BRECKENRIDGE NORDIC CENTER
Two snowshoe trails open for dogs, and dedicated dog-friendly ski trail.
Rated as one of the best places for cross-country skiing in North America, Breckenridge Nordic Center is a total winter haven for those who love cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and even for those considering getting into it, since there are rental booths and lessons available. The trails boast breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife habitat, and views of the Tenmile Range and the Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve.
Guess what? All that can be enjoyed by your furry friend, as two snowshoe trails at Breckenridge Nordic Center are open for dogs: the one-kilometer Little Red's Run and the 5.5-kilometer Robin's Nest. The center also has a dog-friendly ski trail where you and your furry companion can enjoy snow fun together.
Highlights
- Ranked among North America's top spots for cross-country skiing.
- Scenic trails with views of the Tenmile Range and Cucumber Gulch Wildlife Preserve.
- Great for both beginners and pros, with rentals and lessons available.
- Dog-friendly snowshoe trails: Little Red's Run and Robin's Nest.
- Dedicated dog-friendly ski trail for shared snowy adventures.
4. BreckConnect Gondola
Dog-friendly and free ride gliding over forests, meadows, and the Cucumber Gulch Preserve.
The BreckConnect Gondola is one of the best ways to soak up Breckenridge's mountain views with your pup by your side. This free ride glides over forests, meadows, and the Cucumber Gulch Preserve, where you might spot moose wandering below. Once you reach Peaks 7 and 8, the fun continues with scenic trails and fresh alpine air, the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for you and your furry friend.
Heads up: This amazing gondola service operates from mid-June to mid-September, and naturally, throughout the ski season as well.
Highlights
- Free gondola ride offering panoramic views of Breckenridge.
- Passes over Cucumber Gulch Preserve, home to local wildlife like moose.
- Access to easy and moderate hiking trails at Peaks 7 and 8.
5. GOLD RUN NORDIC CENTER
Top-notch skate, cross-country ski, snowshoe trails, and skijoring opportunities.
Gold Run Nordic Center is another popular spot in Breckenridge, offering top-notch skate, cross-country ski, and snowshoe trails, as well as fat biking, sleigh rides, and ski lessons. They have dog-friendly slopes where you can ski side-by-side with your furry friend, as well as a couple of trails that you can also explore together. A big hit for dog parents at Gold Run Nordic Center is the opportunity to engage in skijoring.
The center provides classes where you and your companion can learn the basics for a fun and unique winter activity. We guarantee that snow days are twice as fun with your furry friend frolicking by your side!
Highlights
- Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, and sleigh rides.
- Dog-friendly ski and snowshoe trails.
- Skijoring lessons for you and your pup.
- Scenic mountain setting with well-groomed trails.
- Classes available for all skill levels.
6. BLUE MOOSE
The best way to kick-start a day of adventure in Breckenridge is by having a fulfilling and hearty breakfast. Blue Moose has proudly served what they call "the best breakfast in town since 1987."
Since Blue Moose's outdoor area is pet-friendly, you can enjoy their traditional home-cooked options, such as fluffy pancakes, omelets, and hot cinnamon buns with your buddy by your side. To boot, you'll have breakfast with a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains.
Other Ways to Enjoy Breckenridge with Your Furry Companion
Your four-legged friend doesn't have to miss out on the fun once the trails and parks are checked off the list. Breckenridge rolls out the welcome mat for dogs in all kinds of ways.
- Stroll Main Street: Leashed dogs can join you through the heart of town, lined with cafés, boutiques, and pet-friendly patios. Many shops even keep treats by the door.
- Shop for Your Pup: Stop by For Pets' Sake Thrift Shop (part of proceeds go to homeless animals), Peek A Boo Toys for quirky finds, and The Downhill Dog for gourmet snacks and local bakery treats.
- Sip and Sit: Relax at Broken Compass Brewing, where dogs are welcome inside and out. Grab a Coconut Stout, play a board game, and mingle with other dog lovers.
- Patio Dining: Many restaurants like Breckenridge Distillery, Motherloaded Tavern, Kenosha Steakhouse, and Après Handcrafted Libations offer pet-friendly outdoor seating.
- Seasonal Fun: Visit during December's Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas, where dogs are invited to join the race in festive costumes, making for the cutest holiday photos ever.
Quick FAQ: Pet-Friendly Activities & Spots in Breckenridge
1. Are dogs allowed on Breckenridge trails?
Yes, most hiking trails are dog-friendly, but pets must stay leashed to protect local wildlife and other hikers.
2. Is Breckenridge dog-friendly in winter?
Absolutely! Many snowshoe and Nordic trails allow dogs, and several spots like Breckenridge Nordic Center and Gold Run Nordic Center welcome furry adventurers.
3. Can I bring my dog to restaurants or bars?
Many local restaurants, cafés, and breweries have dog-friendly patios or even allow pups indoors. Always check signage or ask before entering.
4. Are there off-leash areas in town?
Carter Dog Park is the go-to off-leash area in Breckenridge, offering separate spaces for large and small dogs plus mountain views.
Experience the Best of Breckenridge with Your Furry Friend
Breckenridge proves that mountain getaways are better with paws on the trail and tails in the snow. Between its endless dog-friendly hikes, cozy cafés, and open-armed locals, this town makes every moment feel welcoming, for you and your furry sidekick alike.