First place
From @colorado.mountain.crew, Instagram
What is good trail stewardship to Nora?
-Honoring the signs 🪧
-Picking up your dogs 💩
-Being considerate of other humans & animals on the trails 💛
Second place
From @jackita083, Instagram
Staying on trail and being #responsible for poop and trash pickup keeps our #openspaces #beautiful and protected and the views are #gorgeous Especially with a pup by your side ❤️🐾
Third place
From @LynetteJohnson125, Instagram
Riley Johnson always wears a leash, harness and lifejacket when on any body of water while paddleboarding. Safety is a number one concern for dogs on watercraft. Riley is a great swimmer, but if he falls off the paddleboard, he can easily be "rescued" because of the PFD and his leash.
Honorable mentions
From @tucker.shreds, Instagram
My mom taught me great trail etiquette—staying on leash, yielding to other hikers and bikers, and staying next to or behind her on the trail. She uses a waist leash while biking so she can still hold her handlebars! We’re grateful for spaces like Horsetooth Open Space where we can enjoy biking together. Woof!
From @ruttroontheroam
Kicking off Memorial Day weekend on a wet but dreamy day on #horsetoothfalls trail. We love to make sure we pick up after ourselves and leave no trace while taking lots of picture!
From @pawsitively_trooper, Instagram
🐾☀️ Adventure time!
Trooper hit the trails at Horsetooth Falls this beautiful Thursday morning, soaking up the sunshine and fresh Colorado air. Responsible dog hiking means always wearing my leash, staying on the trail & drinking lots of water🌲💧🐶
From @sam.peterson98, Instagram
The mountains are howling and I must go 🦮.
Responsible dog hiking means being prepared, respectful, and attentive to your dog’s needs and the environment around you. It starts with having the right supplies—bringing plenty of water and a bowl, food for longer hikes, and gear like a jacket in cold weather, boots for rough terrain or snow, and a safety harness when near steep cliffs. Carrying a first aid kit with items specifically for your dog is also important in case of injuries on the trail. Your dog should always be under control, especially when other hikers, bikers, or wildlife are nearby. Keeping your dog leashed is often not just a courtesy but a requirement in many areas, helping to protect both your pet and the local ecosystem. Equally important is cleaning up after your dog to preserve the natural beauty of the trails for everyone. Throughout the hike, regularly check on your dog to ensure they’re not overexerting themselves and are still enjoying the experience. Above all, responsible dog hiking is about having fun, making memories, and capturing those special moments with your four-legged friend while keeping their safety and the environment in mind.
