Paws for Larimer County Trails

A white dog on a trail at Devils Backbone with the mountains in background.
We know dogs are great company out on the trail. That's why Larimer County welcomes dogs on most parks and open spaces. We simply ask that dog owners follow basic rules to keep trails safe and enjoyable for all. 

 

Rules for dogs on Larimer County parks and open spaces: 

  1. Dogs must be leashed: Keeping your dogs leashed minimizes conflicts with other visitors and ensures that wildlife are safe. Often dogs scare or disrupt wildlife when left to roam.
  2. Visitors are required to pick up: This means packing out any and all dog waste from the trails and campgrounds you visit.
  3. Don't leave waste bags for later: Many hikers leave bagged dog waste alongside the trail to "pick up later" and then forget to collect it on their way back. Please pick up and pack all waste bags immediately and dispose of them at trailhead trashcans. 
  4. Stay on trail; protect wildlife: Keep your dog under your physical control and do not allow your dog to harass wildlife in any way. This includes preventing them from actively chasing after wildlife, or running off trail where wildlife and birds may be nesting or hiding. 
  5. Be courteous to others: While your fur-baby may be the best of pups, be aware that some people find dogs intimidating or unwelcome in their personal space. Please be courteous by keeping your leashed dog close and under your control as others pass. 
  6. Bring plenty of water: Make sure there's enough hydration for everyone, including your dog.
  7. Be mindful of the weather: On hot days, leave your dog behind. Hot pavement and trail is especially hot on dog paws. 
  8. Know if your dog is allowed: Dogs are allowed at all of our parks and open spaces--except Red Mountain Open Space and Rimrock Trail at Devils' Backbone Open Space. If you have any doubt, please check Cotrex for what's allowed before heading to the trail.

Thank you for making our trails happy places for everyone.  

Dog image: "Wednesday" at Devil's Backbone scenic overlook, by Vincent Peraza

VIDEO COLLECTION: PAWS FOR LARIMER COUNTY TRAILS

Picking up keeps every happy on Larimer County parks and open spaces. 

Pick it up, pack it out!

Are you leashing your dog while on Larimer County Parks and Open Spaces? This video tells why it's required.