Pet Friendly Aspen Colorado
ASPEN MOMENTS · PET FRIENDLY GUIDE
Pet Friendly Aspen Colorado
Aspen is one of the most dog-friendly mountain towns in the United States. Dogs are genuinely welcome here — on trails, at restaurant patios, in many hotels, on the gondola, and even at some of the finest establishments in town. Walk through downtown and expect biscuits at the bank, the liquor store, the pharmacy, and half the retail shops on the mall. Here's everything you need to know about visiting Aspen with your dog.
Dog-Friendly Trails
Hunter Creek Trail
The top local pick for dogs. Starts near downtown, winds through aspen groves along the creek, and once you reach National Forest land, off-leash (voice-controlled) hiking is permitted. Locals bring their dogs here every morning. Multiple stream crossings for dogs who love water.
Rio Grande Trail
Flat, mostly paved, 42-mile trail along the Roaring Fork River. Dogs on leash welcome throughout. Multiple spots to let your dog wade in the river on hot days. A great option for older dogs or those that prefer a gentler pace.
Maroon Bells Area
Dogs are welcome on leash at Maroon Bells. The main Maroon Lake scenic trail and East Maroon Trail are both excellent with dogs. Bring water — your dog will be working at altitude. Note: Vehicle reservations required May–October; shuttles from Aspen Highlands also allow leashed dogs.
Ute Trail & Ajax Trail
Both accessible near downtown Aspen, dogs on leash. The Ute Trail ascends Aspen Mountain with big views; Ajax Trail is a shorter, less crowded alternative good for an afternoon walk.
Off-Leash Parks
Wagner Park (Downtown)
Known locally as "Dog Park," Wagner Park is a spacious open area in the center of downtown Aspen where dogs socialize, fetch, and run freely. One of the best free activities for dogs and their people in Aspen. The Roaring Fork River and a nearby pond offer swimming on hot days.
Rio Grande Park & Marolt Open Space
Additional open spaces where dogs can run free and explore. Marolt Open Space connects to trails heading west out of town. Rio Grande Park sits along the river with plenty of room to roam.
Dog-Friendly Dining
Over 20 restaurants in Aspen welcome dogs at outdoor tables. Most al fresco dining areas in town allow leashed dogs, and many provide water bowls. A few standouts:
The Little Nell — Dog Menu
The only restaurant in Aspen with a dedicated dog menu. High-quality, healthy selections for your four-legged guest alongside five-star cuisine for you. In-room dog amenities include plush beds, personalized brass ID tags, gourmet treats, and a dog walking service. The gold standard of pet-friendly luxury.
Meat and Cheese Restaurant & Farm Shop
Eleven dog-friendly outdoor tables. Specialty cheeses, Western Colorado meats, artisan bread, and seasonal seafood. Part of the Avalanche Cheese Company family. Open daily 11am–9pm.
Aspen Brewing Company
Spacious dog-friendly outdoor patio. Local craft beers and pizza. Perfect post-hike stop with your dog.
Mountain Social at the St. Regis
Unusually, dogs are allowed in select indoor areas — making it one of the few indoor dining options in Aspen where your dog is genuinely welcome. Craft cocktails and elevated bar bites.
Dog-Friendly Hotels
The Little Nell
Aspen's only five-star, five-diamond hotel and the gold standard for traveling with dogs. In-room water and food bowls, plush pet bed, personalized brass ID tag, gourmet treats, a dog walking service, and a Puppy Jet Lag Kit. Across from Wagner Park.
Limelight Hotel
Aspen's original dog-friendly hotel. In-room dog bowls and a great location directly across from Wagner Park. Dogs of any size welcome, additional fee per night. A solid mid-range choice for traveling with pets.
St. Regis Aspen & Hotel Jerome
Both welcome dogs with in-room amenities. The St. Regis offers the Snow Lodge bar where dogs are welcome in certain areas.
Summer Gondola with Your Dog
Dogs ride free on the Silver Queen Gondola on Aspen Mountain and the Snowmass gondola during summer operating months. Look for the paw print symbols on dog-friendly gondola cabins. Access more trails and panoramic views — your dog will love the adventure as much as you do.
Useful Pet Services
Rocky Mountain Pet Shop — 107 S. Monarch St. The go-to since 1970 for food, treats, toys, and a self-service dog wash. Perfect for cleaning up after a muddy trail day.
Aspen Animal Shelter / Boarding Kennel — 101 Animal Shelter Rd. For boarding needs if you have an activity that isn't dog-friendly.
TRAVELING WITH YOUR DOG?
Aspen Moments Welcomes Dogs on Board
Our private SUVs comfortably accommodate you and your dog. No extra charges, no stress. From Aspen Airport $135 $108 · Denver $1,200 $960
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