Best Dog-Friendly Spots in Telluride
Top Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Telluride
Traveling with a dog is a different experience than traveling solo. There are many considerations to keep in mind when bringing a dog along, such as where to eat that will allow animals, what to do while you’re in town, and what activities are off-limits because you have a pet in tow. However, you won’t have to worry too much about restrictions when you take a trip to Telluride with your dog, as this is one of the pet-friendliest towns in all of Colorado.
In today’s blog, we’ll explore some of the best dog-friendly things to do and places to eat while you’re visiting Telluride with your furry companion.
Take the Dog-Friendly Gondola to Mountain Village
Ever wanted to take your pup up to majestic heights? You can in Telluride, which boasts not only one of the only free mountain gondolas in the country, but also welcomes dogs on board as well. Experience the beauty of the awe-inspiring San Juan Mountains with your furry friend in tow, and either exit at the San Sophia Station for a view-soaked hike down into Telluride or opt to carry on to Mountain Village, where well-behaved dogs are allowed as long as they’re kept on a leash.
Track’s Bar and Grill in Mountain Village offers ten outdoor tables to enjoy some tasty eats with your dog at your side, while The Black Iron Kitchen and Barhas a covered patio where your pup is welcome as well. Both of these spots have some of the best menus in all of Mountain Village, so you know you’ll get a good meal while your dog enjoys some of the mountain sunshine on the patio.
Have a Brew with Your Pup at Smuggler’s Union
Want to grab a bite to eat and a local brew without having to leave your furry friends at your accommodation? Head over to Smuggler’s Union Brewery and Restaurant, located off of Pine Street, for a dog-friendly meal and a mountain brew that you’ll remember forever.
While you’re there, be sure to check out their award-winning beer, the Blonde Betty, a Belgian ale that features flavors like banana and clove with an undertone of coriander. Their menu items are delicious as well, with reviewers raving about the Colorado Elk Bolognese entree, which is served with mascarpone cheese, Durham Ranch Pork, and San Marzano tomatoes.
Go On a Dog-Friendly Hike to Bear Creek Falls
After a meal spent at Smuggler’s Union, the best way to make the most of your time with your furry friends is to get outside. Even during the scourge of wintertime, there are plenty of dog-friendly hikes available for you and your pup to try out, but perhaps the best one in the area is the nearby Bear Creek Falls Trail.
Along this 4.5-mile out and back hike, you’ll experience some incredible views of the town of Telluride as you climb uphill with your companion in tow, before reaching a majestic waterfall after which the hike is named. There is around 1,100 feet of elevation gain along the trail, so be sure that you are acclimated to the altitude before attempting it. And as always, bring some dog waste bags so you can pack out your pet’s potty breaks–don’t leave anything on the trail itself and
Stock Up on Treats and Pet Food at PET Telluride
Need some dog supplies while you’re in town? There’s nowhere better to stop at than PET Telluride, Telluride’s only pet food and pet supply store.
Whether you need a sweater for your dog on a cold day, a new fancy beaded collar to make them look spiffy, or you just need to restock on your favorite brand of treats for your pup, they have everything that you need, all in one easily-accessible location. Customers often mention the amazing customer service at this location as well–whenever you have a question, the employees are there to help get you the answers that you’re looking for.
Grab a Pastry with Your Pup at Baked in Telluride
The most popular bakery and pizza spot in town is also another pet-friendly place: Baked in Telluride. This staple of Telluride cuisine serves a variety of delicious baked goods, breakfast and lunch options, and pizza, and it’s been a well-known spot to fuel up before a day spent enjoying mountain adventures. Although you cannot bring your dog into the restaurant itself, there are five outdoor tables where you can sit down and relax with your pup while you fuel yourself for your dog-friendly day spent in the beautiful town of Telluride.
Head to Ouray for a Doggy Excursion and Some Incredible Mountain Views
Looking for a dog-focused activity to help get some of your pup’s excess energy burnt off? Head over to Ouray, located about an hour’s drive through the mountains from Telluride, to visit the dog park in town. Although this dog park is a little smaller than ones you’ll find in larger cities or towns, it’s the closest dog park to Telluride and features a small running area for dogs to play in.
Open from sunrise to sunset, this is the perfect spot to bring your dog after you’ve been tired out from your mountain adventures but while your pup is still craving some playtime. Plus, while you’re in Ouray, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best mountain views around, and if you really want to extend your outing, there are plenty of places to soak in the hot springs around town.
Find More Telluride Travel Guides on the LocalVR Blog
Going on vacation with your dog can be a challenge, but when you’re visiting a pup-friendly place like Telluride, there are plenty of places to eat and things to do where you won’t have to leave your furry companions at home. From a jaunt down the Bear Creek Falls Trail to a visit to PET Telluride, you’ll have more than enough activities to fill your time with next time you visit Telluride with your dog.
Want to find out more about traveling to Telluride? Take a look at our guides, like our list of the best places to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Telluride or our recommendations for day trips from Telluride.
