Hiking With Your Dog: Creating a Bucket List

June 19, 2025

A woman enjoys adventure therapy, hiking along a rocky mountain trail with her golden retriever in an orange backpack, surrounded by green hills, wildflowers, pine trees, and distant mountains under a blue sky with clouds.

There’s nothing quite like hitting the trail with your four-legged best friend. Whether you’re new to outdoor adventures or a seasoned dog owner, creating a hiking bucket list with your dog is a fun and fulfilling way to explore the world together. With so many dog-friendly trails and scenic routes, it’s the perfect opportunity to combine your love for nature with quality time for your pup.

Introduction to Dog-Friendly Hiking

A man with a backpack walks a golden retriever on a leash along a forest path, enjoying hiking & camping beneath tall trees and distant mountains under a clear sky.

Dog-friendly hiking is an excellent way for owners to spend quality time with their furry friends while exploring the great outdoors. With numerous dog-friendly trails available, hikers can enjoy stunning views, varied terrain, and opportunities for hiking, running, and exploring with their dogs. When searching for dog-friendly hiking trails, consider using keywords such as “dog-friendly trails,” “dog-friendly hiking,” and “hiking with dogs.” Many national parks, national forests, and local parks offer dog-friendly trails, making it easy to find a trail that suits your needs. Remember always to keep your dog on a leash, unless specified otherwise, and to clean up after your pet using poop bags.

Why Make a Hiking Bucket List?

A hiking bucket list with your dog ensures you’re making the most of your shared adventures. It gives you goals to work toward—like discovering new dog-friendly hikes or reaching iconic overlooks—and creates lasting memories. Plus, it’s a great way to keep you and your pet active and engaged year-round.

Additionally, consider bringing a backpack to carry essential items such as water, treats, and a first aid kit for your dog.

Preparing Your Dog for the Trail

A man in hiking gear practices adventure therapy as he tends to an injured dog’s paw on a mountain trail, with water bottles and a first aid kit beside them, surrounded by scenic alpine mountains and greenery.

Before hitting the trail with your dog, it’s essential to prepare them for the adventure. Start by checking the specific trail regulations and ensuring your dog is allowed on the trail. Some trails may require dogs to be on a leash, while others may allow them to roam free. Ensure your dog is well-trained and obedient, especially when encountering other hikers, mountain bikers, or wildlife. It’s also crucial to assess your dog’s energy level and adjust the hike accordingly. For example, if your dog is a high-energy breed, you may want to choose a longer, more challenging trail.

On the other hand, if your dog is a low-energy breed, a shorter, easier trail may be more suitable. Additionally, consider your dog’s body weight and pack accordingly, ensuring they don’t carry too much weight. A general rule of thumb is not to exceed 25% of your dog’s body weight.

Best Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails: What to Look For

When choosing dog-friendly hiking trails, consider the terrain, trail length, and available amenities like a water source, shade, and places to rest. Trails that allow dogs on leash are more common, but many national forests also offer areas for off-leash exploration, provided your dog responds well to voice commands and is under control.

Look for trails with manageable elevation gain, well-maintained paths, and those that avoid cliffs or excessive exposure to the elements. Some day hikes lead to beautiful alpine lakes or stunning views, making them a must-add to your hiking bucket list.

Exploring National Parks

A person with a backpack walks alongside a dog on a rocky path toward a clear mountain lake, surrounded by pine trees and tall, rugged mountains under a blue sky—a perfect scene for hiking & camping enthusiasts.

National parks offer some of the country's most stunning and diverse dog-friendly hiking trails. From the scenic Royal Arch Trail in Colorado to the breathtaking views of Mount Blue Sky, there’s no shortage of exciting trails to explore with your furry friend. When visiting national parks, follow conservation efforts and regulations, such as keeping your dog on a leash and cleaning up after them. Some popular national parks for dog-friendly hiking include those in Colorado, California, and the Appalachian Trail. Remember to research the specific trail you plan to hike and check for any restrictions or regulations before heading out.

Hiking Essentials for Dogs and Their Owners

Before heading out, ensure you have the right hiking gear for your dog, including carrying a sturdy leash, collapsible dog water bowl, and poop bags.

Safety is key. Always carry a pet first aid kit, and watch for signs of fatigue based on your dog’s energy level and body weight. Remember to watch your pup closely around wildlife, other dogs, and mountain bikers, particularly in popular areas or near a lake or park.

Planning for Food and Water

A man in hiking gear practices adventure therapy by pouring water from a bottle into an orange bowl for a yellow Labrador sitting beside him on rocky terrain, with mountains in the background.

When hiking with your dog, planning for food and water is essential. Dogs require more food and water on the trail than at home, especially on long, challenging hikes. Consider packing extra dog food, treats, and water to ensure your furry friend stays hydrated and energized throughout the hike. You may also want to invest in a portable dog water container or a water filter to provide access to clean drinking water. Additionally, be mindful of your dog’s waste and pack out any poop bags to maintain a clean and respectful trail environment.

Managing Pet Waste on the Trail

Managing pet waste on the trail is crucial to maintaining a clean and respectful environment for all hikers. Always bring poop bags and clean up after your pet, even if it’s just a small amount of waste. If you’re hiking in a remote area with no trash cans, consider packing out the waste and disposing of it properly when you return to civilization. Remember to bury any pet waste in a 6- to 8-inch hole at least 200 feet away from trails, camps, and water sources. By taking these simple steps, you can help preserve the beauty of our national parks and trails for future generations to enjoy. Whether you’re hiking in Colorado, California, or any other state, be sure to follow local regulations and respect the environment to ensure a fun and safe hiking experience for both you and your furry friend.

Dog-Friendly Trails to Add to Your List

Here are a few ideas to get you started on your hiking bucket list with your dog:

Royal Arch Trail, Boulder, CO: A great spot in Chautauqua Park featuring a unique rock formation and moderate elevation gain. Dogs are allowed on leash.
Mount Blue Sky, CO: Formerly Mount Evans, this high-altitude trail offers awesome views and access to alpine lakes. Be mindful of snow in early April or late spring. I have hiked this trail with my dog and found it to be a rewarding experience.
Mary’s Glacier, near Idaho Springs, CO: A short but steep hike leading to a beautiful lake and snowfield. Expect many dogs and limited parking spot availability.
Echo Lake, CO: Perfect for a peaceful walk with your pup near the water, surrounded by mountains and pine trees. The trailhead is easily accessible with ample parking.
A section of the Appalachian Trail: Explore a specific trail segment near your town—many are dog-friendly, with minimal elevation gain and cool shade in summer.

If you’re in Colorado Springs or Northern California, you’ll find plenty of dog-friendly trails with a mix of rocky paths, dirt roads, and great spots to rest and take in the scenery.

Tips for a Safe and Fun Experience

Start early to beat the heat and find a large parking lot or overflow parking if needed, as some trails can take several hours to complete.
Stay on marked trails to avoid disturbing conservation efforts and local wildlife.
Always pack out your pet waste and remind other dog owners to do the same, and ensure you have extra leashes in case one breaks.
Share the trail respectfully with other hikers, dogs, and mountain bikers, and be mindful of crowded trailheads during peak times.

Make Memories with Your Furry Friend

A person in an orange jacket and backpack sits on a rocky ledge beside a black and white dog, overlooking a mountain landscape at sunset—a perfect moment of adventure therapy during a hiking & camping journey.

The best part of building a hiking bucket list for dog owners is the bond it strengthens between you and your furry friend. Each walk, summit, and scenic overlook becomes a cherished chapter in your shared story.

So grab your leash, load up your pack, and head out to explore the best dog-friendly trails nature has to offer with your pups. With thoughtful planning, a love for the outdoors, and a wagging tail by your side, your hiking adventures will be unforgettable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring when hiking with my dog?

Essential items include a sturdy leash, collapsible water bowl, poop bags, dog food and treats, a pet first aid kit, and extra water. Consider bringing a backpack for your dog to carry some of their own supplies, but don't exceed 25% of their body weight.

How do I know if a trail is dog-friendly?

Research trail regulations before heading out, as some trails require dogs to be on leash while others may allow off-leash exploration. Check national park websites, local park services, or trail apps for specific dog policies and restrictions.

What's the best way to prepare my dog for hiking?

Start with shorter, easier trails to build your dog's endurance and assess their energy level. Ensure your dog is well-trained and obedient, especially around other hikers, mountain bikers, and wildlife. Gradually increase trail difficulty as your dog becomes more experienced.

How do I properly manage pet waste on the trail?

Always bring poop bags and clean up after your pet immediately. If hiking in remote areas without trash cans, pack out the waste and dispose of it properly when you return. In backcountry areas, bury waste in a 6-8 inch hole at least 200 feet from trails, camps, and water sources.

What types of terrain are best for dogs?

Look for trails with manageable elevation gain, well-maintained paths, and good shade. Avoid trails with cliffs, excessive exposure, or extremely rocky terrain that could injure your dog's paws. Trails near water sources like alpine lakes are ideal for keeping your dog hydrated.

Are dogs allowed in all national parks?

Not all national parks allow dogs on trails, and regulations vary by location. Many national forests offer more dog-friendly options than national parks. Always check specific park regulations before visiting, as some areas may have seasonal restrictions or require permits.

How can I keep my dog safe around wildlife?

Keep your dog on leash in areas with wildlife, maintain control at all times, and avoid letting them chase or approach wild animals. Be especially cautious around water sources where wildlife commonly gather, and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals.

What's the ideal trail length for hiking with dogs?

Trail length depends on your dog's fitness level, age, and breed. Start with shorter day hikes of 2-3 miles and gradually increase distance. High-energy breeds can handle longer, more challenging trails, while older dogs or smaller breeds may prefer shorter, easier routes.

About K9 Conquest

K9 Conquest is your source for ideas, tips, and products to make your outdoor adventures with your dog safer, more fun, and more effortless. Subscribe to our newsletter to get more tips as we write about these ideas.

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