Because I did a separate post on my “Top 5 Day Hikes of 2023” and only one of them was in Colorado…although there are many MANY more… I wanted to add a short post on my top Colorado-specific, dog friendly hikes to pay homage to my old home state because it is just that fantastic and beautiful. I hope you enjoy, get outdoors safely and follow me on Instagram @hikinglegsmegs for more hiking and backpacking content and to check out my gear and gear guides!

1. Mirror Lake and Crater Lake via Cascade Creek Trail

14.8 miles RT

2,293 ft elevation gain

Rating: Hard

I love this hike so much I wrote about it in my original Top 5 Day Hikes in the U.S post and it continues to hold its spot on here. As the longest hike on the list, you will need to arrive early not only to secure parking at the trailhead, but to also give yourself enough time to view your surroundings because you will definitely want to stop and explore the many places along the trail. The best times to visit this trail are June through November.

2. Isabelle Glacier via Pawnee Pass Trail

8.6 miles RT

1,653 ft elevation gain

Rating: Hard

Breathtaking views along the entire hike. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring, the best times to visit this trail are June through October. A parking reservation is also required to park inside Brainard Lake Recreation Area and seasonal regulations may be in effect which limit access for pets and specific activities. Visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/arp/recarea/?recid=28182 for more information before venturing out.

3. Blue Lake via Mitchell Lake Trail

6.2 miles RT

994 ft elevation gain

Rating: Moderate

This was the first hike that I ever did in CO before deciding to move there permanently. Needless to say, it holds a special place in my heart not only for its beauty but for the lasting memories you will also make here. A parking reservation is required to park inside Brainard Lake Recreation Area and seasonal regulations may be in effect which limit access for pets and specific activities. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. For more information, visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/arp/recarea/?recid=28182.

4. Crystal City Road

9 miles RT

1,391 ft elevation gain

Rating: Moderate

While not an entirely stunning hike like the others, this trail made the list for it’s incredibly unique and historical view at the end. Go early for this one as it’s not only a popular area for hiking but also off-road driving. The best times to visit this trail are June through October. Once you get the Mill, there is also a $10 per person fee to go under the rope and view it from the water but, you can also view it for free from the roped off section on the road.

5. Island Lake and Ice Lake Trail

6.9 miles RT

2,650 ft elevation gain

Rating: Hard

The best times to visit this trail are April through September and not only are dogs welcome, but they can even be off leash in some areas! The perfect hiking trail to take your canine companions on as there are plenty of waterfalls, creeks and the most insanely blue colored lake you will ever see! Go early, parking fills up fast!