Beyond fantastic skiing and other winter activities, Steamboat Springs, located in the upper valley of the Yampa River in Colorado, is brimming with outdoor playgrounds that are great for families to enjoy all year round.

But what if you have your furry companion in tow? Even better! Steamboat Springs is dubbed “Dog Town USA,” which means tons of pet-friendly activities, parks, trails, and businesses that welcome your four-legged friend with open arms.

From off-leash parks to an escape room experience, to dazzling outdoor spaces boasting the Rocky Mountains as a background, in this blog, we’ll uncover all the best pet-friendly spots in Steamboat Springs for you and Fido to enjoy all the best this Colorado gem has to offer.

Can you already picture those cute tails wagging with excitement?

 

Rita Valentine Park 

Conveniently located just a six-minute ride from downtown Steamboat, Rita Valentine Park is a beautiful 40-acre open area where Fido can freely run around and enjoy a great time off-leash.

The park’s extensive grassy space boasts stunning mountain views and is divided into distinctive sections catering to dogs of different sizes. While your furry companions play and socialize with other canine friends, you can relax at covered benches admiring the scenery and chatting with friendly local pet owners.

Since the park is unfenced, just remember to keep an eye on your dog once in a while. Winter is a great time to visit since your best friend will love to have fun on the fluffy snow that covers the entire area. The park also connects to some trails that you can explore with Fido on a leash.

Rita Valentine Park amenities include water fountains for thirsty dogs and poop bags are available for free at the entrance in case you forget your own.

Spring Creek Dog Park at the Lower Pond

Smaller and a little more off the beaten path than Rita Valentine Park, but still a short ride from downtown, Spring Creek Dog Park at the Lower Pond is a fenced area surrounded by lush vegetation, featuring a delightful community feel.

There is enough space for pooches of all sizes to frolic off-leash (the small dog area is separate from the rest of the park), as well as for you to sit and chill at the park’s benches and shaded seating areas. You’ll certainly meet some locals since the park is close to a residential area. Since Spring Creek is fenced, you can keep your peace of mind while your pooch has lots of fun with their furry friends. Summers are extra fun since there’s a splash pad area designed specifically for dogs to cool down and play.

The park opens one hour after sunrise and closes one hour before sunset. Alternatively, you can explore the surroundings by walking with your furry companion through the Spring Creek Trail. Just keep in mind that for the trail, dogs need to be on a leash.

 
Whistler Park

Boasting stunning mountain views, Whistler Park is a playground not only for Fido but for the entire family, thanks to amenities like a kids' playground, a natural creek, BBQ areas, and picnic tables.

There are two off-leash dog areas within the park, but the biggest one is open seasonally, between May 1 and October 31 each year. The smaller one is open all year round, with its vast lawn being a stage for plenty of canine fun. After spending all the energy playing, your pooch can relax while you have a BBQ with everyone or, if you want to keep active, explore the surroundings through trails to the river and through the forest. The trails also offer a great opportunity to spot wildlife such as moose, elk, and deer. Because of that, make sure your pooch is on a leash.

 
Crooked Key Escape Rooms

Have you ever thought of Fido joining you in an escape room experience? In Steamboat Springs, this is possible!  Crooked Key Escape Rooms, located in the heart of downtown, provide a pet-friendly activity where you and your four-legged friend can both wear investigator's hats.

Crooked Key offers different escape room experiences, with Key to the City being a unique outdoor puzzle game set in the streets of Steamboat Springs. In this pet-friendly experience, which can be played by groups of up to 10 people, you and Fido embark on a self-guided outdoor challenge that blends an escape game with a scavenger hunt. While playing, you can take some time to admire the city with Fido by your side, get him a snack, and continue the adventure until you solve the game.

This is nothing short of a thrilling pursuit for both two-legged and four-legged beings!

 
Yampa River Core Trail

Running through the heart of Steamboat Springs and along the Yampa River, this 7-mile pet-friendly trail offers a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the town and enjoy scenic vistas along the way.

Along the Yampa River Core Trail, you'll pass through wooden bridges and several scenic parks with pit stops to cool off by the river and admire the picturesque landscape. The trail features a smooth and well-maintained paved pathway, and it connects with a few city landmarks, such as the Yampa River Botanic Park. 

Steamboat Springs has many other trails that can be explored with your furry friend. Here are some easy to moderate trails and hikes you can enjoy together: Emerald Mountain Quarry Trail, Spring Creek Trail, Fish Creek Falls Trail, Spring Creek, and Vista Nature Trail. Dogs must be on leash at all times along these trails.

This Colorado mountain town is the perfect destination for engaging in outdoor activities. If you're planning a trip to Steamboat, there are also many lakes where you can enjoy plenty of outdoor fun with your pets. Here are some of them: Pearl Lake, Fish Creek Reservoir, Jonah Lake, Steamboat Lake, Lake Elmo, and Dumont Lake.

 
Go on a Shopping Spree with Fido

Have we mentioned Downtown Steamboat is very walkable? And while you stroll alongside Fido, why not treat them to a souvenir? Since this mountain town is dubbed "Dog Town USA," it comes as no surprise you'll find great businesses catering to pets.

If you are planning to go on an adventure with your companion, a pit stop at Outdoor K9 is a must. This family-owned shop offers a wide selection of dog outfitters and gear to help in your outdoor activities. They are also specialized in dog nutrition, producing their own wet and dry food. All their products are of high quality to keep your dog energized and healthy for a pet-friendly trip in Steamboat Springs.

Another favorite shop among local pet owners is Elk River Pet and Ranch, where you'll find unique accessories for your furry companion as well as locally made treats they will certainly love. Paws 'n Claws All Things Pet is also a go-to place for great dog supplies and this family-owned shop has been around for over 20 years. 

Just remember that within the city limits your best friends must be on leash. Although Steamboat Springs is extremely dog-friendly, they have strict on-leash rules requiring all dogs to be on a 6 ft lead. 

 
Pet-Friendly Breweries in Steamboat Springs, CO

Two of the most popular breweries in town welcome your best friend in their taprooms. Again, as long as they are on a leash. After a day of adventure, your pets also deserve to be by your side while you relax and experience the festive vibes of Steamboat Springs. 

Storm Peak Brewing Company is truly one of the top spots in Steamboat Springs for a fun time with your pet and entire family. They have engaging board games, live sports on TV, great music performances, and a fantastic atmosphere with locals, visitors, and of course, superb beers. Their large indoor space is pet-friendly and it integrates with a lovely patio featuring wooden picnic tables and fairy lamps.

Since the brewery doesn't serve food, we suggest you bring a bowl of water and some snacks for Fido, and for you. You can also order from a pizza and burger joint next to them and enjoy them alongside their awesome beers.

Mountain Tap Brewery is another great option to grab a cold gold liquid with Fido by your side. Their space also boasts a delightful and local atmosphere. Your companions will feel at home since all the staff and customers will welcome them with open arms — and lots of pats. 

 
Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Steamboat Springs, CO

Now, let's talk about some "paw-sitively" good dining experiences in town.

When you walk around Steamboat Springs, pet owners dining al fresco with their dogs is not an uncommon sight. That’s because many restaurants in the city welcome pets in their outdoor patios. 

Below we have curated a list of our favorite dining spots where you can savor delicious food while you enjoy the company of your best friend and the delightful mountain breeze.

• Have some comfy food and enjoy great mountain views at Slopeside Grill.

• Try old-fashioned burgers and brews at Back Door Grill.

• Soak in the Irish vibes and bites at O'Neil's Tavern & Grill.

• Taste the most hypnotic and delicious chicken at Hypnotic Chicken.

• Admire the elegant atmosphere and well-crafted food at Yampa Valley Kitchen.

• Indulge on delicious pizzas prepared with fresh and natural ingredients at How Ya Doin Pizza and Eatz.

• Find the soul of Southern cuisine at Moe's Original BBQ.

• Enjoy the lovely creek views and hearty homemade food at Creekside Cafe & Grill.

• Feel the delightful local twist on Mexican cuisine at Salt & Lime.

 
The Most Pet-Friendly Spots in Steamboat Springs, CO

What more could you wish for in a pet-friendly holiday, huh? Steamboat Springs, CO is not just a paradise for you but also for your furry friend!

Want more tips on Steamboat Springs, CO? Then head to our destination blog, where we cover everything from a full guide on family-friendly outdoor activities and the best places to grab coffee in town to the top activities to enjoy on a rainy day. And there's much more coming, so keep an eye out for future blogs!

Are wondering where to stay with your furry companion during your visit to Steamboat Springs, CO?

While in town, why not stay in style with the great backdrop of the Rocky Mountains in one of the most iconic rental properties and complexes Steamboat Springs offers?

Retreatia offers luxury properties, ski-in/ski-out options, and downtown lodgings, some pet-friendly. Staying in one of our properties, we guarantee you'll have nothing less than a 5-star experience, something that will enhance your Steamboat Springs vacation.