Dog-friendly Breckenridge: Where man’s best friend is king
It’s not just a bumper sticker; your dog honestly is your life copilot. He goes where you go. And, like most laid-back mountain towns, Breckenridge gets it.
Here’s where to stay, hike, shop and chill with the whole family.
Room and board
Fido needs his beauty rest too. Many Breck accommodations allow pets for a small fee or deposit and some even welcome dogs on their complimentary shuttles. K9 pals are accepted at The Lodge at Breckenridge, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Breckenridge, the Village at Breckenridge and Wildwood Suites, to name just a few. All are within walking distance to hiking trails and/or national forest. Call ahead to ensure pet-friendly units are available.
Shops for all
There are a surprising number of dog-friendly retailers in Breckenridge. Be sure to ask the shopkeeper before you walk in and keep your pet leashed while browsing. Tip: You’ll notice bowls of water outside businesses that really love furry friends.
Shop non-profit For Pet’s Sake Thrift Shop on Main Street and help support the Animal Rescue of the Rockies. The homemade bone-shaped treats at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and Clint’s Bakery are popular with the pups (they almost look good enough to sneak a taste). Find doggie daycare, overnight boarding and grooming services at The Dog House.
Play time
Open to the public and free, Carter Dog Park is an off-leash paradise where your pets can mingle with the locals, catch Frisbees and do what dogs do best — sniff around.
Most Summit County hiking trails are open to dogs, as long as your guy is leashed or under voice command. Check the sign at the trailhead to confirm. The rec path that runs through downtown Breck and the Riverwalk area is a mellow cool-down spot, while Mohawk Lake and McCullough Gulch are perfect for pooches who have tons of uphill energy to burn.
The free Breck Connect Gondola welcomes dogs — be careful to help little ones in and out — and will whisk you to Peak 7 and 8.
Patios for pets
Pull up a sunny seat on the patio at Seven’s at the base of Peak 7 for happy hour with your crew. The dog-friendly outdoor seating at Quandary Grille serves up some of the best afternoon views in town, as does Empire Burger’s al fresco seating. Play horseshoes while sipping Colorado brews at pet-embracing Kenosha Steakhouse and sip funky cocktails on the Americana-inspired back patio at The Motherloaded Tavern.
– Lisa Pogue
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