Arapaho National Forest

If your pup is itching to get back to the wild, plan a weekend getaway to Arapaho National Forest. This beautiful parcel of land is nestled in the famous Rocky Mountains. It runs across the Continental Divide and is contained in the Front Mountain Range. Here your pup can immerse themselves in Mother Nature. Sounds woofderful!

Arapaho National Forest stretches across an impressive 723,744 acres of land. It’s so large that it includes six different wilderness areas. Some of these areas spill into other National Forests and one partially includes National Park Service land. Before you leave on your adventure, check the map and plan your route. Other pawperties may have different restrictions for canine visitors.

Since this park has so many acres of prime wilderness, it’s no surprise that it’s a pupular spot for outdoor recreation. There are endless opportunities for cycling, rock climbing, fishing, nature viewing, and hunting. If your doggo wants to spend a couple nights in the area, there are dozens of campgrounds to choose from.  If you truly want to ruff it, try backpacking or dispersed camping. Just make sure you pack out what you pack in and leave only paw prints. Always have clean-up bags ready!

Hounds that love to hike will feel right at home in the forest. If your pal wants to bag a peak, check out Byer’s Peak Trail. It’s about nine miles round trip, so your pooch needs to be in tip top shape. Jim Creek Trail is milder and runs alongside Jim Creek, ending at a waterfall. If seeing wildlife is your pup’s thing, hop on Monarch Lake Loop. Moose, bear, deer, and elk all live around this trail. Wherever you go in the forest, make sure you have plenty of water for both you and your four legged hiker.

No bones about it, this place will make your dog’s tail wag!