Dog Friendly Guide to Durango, Colorado

March 6, 2024

Durango is a captivating town known for its fusion of rich history, scenic beauty, and abundant outdoor adventures. With a thriving pet-friendly culture and an abundance of trails, parks, and pet-welcoming establishments, this town beckons to those seeking a picturesque backdrop for their furry companions to explore, making it a dog-lover’s paradise in the San Juan Mountains. In this Dog Friendly Guide to Durango, Colorado, I’ll guide you through the best pup-friendly activities, dining options, accomodations, pet care services, and more in Durango. For even more Durango info, check out my Durango Travel Guide.

Durango Colorado Travel Guide

Table of Contents

Dog-Friendly Dining Options

Durango, Colorado, offers a range of dog-friendly dining options that allow you to enjoy a meal without leaving your furry friend behind. Here are a few pet-welcoming eateries to consider:

Steamworks Brewing Company: A local favorite, Steamworks has a spacious patio where you can enjoy craft beers and a diverse menu while your dog relaxes by your side.
Carver Brewing Co: Another brewery with a dog-friendly outdoor seating area, Carver Brewing Co provides a great atmosphere for a meal or drinks.
Ska Brewing World Headquarters: Ska Brewing has a spacious beer garden where your canine companion is welcome, and they often host events for both dogs and their owners.
Animas Brewing Company: Known for its craft beers and delicious food, Animas Brewing Company has a pet-friendly patio for you and your pup to enjoy.
Derailed Pour House: This cozy bar and grill offers a pet-friendly patio and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying pub food and drinks.
Serious Texas Bar-B-Q: You and your dog can dine on the outdoor patio while savoring some of the best BBQ in Durango.

Remember to check with these establishments for their specific pet policies and patio availability, as they may vary.

Dog Friendly Hotels

Durango, Colorado, is a welcoming destination for pet owners, and there are several dog-friendly accommodations to choose from when planning your visit. Here are some options to consider:

DoubleTree by Hilton Durango

Located along the Animas River with a restaurant overlooking the water
Less than 1 mile from the downtown shops
Pet Policy: According to their website, they charge a $35, nonrefundable fee, per day. They don’t list a specific weight restriction.

Strater Hotel

A historic and charming hotel in downtown Durango.
Pet Policy: They have 5 specific rooms where they allow pets. Max of 2 dogs per room. Dogs 35 pounds and under — $50 per dog. Dogs over 35 pounds — $75 per dog. If left unattended in room, dog must be in a kennel.

Residence Inn by Marriott Durango

Offers an indoor pool & hot tub and free continental breakfast
Pet Policy: $75 nonrefundable cleaning fee per stay + $10 pet fee per day. Max weight is 65 pounds. Max of 2 dogs per room.

Durango Downtown Inn

Walking distance to downtown, indoor & outdoor pool
Pet Policy: Fee of $25 per pet, per day. No weight restrictions listed.

Purgatory Resort

If you’re planning a ski trip to Durango, Purgatory Resort offers pet-friendly lodging options in the stunning San Juan Mountains.
Pet Policy: Certain units in Purgatory Lodge can accommodate dogs. Max weight of 50 lbs. Nonrefundable pet fee of $250 paid at check in. Must declare pet at time of booking. Call a reservationist at 1-800-525-0892 to book a pet-friendly room.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Durango

Indoor pool, free breakfast
Pet Policy: $50 nonrefundable fee for 1-4 night stays, $75 nonrefundable fee for stays of 5+ nights. 2 pets max. Dogs & cats only. No weight restrictions listed.

Blue Lake Ranch B&B

Located a bit outside Durango, this charming bed and breakfast offers pet-friendly accommodations in a scenic setting
Pet Policy: 2 of their accomodations allow dogs. Max of 2 pets. $25 per night, per pet, nonrefundable fee. Pets not to be left unattended in any accommodation. Pets are not allowed in the Main Inn, common areas or other accommodations. $25 per pet fee if you don’t pick up after your pet.

Dog Friendly Campgrounds

Durango Riverside Resort & RV Park

This pet-friendly RV park is located along the Animas River and offers RV sites and tent camping areas. It’s a scenic spot to enjoy nature with your canine companion.

Lightner Creek Campground

This family-owned campground is nestled in a peaceful setting with scenic views. They welcome well-behaved pets and provide ample space for walking your dog.

Haviland Lake Campground

Located about 18 miles north of Durango, Haviland Lake Campground is a pet-friendly, forested campground with picturesque lake views. It’s a fantastic place for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs.

La Plata County Fairgrounds Campground

This campground allows dogs and offers RV and tent sites. It’s conveniently located close to Durango, making it easy to explore the town and surrounding areas with your furry friend.

Mancos State Park Campground

About 25 miles west of Durango, Mancos State Park offers dog-friendly camping near Jackson Gulch Reservoir. You and your dog can enjoy hiking and water activities in the area.

San Juan National Forest Dispersed Camping

While dispersed camping is allowed in many areas of the San Juan National Forest, be sure to check specific regulations regarding dogs and camping in designated dispersed sites. Many areas in the forest are pet-friendly, offering a more rugged camping experience.

Remember to follow Leave No Trace principles when camping with your dog, including cleaning up after your pet and keeping them on a leash in areas where it’s required. Additionally, be aware of any campfire regulations and safety measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience for both you and your dog in the Durango area.

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Dog Friendly Activities

Durango, Colorado, offers a wealth of dog-friendly activities to ensure you and your four-legged companion have a memorable visit. Here are some great options:

Riverwalk Trail: Enjoy a leisurely walk with your dog along the scenic Riverwalk Trail that follows the Animas River through the heart of Durango.
Paddleboarding or Kayaking: If you have a water-loving dog, consider renting a paddleboard or kayak and exploring the Animas River together.
Dog-Friendly Shops: Many of the quaint shops in downtown Durango are pet-friendly, so you can take your dog along while you browse for souvenirs or local products.
Durango’s Farmer’s Market: When in season, the Durango Farmer’s Market is pet-friendly and a fun place to stroll with your dog while checking out local produce and crafts.
Mancos State Park: About 25 miles west of Durango, this state park offers dog-friendly trails and access to Jackson Gulch Reservoir for water activities.
Durango Disc Golf Course: This disc golf course in Durango is dog-friendly and offers a fun and active outing for you and your pup.
Floating/Tubing Down the Animas River: Enjoy a leisurely float or tubing adventure down the Animas River with your dog. Many rental companies offer dog-friendly options for tubing or floating.
Biking Along the Animas Trail: If your dog is small enough to fit in a backpack or you’re comfortable tying their leash to your bike, you can explore the scenic Animas Trail on a bike ride, with your furry friend in tow.

Durango Vet Services

In Durango, Colorado, you’ll find several veterinary services to ensure the health and well-being of your beloved pet. Here are a few veterinary clinics and services in the area:

Durango Animal Hospital: This full-service veterinary hospital provides comprehensive care for pets, including wellness exams, surgery, dental care, and more. They also offer boarding and grooming services.
Four Corners Animal Hospital: A well-established veterinary clinic in Durango, Four Corners Animal Hospital offers a range of services, from preventive care to diagnostic and surgical procedures.
Adobe Animal Hospital: Adobe Animal Hospital provides a variety of veterinary services, including preventive care, dentistry, surgery, and emergency care. They also have a pet pharmacy for your convenience.
Durango Veterinary Hospital: With a dedicated team of veterinarians and staff, this clinic offers services such as wellness exams, vaccinations, diagnostics, and surgical procedures to keep your pets in optimal health.
Mobile Veterinary Services: Some mobile veterinary services offer in-home care, making it convenient for pets that may experience stress or discomfort with traditional clinic visits.

Durango Pet Emergency Services

Emergency Veterinary Services: In case of emergencies, the Durango area has a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic to provide immediate care for your pet.
Durango Animal Emergency Clinic: This dedicated emergency clinic provides after-hours care for pets in urgent medical situations. They offer a team of experienced veterinarians and support staff to address critical care needs.
Four Corners Animal Emergency Center: Located in Farmington, New Mexico, just a short drive from Durango, this 24-hour emergency animal hospital serves the entire Four Corners region. They provide comprehensive emergency and critical care services for pets.
VCA Animal Hospital: VCA Animal Hospital in Durango offers emergency and critical care services during their regular business hours. They have a team of experienced veterinarians and are equipped to handle various emergency situations.
Adobe Animal Hospital: Adobe Animal Hospital in Durango also offers emergency care services during their regular business hours. Their experienced staff can assist with urgent medical issues.

Dog Parks in Durango

Schneider Park: This off-leash dog park in Schneider Park is one of the favorite spots for local dog owners. It features a securely fenced area where dogs can play and socialize. The park provides separate sections for large and small dogs, ensuring a safe environment for all breeds and sizes. There’s also plenty of shade, seating for dog owners, and water stations to keep your pup hydrated.

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Durango Hikes

Durango, Colorado, offers a plethora of hiking trails, and many of them are perfect for hiking with your dog. Here are some of the best dog-friendly hikes in and around Durango

Animas Mountain Trail

This is a popular, moderately challenging hike with a dog-friendly atmosphere. It provides breathtaking views of Durango and the Animas River.

Length: Approximately 6 miles round trip
Trailhead Location: Located near the heart of Durango
Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Purgatory Flats Trail

Located at Purgatory Resort, this scenic trail is great for hiking with your dog during the summer months. The trail offers beautiful mountain views and plenty of water access for pups that love to swim!

Length: Approximately 8 miles round trip
Trailhead Location: Across the road from Purgatory Resort, on Tacoma Drive
Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Perins Peak Trail

A scenic and moderately strenuous hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Length: About 6 miles round trip
Trailhead Location: Accessible from Junction Creek Road
Difficulty: Moderately strenuous

Carbon Junction Trail

This easy, well-marked trail is excellent for a relaxing walk with your dog. It’s particularly beautiful during the fall when the leaves change colors.

Length: Short and easy walk
Trailhead Location: Easily accessible near Durango
Difficulty: Easy

Animas River Trail

A picturesque and relatively flat trail following the Animas River. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk with your dog, offering numerous access points.

Length: Various sections, ranging from short walks to longer hikes
Trailhead Location: Numerous access points throughout Durango
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Busy Bee Tip: This trail was a favorite for us. We walked along the trail, stopped to swim in the river a bit, and even took the trail into town to eat & shop. We also enjoyed biking along this trail and watching the rafters.