If you’re planning a trip to Steamboat Springs and can’t imagine leaving your pup behind, you’re in luck — this town and its surrounding wilderness are remarkably dog-friendly. From creekside walks to alpine lakes, there’s something here for every level of adventurer (and their four-legged friend). Below is your itinerary of trails, restaurants, and tips so you and your pup can experience the best of Steamboat together.
🐾 Where to Eat (With Your Dog by Your Side)
One of my favorite stops in town is Apres Burger Bistro, which welcomes dogs at their outdoor deck. Grab a gourmet burger or one of their creative pub-style dishes, and let your pup lounge in the Colorado air while you refuel. According to BringFido, Apres Burger is explicitly listed as dog-friendly with outside seating. (BringFido)
Here are a few more dog-friendly dining options in Steamboat:
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Back Door Grill – They have dog-friendly patio seating and serve great burgers and fries. (BringFido)
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Mountain Tap Brewery – If you’re craving craft beer and pizza or pub food, this spot allows leashed pups on the patio. (Steamboat Chamber)
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Creekside Café & Grill – A cozy breakfast or lunch stop with a dog-friendly patio by the creek. (Four Seasons Steamboat)
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Storm Peak Brewing – Dogs allowed in the taproom if leashed; food options nearby. (Steamboat Chamber)
Pro tip: carry a lightweight bowl and extra water — most restaurants are happy to provide water if you ask.
🥾 Hikes & Trails You Can Share With Your Dog
Here are three hikes with varying intensity that make for excellent adventures with your pup. Always keep your dog leashed (most public lands require it) and pack out all waste and food scraps.
Fish Creek Falls (closest to town, easy to moderate)
Just a few miles from downtown, Fish Creek Falls is a classic must-see. The lower falls are accessible via a short path (¼ mile one way) that leads to a viewing platform — a great choice if you want something gentle.
For those wanting a little extra effort, you can continue up a dirt trail toward the Upper Falls (~2.5 miles one way) and even on toward Long Lake (about 6.5 miles one way) through the Routt National Forest. (Steamboat Chamber)
This trail is popular, so early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid crowds. Also note there’s a $5 vehicle day-use fee for the parking lot that you can pay at a kiosk.
Gold Creek Lake (for those craving alpine scenery)
Located in the Mount Zirkel Wilderness, Gold Creek Lake is a slightly more ambitious but deeply rewarding hike. The trail is part of the larger Zirkel Circle network, but you can hike just to Gold Creek Lake and back (about 3 miles from the trailhead).
The route is well maintained, with wildflower meadows, gentle creek crossings, and eventually alpine lake vistas.
If you have the stamina (and time), you can continue past Gold Creek toward Gilpin Lake or complete the full Zirkel Circle Loop (11+ miles) for a truly immersive wilderness experience.
Getting there involves about a 30-mile drive north of Steamboat along Routt County roads, including some gravel and rougher stretches near the trailhead. Parking is available at the Slavonia Trailhead at a small lot or park alongside the road.
Zig Zag Trail (in town / ski area adjacency)
If you’re staying in town and want a mid-length hike close by, Zig Zag Trail is a solid choice. On AllTrails it’s a ~2.6-mile out-and-back with about 629 ft of elevation gain. (AllTrails.com)
The surface is a mix of dirt trail and singletrack. Some reviews describe it as “a decayed dirt road” with occasional rocks or water diversions, but overall it’s a good option for a shorter adventure. (Hiking Project)
You can also combine Zig Zag with trails like Thunderhead and Mountain View in a loop (~3.6 miles) for more variety. (AllTrails.com)
Because the trail intersects ski area corridors, always check current closures or lift construction impacts before heading out. (Full Steam Ahead)
📅 Sample 2-Day Dog-Friendly Steamboat Itinerary
Day 1:
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Morning: Light hike to Fish Creek Falls (lower section) to stretch legs
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Lunch: Apres Burger Bistro (or Back Door Grill)
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Afternoon: Explore downtown, stroll the Yampa River Core Trail, check out dog-friendly shops
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Dinner: Creekside Café, Mountain Tap, or Storm Peak (depending on location)
Day 2:
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Early start: Drive north for the Gold Creek Lake hike
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Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the lake
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Late afternoon: Return to Steamboat and do the Zig Zag / Thunderhead loop
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Dinner: Wind down at Apres Burger again (because why not) or try something new
📝 Tips for a Smooth Trip With Your Dog
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Start early in the day to beat heat, afternoon storms, and crowds.
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Bring plenty of water & shade relief (portable water bowl, cooling vest if needed).
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Leash etiquette: Most trails and public spaces require leashes. Steamboat is generally an on-leash town, with a few off-leash parks (e.g., Spring Creek Park, Rita Valentine Park) designated.
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Leave no trace: Pack out all waste, and don’t leave food scraps behind.
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Watch your pup’s feet: Rocky or hot trail surfaces can be rough on paws — paw wax or booties might help.
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Check trail closures: Especially around ski area and lift construction (some trails including Zig Zag, Creekside, Pioneer may have intermittent closures).
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Acclimate to altitude slowly — even for dogs, pace yourselves the first day and allow time for rest.
🐻 Bear Safety in Steamboat Springs
Steamboat Springs is home to black bears, and sightings are fairly common — even in town. While most bears avoid people (and dogs), it’s important to stay aware.
Tips to stay safe:
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Keep dogs leashed — curious pups can accidentally provoke bears.
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Make noise on the trail so you don’t surprise wildlife.
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Carry bear spray, especially on wilderness hikes like Gold Creek Lake.
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Store food properly and don’t leave snacks unattended.
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Stay alert for fresh scat, tracks, or overturned logs.
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If you see a bear, stay calm, back away slowly, and give it space.
Most encounters are uneventful — often a bear just wants to pass by. With a little awareness, you and your pup can safely enjoy the best of Steamboat’s wild beauty.