Summer, Summer Itineraries, Venture Out

Dog-Friendly Summer Guide To Winter Park

If you have a dog, we know you want them to live their best lives– which is why we love seeing them around for summertime mountain adventures at Winter Park! From slopeside dog-friendly lodging to how and when to get your dog to take a ride on the Gondola with you, here are our recommendations for dog-friendly activities at Winter Park.

Dog-Friendly Lodging

To fit in all the fun you could want, you and your furry best friend can spend the night in Winter Park. The Vintage Hotel welcomes pets, so you both can snuggle up and plan your next day. The Cabriolet will take you from your accommodations right to the Village to begin your day of adventures! (Pro Tip: make sure to ask for a dog biscuit from the front desk on your way out.)

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

Starbucks

We’ll never overlook a classic! Once you arrive at the top of the bustling village, you’ll be met with the sweet smell of breakfast. Stop into Starbucks and get a tasty coffee or sandwich– while you’re at it, grab your furry friend a puppucino as a morning treat or midday refuel. You can enjoy your Starbucks in the Village plaza or on the go!

Lunch or Dinner at Doc’s Roadhouse

Just a few steps from The Gondola is Doc’s Roadhouse. In addition to a menu full of meats smoked right at the resort, Doc’s has an outdoor patio so you can sit outside while your furry friend is tied up next to you just outside the patio. Enjoy some pulled pork or a juicy burger and maybe feed some scraps to your best friend for being such a good dog.  

Ice Cream at Sunspot 

When the gorgeous 360-degree mountain vistas have stolen your heart and your breath all afternoon long, you deserve a bit of mountaintop relaxation. Pop into Sunspot and grab a refreshing ice cream cone for you and your pup before heading back down The Gondola.  

Ice cream for people and a pup at the top of the mountain.
Enjoying a scoop at the summit

Dog-Friendly Activities

Get Your Winter Park Pup Pass 

When it’s time to start the day’s adventures, you’ll want to grab your ticket to ride The Gondola. Book your Gondola ticket for yourself on our website, and while you’re at it, get your pup a Winter Park branded pet pass! Although it’s not a requirement for your pup to have a pass on The Gondola, it’s a great souvenir to remember your time by (plus 100% of proceeds from every pet pass go to Grand County Pet Pals!).

, Dog-Friendly Summer Guide To Winter Park
Dogs are welcome to ride the Gondola!

Hit the Trails

After the gorgeous ride up The Gondola, your furry friend is most likely drooling with excitement (literally!) and ready to explore the mountains. If you’re looking for a scenic and mellow hike for your four-legged pal, try the Ute Trail.

If Fido has an appetite for high-alpine, try the more challenging Roof of The Rockies hike. Either way, you and your pup will both get some sought-after fresh mountain air and exercise.  

, Dog-Friendly Summer Guide To Winter Park
Taking a hike together

FAPQs – Frequently Asked Pup Questions

Does my pup need a pass to ride the gondola?

No, neither a ticket nor a pet pass is required for your pet to ride the gondola. This pass does NOT give lift access and is not RFID. It’s strictly for fun! 100% of proceeds from every pup pass go to Grand County Pet Pals.

If my pup can ride the gondola, can they ride the lifts too?

No, pets are not allowed on the lifts. The Gondola is dog-friendly during the summer, but pets must remain on a leash everywhere at the resort.

Does my dog need to be on a leash at all times while at the resort and around the mountain?

Yes, please. We love seeing all of the adventure dogs out there– on leash. Thank you!

Can my dog sit with me at Sunspot?

No; by law, dogs are not allowed on the Sunspot deck. They are more than welcome to be on-leash on the turf in front of Sunspot. You can bring your drink onto the turf to spend time with your best friend and still enjoy a beverage.

Can my pup access hiking trails?

Yes! Your pup is more than welcome on the hiking trails, as long as they remain on a leash. Dogs are not, however, permitted on mountain biking trails.

Are there dog-friendly places to stay?

Yes! The Vintage Hotel at the base of Winter Park is perfect for you and your pup.

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