Northern Colorado comes alive in the fall with crisp air, golden foliage, and endless opportunities to get outdoors. For pet parents, this season is especially rewarding – you don’t have to leave your four-legged friend behind to enjoy the beauty of autumn. From scenic hikes under fiery aspens to pumpkin patches and patios that welcome wagging tails, there are plenty of adventures to share with your furry companion. Here are all the pet-friendly fall activities around NoCo that make the most of the season.
Walk Through Fort Collins’ Old Town
Where? Old Town Fort Collins
There’s something especially magical about Old Town Fort Collins in the fall. The tree-lined streets transform into a canopy of reds, oranges, and golds, creating the perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk with your pup. Historic buildings, twinkling string lights, and seasonal window displays add to the cozy charm, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. Many shops and boutiques are welcoming to four-legged visitors, with water bowls by the door and friendly staff who are happy to greet your dog. It’s the kind of stroll where both you and your furry companion can take in the sights, smells, and sounds of the season together.
When you’re ready for a break, Old Town has no shortage of dog-friendly patios where you can sip a warm latte, enjoy a hearty meal, or even sample a seasonal craft beer. Breweries like Equinox Brewing and restaurants with outdoor seating make it easy to relax while your pup settles in at your feet. On weekends, you might catch live music in the square or street performers entertaining the crowds, which only adds to the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re browsing shops, people-watching, or simply soaking in the fall colors, Old Town Fort Collins offers a quintessential NoCo fall experience that’s as fun for dogs as it is for humans.
Take a Hike at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space
Where? 6550 W County Rd 38 E, Fort Collins
Fall is the perfect time to hit the trails at Horsetooth Mountain Open Space with your furry hiking buddy. The cooler weather means you and your dog can enjoy longer hikes without the risk of overheating, and the crisp mountain air makes every step feel invigorating. The open space offers a variety of trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging climbs, all with stunning views of Fort Collins, Horsetooth Reservoir, and the surrounding foothills. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the wide, well-maintained paths make it a safe and enjoyable outing for pups of all sizes and energy levels.
One of the highlights of the area is the hike to Horsetooth Rock, a moderate challenge that rewards you with panoramic views of the Front Range and beyond, perfect for snapping a fall photo with your pet. If you prefer something less strenuous, shorter trails around the reservoir or meadow areas still deliver plenty of fall color and fresh air. Just be sure to bring water for both you and your dog, as well as waste bags to keep the trails clean. With its mix of natural beauty, pet-friendly policies, and seasonal charm, Horsetooth Mountain Open Space is a must-visit spot for autumn adventuring with your pup.
Visit a Dog-Friendly Pumpkin Patch
Where? Various farms across NoCo.
Nothing says fall quite like a trip to the pumpkin patch, and the good news is, you don’t have to leave your pup at home. Several pumpkin patches around NoCo welcome leashed dogs, making it easy to enjoy this seasonal tradition with your four-legged friend. For example, at Bartels Farm or Something From the Farm in Fort Collins, leashed dogs are invited to stroll alongside you as you pick pumpkins, wander through the fields, or snap photos among the hay bales and fall décor.
Smaller farms and orchards often provide a more relaxed, pet-friendly atmosphere. Always pack water and doggie bags, however, and keep in mind that some areas, like indoor markets or food service zones, may be off-limits to pets. With the variety of farms across NoCo that open their gates to dogs in the fall, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect spot for festive photos, fresh pumpkins, and happy tail wags.
Drive Along the Poudre River Canyon for Leaf Peeping
Where? Cache la Poudre Scenic Byway, Walden
The Cache la Poudre Scenic Byway is one of the most breathtaking drives in Northern Colorado, and fall is the ideal time to experience it with your pup by your side. The winding road follows the Poudre River through towering canyon walls and colorful forests that burst into shades of yellow, orange, and red as the season peaks. Your dog will love riding along with the windows cracked, taking in the fresh mountain air and all the new scents. The drive is beautiful on its own, but the real magic comes when you stop at scenic pullouts to stretch your legs and enjoy the crisp fall weather together.
There are plenty of places along the route where leashed pets are welcome to explore. Picnic areas by the river make for a perfect lunch stop, while trails like the Greyrock Trail or Young Gulch offer opportunities for longer hikes if your dog has extra energy. For a more relaxed outing, find a quiet spot by the water to sit, sip on a thermos of cider, and let your pup sniff around while you soak in the view. Whether you go for a quick afternoon drive or a full-day adventure, the Poudre Canyon is one of the most dog-friendly and photogenic fall experiences Northern Colorado has to offer.
Enjoy Patio Dining in Loveland
Where? Various restaurants across Loveland.
There’s nothing quite like savoring a crisp autumn evening on a patio, especially when your pup can join you. Loveland has a growing list of dog-friendly restaurants and breweries that make it easy to enjoy seasonal flavors while keeping your four-legged friend close. Breweries like Grimm Brothers Brewing and Verboten Brewing welcome dogs on their patios, where you can sip a pumpkin ale or Oktoberfest lager while your pup lounges at your feet. Many spots even provide water bowls or dog treats, making them as welcoming to pets as they are to people. With cooler weather and vibrant fall foliage setting the scene, patio dining in Loveland feels both festive and relaxed.
If you’re in the mood for food, check out restaurants such as A.K.A. Kitchen or McGraff’s American Grill, which often offer outdoor seating options for guests with dogs. The vibe in downtown Loveland is particularly charming in the fall, with colorful planters, twinkling lights, and seasonal decorations creating a cozy atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing brunch, enjoying an afternoon snack, or lingering over dinner and drinks, Loveland’s dog-friendly patios make it easy to blend dining with quality time outdoors. For both you and your pup, it’s a win-win way to celebrate the season.
Wander Through Estes Park’s Riverwalk
Where? River Walk Park, 470 E Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park
A fall trip to Estes Park is a must, and the Riverwalk offers a pet-friendly way to soak in the charm of this mountain town. The path winds along the Big Thompson River, weaving past shops, cafés, and galleries while offering scenic views of the water framed by colorful autumn leaves. The cooler weather makes for a comfortable stroll with your pup, and the sound of the river adds a relaxing backdrop as you explore. With plenty of benches and photo-worthy spots along the way, it’s the perfect place to pause, breathe in the mountain air, and capture a seasonal snapshot with your dog.
What makes the Riverwalk even more enjoyable is its accessibility. You can easily start downtown, grab a coffee or snack from one of the many pet-friendly patios, and then wander along the path at your own pace. Shops often welcome leashed dogs outdoors, and friendly locals are always quick to stop and give your pup a pat. Afterward, you can extend your adventure by exploring the surrounding streets of Estes Park, where fall décor, artisan markets, and the backdrop of the Rockies make it feel like a storybook scene. The Riverwalk is more than just a stroll – it’s a full experience you and your furry friend will treasure.
Camp at Carter Lake
Where? Carter Lake, Loveland
For pet owners who love the outdoors, Carter Lake is the perfect spot for a fall camping trip. As the summer heat fades, the cooler nights and crisp mornings make camping especially cozy. With fewer crowds in the fall, you and your dog can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and wide-open views of the lake surrounded by rolling hills dotted with colorful foliage. Whether you pitch a tent or park an RV, Carter Lake offers plenty of space to roam, hike, and unwind with your furry friend by your side.
Dogs will love exploring the trails around the lake or simply hanging out by the campsite as you cook over the fire. The quiet of fall evenings makes for great stargazing, and your pup will happily curl up next to you by the crackling flames. Be sure to pack extra blankets or a warm dog bed, as nighttime temperatures in Northern Colorado can dip quickly this time of year. With its combination of natural beauty, pet-friendly policies, and laid-back vibe, Carter Lake makes for an unforgettable fall adventure you’ll both enjoy.
Attend a Dog-Friendly Festival, Like The Tour de Corgi
Where? Civic Center Park & Old Town Fort Collins
When? October 4th, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
If you’re looking for a tail-wagging good time this fall, the 11th Annual Tour de Corgi is a must-attend event for pet owners in Northern Colorado. This beloved festival takes over Old Town Fort Collins, transforming it into a canine carnival with a rock ‘n’ roll twist. The 2025 theme, “ROCK ON!,” invites attendees to enjoy a day of music, costumes, and community, all in support of local pet rescues.
The day kicks off at 9 a.m. at Civic Center Park, where you and your pup can explore vendor booths, participate in a costume contest, and enjoy a meet-up with fellow dog lovers. At 10 a.m., the costume contest begins, featuring categories like “Purdiest,” “Baddest to the Bone,” and “Funniest Furry.” Adults must have a wristband to participate, which can be purchased in advance. At 12 p.m., the festivities continue with a parade of costumed corgis and their humans through Old Town Square. The route includes stops at various local businesses, many of which offer pet-friendly patios where you and your pup can relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Proceeds from the event benefit 4 Paws Pet Pantry, Colorado Corgis and Friends Rescue, Wyoming Dachshund and Corgi Rescue, and Bandit’s K9Care, making it a fun and meaningful way to spend the day. Whether you’re a local or visiting, the Tour de Corgi offers a unique opportunity to celebrate fall, support local rescues, and create lasting memories with your furry friend.
NoCo is Filled with Fall Fun for You and Your Furry Friend
Fall in Northern Colorado is a season made for exploration, and there’s no reason to leave your pup behind. From scenic drives through the Poudre Canyon to pumpkin patches, restaurant patios, and the lively Tour de Corgi festival, the region offers countless ways to enjoy crisp autumn air, vibrant foliage, and festive events with your four-legged companion. Each adventure provides not just exercise and fun for your dog, but also a chance to create lasting memories together.
Taking the time to include your pet in your seasonal activities strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend while introducing them to new sights, sounds, and smells. Whether it’s a quiet hike at Horsetooth Mountain, a playful romp along Carter Lake, or snapping Instagram-worthy photos at a dog-friendly pumpkin patch, these experiences enrich both your life and your dog’s. So leash up, pack some treats, and make the most of this colorful season because fall in NoCo isn’t just for humans – it’s a time to celebrate every adventure with your pup by your side.