Dog Friendly Winter Guide to Aspen

Pet friendly:

Snowshoeing and hiking that are all free to use (snowshoes not included):

• Tom Blake Trail: It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Snowmass' natural beauty, offering a peaceful experience with diverse flora and fauna. Snowshoes are needed in winter.

• Aspen Cross Country Center: In winter, the outside loop of the golf course allows dogs and owners to walk this trail. If you are more adventurous, put on skis and ski with your pup. Snowshoes are dependent on the snow accumulation.

• Marolt Open Space: A beginner-friendly loop with easy access and gentle terrain, perfect for a relaxed outing.

• Rio Grande Trail: A multi-use, relatively flat trail ideal for leisurely snowshoeing or walking with dogs.

• Visit John Denver Sanctuary: This peaceful park near downtown Aspen has winding trails and a serene atmosphere, ideal for a walk with your dog while enjoying the inspirational rock inscriptions. You can start here and continue on to the Rio Grande Trail.

Tips:

• Many of the hotels will drop you off around town; have the hotel drop you off at the Aspen Post Office to pick up the Rio Grande Trail.

• If staying at the St. Regis Aspen, sign up for a 4-hour complimentary BMW rental and venture to Tom Blake Trail or the Aspen Cross Country Center.

• Check out Aspen Snowmass Nordic Trail System website for more information on the Nordic trail system and current conditions.

• Play at Wagner Park: This centrally located park allows dogs to run off-leash during certain hours, making it a perfect spot for a quick play session in downtown Aspen.

Shopping

The top designer stores can be found in Aspen with most being dog friendly.

Ski/snowboarding for the humans

Aspen offers world-class skiing and snowboarding across four unique mountains: Aspen Mountain (Ajax), Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass.

• Aspen Mountain: Best for advanced and expert skiers, with steep terrain, moguls and no beginner runs.

• Aspen Highlands: Known for challenging runs, including Highland Bowl, and stunning views. Great for experienced skiers.

• Buttermilk: Ideal for beginners and families, with gentle slopes and the world-famous X Games terrain park.

• Snowmass: The largest mountain, catering to all skill levels, with a mix of beginner, intermediate and expert terrain, plus extensive family-friendly activities. Snowmass is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Aspen.

• Aspen Art Museum for the humans: A beautiful building where you can go to enjoy contemporary art exhibitions. It’s a world-class museum, featuring innovative works and a rooftop café with stunning mountain views.

Pet friendly dining in winter:

• Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop: It is a local favorite, serving farm-to-table dishes (including the best charcuterie boards) alongside a curated market stocked with high-quality meats, cheeses and specialty items.

• White House Tavern: You can never go wrong with a restaurant belonging to the Hillstone group. The seating for pups is outside. They have heaters and blankets outside. They do not accept reservations. Tip: put your name in early and go walk around at a few shops. Outside seating typically has less of a wait time than inside.

• Ajax Tavern: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain at The Little Nell, this is one of Aspen's most iconic dining spots, offering a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the slopes. Known for its lively après-ski scene, it’s a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Reservations can be made through your hotel concierge or on Resy.

• Mountain Social at the St. Regis Aspen Resort is a refined bar and lounge offering a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, fine wines and an impressive selection of spirits, paired with a menu of elevated bar bites and small plates. Featuring dishes like artisanal charcuterie, fresh oysters and seasonal specialties. Dogs are allowed in select areas (all indoors). Reservations are available on OpenTable but walk-ins are welcome, but it can be extremely busy.

Tips:

• Assume you will have to sit outside with your pup. Bring hand warmers, a blanket and coat for your pup. Prepare to sit outside and be pleasantly surprised if you are invited indoors.

• Book a Rover for your pup and have a romantic dinner out at any of the below restaurants.

• Monarch is a classic old school steakhouse with an amazing tableside Caesar salad (it’s worth it!). They are also known for great cocktails, exceptional cuts of meat and decadent sides. Reservations can be booked through a hotel concierge or through seven rooms through their website.

• Parc Aspen is a contemporary restaurant that highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in its innovative menu. It offers a fresh take on classic dishes in a chic and inviting setting. Reservations should be made on OpenTable or through a hotel concierge.