Moonstone Lodge Breckenridge

The gondola glides over Cucumber Gulch, a designated wildlife preserve, which provides a habitat for the boreal toad (which is state-endangered), moose, deer, elk, beavers, and even mountain lions. Plus, more than 47 species of birds use the area. As a result, off-leash dogs are one of the greatest threats; by swimming in the ponds or chasing smaller wildlife, they have disturbed wildlife in the past, and so, while they can enjoy the ride over the preserve, they can’t actually go in the 77 acres of wetlands.

The good news: Dogs are allowed on every other town trail, so there are plenty of places to hike. And, dogs can wander around the Base of Peaks 7 and 8, once they exit the gondola.

Main Street

Within town limits, dogs must be leashed, but they’re allowed to walk pretty much anywhere (see restrictions under “where dogs can’t go”). Outside of town limits, dogs can run free, as long as they respond to voice command.

Most stores along Main Street, and Breckenridge in general, allow well-behaved dogs inside. If you’re not sure, just duck your head inside and ask. More than a few stores have their own dog-in-residence, who often acts as a mascot for the store.

One of the stores dogs are obviously welcome in is, on 203 N. Main St. All purchases at the thrift shop, which offers everything from clothing to housewares, books and art, benefit homeless pets in need, through the Animal Rescue of the Rockies.

Carter Park

Carter Park’s is the only place in Breckenridge town limits where you can let your pooch run free, and play with a bunch of other pups, too. It’s fully fenced, and there’s plenty of room, so you can sit with other dog owners, worry free.

Follow the small signs to Carter Park, located four blocks east of Main Street, at the south end of High Street.

Bike path and trails

Dogs are allowed to follow the bike path, which parallels the river for quite awhile, but they must be leashed, even when the paved path leaves the town limits.

Breckenridge also provides plenty of hiking trails, including:

• Southside Trail, off of Boreas Pass Road

• Moonstone and Sunbeam trails, accessible from Carter Park

• Sawmill Trail, off Four O’Clock Road

• Trail Forest, near Shock Hill

• Peaks Trail, off the parking lot for the trail, located near the edge of Cucumber Gulch.

Where dogs can’t go

About the only places dogs can’t hang out is: Cucumber Gulch (see above section under “gondola, ”), Breckenridge Golf Course, the fields at Kingdom Park (near the recreation center), and the Riverwalk Lawn.

Otherwise, Breckenridge is just waiting to be discovered with four paws, so take your dog for a walk through the nooks and crannies of Breckenridge.