Dogs on Federal Lands In Summit County, Colorado
What are two things most Coloradan's love? You guested it! Hiking and Dogs. Colorado is a dog's paradise, riddled with dog parks, designated off-leash areas, and Federal lands designated for either on-leash or off-leash doggie adventures!
White River National Forest
While dogs are not required to be on leash in most parts of the White River National Forest, they must be on voice command. Rules pertaining to the distance a dog is allowed to travel from their owner in the forest differs by area and sometimes by trail, so be sure to educate yourself prior to embarking on a hike with your 4 legged friend on each of the National Forest trails located within Summit County.
Hikes and trails in White River National Forest are managed by the Dillon Ranger District. Info sheets for all of these hikes can be located here. Wanting more information? Call or stop by the Dillon Ranger District office located at 680 Blue River Parkway, Silverthorne, 970-468-5400.
Wildlife Areas, Preserves, Open Space, BLM Land & Wilderness Areas
Approximately 80% of the land in Summit County, Colorado is Federal land. It’s important to understand the difference between designated wildlife areas, preserves, designated open space, BLM land, & wilderness areas (Eagles Nest & Ptarmigan Peak) and the National Forest.
Designated Wilderness Areas in Summit County
Both of these local Wilderness areas prohibit motorized use, mountain bikes, and off-leash dogs.
Eagle’s Nest Wilderness area covers more than 130,000 acres. It begins in the Gore Range north of I-70 in Frisco and extends north to Green Mountain Reservoir.
The Ptarmigan Peak Wilderness tops off just under 13,000 acres and begins just West of the Eisenhower tunnels to the South and Middle forks of the Williams For Rivers.
More info on protected Summit County open space can be found here
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