Want to know where the best trails to hike with your dog are in Grand Junction, Colorado? Keep reading!
As a Grand Junction local, I regularly go hiking in the area with my dog, Becket. The 12 trails I included in this guide are what I consider to be the best dog-friendly hikes in Grand Junction. It includes trails that are right in town, as well as nearby in Palisade, Fruita, and the Grand Mesa, so you can find a hike that works any time of year.
Most trails in the Grand Junction area are open to dogs, except for trails in Colorado National Monument, which are NOT dog-friendly. However, just because a trail allows dogs doesn’t necessarily mean the trail is truly suitable for them. Here are some of the things I considered when putting together this guide:
- The trail (obviously) has to be open to dogs. Trails in Colorado National Monument are NOT open to dogs, but pretty much every other trail in the Grand Valley and surrounding area is.
- The terrain can’t be too rough. There are some canyon hikes in Grand Junction that involve scrambling up rocks. Some dogs may be perfectly fine in this type of terrain, but these trails are not going to be suitable for every dog.
- Water access is a huge bonus. It can be pretty hot in Grand Junction during a good chunk of the year, which makes hiking with a dog tough. Having access to water on the trail is helpful during warmer months so dogs can stay hydrated and cool off. Unfortunately, a lot of the best hikes in Grand Junction don’t provide good water access. I did my best to include as many hikes with water as possible, which meant adding some hikes on the Grand Mesa, which is about an hour drive from Grand Junction.
Table of Contents: Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Grand Junction
1. Big Dominguez Canyon
Big Dominguez Canyon is one of my favorite local hikes thanks to its beautiful canyon views, easy terrain, and access to water. The trail is located within Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area and is roughly 13 miles long one-way.
Most people hike Big Dominguez Canyon as an out-and-back hike, but you can also do it as a point-to-point hike. Backpacking is popular in the canyon, but there are restrictions about where you can camp.
From the Bridgeport Trailhead it’s about 1 mile of easy walking to get to the Gunnison River. Then you have another ¾ mile hike along the river to get to the entrance of Big Dominguez Canyon. Once in the canyon the trail follows Big Dominguez Creek passing petroglyphs, waterfalls, and unique rock formations along the way with a handful of places where your dog can swim (be mindful of heavy flows and waterfalls).
Trail Stats for Big Dominguez Canyon
- Location: Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There are pit toilets at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy-moderate. There are 2 parking areas with a lot of availability, but they can fill up, especially if there are a lot of horse trailers.
- Distance: Varies. Plan for at least 4+ miles of hiking.
- Elevation Gain: Varies. The first 2 miles are relatively flat, then you gradually gain a few hundred feet per mile.
- Difficulty: Varies from easy-difficult depending on how far you hike.
- Estimated Hike Time: 2-4+ hours depending on how far you hike.
- AllTrails Link
2. Flume Canyon
Flume Canyon is a scenic, dog-friendly hike near Fruita that takes you into the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness. The trail begins at the Pollock Bench Trailhead, which also serves other trails, so keep an eye out for signs pointing you to the F1 trail throughout your hike. The Flume Canyon Trail creates a large loop, which I recommend hiking counterclockwise for navigational purposes.
If you’re an experienced desert hiker you will likely find Flume Canyon to be a relatively easy hike. However, you traverse sandy terrain, hike through a small canyon, and hike across washes throughout the hike, which some hikers (and pups!) may find challenging. This is a beautiful area and the further back into Flume Canyon you get, the more scenic the hike becomes.
Trail Stats for Flume Canyon
- Location: McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There is a pit toilet at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy-moderate. The parking lot serves multiple trails and can fill up on weekends during the spring and fall. Horse trailer parking is available.
- Distance: 5 mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 550 ft.
- Difficulty: 4.5-5/10 Moderate
- Estimated Hike Time: 2 hours
- AllTrails Link
3. Lunch Loops
The Lunch Loops are a well-developed network of dog-friendly trails in the Redlands that are popular with both hikers and mountain bikers. Because there are so many trails in the area, the Lunch Loops really are a choose your own adventure hiking destination.
You can make your hike at the Lunch Loops as long and difficult, or as short and easy as you’d like. There are maps at the trailhead and throughout the trail system to help you navigate and keep you on the right path.
My go-to route at the Lunch Loops is hiking up Curt’s Down, then taking Curt’s Lane to Raven’s Ridge to High Noon to the Tabeguache Trail back down to the trailhead. This loop is a little over 3 miles long. If you want to add a little extra distance without extra elevation gain you can take High Noon to Pet-E-Kes to Tabeguache back to the trailhead.
Trail Stats for Lunch Loops
- Location: Grand Junction BLM land
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There are pit toilets at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. There’s a very large parking lot at the trailhead, as well as overflow parking for trailers and large vehicles. It can get crowded after work during peak season (late spring and early fall), but there are usually plenty of parking spots available.
- Distance: Varies depending on your route.
- Elevation Gain: Varies depending on your route.
- Difficulty: Generally moderate, but you can make your hike easy or difficult if you prefer.
- Estimated Hike Time: Varies depending on your route.
- AllTrails Link
4. Lost Lake
Located on the Grand Mesa, Lost Lake is a short and sweet hike that is perfect for the dog days of summer. The trail takes you through the forest and past Mesa Lake and South Mesa Lake before you arrive at Lost Lake, which is a gorgeous turquoise color and surrounded by basalt boulders. It’s definitely the prettiest lake hike on the Grand Mesa, in my opinion!
Lost Lake is considered an easy hike, which makes this a great option for the whole family (it’s actually one of the first hikes I did when I was in the trenches during my first trimester of pregnancy). With so many lakes along the trail there are also plenty of opportunities for your dog to swim and cool off.
Trail Stats for Lost Lake
- Location: Grand Mesa National Forest
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There are pit toilets at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Moderate. There are a few parking lots you can start the hike from. I usually park near the Mesa Lake Lodge and hike from there, but parking spaces are limited.
- Distance: 2.6-3.5 miles depending on where you park and whether or not you hike around Mesa Lake
- Elevation Gain: ~450 ft.
- Difficulty: Easy (2.5-3.5/10)
- Estimated Hike Time: 1-2 hours
- AllTrails Link (this map has you starting along the East side of Mesa Lake, but I usually hike from the West side along the Mesa Lake Shore Trail)
5. Crag’s Crest Trail
Crag’s Crest Trail is designated as a National Recreation Trail and is easily one of the best hikes on the Grand Mesa. The entire hike is a ~10.5 mile loop, but you can also complete the trail as an out-and-back up to the top of a ridge line (you’ll want to hike the trail clockwise, staying to the left from the main trailhead if you want to do this).
The crest of the trail provides sweeping views of the Grand Mesa and dozens of lakes. There are a couple of spots along the way that provide water access to lakes for dogs to splash around. Be aware, the mosquitos can get pretty bad during the summer, but that’s going to be the case for most hikes on the Grand Mesa!
Trail Stats for Crag’s Crest Trail
- Location: Grand Mesa National Forest
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There are pit toilets at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. There is a very large parking lot at the trailhead.
- Distance: 10.5 mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 1,535 ft.
- Difficulty: Moderate-difficult (6.5-7.5/10)
- Estimated Hike Time: 5-6 hours
- AllTrails Link
6. McDonald Creek Canyon
McDonald Creek Canyon has a lot to love. The trail is incredibly scenic, there are towering rock walls and ancient petroglyphs, and you get a unique view of the Colorado River at the end. The trail through McDonald Creek Canyon is easy to navigate. After ¾ miles of hiking you’ll reach a side canyon that you can explore. This will add some additional mileage and the terrain is much more primitive, but it makes for a fun excursion.
As you continue hiking you’ll pass a couple of large rock alcoves before reaching the end of the trail. The McDonald Creek Canyon Trail ends at train tracks overlooking the Colorado River, so it’s easy to know when to turn back. Be aware, these are active train tracks, so be careful and keep an eye on your dog while exploring the area.
Read my complete guide to hiking the McDonald Creek Canyon Trail!
Trail Stats for McDonald Creek Canyon
- Location: McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There is a pit toilet at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy-moderate. The parking lot isn’t very large, but the trail usually isn’t crowded so it’s easy to snag a spot.
- Distance: 4 miles out-and-back
- Elevation Gain: 175 ft.
- Difficulty: 2.5-3/10
- Estimated Hike Time: 1-2 hours
- AllTrails Link
7. Rabbit’s Ear Mesa Trail
The Rabbit’s Ear Mesa Trail is located in Rabbit Valley near the Utah border. Because the trail is a bit out of town it typically isn’t too busy compared to other hikes in this guide. It’s a great hike that takes you through pinyon-juniper forest and past rock formations to the top of a mesa overlooking the Colorado River.
Along the Rabbit’s Ear Mesa Trail you’ll hike through a mini slot canyon, traverse hillsides, and pass a number of unique rock formations along the way. If you hike the loop counterclockwise you’ll reach the first overlook area after about 2.5 miles of hiking. Here you can take in the views of Ruby Canyon and the La Sal mountains in the distance before completing the loop and heading back to the trailhead.
Trail Stats for Rabbit’s Ear Mesa Trail
- Location: McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There are no bathrooms at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. There’s plenty of parking available. Getting to the trailhead involves driving on a dirt road.
- Distance: roughly 6 mile lollipop loop
- Elevation Gain: 700 ft.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Hike Time: 2-3 hours
- AllTrails Link
8. Connected Lakes Loop
The Connected Lakes Loop is really more of a walk than a “hike,” but it’s one of the few trail systems actually in Grand Junction that provides ample water access for dogs. There are gravel, dirt, and paved concrete paths at Connected Lakes that weave around 3 different lakes and alongside the Colorado River. Dogs are required to be leashed in the state park.
Connected Lakes is a great area to explore if you’re looking for an easy stroll that’s close to town. The environment is quite different from most trails in the area with lots of trees and lush vegetation during the spring and summer. It’s also a great walk/hike if you’re visiting Grand Junction in the fall when the cottonwood trees turn golden yellow.
Trail Stats for Connected Lakes Loop
- Location: Connected Lakes State Park
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There is a pit toilet near one of the main parking areas.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. There are a few parking lots that you can access the trails from.
- Distance: ~2.5 mile loop
- Elevation Gain: 15 ft.
- Difficulty: Very easy (1/10)
- Estimated Hike Time: 1 hour
- AllTrails Link
9. Pollock Bench Trail
If you’re looking for a rugged desert hike with your dog, then head to the Pollock Bench Trail in McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area. There are a few trails in the area, so follow the P1 trail signs from the trailhead to stay on the right path.
The beginning of the Pollock Bench Trail trail follows an old Jeep road, so it’s pretty easy hiking. After a little over 1 ½ miles of hiking you’ll reach a fork where a loop begins. I recommend hiking the loop clockwise so you can top out at the highest point on the trail before descending back down to the trailhead.
The loop takes you along the edge of Pollock Canyon, providing gorgeous views that rival Colorado National Monument. There are a couple of places where the trail traverses alongside big drop offs, so keep an eye on kids and your dog.
Trail Stats for Pollock Bench Trail
- Location: McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There is a pit toilet at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy-moderate. The parking lot serves multiple trails and can fill up on weekends during the spring and fall. Horse trailer parking is available.
- Distance: 7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 925 ft.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Estimated Hike Time: 2 ½-3 ½ hours
- Dog-Friendly?: Yes
- AllTrails Link
10. Devil’s Canyon
Similar to Pollock Bench, the Devil’s Canyon trail system is the perfect dog-friendly alternative to Colorado National Monument. It’s a fun desert hike that provides stunning canyon views and showcases the history of the area.
The trailhead serves the entire Devil’s Canyon trail system, which contains a variety of different trails. To complete the most scenic loop, follow the signs for “Devil’s 1” to “Devil’s 3.” After hiking down into a wash, you’ll come to a fork in the trail where a loop begins.
The trail through Devil’s Canyon is easy to follow, but there are sections that are steep and loose. Near the back of the canyon you’ll pass an old homesteader cabin with remnants of Western Colorado’s pioneer days scattered about. Remember these artifacts are protected by federal law, so take only photos and leave only footprints!
Trail Stats for Devil’s Canyon
- Location: McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There are pit toilets at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. There’s a very large parking lot at the trailhead.
- Distance: 6.8 miles
- Elevation Gain: 780 ft.
- Difficulty: Moderate. 5.5/10
- Estimated Hike Time: 2 ½-3 ½ hours
- AllTrails Link
11. Rigg’s Hill
Rigg’s Hill is located in the Redlands area of Grand Junction and is a great spot to bring your dog for a quick hike. There are a couple of trails you can follow, but the main loop takes you to the top of a big hill overlooking Colorado National Monument. You can also see a replica of a dinosaur bone at Rigg’s Hill, which is why I consider this one of the most unique things to do in Grand Junction (unfortunately this is one bone your dog can’t eat!).
Trail Stats for Rigg’s Hill
- Location: Redlands
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There are no bathrooms available.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Easy. The parking lot has plenty of parking spaces.
- Distance: ~1 mile
- Elevation Gain: 200 ft.
- Difficulty: Easy (2-3/10)
- Estimated Hike Time: 1-1 ½ hours
- AllTrails Link
12. Palisade Rim Trail
One of my favorite dog-friendly hikes in Palisade is the Palisade Rim Trail. The trail includes a lower loop and an upper loop. I recommend hiking both for the best views, but if you’re short on time or are looking for an easier hike, just hiking the lower loop is still scenic.
While the trail is mainly used by hikers be prepared to encounter mountain bikers. The Palisade RIm Trail is the end of the Palisade Plunge, which is a grueling 33-mile mountain bike ride from the top of the Grand Mesa. While hikers technically have the right of way on multi-use trails, sometimes it’s easier and safer to let mountain bikers come by first, especially if you’re with your dog.
Trail Stats for Palisade Rim Trail
- Location: BLM land in Palisade
- Trailhead Location: Google maps
- Bathrooms? There are pit toilets at the trailhead.
- Trailhead Parking Difficulty: Moderate. The parking lot was expanded in recent years to accommodate more vehicles.
- Distance: 8.5 miles for both loops
- Elevation Gain: 1,450 ft. for both loops
- Difficulty: 6.5-7/10 if hiking both loops
- Estimated Hike Time: 3 ½-4 ½ hours
- Dog-Friendly?: Yes
- AllTrails Link
Recreating Responsibly With Your Dog
Leave No Trace
Help keep Grand Junction beautiful by practicing the 7 Leave No Trace principles while out hiking and adventuring with your dog. Here’s a refresher on the 7 principles:
- Plan ahead and prepare.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
- Properly dispose of waste. This includes packing out all of your trash as well as pet waste!
- Leave what you find.
- Minimize campfire impacts.
- Respect wildlife.
- Be considerate of other visitors.
Be Aware of the Heat
Grand Junction can easily top 90-100+℉ during the summer. I would highly advise against hiking with your dog in the Grand Valley this time of year unless you go very early in the morning (ideally before sunrise!). Instead, head up to the Grand Mesa, which is going to be ~20-30° cooler and much more comfortable for your dog.
The best times of year to hike with your dog in Grand Junction are early spring, fall, and winter. While daylight hours are limited during the winter, this is personally my favorite time of year to hike. On sunny days the temperature is typically comfortable as long as you dress appropriately, and you don’t have to worry about your dog overheating!
Keep Your Dog Under Control
Most of the trails in this guide are located on BLM land (including our local National Conservation Areas) or in the Grand Mesa National Forest. For the most part these areas require dogs to be “under control” at all times. The best way to keep your dog under control is keeping them on a leash, but you can also keep them under strict vocal control if they have good recall. A few trails explicitly require dogs to be kept on-leash, which are noted in the trail descriptions.
If your dog doesn’t have strong recall they should always be kept on-leash (check out my review of my favorite leash for hiking). It’s also a good idea to keep a leash handy while hiking with your dog off-leash in case you encounter other dogs on leash or small children. Only you know whether your dog can hike off-leash responsibly, but you will likely see off-leash dogs on many of these trails so I want you to be prepared!
Pack out pet waste!
Please remember to always pack out your pet waste and don’t leave poop bags on the side of the trail. This is considered littering and encourages others to do the same. Carry pet waste with you back to the trailhead and dispose of it properly.
Happy hiking!
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