The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Chatfield State Park
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1,627
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Dog friendly hiking trails in Chatfield State Park offer diverse landscapes for outdoor exploration. The park features rolling plains, mixed-grass prairies, and significant wetland and riparian communities along the South Platte River. A central feature is the 1,423-acre Chatfield Reservoir, providing consistent water views along many routes. Elevated perspectives from areas like the Chatfield Dam Trail offer scenic overlooks of the reservoir and the Front Range foothills.
Best dog friendly hiking trails in Chatfield State Park
- The most popular dog…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
25
hikers
2.64km
00:40
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike along the Chatfield Dog Off-Leash Area Loop, a gentle 1.6-mile (2.6 km) route designed for you and your canine companion. You will experience expansive grassy…
32.7km
08:16
60m
70m
The Mary Carter Greenway Trail offers a long and varied hiking experience along the South Platte River. You will find yourself on paved and crushed stone surfaces, passing through lush…
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32.7km
08:16
60m
70m
Embark on the Mary Carter Greenway Trail, a challenging route that stretches for 20.3 miles (32.7 km) through diverse scenery along the South Platte River. You will experience a relatively…
1
hikers
2.42km
00:37
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike through Englewood Centennial Park, a peaceful escape spanning 50.9 acres of lush greenery and well-maintained paths. This route covers 1.5 miles (2.4 km) with a…
4
hikers
3.88km
00:59
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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Popular around Chatfield State Park
Tips from the Community
Don’t miss the chance to see a SpaceX rocket booster up close. It’s mounted just above the Mary Carter Greenway in Littleton, inside a fenced lot by DISH Network. You can’t go inside, but the view from the bike path is more than enough for a quick, geeky photo stop. The site is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.
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This is the closest most people will ever get to a rocket booster. It is located right next to the bike path. It is in a fenced area with locked gate. I don't know what the opening hours are. Maybe someone else can post those hours to this highlight when they visit it. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Falcon_9_first-stage_boosters#Booster_1021
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This point marks the intersection and trailhead for the Lee Gulch Trail and the Mary Carter Trail. This major trail junction is along the shores of the South Platte River and is a great resting spot or a spot to visit with the family.
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Redtail Lake is surrounded by a network of trails that offer views of the water, wildlife, and mountains. You can access the lake from the Mary Carter Greenway Trail, which runs along the South Platte River and connects to other trails in the park. Redtail Lake is a great place to enjoy nature and get some exercise in a peaceful setting.
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This lake is best known for its fishing, but it also fronts on the paved Mary Carter Greenway Trail (to the east side of the lake). You can also run a complete loop around the lake, but the rest of the loop will be on dirt and gravel.
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There is a trail that loops around Centennial Pond in Centennial Park that's really popular for walking and running. There is a dock on the western side of the water that is the most popular overlook spot, but you get views from pretty much any spot around the reservoir.
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The South Platte River is a tributary to the Platte River. It is 439 miles long and was originally called Niinéniiniicíihéhe by the native Arapaho people who lived on its banks.
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Great dock to watch birds or go fishing! Centennial Park (City of Englewood) has ball fields, large grassy areas that are great for a picnic, and some covered shelters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many dog-friendly hiking trails are available in Chatfield State Park?
Komoot features 4 dog-friendly hiking routes within Chatfield State Park, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. These include both easy and more challenging options.
Are there any easy dog-friendly trails suitable for beginners or families with children in Chatfield State Park?
Yes, Chatfield State Park offers several easy, dog-friendly trails perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Chatfield Dog Off-Leash Area Loop, which is about 2.6 km long and takes around 40 minutes to complete. Another accessible choice is the Englewood Centennial Park route, also considered easy.
What are some longer or more challenging dog-friendly hikes in Chatfield State Park?
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Mary Carter Greenway Trail offers a challenging 32.6 km route that can take over 8 hours to complete. This trail provides an extensive experience along the South Platte River.
What kind of terrain can I expect on dog-friendly trails in Chatfield State Park?
The terrain in Chatfield State Park is quite varied, featuring rolling plains, mixed-grass prairies, and significant wetland and riparian communities along the South Platte River. Many trails offer continuous views of the 1,423-acre Chatfield Reservoir, and some sections, like the Chatfield Dam Trail, provide elevated perspectives of the reservoir and the Front Range foothills.
Are there any loop trails suitable for dogs in Chatfield State Park?
Yes, the Chatfield Dog Off-Leash Area Loop is a popular circular route designed for dogs, offering a pleasant walk within the designated off-leash area.
What can I see along the dog-friendly hiking trails in Chatfield State Park?
Along the trails, you can enjoy diverse natural features. Highlights include the expansive Chatfield Reservoir, the South Platte River, and wetland areas like those found near the Cigar Pond Trail. The Chatfield Dam Trail (Paved Section) also offers scenic overlooks.
What do other hikers enjoy most about dog-friendly trails in Chatfield State Park?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Chatfield State Park, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful water views, the extensive network of trails suitable for various activities, and the dedicated off-leash areas for dogs.
What are the rules regarding dogs in Chatfield State Park?
Chatfield State Park is very dog-friendly and features a large 69-acre off-leash dog area with two ponds. While dogs are welcome on many trails, it's always important to keep them under control and be aware of specific park regulations, especially outside the designated off-leash zone.
When is the best time of year to go hiking with my dog in Chatfield State Park?
Chatfield State Park is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking. In summer, early mornings or late afternoons are best to avoid the heat, especially for dogs. Winter hiking is also possible, but be prepared for colder conditions and potential snow or ice on trails.
Are there specific parking areas for dog-friendly trails in Chatfield State Park?
Chatfield State Park has numerous parking facilities throughout the park. For access to the dedicated off-leash dog area and its loop trail, there are specific parking lots conveniently located nearby. General park entrance fees apply.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on trails in Chatfield State Park, and how should I manage my dog?
Chatfield State Park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, coyotes, foxes, and over 345 bird species. To ensure the safety of your dog and local wildlife, it's crucial to keep your dog leashed outside of designated off-leash areas and maintain a respectful distance from any animals you encounter.
Most popular routes in Chatfield State Park
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