Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental in Ouray, Colorado

Ouray Is a Dog-Friendly Town

Ouray is one of the most dog-welcoming small towns in Colorado. The streets are low-traffic and walkable, many shops and restaurants have outdoor seating that welcomes leashed dogs, and the natural landscape surrounding the town is built for exploration with a dog by your side. Locals are accustomed to visiting dogs, and the community culture is relaxed and outdoor-oriented.

All five Lumberyard Condos welcome dogs. The property sits on the bank of the Uncompahgre River, so your dog can be off the couch and on a trail within about 30 seconds of walking out the front door.

The Uncompahgre River Trail

The Uncompahgre River runs directly behind The Lumberyard. The paved riverwalk path runs through town and connects to trail sections along the canyon floor. It's flat, scenic, and perfect for morning and evening dog walks — with the canyon walls of the San Juans rising on both sides and the sound of the river keeping pace with you.

The path connects northward to Ouray's city park, where there's open grass space for dogs to run. The entire walkable route from the condo to the park and back is under a mile — ideal for a quick walk or a longer exploration along the canyon.

Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Ouray

Ouray Perimeter Trail — A 6-mile loop that circles the entire town, gaining significant elevation with views into the valley and toward the surrounding peaks. Dogs are welcome on leash. One of the best introductory hikes from town with a dramatic payoff.

Lower Cascade Falls Trail — An easy half-mile walk to a dramatic waterfall just outside town. Suitable for any fitness level and any size dog. The trail begins on the east side of Ouray near the 4WD trailheads.

Yankee Boy Basin — A 4WD road and hiking access area below Mt. Sneffels. Dogs are welcome on the trails in this area. Peak wildflower season (mid-July to August) makes this one of the most photogenic hikes in the San Juans.

Portland Trail — A moderate trail above Ouray leading through spruce forest to alpine meadows. Dogs on leash. Less trafficked than some of the other town trails, good for a quieter morning walk.

Practical Notes for Dog Owners

Ouray requires dogs to be on leash on all town streets and in the city park. The hot springs complex does not allow dogs inside the pool area. Box Canyon Falls boardwalk does not allow dogs on the main viewing platform. For longer backcountry hikes, check the trail-specific regulations — most National Forest trails in the San Juans allow leashed dogs.

The full kitchen in each condo means you can cook food for your dog without relying on restaurants. And the private entrance to each ground-floor unit makes middle-of-the-night bathroom trips easy without waking the whole building.