Off Road Paws is a locally owned and operated business that enjoys having ties to many spaces and businesses around the Lafayette and Louisville area. From dog parks and dog-friendly trails to businesses around town that we love to visit and support, there are a wealth of areas in this beautiful Colorado environment to be around those who also love dogs (and pets in general!). Some of our favorite places are a closely guarded dog-walker’s secret. Some are a little more open-to-all, but they are all great in their own ways.
For those looking to take their dog to someplace new around town, you can check out some of our go-to places for dog walking, dog trail running, and of course on and off-leash dog time. Because they’re so intertwined, we’re going to list both Lafayette and Louisville spots together. If you have some suggestions for us, feel free to drop us a line and let us know! We’re always on the lookout for fresh trails, beautiful views, and plenty of space for doggos to run about and enjoy themselves safely!
Trails and Dog Parks in Lafayette and Louisville
Coal Creek Trail is a favorite trail for Off Road Paws dog walkers. Our staff find that the trail, which runs through both Lafayette and Louisville, offers a great variety of areas to both hike through and stop for a while to rest within. Our favorite spot is along the Louisville side, offering plenty of shade and cool water for the dogs to dip into. Remember to keep an eye on your dog’s heat and hydration levels: if they seem weak, dizzy, or are panting heavily, stop immediately and offer them water, as well as somewhere cool and/or shaded to rest. If the problem persists, call your vet for treatment advice.
Dry Creek Trailhead is a dog-friendly trail that offers places for dogs to run around and get into the water to cool off. It’s a place to get a good walk or run, as well as to take in the stunning beauty of the natural world in our backyard. There are areas that allow off-leash dogs, but the owner must have completed the Boulder County Voice and Sight Class before they are allowed to be off leash. The class teaches owners and dogs proper off leash commands and etiquette. It does require an annual fee for the collar tag, but it is the only way to be allowed off leash in many areas.
Teller Farm is along the same property as the Dry Creek trails, so owners must complete the Sight and Voice Class to be off leash. Otherwise, it’s a beautiful setting to take dogs for a leisurely wander through the Colorado countryside. Remember: always watch out for snakes and other wildlife when on trails. Most wildlife is active at dawn and dusk, with snakes especially active at dusk. Just in case your dog encounters a snake, or other wildlife, be sure to have your local Emergency Vet’s number in your phone. Calling ahead to let them know you’re coming can help save precious minutes of treatment time for severe cases. Ask your vet who they recommend you go to in an emergency situation, before one happens, so that in the event of an emergency you can act fast.
Waneka Lake Trails is a beautiful area to take your dog for a day by the lake. There is a gravel trail around the lake which is very dog-friendly, but on-leash only. Perfect for dogs of all activity levels, it offers a good space for both exercise and relaxation, depending on your dog’s needs. Remember that as your dog ages, their activity levels are bound to change. Just as with humans, the older most pups get, the slower they get. Keeping active even through a slowdown is important to their overall health!
Bobolink Trail is a nice and shady spot that runs alongside Boulder Creek. It’s also a place where off leash is allowed once you’ve completed the Boulder County Voice and Sight Class. While you’re looking for summer and fall spots for your dog walking, remember to keep your dog up to date on their preventatives. Heartworms, fleas, ticks, and more are all out in force at the end of summer. Check your dog regularly for ticks and remove them as soon as you can.
Davidson Mesa is a nice spot to take dogs, but can be too hot during the daytime in the summer for your dog’s health. There’s not a lot of shade, so early morning or dusk during the summer is best. The Mesa offers a fenced-in off-leash area for your dog to play, as well as trails that start right from the dog park itself. Remember to take dogs to the dog park who are socially acclimated, off-leash trained, and over six months old (as pups can bring in diseases). For those who don’t fit that social mold, that’s were Off Road Paws can help! We take dogs on a one-on-one social adventure, allowing them to get the exercise and the social interaction they need to stay happy and healthy for life.
Local Businesses We Love in Louisville and Lafayette
Happy Beast is a wonderful little shop! They carry high-quality pet food, treats, and supplies. As well as pet foods, they offer a self-wash station for your pup. They’re also eco-friendly, offering recycling for food containers, pet food bags, and supplies. Come on by and check out their offerings, and treat your pup (or pet!) to something a little different!
The Struttin Pup is a fantastic spot for grooming, with an amazingly helpful staff. Their grooming services are great, and they offer natural pet foods and treats as well. If you’re not sure they’ve got what you need, give them a call and ask! They’ll help you find what you’re looking for.
We also thought we’d include a list of restaurants around town that are dog friendly. Check out bringfido.com for a list of dog-friendly places in Louisville, Lafayette, Boulder and more. You can search anywhere you like across the US, for when you’re road tripping as well!
For those who want to get out to these sort of places with Fido, but find it hard to do: let ORP help you out! Off Road Paws is here to help out all year round, with staff to work with every type of dog. Our staff are veterinarian trained for emergency situation recognition and care, and of course our owner is a vet. Rest assured, we’re going to have your dog’s best interest at heart! From puppies and young dogs who need action and socialization to old dogs who need slow walks and lots of love, Off Road Paws is here to support your dog through all walks of life. Contact us today!