DU Field Notes: A Place for Fido to Run

They ask us with their pleading looks and waggling tails: “Can we go for a walk? Can we go out and play?” It’s hard to say no to our four-legged friends when they need to stretch their legs, socialize and get a snout-full of smells. Fortunately, Denver is a city that loves its dogs, and there are 13 off-leash dog parks where they can safely romp and roam.

Check out some of these favorite playgrounds for your pup. Many are centrally located in Denver, while others are on the outskirts of town. Although you can often find fresh water and waste bags, it’s best to bring your own just in case.

Berkeley Lake Dog Park, 1758 Sheridan Blvd.

Berkeley Lake Dog Park (pictured above) is located near the historic Lakeside Amusement Park. The park can be a bit noisy do to its location, but amusement park lights and sounds add to the atmosphere. There are two fenced-in areas, one for dogs with lower energy or those under 25 pounds, and another for larger pups. Berkeley Dog Park is well-maintained and provides large water containers and balls to play with. Park in the lot off West 46th Avenue and walk north along the path to the dog park.

Chatfield State Park Off-Leash Dog Area, 11500 N. Roxborough Park Rd.

From wooded terrain to grassy hills to swimming ponds, Chatfield State Park offers 70-acres of off-leash fun. Miles of paved and unpaved walking trails ensure you and your pup will be fully exercised by the end of your visit. The park is located at Chatfield Reservoir about 30 minutes south of Denver. There is a fee to enter the state park and an additional nominal fee to use the off-leash area. Annual passes are available for frequent visitors. A leash and waste bag must be carried for each dog, and there is a limit of three dogs per handler.

Cherry Creek State Park Dog Off-Leash Area, 4201 S. Parker Rd.

With 107 acres to roam off-leash, this park is a paradise for dogs to explore new smells, make new friends and splash in the creek. Cleaning up after your pup is mandatory, as it is crucial to the preservation and cleanliness of the park and watershed. A leash and a waste bag must be carried for ​each dog. There is a limit of three dogs per handler. Plan to pay a fee to enter Cherry Creek State Park and another nominal fee to use the off-leash area. Yearly passes are available for frequent visitors.

Greenway Dog Park, 2002 Spruce St.

Greenway Dog Park, also known as Stapleton Dog Park, is a large, sand-covered park with plenty of room for large-breed dogs to roam. There is not a separate area for small dogs, so make sure your smaller dog is okay being around larger, energetic dogs. Visitors give this park high marks for security, cleanliness and doggie good vibes. Park features include several hydrants (for the dogs) and shaded benches (for you.)

Kennedy Dog Park, 9700 E. Hampden Ave.

This three-acre Denver dog park is a great place for you to enjoy a quick walk while your pup enjoys a meandering lope. It has both full energy and low energy play areas. The grounds are mainly dirt without easy access to water, so bring your own. Because of the dirt, you’ll appreciate having a towel in your car to wipe off potentially muddy paws. Kennedy Dog Park was recently refurbished by the city of Denver and is now fully enclosed. The park’s central shelter offers some protection from the elements, rain or shine.

Railyard Dog Park, 1851 Bassett St.

Railyard Dog Park is centrally located in the Riverfront neighborhood, making it a popular park for downtown dwellers. This one-acre park has separate areas for high energy and low energy dogs. You’ll find sandy soil, shade and benches for sitting. Your pup will find trees, furry friends and smells galore.