Well Gulch Nature Trail – Dog Hiking
Elevation: 5,580
1.2 miles
Popular with hikers and dog walkers alike, wildflowers, steep rock walls and wetland vegetation lines this plush 1.2 mile trail.
You and your dog will enjoy the winding, self-guided tour that traverses the grasslands, mountain shrub and timber.
Look for wildlife along your hike, including various birds, squirrels, mule deer, black bear and fox.
The Well Gulch Nature Trail, located in Lory State Park northwest of Fort Collins, climbs leisurely through the lush natural foliage of Well Gulch, returning through the forests and grasslands of Lory State Park, past the Homestead Picnic Area, and finishes with a short jaunt back up the Valley Trail to the parking lot.
A longer, more strenuous hike can be enjoyed by taking the Well Gulch Trail to the Timber Trail or the Overlook Trail, providing great views of both the park and Horsetooth Lake.
This is a great dog-friendly hike that you and your dog are sure to enjoy. For your dogs safety, a short lead is advisable for retractable leashes as well as a direct line-of-sight to the upcoming terrain. State Park rules require leashes not to exceed 6′ in length.
Likewise, it is advisable to carry a pet first aid kit and plenty of fresh water and snacks. Do not hike in this area if your dog is in heat. Finally, beware of poison ivy on the trail. Most of it is marked with trail signs, but it’s good to be on the look out nevertheless.
To reach the trail, take US 287 North through LaPorte Turn LEFT at Vern’s onto CR 52E. Drive one mile and turn LEFT onto CR23N. Travel 1.4 miles and turn RIGHT on CR25G. Continue another 1.6 miles to the park entrance. Follow the road through the park and look the Well Gulch marker on your right. The parking lot is on the left-hand side of the road.There is a $6.00 use fee and the trail is subject to weather closures.
Contact us today to schedule this hike or our pet sitting or dog walking services.