Hiking with Dogs
On all trails that enter the Eagles Nest Wilderness, as well as on the North Trail, dogs are required to be on a physical leash. There are four main reasons for this:
PROTECTING YOUR DOG FROM WILDLIFE
Many wildlife — such as moose, coyote, mountain lion and elk — see your dog as a threat and may attack your dog to protect their young or themselves.
PROTECTING WILDLIFE FROM YOUR DOG
Remember you are visiting wildlife’s home while on your hike. Many of these species are very sensitive and often doing all they can to survive. Being chased, or even feeling threatened, by a dog can have long-lasting negative effects on our wildlife populations.
PROTECTING YOUR DOG FROM OTHER DOGS
Keeping your dog on a leash will minimize the likelihood of a negative encounter with another dog.
PRESERVING THE EXPERIENCE FOR OTHER TRAIL USERS
Not all trail users are fond of dogs. Keeping your dog on a leash will ensure that other users do not feel threatened or anxious about encountering your dog.
If you would like to hike with your dog off leash, there are several areas you can go. Trails that do not enter the Eagles Nest Wilderness often allow off-leash dogs under voice control as well as dog parks within the Town of Vail. Remember that no matter where you are, when in public, your dog needs to be under verbal control. Also please remember to pick up and carry out all dog waste — even if it’s in a biodegradable bag.
