One of the many reasons to love the Mile High City is its dog-friendly culture. According to 303 Magazine, the city and county of Denver boasts a whopping 1.5 dog parks per person. I have compiled a short list of what I consider to be the best (and largest).

Six years ago, I rescued a deaf Dalmation/Pitbull, Sebastian, and though I hike with him often, he’s always kept on-leash since he can’t hear. For that reason, I am always seeking new off-leash parks that are large enough for him to feel like he can explore like all of his friends get to do.

Below are Sebastian’s favorite spots in no particular order:

Forsberg Park

Open: 5:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

Address: 15900 W. Alameda Parkway, Lakewood, CO 80228

Forsberg Park is fenced with two sections; one for large dogs and one for small dogs. This large park provides great views of the foothills with easy access from C-470 and Alameda. The terrain is hilly and predominantly open with just a couple of trees for shade. Water is available during the summer months.

2. Glendale Farm Open Space Dog Park

Open: 7:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Cost: Free

Address: 12300 S Havana St, Castle Rock, CO 80108

I just visited this park for the first time last weekend and is now one of our favorites. With easy access from I-25, this 17-acre off-leash dog park is the perfect place to burn off some of your pup’s energy. The terrain is hilly and there are no trees, but there is water available. This park also features a mini agility course. After running free, leash up your four-legged friend and check out the adjacent 1.6 mile hiking trail which has expansive open space and mountain views.

3. Kennedy Dog Park

Open: 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

Address: 9700 E Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231

Located just off of I-225 near the Kennedy Golf Course, this all-sand 3-acre dog park is fenced and features two sections; a high-energy dog area and a low-energy dog area. There is no water available so be sure to bring your own.

4. Westminster Hills Dog Park

Open: Sunrise - Sunset

Cost: Free

Address: 10499 Simms St, Westminster, CO 80005

This enormous 420-acre park with beautiful views of the front range is guaranteed fun for your dog. With swimming ponds and a creek, grassy open areas, meandering trails, shade, benches and water, you and your pup have all you need. Keep in mind this park has limited fencing along the perimeter so it is not completely enclosed. To review the park’s rules and regulations, click here.

5. David A. Lorenz Dog Park

Open: 6:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

Address: 4800 e County Line Rd, Highlands Ranch, CO 80126

Located on the south side of County Line Rd between Holly and Colorado Blvd, this fenced park doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as some of the others, but if you are in the area and are looking for a quick spot to let your dog get some energy out, it is pretty spacious and will offer just that. There are no trees and you should bring your own water. Since the park is all dirt, you can expect mud after rain or snow.

6. Pirate’s Cove Water Park - Closing Day ONLY

Open: This water park is only open to dogs on the last day of the season.

The 2019 Doggie Plunge is September 7, from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Cost: $15.00

Address: 1225 W Belleview Ave, Littleton, CO 80120

Though this is not technically a dog park, this is a ridiculously FUN experience for those water-loving pups out there! What is a water park (for humans) all summer long, offers a one-day “Doggie Plunge” on the last day of the season before draining the pools in preparation for winter. This fun-filled day benefits Freedom Service Dogs. For more information, please visit here. Registration opens this summer.

7. Chatfield State Park Off-Leash Dog Area

Open: 5:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Cost: For a single trip, there is an $8 state park entrance fee, plus $3 for the off-leash dog park area

You may obtain an annual State Park Pass for $83.00/annually (which is good for any state park) + an

annual off-leash dog park area fee of $25.00/annually. Passes grant you unlimited trips to the park!

Address: 11500 N Roxborough Park Rd, Littleton, CO 80125

Don’t let the park fee scare you. This well-maintained, 69-acre, multi-terrain dog park is a guaranteed good time, complete with swimming ponds, paved and dirt trails, ample doggie bags and garbage cans, trees for shade, and water. You can find more information here.

8. Cherry Creek State Park Off-Leash Dog Area

Open: 5:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Cost: For a single trip, there is a $10 state park entrance fee, plus $3 for the off-leash dog park area

You may obtain an annual State Park Pass for $83.00/annually (which is good for any state park) + an

annual off-leash dog park area fee of $25.00/annually. Passes grant you unlimited trips to the park!

Address: 4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, CO 80014

At this grand 107-acre park, known as “Doggie Disneyland,” you’ll find plenty of room to roam. It is complete with open fields, rivers, and a sandy beach making it a dog’s paradise. Due to the popularity of the park, non-peak visiting times are advised to avoid lines or wait times. Click here for more information.