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We all know the winter struggle of meeting your dogs’ needs in frigid weather. Luckily, Bozeman offers some amazing dog friendly experiences in winter, sure to keep you and your furry friend happy and sane! Knoff Group Real Estate has put together a list of the best dog friendly experiences during winter in the Gallatin Valley.
In Bozeman (outdoor excursions):
#5- Burke Park, commonly known as Peet’s Hill is where you’ll find one of the best in-town views of Bozeman. Located just minutes from Main Street, this convenient park is a great place to take your dog for a quick trail loop in the snow.
#4- Sourdough Canyon (Bozeman Creek Trail), located right outside of town is a great dog trail not only in winter, but year-round. This trail can range from 2 miles to 19, depending on your turnaround point. The trail is groomed in winter for classic and skate Nordic skiing by the awesome people at Bridger Ski Foundation – consider purchasing a trail pass to support their efforts. Also, make sure to always pick up after your dog, as the creek that runs alongside the trail supplies a portion of Bozeman’s drinking water.
#3- Drinking Horse Mountain Trail, located at the mouth of Bridger Canyon, is a 2.2 mile round-trip moderate loop with an elevation gain of 700 feet. This scenic trail is very popular amongst the canines and there is a year round creek at the base of the climb. Beautiful snowy meadows and gorgeous views of the Bridgers makes this hike a must-do on your winter agenda! It can be icy, so we recommend YakTrax or other shoe crampons.
#2- The 100 Acre Dog Park, also known as Gallatin County Regional Park, is the perfect place for you and your canine to spend a winter afternoon. The dog park is fully fenced with three newly excavated ponds, a small dog play area, shade pavilions, a fetch field, a fenced agility course and more. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a stroll around the figure-eight trail that loops around right outside the dog park.
#1- Snowfill Dog Park is located at the junction of McIlhatten and Manley Roads and is one of Bozeman’s largest and most scenic off-leash fenced dog parks. The park features over two miles of trails offering gorgeous views of both the Bridger Mountains and Gallatin Valley.
In Belgrade (outdoor excursions):
The Heart of the Valley dog park is located right next to the Heart of the Valley Animal Shelter off East Cameron Bridge Rd. It consists of 15 acres of fenced area for your pup to sprint around, along with an agility course and shade pavilion. There are additional trails accessed outside of the fenced off leash area.
In Big Sky (outdoor excursions):
Ousel Falls Park Trail is a short but gorgeous hike in Big Sky, off Ousel Falls Road. The trail is 1.6 miles round-trip and is dog friendly (on-leash). Grab a pair of snow boots with grip action and make your way down the trail, which eventually leads to the base of a beautiful waterfall. For sledding enthusiasts, this trail also has some backcountry sledding areas.
In Livingston (outdoor excursions):
#2 – There are two Yellowstone River accesses in Livingston that allow your dog to hop in the water for a quick cool-off, even in winter. 9th Street Island Bridge Fishing Access is located on the north side of town, right next to Sacagawea Park. On the south side of town is the Meyers Landing Fishing Access, right next to the off-leash dog park.
#1 – Moja Park Trail/Mayor’s Landing is Livingston’s off-leash dog park, at the end of View Vista Road. The trail loops beside the Yellowstone River and Fleshman Creek, making for a perfect winter walk with your pup.
Indoor Resources for Canines During Winter (in Bozeman):
#3- Day Camp at Dee-O-Gee is a great place for your dog to spend a winter day when you’re busy. Located off 19th and Oak, this day camp features a custom built indoor dog park, complete with a fenced-off area for seniors & smaller dogs. They are open Monday-Friday 7:30am-6:45pm and Saturdays 8am-6:45pm (by appointment only).
https://bozeman.dee-o-gee.com/content/other/Day-Camp/
#2- Montana Murray Kennels is located over by the airport in Belgrade. They offer doggie daycare, amongst other services such as boarding and training. At doggie daycare, your dog will experience a day of activities and exercise, along with lots of human love. https://montanamurraykennels.com/
#1- Know Thy Dog offers many amazing services, including daycare for your furry friend. Located just outside of Bozeman, Know Thy Dog’s daycare is Bozeman’s best. Play groups are divided into a minimum of six different groups, in order to ensure your dog positively socializes. When not running around, your dog is given time to relax and calm down in a dog run or large kennel. They rotate their playgroups through five different play yards and indoor play areas, to offer a new play environment each time. Their daycare is open Monday-Friday 7:30am-6:30pm by reservation only.
https://knowthydogtraining.com/daycare/