Mount Cutler Trail

Dog-friendly hike near Colorado Springs · Mt. Cutler Trailhead, N Cheyenne Cañon Rd (1.5 mi above the Starsmore gate), Colorado Springs

Illustration of Front Range foothills trail

Illustration of the region, not this trail.

Dogs on this trail

Dogs are allowed in North Cheyenne Cañon Park and must be leashed; Mt. Cutler is a hikers-only trail.

Source: City of Colorado Springs Parks (North Cheyenne Cañon Park) · checked 2026-10-24. Rules change; confirm before you go.

  • Distance1.1 mi
  • Elevation gain415 ft
  • Leash ruleLeash required
  • Water on trailNone — carry water
  • SeasonSpring–fall; icy and shaded in winter, canyon road may close for snow
  • ParkingSmall pullout lot at the trailhead fills early on weekends; park at Starsmore and ride the free seasonal shuttle when running
  • FeeFree
  • RestroomsNo restrooms at the trailhead; portable toilets at Helen Hunt Falls
  • Managed byCity of Colorado Springs Parks (North Cheyenne Cañon Park)

Mount Cutler is the classic short Springs dog hike: 1.1 miles and about 400 feet of gain on a wide, well-graded path through Douglas fir to a rocky overlook above Seven Falls and the city. The canyon walls keep much of the route shaded in the morning. It is hikers only, which removes the bike factor, and the city requires leashes throughout North Cheyenne Cañon. The overlook has real exposure on its south side, so keep the leash short at the top. Bears are active in the canyon late summer; pack out dog waste. A good first mountain hike for a young or small dog.

Need a sitter while you summit?

Independent Colorado Springs boarders and daycares can send free quotes. One short form, no obligation.

Dog boarding in Colorado Springs Daycare in Colorado Springs

After the hike

Cerberus Brewing Company

702 W Colorado Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80905

Cerberus calls itself a dog-friendly brewery; the patio, beer garden and dining tent are all dog-friendly seating areas, and the kitchen makes puppy patties.

  • patio
  • dog menu
  • water bowls

Colorado Springs · verified 2026-10-24

Goat Patch Brewing Company – Lincoln Center

2727 N Cascade Ave #123, Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Well-behaved dogs are allowed inside the Lincoln Center taproom and in the outdoor areas; they must stay leashed and with their human at all times.

  • patio
  • indoor ok

Colorado Springs · verified 2026-10-24

More trails near Colorado Springs

All dog-friendly hikes near Colorado Springs → · Colorado Springs dog guide