Copper Mountain Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals: Everything You Need to Know

You're planning a ski trip to Copper Mountain and you want to bring your dog. Leaving pets behind stresses them out and costs you money for boarding or pet sitters.

The good news: Copper Mountain has plenty of pet-friendly vacation rentals. The challenge: finding one that actually works for you and your dog.

Here's everything you need to know about bringing your dog to Copper Mountain.

Not All Properties Allow Pets

Pet policies vary by building and individual property. Some HOAs allow pets. Others don't. Some owners welcome dogs. Others prohibit them.

Always confirm a property is pet-friendly before you book. Don't assume. Check the listing, read the fine print, and ask the property manager directly.

Showing up with a dog at a property that doesn't allow pets creates problems for everyone. You'll be asked to leave or pay steep fines. Your dog will be stressed. Your trip will be ruined.

Verify pet policies upfront.

Pet Fees and Deposits

Most pet-friendly rentals charge pet fees. These fees cover additional cleaning and wear on the property.

Typical pet fees range from $50 to $150 per stay. Some properties charge per pet. Others charge a flat fee regardless of how many dogs you bring.

Ask about:

• Is the fee per pet or per stay?

• Is it refundable if there's no damage?

• Are there size or breed restrictions?

• How many pets are allowed?

Some properties require pet deposits that are refundable if your dog doesn't cause damage. Others charge non-refundable fees.

Understand the costs before you book so there are no surprises.

Size and Breed Restrictions

Some properties have size limits. Small dogs under 25 pounds are welcome. Larger dogs aren't.

Other properties allow all sizes but limit certain breeds. Pit bulls, Rottweilers, and other breeds considered high-risk by insurance companies are sometimes prohibited.

Don't hide your dog's size or breed. Property managers will find out and you'll face penalties or eviction.

If your dog doesn't fit the restrictions, keep looking. There are properties that welcome large dogs and all breeds. You just need to find them.

What to Look For in a Pet-Friendly Property

Ground Floor Access:Properties on the ground floor make it easier to take your dog outside for bathroom breaks. No elevators, no stairs, just walk out the door.

Nearby Trails and Open Space:Look for properties near trails or open areas where you can walk your dog. Copper Mountain has paved paths and trails perfect for morning and evening dog walks.

Fenced Yards:Some townhomes include small fenced yards or patios. If your dog needs off-leash time, this is a huge bonus.

Ski Storage Near the Door:You'll be tracking in and out with your dog multiple times a day. Properties with mudrooms or ski storage near the entrance make it easier to manage wet paws and ski gear.

Non-Carpeted Floors:Tile, hardwood, or laminate floors are easier to clean if your dog tracks in dirt or has an accident. Heavily carpeted units are harder to keep clean.

Best Areas for Dogs in Copper Mountain

East Village:Quieter and less crowded than Center Village. Easier to walk dogs without navigating heavy foot traffic. Nearby trails and open space make morning walks convenient.

West Village:Similar to East Village. Quiet, less crowded, and good access to trails and open areas.

Center Village:Busiest area with the most foot traffic. Not ideal for dogs who get anxious around crowds. But if your dog is social and well-behaved in busy environments, it works.

Trails and Walking Areas

Copper Mountain has excellent dog-friendly trails and walking paths.

Paved Rec Paths:Paved paths run through Copper Mountain and connect to nearby Frisco and Dillon. These paths are perfect for morning and evening dog walks. They're maintained year-round and safe for walking in winter.

Lily Pad Lake Trail:Easy 2-mile round trip hike near Copper Mountain. Dogs are allowed on-leash. The trail is mostly flat and family-friendly. It's one of the best dog-friendly hikes in the area.

Officer's Gulch:Short trail just off I-70 between Frisco and Copper Mountain. Dogs love this trail and it's easy to access from Copper. On-leash required.

Copper Creek Golf Course:In summer, the golf course allows dogs on-leash before and after golfing hours. It's a beautiful area for walking dogs with mountain views.

Rules and Etiquette

Leash Laws:Dogs must be on-leash everywhere in Copper Mountain. Summit County enforces leash laws. Don't let your dog run off-leash even if they're friendly and well-behaved.

Clean Up After Your Dog:Carry poop bags and clean up after your dog. Don't leave waste on trails, paths, or resort property. It's disrespectful and violates local regulations.

Noise:Barking dogs disturb neighbors. If your dog barks excessively, you'll get complaints from other guests and possibly from the property manager. Bring familiar toys, blankets, and items that keep your dog calm.

Property Damage:You're responsible for any damage your dog causes. Scratched doors, chewed furniture, stained carpets, and odors all result in cleaning fees or damage charges.

Crate-train your dog if they're prone to anxiety or destructive behavior when left alone. Don't leave anxious dogs unattended in a rental property.

What to Pack for Your Dog

Food and Water:Bring enough dog food for the entire trip. Don't rely on finding your dog's specific food in Summit County.

Bring collapsible bowls for food and water. Hydration matters at altitude for dogs just like humans.

Leash, Collar, and ID Tags:Make sure your dog wears a collar with updated ID tags. Bring a sturdy leash for walks and hikes.

Poop Bags:Bring more than you think you'll need. Cleaning up after your dog is non-negotiable.

Dog Bed or Blanket:Bring your dog's bed or a blanket they're familiar with. It helps them feel comfortable in a new environment.

Toys and Chews:Keep your dog entertained so they don't get bored and destructive. Bring favorite toys and chews.

First Aid Kit:Include tweezers for removing cactus or porcupine quills, bandages, and any medications your dog takes.

Towels:Bring towels specifically for your dog. They'll get wet and muddy. Don't use the rental property's towels for your dog.

Crate:If your dog is crate-trained, bring their crate. It gives them a safe space and prevents destructive behavior when you're out skiing.

Altitude Considerations for Dogs

Dogs feel altitude just like humans. Copper Mountain sits at 9,700 feet. If your dog lives at sea level, they'll need time to adjust.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness in Dogs:

• Excessive panting

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting

• Disorientation

If your dog shows these symptoms, take them to a lower elevation and contact a vet.

How to Help Your Dog Adjust:

• Start slow. Don't take them on long hikes the first day.

• Keep them hydrated. Offer water frequently.

• Watch for signs of distress. If they're struggling, cut activities short.

• Give them time to acclimate before pushing them hard.

Winter Considerations

Cold Weather:Copper Mountain winters are cold. Temperatures drop below freezing. Snow and ice are constant.

If your dog has short hair or is small, bring a dog jacket. Protect their paws with dog booties or paw wax. Ice, salt, and snow can damage paw pads.

Snow Removal Chemicals:Parking lots and walkways are treated with salt and de-icers. These chemicals irritate dog paws. Wipe your dog's paws after walks to remove residue.

Shorter Walks:Dogs can't stay outside as long in winter. Plan shorter, more frequent walks instead of long hikes.

Ice Safety:Keep dogs away from frozen lakes and ponds. Ice can be thin and dangerous.

Summer Considerations

Heat:Summer days in Copper Mountain are warm but not extreme. Temperatures range from 60s to low 80s.

Hike early in the morning before it gets too hot. Bring water for your dog and take breaks in the shade.

Wildlife:Moose, elk, bears, and other wildlife live in Summit County. Keep your dog on-leash and under control. Wildlife encounters can be dangerous for dogs.

Ticks and Insects:Check your dog for ticks after hikes. Summit County has ticks, especially in wooded areas and tall grass.

Local Veterinarians

If your dog gets sick or injured, here are local options:

Alpenglow Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Center (Silverthorne):Open 24/7 for emergencies. About 15 minutes from Copper Mountain.

Summit Veterinary Care (Frisco):Regular veterinary services. Open during business hours. About 10 minutes from Copper Mountain.

Save these numbers in your phone before your trip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Bringing an anxious dog: If your dog has severe separation anxiety or doesn't travel well, boarding them at home might be better than forcing them into a stressful environment.

Leaving dogs alone too long: Don't leave your dog alone in the rental for 8+ hours while you ski. They'll get anxious, bark, and disturb neighbors. Hire a dog sitter or take turns skiing.

Skipping flea and tick prevention: Even in winter, bring flea and tick prevention. Mountain areas have pests year-round.

Not confirming pet policies: Assuming a property allows pets without confirming leads to problems. Always verify.

Why Bringing Your Dog is Worth It

Dogs love mountain adventures. They'll enjoy the trails, fresh air, and time with you. You'll avoid boarding fees and the guilt of leaving them behind.

Copper Mountain is one of the most dog-friendly ski resorts in Colorado. The trails are accessible, the community welcomes dogs, and the environment is perfect for active dogs who love the outdoors.

How We Help

We manage multiple pet-friendly properties across Copper Mountain. When you reach out, let us know you're bringing a dog. We'll show you properties that allow pets, explain the fees, and answer questions about nearby trails and walking areas.

We want your dog to have a great trip too.

Browse Pet-Friendly Properties

Visit larkmountain.com and filter for pet-friendly rentals. Read descriptions, check pet fees, and reach out with questions.

Bring your dog. Enjoy Copper Mountain together.