People with dogs love to hike, and there are plenty of great trails across the country that welcome four-legged friends. From easy walks to more challenging treks, here are some of the best dog-friendly national parks in the United States. These parks offer plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views that you and your furry friend can enjoy.
Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend National Park is a great place to take your dog for a hike. With over 150 miles of trails, there’s plenty of room to explore. The Chihuahuan Desert landscape offers a unique and beautiful setting for a hike, and your dog will love sniffing around in all the new smells. Be sure to bring plenty of water for both of you, as it can get quite hot in the desert.
Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park, Colorado
This is a place made for hiking with your dog. Black Canyon in Gunnison National Park offers incredible views of North America’s steepest and deepest canyon. There are plenty of trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s the perfect level of difficulty for you and your pup. And since it’s located in Colorado, you can be sure there will be plenty of breathtaking scenery.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
Already known as one of the most beautiful national parks, Crater Lake is also great for hiking with your dog. Several trails wind around the lake, offering stunning views the whole way. And since it’s located in Oregon, you can be sure the air will be nice and fresh for your pup.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico
We couldn’t make a list of dog-friendly national parks without including at least one cave. Carlsbad Caverns National Park is home to many caves, making it a great place to explore with your four-legged friend.
Many trails are short and easy, perfect for a leisurely hike. But if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also find longer and more challenging trails.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah
This national park is full of tall hoodoos and thin spires of rock. It’s a unique landscape and one that your dog will love exploring. There are plenty of trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s the perfect level of difficulty for you and your pup.
Tips and Tricks for visiting a National Park with your Dog
Now that we decided we would take a dog to the National Park, we were ready. You do not want to leave and discover that you are unprepared. Keep reading for helpful tips on visiting the National Parks with the dogs.
Be flexible
Each year you can transform your visit to your favorite park. Sometimes sections of the park are closed, or certain trail closures are caused by the seasons or construction. Always take precautions in case your dog’s friendly trail is closed. Keep in mind that not everything has the best wireless network, so it would be wise for people to select a few options before going. Think about which trails you should take and plan accordingly in your own time. You can go to the museum whenever everything fails and ask a ranger about finding a trail.
Do your research
The quickest way to discover the park and visit it is to research the area that your dog visited thoroughly. All national parks have their rules on dog behavior. In some parks, dogs are allowed on many trails. There is always a way to know which routes to follow and decide which to take with the dog. The last thing you’ll do is quickly look for National Parks where dogs are allowed only for the first day of your trip. Avoid these mishaps by thoroughly researching the site and planning your visits.
Come Prepared
Some dogs require very little care and a few toys. Sometimes we forget our needs unless we go on long hiking expeditions. Take a good amount of common sense when hiking. Having a dog that is thirsty, hungry, or hurting should never be a necessity. They need you for everything.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are dogs allowed in any US national parks?
No, dogs are not allowed in all US national parks. Each park has different rules regarding pets.
Can dogs go to Yellowstone park?
No, Yellowstone does not allow pets within the park boundaries. They have some limits, and you can see that on their official website!
Is Zion national park pet Friendly?
Zion does allow pets on most trails and in the campgrounds. There are a few areas where pets are not allowed, so check the rules before you go!
Final Verdict: Dog-friendly national parks in the US
Dogs are allowed in many of America’s National Parks, but each park has its pet regulations. It is important to do your research and come prepared before taking your furry friend on a hike through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
Pet owners can rejoice from Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park, knowing that their pup is welcome on most trails! Just be sure to check the rules and regulations beforehand to have a safe and enjoyable experience.
