The first time I drove through Zion National Park, I cried. (Don’t worry, they were tears of joy.)
“It’s like a red Yosemite!” I yelled out the window of our rental car, craning my neck to see the bighorn sheep perched atop those soaring crimson walls.
I didn’t know Juno yet on that very first visit, but we’d soon visit Zion together many times. At least once a year from 2016 to 2020. Here are some of the best dog-friendly things to do in and around Zion National Park.
Hey fellow dog lovers! If you’re anything like me, planning a vacation without your four-legged buddy feels like leaving a family member behind. I’ve been wondering about bringing my dog to Zion National Park, and I bet you’re curious too. So I did some digging to find out exactly where our pups are welcome in this stunning red rock paradise!
The short answer? Yes, you can take dogs to Zion National Park – but with some pretty significant restrictions. Let’s dive into everything you need to know before packing Fido’s travel bowl.
Where Are Dogs Allowed in Zion National Park?
Like most National Parks (sigh), Zion has some strict rules about where your furry friends can roam. Here’s the breakdown:
Places Your Dog CAN Go in Zion:
- Pa’rus Trail – This is the ONLY trail in the park where dogs are permitted. It follows the Virgin River and is partially paved.
- Developed campgrounds – Your pup can stay with you overnight if you’re camping!
- Public roads and parking areas – Leashed walks along roads are allowed
- Picnic areas – Perfect for a family lunch with your dog
- Zion Lodge grounds – You can explore the area around the lodge
Places Your Dog CANNOT Go in Zion:
- Any other trails besides Pa’rus (yep, that means no Angels Landing or The Narrows with your pup)
- Wilderness areas
- Shuttle buses
- Public buildings
- Backcountry areas
The Pa’rus Trail: Your Dog’s Only Trail Option
The Pa’rus Trail might be the only dog-friendly trail in Zion, but don’t write it off! While it’s definitely not the most spectacular trail in the park (it runs past shuttle stops and campground bathrooms), it still offers some pretty amazing views.
As one dog owner described it, calling the Pa’rus the least scenic trail in Zion is like saying “the worst beach in Hawaii” or “Sunday is the worst day of the weekend” – even the “worst” is still pretty spectacular!
The trail is partially paved and follows the Virgin River making for a pleasant walk with your pup. Just remember that during summer months you’ll need to consider the heat factor for your dog’s paws on that pavement.
The B.A.R.K. Rules for Dogs in Zion
The National Park Service has a cute little acronym to help you remember the rules for bringing dogs to Zion:
- Bag your pet’s poop – You’re responsible for picking up after your pet everywhere in the park
- Always wear a leash – Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times
- Respect wildlife – Keep your pup from harassing park wildlife (those squirrels are tempting, I know!)
- Know where you can go – Stick to the dog-friendly areas listed above
Important Safety Warning: Keep Dogs OUT of the Water!
This is super important, folks! Zion National Park actively monitors for harmful cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins in the Virgin River. These toxins can be extremely dangerous for dogs, who might lick or drink the water.
Dogs are especially vulnerable to cyanotoxin exposure because it’s hard to control how they interact with potentially toxic algal mats. So even if it’s hot and your pup is giving you those sad puppy eyes, KEEP THEM OUT OF THE WATER!
Never Leave Your Dog Alone in the Car
Zion gets HOT. Like, really hot. Vehicle interiors can quickly reach dangerous temperatures during most months of the year. Leaving your pet unattended in a vehicle when it’s hot is not just dangerous—it’s prohibited.
The only place you can leave a properly restrained pet unattended is in developed campgrounds, and only when environmental conditions are safe for them.
What About Service Dogs?
Service animals (as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act) may accompany their owners to all park locations. However, to qualify as a service animal, the dog must be individually trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities.
Just a heads up – emotional support animals, therapy animals, and comfort animals are NOT considered service animals under the ADA, so they’re subject to the same restrictions as pets.
So What Can You Do With Your Dog in Zion?
If you’re feeling a bit disappointed by the restrictions (I feel ya!), don’t worry! There are still ways to enjoy Zion with your furry friend:
- Walk the Pa’rus Trail – It’s about 3.5 miles round trip and offers beautiful views of the Virgin River and canyon walls
- Take scenic drives through the park with your pup (the views from your car window are amazing!)
- Enjoy a picnic in designated areas with your dog
- Camp together in the park’s campgrounds
- Use a dog boarding service for days when you want to explore dog-restricted areas
Dog Boarding Options Near Zion
If you want to hit those dog-restricted trails (and let’s be honest, you probably do), you’ll need a place for your pup to stay. Unfortunately, the Doggy Dude Ranch that was previously recommended near Zion has closed and reopened under new management as “Canyon Paws.”
As of July 2024, Canyon Paws is now open and completely updated. It looks beautiful according to recent visitors! This boarding facility is a great option for leaving your dog while you explore the park’s trails.
Boarding kennels are also available in nearby towns like:
- Rockville
- Hurricane
- St. George
- Kanab
- Cedar City
Just make sure to book as far in advance as possible, especially during the summer months!
Dog-Friendly Alternatives Near Zion
Don’t wanna leave your buddy behind? No problem! There are several dog-friendly hiking areas near Zion where you and your pup can explore together:
- Snow Canyon State Park – Beautiful red rock scenery with dog-friendly trails
- Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park – Let your dog run on pink sand dunes!
- Red Canyon section of Dixie National Forest – Gorgeous dog-friendly trails
- AllTrails app – Check it out for more dog-friendly options in the area
Where to Stay with Your Dog Near Zion
Finding pet-friendly accommodations can sometimes be a pain, but there are options! Some visitors have mentioned cute cabins available on Airbnb that are less than a mile from the park and dog-friendly with no additional fee.
Many hotels and campgrounds in Springdale (the town right outside Zion) also welcome pets, though they might charge an additional fee.
My Personal Experience at Zion With My Dog
The first time I visited Zion, I was blown away by the beauty. Those soaring crimson walls made me feel so tiny! When I returned with my dog Jasper, we had to take turns exploring – one person would hike while the other hung out with him at camp or on the Pa’rus Trail.
Was it a bit inconvenient? Yeah. But was it worth it to have my buddy with me for the trip? Absolutely!
Planning Your Dog-Friendly Zion Trip: Tips and Tricks
If you’re bringing your dog to Zion, here are some tips to make your trip smoother:
- Visit during spring or fall to avoid extreme temperatures
- Bring plenty of water for your dog (and yourself!)
- Pack waste bags – lots of ’em!
- Consider booties for your dog if you’ll be walking on hot pavement
- Research pet-friendly accommodations well in advance
- Book pet boarding early if you plan to use it
- Plan some dog-friendly activities outside the park
- Download AllTrails to find dog-friendly hikes nearby
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Bringing Your Dog to Zion?
So, is it worth bringing your dog to Zion National Park? That depends on your plans and your dog’s temperament.
If you’re planning to spend most of your time hiking the park’s famous trails like Angels Landing or The Narrows, you might want to leave your pup with a friend or at home. The restrictions will significantly limit what you can do together in the park.
However, if you’re okay with splitting your time between the Pa’rus Trail and dog-friendly areas outside the park, or if you’re comfortable using a boarding service for part of your trip, bringing your dog can absolutely work!
Remember, the most important thing is that both you AND your dog have a good time. If that means leaving them home with a trusted sitter so they’re not stuck in a hotel room while you hike, that might be the kindest option.
Have you visited Zion with your dog? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below!
Note: Rules and facilities can change, so always check the official Zion National Park website for the most up-to-date information before your trip.
The Best Dog Kennel Nearby
If you’re staying near Zion National Park and need quality dog boarding or dog sitting, I highly recommend the Doggy Dude Ranch. As their website says, “it’s 30,000 feet of fun for your best friend!” I’ve left Juno in their care twice now, once for dog sitting and once for overnight boarding, and had a great experience both times. As of October 2020, it’s $30/day for doggie day care and just $40/night for overnight dog boarding. Be sure to book as far in advance as possible, especially during the summer, because the Doggy Dude Ranch often books up!
Where Are Dogs Allowed?
Like most National Parks, Zion doesn’t allow dogs on trails. But they are allowed in campgrounds, on roads, and at paved overlooks. The one exception to the “no dogs on trails” rule is the Pa’rus Trail, a partially paved path near the Visitor Center.
As I first wrote on Instagram, the Pa’rus trail is the least scenic of Zion’s walking paths, following the Virgin River past busy shuttle stops and campground bathrooms. But really, that’s like saying “the worst beach in Hawai’i” or “Sunday is the worst day of the weekend”: even the “worst” is still pretty damn spectacular.
Dog Friendly Road Trip – Ep 2 – Zion National Park | Pa’rus Trail & More
FAQ
Is Zion National Park dog friendly?
Which national park is the most dog friendly?
- Acadia National Park, Maine. …
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona. …
- Yosemite National Park, California. …
- Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado. …
- Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. …
- White Sands National Park, New Mexico.
Can I hike the narrows with my dog?
One of the most iconic hikes in the U.S. is the Narrows in Zion National Park—towering canyon walls, flowing water, and stunning light. It’s the kind of trail every adventure lover dreams of. But here’s the catch: dogs aren’t allowed!
Are any national parks in Utah dog friendly?
In Canyonlands National Park, paved scenic drives and parking lots, as well as the Potash/Shafer Canyon road between Moab and Island in the Sky, are welcome …