5 Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in National Parks

Are you a dog lover who travels with your dog everywhere? Me too!  Visiting national parks can be quite difficult when traveling with your dog. Some parks are definitely more dog-friendly than others. Some parks have no dog-friendly hiking options, while others have a few. We have visited 27 of the 63 national parks. Out of the 27, we have taken our dog to 25 national parks, and I’ve come up with a list of my 5 favorite hiking trails within the national park system that are the best for hiking with your dog.  If you are planning a trip to explore the natural wonders of the United States and want to bring your furry friend along, look no further. If your dog loves adventure as much as you, stick around. I’ll guide you through some of the best national parks to hike with your dog, offering breathtaking experiences for you and your canine companion.

1. South Rim Trail in Grand Canyon National Park

Located in Northern Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its awe-inspiring vistas and numerous hiking trails, it’s an ideal place to explore with your dog. It is a jaw-dropping natural feature that everyone should see at least once in their life.  It is also one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world. The best part of this park is that it is very dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed on the trails above the rim, in developed areas around the park, and in campgrounds. The Yavapai Lodge even has dog-friendly rooms. Hiking with your dog along the South Rim Trail is a must. This easy, paved trail has so many overlooks of the canyon with astonishing views. This is an out-and-back trail so you can hike as far as you and your dog want and turn around when you like. Dogs are not allowed on the shuttle so plan accordingly. This trail offers stunning panoramic views of the canyon and is perfect for a leisurely walk with your furry friend.

2.Pa’rus Trail in  Zion National Park

Nestled in southwestern Utah, Zion National Park is renowned for its towering red cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and diverse wildlife. It is another one of those awe-inspiring places that must be seen in person.  Being Utah's first national park, it is a thing of beauty. It’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers alike.  While the most epic places in the park are not dog-friendly, you can still get in some insanely gorgeous hiking with your dog. The Pa'rus Trail is a paved 3.5-mile round-trip trail that follows the Virgin River and offers scenic views of the surrounding cliffs. It is the only dog-friendly trail within the park. We were there at sunrise and the views were stunning.  It is an easy option for a leisurely stroll with your four-legged friend. 

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3. Long Point Trail in New River Gorge National Park

New River Gorge National Park may be one of the newest national parks, but the New River is one of the oldest rivers on the continent. It features stunning river views, rugged cliffs, and numerous recreational activities. Located in Southern West Virginia, NRGNP is very dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed on all trails within the park but I recommend the one with the best view. The Long Point Trail is a moderate 1.6 miles (one way) and has a huge payoff with the best view in the park. After hiking through the forest and rhododendron thicket you are met with panoramic views of the gorge and the New River Gorge Bridge.  If your dog is a nature lover like you, bring them along, you won’t want to miss the incredible views.

4. Rim Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park

Situated in southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for its unique geological formations called hoodoos.  It is home to the largest concentration of hoodoos on Earth, which makes this park very bucket-list worthy. It’s a fantastic destination for hiking enthusiasts.  While this park doesn’t have many dog-friendly hiking options, dogs are allowed on the paved areas within the park which includes a portion of the Rim Trail. A half-mile section of the trail between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point is paved and dog-friendly. This easy trail offers breathtaking views of the amphitheaters and hoodoos.  While it isn't a lengthy hike, it does offer some of the most spectacular views within the park. We were there for sunrise and it was one of the most incredible sights I've ever seen.  The Rim Trail is a great option for a leisurely walk with your furry friend.

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5. Giant Logs Trail in Petrified Forest National Park

Located in northeastern Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park is known for its colorful petrified wood and ancient fossils. It offers a unique opportunity to step back in time. Petrified Forest National Park might not be as well-known as some of the other national parks on my list, but I think it is one of the most interesting. Many of the trails in this park are dog-friendly, but my favorite is the Giant Logs Trail. The petrified logs you see along this trail are so colorful and different. Even though the trail is just under a half mile make sure you save enough time to admire the unique beauty of this ancient park.

And there you have it, my favorite dog-friendly hikes within the national park system that we’ve been to so far.  Do you take your dog on national park trips with you?  Where has your favorite dog-friendly hike been?  Let me know in the comments.  Please don’t forget to sign up for my newsletter, I’ll let you know when I publish new blog posts. Thank you so much for following along, happy travels!