Urban Bird Dogs

Things to know before visiting:

Check the park’s website for specific pet regulations. Not all national parks allow dogs, and some have restrictions on where dogs can go and what they must do.

Make sure your dog is up for the hike. Some national parks have long and challenging trails, so make sure your dog is in good physical condition before attempting them.

Be prepared to clean up after your dog. Bring poop bags and be sure to dispose of them properly.

Bring plenty of water for your dog. It’s important to keep your dog hydrated, especially on hot days.

DOG-FRIENDLY NATIONAL PARKS:

Acadia National Park, Maine

Congaree National Park, South Carolina 

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

The Grand Canyon, Arizona: Pets are not allowed to go below the rim or on the Grand Canyon shuttle buses, but they have full access on-leash to 13-miles of the South Rim Trail at the Grand Canyon. If you’re accessing the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, it’s only accessible via the pet-friendly town of Kanab, Utah. It is important to note though that dogs are only allowed to walk the Bridle Path greenway, and some of the Arizona Trail. Neither of these trails will provide views of the canyon. 

Great Sand Dunes National Park, Southern Colorado: The Great Sand Dunes is one of the most dog-friendly national parks in the US. Fun fact about the dunes, they are the tallest dunes in North America! Dogs are allowed to explore the dunes with you as long as you have them on leash. If you have a reactive dog, I recommend going outside of peak hours as the dunes are packed with dogs and their humans during peak hours. 

Yosemite National Park, California 

Zion National Park, Utah 

Arches National Park, Utah

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Big Bend National Park, Texas

Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts

Death Valley National Park, California and Nevada

Everglades National Park, Florida

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park, Washington

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Yosemite National Park, California

**Things to remember before visiting:**

Keep your dog on a leash at all times. This is for the safety of your dog, other visitors, and wildlife.

Be aware of the park’s natural wildlife. Dogs can be startled by wildlife, so keep them close by and under control.

Don’t let your dog disturb wildlife. This includes chasing, barking at, or approaching wild animals.

Be respectful of other visitors. Clean up after your dog and be aware of your surroundings.

Have fun! National parks are a great place to explore with your furry friend. Just be sure to be prepared and respectful of the park and other visitors.

Here are some additional tips for making your trip to a dog-friendly national park more enjoyable:

Pack a doggie first-aid kit.
This should include basic items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers.

Bring a cooling vest or harness for your dog. This can help keep them cool on hot days.

Be aware of the weather conditions and dress your dog accordingly. If it’s cold outside, bring them a sweater or coat.

Take a Break. Dogs get tired too, so make sure to take breaks throughout your hike or exploration.

Leave no trace.
Pack out all of your trash, including your dog’s waste.

With a little planning, you and your dog can have a wonderful time exploring our national parks.