Is Zion National Park Dog Friendly?

Zion is truly a wonder of nature that any outdoor enthusiast would like to share with their canine best friend. But can dogs hike in Zion National Park?

IS ZION NATIONAL PARK DOG FRIENDLY?

Located 4,000 miles above sea level and in Springdale, Utah, Zion National Park has numerous trails among its red cliffs and along the bubbling Virgin River. Each year, up to 4.5 million people visit the park to see its waterfalls, cliffs, forests, and hanging gardens.

Zion, like some other national parks, does not allow dogs on many of its trails. Some parts of Zion are dog friendly, but you may be limited on the activities you can do.

However, this doesn’t mean you need to leave your dog at home. Zion National Park does allow dogs on one of its trails, the Pa’rus Trail. Additionally, there are many other dog friendly trails near Zion National Park if you’re willing to drive to them. As long as your dog is on leash, you can also camp with your dog and walk around most public areas in Zion. 

If you go to Zion intent to hike Angels Landing, Observation Point, or the Emerald Pools, read on to discover where to find local options for dog boarding..

ZION NATIONAL PARK PET RULES

The National Park Service (NPS) has set rules regarding pets in their park. If you don’t follow these guidelines, you could be charged a fine up to $100. The rules are as follows:

• Dogs are only allowed to hike on the Pa’rus Trail and must be leashed on a 6 foot leash at all times.
• While on a leash, dogs are allowed on public roads, parking lots, designated campgrounds, picnic areas, and outside the Zion Lodge.
• Dogs and other pets are not allowed in public buildings or on the shuttle buses unless they’re registered service animals.
• All waste must be picked up and placed in trash bins.
• Don’t leave your dog in the car, the hot temperatures aren’t safe.
• Dogs can be left at campsites as long as they’re properly restrained, the weather conditions are mild, and the dog is guaranteed not to make too much noise.

DOG FRIENDLY HIKES IN ZION NATIONAL PARK

The Pa’rus Trail is the only dog friendly trail in Zion. This hiking trail is a total of 3.5 miles out and back and is rated for all skill levels. Those who’ve visited the trail have reported it to be well trafficked.

The trail itself is a paved path that runs along the Virgin River and you’ll likely see vast meadows, beautiful wildflowers, shady groves of trees, footbridges, and views of the rocky peaks. 

When preparing a trip to the Pa’rus Trail, hikers should know that Zion National Park charges fees of up to $35 per vehicle to enter the park. One you arrive in Zion, this trail should be relatively close to the visitor’s center and is most accessible from the overflow parking area behind the Zion Nature Center.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU CAN’T BRING YOUR DOG TO ZION NATIONAL PARK

There are many trails in Zion that unfortunately don’t allow your canine companion, but there are other hikes nearby to enjoy with your pet. Alternatively, if you’re determined to hike the trails in Zion and don’t have a family member or friend to hang back at the campsite, there are several local options for dog boarding.

Alternative Hikes in Utah

While Zion’s canyon and emerald pools are beautiful, there are other options for dog-friendly trails in surrounding parks. For example, you could hike to the unique structure of the Corona Arch in Moab, or visit the many dog friendly trails in Kanab.

Local Dog Boarding near Zion

There are plenty of options for dog boarding in nearby cities, including Rockville, Hurricane, St. George, Kanab, and Cedar City. Here are some possible options to look into:

• Doggy Dude Ranch
• On the Spot-Play & Stay
• Dogtown Pet Spa St. George

WHAT TO PACK TO ZION National Park

Lastly, don’t forget to pack the right gear for your hiking adventure. Whether or not you decide to bring your pup, being in the right gear is important for both safety and making sure you have a good experience!

• Osprey 36L Sirrus Pack and rain cover or Topo Designs Mountain Pack (similar here)
• Leki Corklite Trekking Poles (optional but good if you have bad knees for descending down elevation)
• Hoka One One shoes: Those who follow me know that I ditched my hiking boots a couple of years ago. Shoes are very personal and you should definitely wear what is best for you, but I love having a lighter shoe with cushion on the bottom so my feet don’t hurt. Hoka One Ones are perfect!
• MSR Dromlite 2L: My favorite drom bag, have had it over 8 years and it’s holding up great.
• Icebreaker Merino mid-layer: A great mid-layer when it gets windy/cold in the fall and winter!
• Smartwool Short Sleeve Tshirt: A great t-shirt for when it’s hot. It helps wick away sweat to keep you cool.
• Nike Running Shorts: The hiking world has always pushed for expensive, hiking-specific pants but 90% of the time if I’m not walking through bush, scrambling rocks, or worried about poison oak, I’ll wear Nike running shorts. Mine have held up for over 10 years!

Essential for hiking with your dog:

• Collapsible Dog Bowl
• Mushers Wax: To protect their paws and WAY better than boots in my opinion.

Have you been to Zion National Park with your dog before? What did you think?