Dog Friendly Hikes Bryce Canyon – Are Pet Dogs Allowed in National Parks?

Bryce Canyon is simply magical. The stunning hoodoos are the most unique thing about Canyon, unlike any other thing in the world. Across the Bryce Canyon National Park, there are several hiking trails and so, it is a place loved by tourists from around the globe, especially hikers. People visit Bryce Canyon to explore this spectacular piece of land and even camp here for days. There are several campgrounds and even some local sites where you can easily camp!

Now, when it comes to outings and visiting new places, many people prefer taking their pets, mostly dogs, out with them too. Pets are definitely wonderful companions and accompany you on your trip. Pet owners must be thinking “Does Bryce Canyon allow dogs?” Here’s an answer. In Bryce Canyon, there are a few hiking trails where dogs are allowed. However, they’re not allowed throughout the park. They’re only permitted on paved surfaces in the park, including roads, campgrounds, and paved hiking trails.

So, if you’re somebody planning a day out along with your pet, continue further with our article to read about the best hiking trails for dogs.

Can You Take Dogs into National Parks?

Yes, you can. Most National Parks happily welcome dogs but, you might not be allowed to take your dogs to every place across the park. This is because wild animals may be chased, scared, or infected by them.

Can You Take Dogs into National Parks

Pets often leave behind a scent that can linger long after their owners have left the area, disrupting or altering the behavior of the native animals that the park has been designated to preserve.

Moreover, being animals, dogs might act weird somewhere in the middle of a tough hike where you won’t even find any help. So, for precautionary reasons too, dogs are permitted to only specific areas in National Parks.

Dog-Friendly Hikes in Bryce Canyon

In Bryce Canyon, the only dog-friendly trail is the paved path between Sunrise and Sunset Points, which is about half a mile each way. The trail is interesting but crowded most of the time. There is also no restriction on dogs in campgrounds, on roads, or along with paved viewpoints of the scenic drive except on unpaved trails leading to the views, such as Rim Trail.

If you can’t leave your dog alone at home, but also want to hike your favorite trails, you can leave your dog at the dog sitter/dog kennel. Yes, there’s an amazing dog sitter that keeps your dog with complete care and responsibility.

PawzDogz is a dog kennel located within 30 minutes of Bryce Canyon National Park in Panguitch, Utah. Since PawzDogz is located 30 minutes from Panguitch, they offer doggie shuttle services from Panguitch to hotels and campgrounds within Bryce Canyon. The fee is just $20 per day, plus $5 for pick-up and delivery.

You can expect PawzDogz to pick up your dog around 7 am and return him around 5 pm wherever you are staying. Depending on the number of pickups and drops they have that day, and where, the exact times may vary.

6 Best Hiking Trails for Dogs – Dog-Friendly National Parks, Utah

Even if you can’t hike in Bryce Canyon with your dog on your favorite trails, your pup can still hike among hoodoos! Near Bryce Canyon, in the Dixie National Forest, lies Dog-Friendly Red Canyon. As you drive to the park, you will pass through its red tunnels. The trails in Red Canyon are dog-friendly, unlike those in Bryce Canyon.

6 Best Hiking Trails for Dogs - Dog-Friendly National Parks, Utah

Here are the 6 Best Hiking Trails for Dogs.

  1. Between Sunset and Sunrise Point
  2. Angel Point Trail
  3. Blind Lake in Dixie National Forest
  4. Devil’s Garden Trail in Grand Staircase
  5. Horseshoe Canyon
  6. Little Wild Horse Trail

1. Between Sunset and Sunrise Point

As long as they are kept on a leash at all times, pets are allowed on this 0.5-mile section of the Rim Trail between Sunset and Sunrise Points. Pets may not go below the rim and leashes may not exceed 6 feet.

Taking this paved trail between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point is an excellent way to see the spectacular hoodoos and view the vast amphitheater from various vantage points.

2. Angel Point Trail

Located near Hanksville, Utah, Angel Point Trail is a 13.0-kilometer moderately trafficked out and back trail with a river and a moderate difficulty rating. Visitors can hike on the trail throughout the year and dogs are also allowed on the trail.

Angel Point Trail

Angel Point offers some of the most stunning views in the area. Along the way, you can see different valleys and canyons, and the Henry Mountains loom impressively in the distance. The trail distance is 4 miles one way, and roads of red dirt and sand are maintained. It is an easy hike that is suitable for dog walkers as well.

3. Blind Lake in Dixie National Forest

A 7.2-mile trail leads to Blind Lake near Torrey, Utah. You and your dog can cool off in the refreshing crystal lake on this hike in Dixie National Forest, which features beautiful wildflowers. Hiking this trail is an easy way for anyone and his pet best friend to discover hidden gems with the secret wonders of nature. In autumn, this trail explodes with vibrant colors as the land transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors.

4. Devil’s Garden Trail in Grand Staircase – Escalante

This 1-mile loop trail offers great opportunities for exploration for kids, adults, and dogs, and it’s located near Escalante, Utah. While you and your dog walk, play, climb, and watch birds in this vast desert, take in the solitude, the unique rock formations, flat red rock, and the views of white cliffs.

5. Horseshoe Canyon

There is a 25-mile road leading to Horseshoe, but once you arrive there is just a 2-mile hike. It has a very rich history that makes its hike interesting. Among the site’s attractions are petroglyphs, rock carvings, and cave paintings. You can appreciate the ancient art while your dog enjoys the smells and exercise more on the site.

Horseshoe Canyon

6. Little Wild Horse Trail

Within the San Rafael swell, this hike takes you through a slot canyon. Little Wild Horse itself is just under 3 miles, but the whole Little Wild Horse/Bell Canyon Loop is about 8 miles. The valley is dappled with the light on a clear day when the sun peeks through cracks in the rock, making it worth seeing!

Although the trail is called a ‘little’ wild Horse, it offers various twists and turns, making your visit even more interesting. Dogs and humans alike will enjoy this unique and beautiful hike.

Dog Friendly Hikes Bryce Canyon – Bottom line

Most National Parks do not permit pets on hiking trails. The main purpose is to protect the wildlife and their habitats in the park. Also, trails could be difficult to hike, and having your pets allowed with you is definitely not a good idea. But still, you can enjoy easy to moderate hikes with your dogs. Make sure you have your pet dog on a leash, to ensure the safety of all the visitors and wildlife!

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