Top Dog-Friendly National Parks
Our dogs love exploring America’s backcountry just as much as we do and sometimes even more! While many National Parks don’t allow dogs on their trails (and for good reasons), there are still plenty of amazing pet-friendly spots where your furry friend can roam free and enjoy the great outdoors alongside you.
Dogs are considered predatory animals in many parks, which can threaten local wildlife. Plus, their scents and sounds can disrupt native animals and even introduce diseases. But don’t worry—there are plenty of trails and parks where pups are welcome.
Grand Canyon National Park, UT
The South Rim Trail is perfect for dogs, easy to navigate and spanning 13 miles. Just be mindful of heat and altitude, which can lead to quicker dehydration. Bring plenty of water and a collapsible bowl for your pup.
Acadia National Park, ME
With nearly 200 miles of trails and carriage roads, there’s plenty of ground for your dog to cover. The coastal views are incredible, too! Just remember dogs aren’t allowed in lakes used for public water supplies. The Lower Harbor Trail is a calm, dog-friendly walk.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
Though dogs aren’t allowed on most trails here, the Gatlinburg Trail is a great exception. This mostly flat, 2-mile walk along the Little Pigeon River is scenic and fun. Dogs are also welcome in many campsites and picnic areas. For more mountainous hiking with pups, the nearby Cherokee National Forest has plenty of dog-friendly trails.
Yosemite National Park, CA
Only two trails allow dogs: the Wawona Meadow Loop and the Mirror Lake Trail. Both offer stunning scenery and are perfect for pups to explore just a few hours east of San Francisco.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO
Wide-open sand dunes await your adventurous dog! Beyond the dunes, this park offers wetlands, forests, alpine lakes, and grasslands. It can get hot and sandy, so pack accordingly... but your pup will love cooling off in Medano Creek.
Great Falls National Park, VA
Just 15 miles from Washington, D.C., this park features spectacular waterfalls and rugged cliffs. Dogs on leashes are welcome on all trails, picnic areas, and viewpoints.
Olympic National Park, WA
With coastlines, rainforests, and glacier-capped peaks, this park has it all. Kalaloch Beach and its campground are dog-friendly spots where your pup can enjoy the beach. For more alpine hiking, Olympic National Forest borders the park and offers 250 miles of dog-friendly trails.
Spring means warmer days and greener trails, but it also means sweatier hikes for you and your pup. Stay cool and dry while showing off your canine bond with our Dog Dreaming Tee or Hiking Buddy Tee.
Leave a comment