Did you know that you’ll find many dog friendly hikes near Southern Utah?
Looking for a fun outdoor adventure this year that the whole family can enjoy, including your furry best friend? Check out our list of dog friendly hikes in Southern Utah! You’ll find everything from easy nature walks to more challenging trails that offer amazing views. We’ve got you covered whether you’re looking for a National Park or state park to explore. So grab your pup and get ready for some hiking fun!
Dog-Friendly National Parks In Utah
1. Zion National Park
One of the most popular trails at this National Park in Utah, is pet friendly! It’s the Pa’rus Trail, which begins at the Zion Canyon Visitor Center. Feel free to bring your dog on a leash to see some spectacular sights.
2. Bryce Canyon National Park
Even though dogs are not permitted on unpaved trails of this park, they are allowed on part of the Shared-use Path and a section of the Rim Trail. It’s a 0.5-mile section between Sunset and Sunrise Points with a scenic, panoramic path where pets are allowed, as long as they are on a leash at all times. Also, you can bring your pet to campgrounds, viewpoint areas, paved roads, and parking lots.
3. Capitol Reef National Park
In this park, leashed pets are allowed in the picnic areas, orchards, paved and dirt roads, and campgrounds. While the distance may be a bit farther than the others, the sights and experience are well worth it!
Dog Friendly Hikes near St. George
There are many outdoor activities and dog friendly hikes within an hour drive of St. George, Utah. These are some great hikes to do with dogs while visiting Zion National Park or any part of southern Utah.
1. Scout Cave Trail – Snow Canyon State Park
The Scout Cave Trail is a 4.4 mile out and back trail with moderate elevation gain. This trail is a dog friendly hike that includes an eponymous cave. The trail ends at a small cave that hikers can climb up to explore and make some memories with their best friend!
2. Coral Pink Sand Dunes
This is a great place to bring your pup for some off-leash play! There are no actual trails in this state park, but you can create your own path up around these uniquely colored sand dunes. There are lots of open areas to explore and plenty of room to run around. Just make sure that you keep an eye on your dog at all times and be aware of other people and animals in the area.
3. Red Reef Trail – Red Cliffs Recreation Area
This trail is 5.9 miles, but most of the people stick to the easiest part which is 1.5 miles. The end of that part is easily identified by a small waterfall and pool.
4. Third Ravine Loop – West of St. George Utah
Third Ravine is a 5 mile dog friendly loop hike. The trail wanders through a narrow gorge before climbing to awesome views at the top of a mesa.
5. Dino Cliffs Trail – Washington Utah
Located in Washington Utah. This 3 mile trail is a family and dog friendly hike in southern Utah. You only need to walk about 200 yards from the west end of the trail to see dinosaur footprints in the wash.
6. Elephant Arch Trail
Unlike the more famous Utah arches in the eastern part of the state, Elephant Arch can be visited with a dog. The out and back trail is just under 4 miles and ends at an arch that resembles the head of an elephant. The trail has only a few hundred feet of elevation gain, but the soft, sandy track makes the hike more challenging.
7. Dixie Rock Hike – Pioneer Park on Red Hills Parkway.
The Dixie Rock hike is a 1.3 mile loop that takes you to the scenic overlook mentioned above. The trail is well maintained and is moderately easy to complete. Dogs are allowed on the trails; however, they must be kept on a leash.
More dog friendly hikes near Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks
1. Red Hollow – East of Cedar City (just a few minutes up Cedar Canyon)
Red Hollow is perfect for hiking, running, climbing, and leashed dogs. It provides over 12 miles of trails and is classified as moderate in intensity, so be sure to bring water and a snack for both you and your best friend.2. Spring Creek Canyon
This trail totals 5.3 miles out and back and is considered moderate. It’s perfect for hiking and photography since it offers red rocks, Kanarra Creek, and some beautiful waterfalls. Remember to keep your dog on leash.3. Dixie National Forest
All the trails in the Dixie National Forest are pet friendly, as long as you keep them on leash. Some favorite trails are the Bristlecone Pine Trail, Duck Creek and Aspen Mirror Pond Trails, and Cascade Falls.Tips for Hikes with Dogs
– You and your pup want to enjoy these pet-friendly places to the fullest, and you also want to make sure other visitors are, too. Bring a leash to all the Utah parks, as well as bags to pick up after your pet (and dispose of solid waste in appropriate containers).
– When enjoying these dog-friendly trails in southern Utah, be sure to bring water and snacks for you and your pet. (Not all water sources are good for drinking).
– These places can get hot, so use appropriate protective gear and watch for signs of overheating from your dog. If you’re visiting a park during summer and want to hit a trail where your pal isn’t allowed, keep in mind that car temperatures rise very quickly in the sun. Prevent the danger of overheating.
Remember, that at Coral Canyon Resort we have an amazing pet friendly unit, where you and your whole family can enjoy the area. So, If you and your pup are looking for a fun adventure this year, be sure to check out one of these dog friendly hikes in Southern Utah! You’re both sure to love it.