Traveling to Zion National Park with Dogs: How to Make It a Pawsome Adventure!
Traveling to Zion National Park with Dogs: How to Make It a Pawsome Adventure
Thinking about taking your four-legged friend on your next trip to Zion National Park? Good news—your pup can absolutely join in on the adventure (with a little planning). Between sniff-worthy trails, pup-friendly patios, and the perk of free dog boarding at Canyon Paws when you stay 3 nights or more at the Canyon Casitas, your Zion getaway can be as tail-waggingly fun for your dog as it is for you.
Can Dogs Hike in Zion?
Zion National Park is jaw-droppingly beautiful, but it’s also a protected space, so there are rules about where your pup can explore. Dogs are welcome on the Pa’rus Trail—a paved, 3.5-mile (round-trip) path that winds along the Virgin River with gorgeous canyon views. It’s a mellow walk, perfect for morning or sunset strolls, and it’s the only trail inside the park where dogs are allowed.
The rest of the park’s trails are off-limits to pets (for their safety and the local wildlife), but don’t worry—you can still find plenty to do nearby. Springdale, the charming town just outside the park, has multiple dog-friendly spots, and there are tons of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands and state parks nearby where your pup can run wild (on leash, of course).
Dog-Friendly Fun Beyond the Park
Want your dog to get more than just one trail’s worth of exercise? Check out:
Kolob Terrace Road: Scenic drives with pull-offs where leashed pups can explore.
Gooseberry Mesa: Epic views and wide-open spaces for leashed hiking.
Sand Hollow State Park: A fun place for water-loving dogs to splash around.
What If You Want to Tackle the Big Hikes?
Some of Zion’s most iconic trails—like Angel’s Landing, Observation Point, or The Narrows—are a no-go for pups. But don’t worry: when you stay 3 nights or more at the Canyon Casitas, dog boarding at Canyon Paws is free.
That means while you’re out hiking the big trails, your dog can spend the day lounging, playing, and making new furry friends at a trusted, local boarding facility—without you having to worry (or pay extra). At the end of your adventure, you can scoop them up for a cozy evening back at your Casita.
Dog-Friendly Eats and Lounging
After a day of exploring, you and your pup can relax in style. the bit and spur, right next door, has dog-friendly patios where your dog can snooze under the table while you enjoy a margarita and some tacos. And at the Canyon Casitas, you’ll have plenty of space to relax—private patios, fire pits, and even nearby trails for a quick walk before bed.
Tips for a Stress-Free Trip with Your Pup
Bring plenty of water (it’s the desert, after all).
Keep your pup leashed at all times—Zion is home to critters they’ve never met before (hello, mule deer).
Plan around the weather; fall and spring are ideal, but summer heat can be tough on paws.
Book your Casita early—especially if you want to take advantage of the free Canyon Paws boarding perk.
Make It a Dog-Friendly Zion Getaway
Whether your pup is strolling the Pa’rus Trail, exploring the outskirts of the park, or enjoying a day of pampering while you conquer the big hikes, a Zion vacation can be fun for the whole pack. Book your 3+ night stay at Zion Canyon Casitas and let us treat your dog to a little vacation of their own at Canyon Paws—on us.