Top Activities For Dogs In Zion National Park

Introduction

National parks are some of the most popular places for tourists because of their diversity, impressive landscapes and the huge array of activities provided. What’s more, these parks are scattered all across the United States so it should not be too hard to find one near your area. However, the biggest drawback of these national parks, particularly for those who love to travel with their dogs, is that most of them have severe restrictions when it comes to guests who bring pets. If you are looking for a significantly dog-friendly national park, Zion National Park is one to check out. Located in Southwestern Utah, this park boasts the Zion Canyon, a 229-square mile canyon that cuts through the Navajo Sandstone. It also has a unique geography and features a diverse ecosystem composed of several different species of animals and plants, making it one of the most visited and popular national parks in the entire country.

Scenic Drive

Popular

0 Votes

Sunny Day

Cheap

Easy

1 - 2 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Waste Bags

Water

Activity description

While dogs are technically not permitted in the majority of the areas in Zion National Park, they are allowed on the major roads in the park as long as they stay inside the vehicle. While this may seem like a mundane activity to do with your dog, the incredible views that you and your pooch can take in while driving beg to differ. Think of this activity as a mini road trip where you get to discover new places, observe some wildlife and enjoy the stunning sceneries. You can even make some short stops at one of the several viewing points found along the highway for some photo-taking sessions.

Step

1

Bring the necessities

The moment you decide to visit Zion National Park with your dog, chances are you have already decided to bring your own car since it is the easiest way to transport your pooch. Moreover, you probably already have a plan as to how long you will be staying in the area. Hence, you need to pack the essentials for your trip. Having a leash that is no longer than 6 feet is important, particularly since your dog is required to be on a leash at all times. Be sure to also have enough water and food for your pooch and some waste bags. Bring some vaccination records as well, in case you need them.

Step

2

Drive through the park

After you have everything packed up and ready to go, make your way to Zion National Park. The journey going to the park is already a road trip in itself, especially if you are coming from another city or state. Upon arrival at the park, check out the scenic roads, such as the famous Zion-Mount Carmel Highway, which runs from the park’s entrance up to the Mount Carmel Junction. Don’t forget to make some stops along the way to take some photos and stretch your legs.

Hike Pa'rus Trail

Popular

0 Votes

Sunny Day

Cheap

Easy

1 - 2 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Food

Water

Collapsible bowl

Waste bags

Activity description

As with almost all national parks in the United States, Zion National Park also has restrictions for hikers who are bringing their dogs with them. However, there is one pet-friendly path where you can bring your pooch without any reservations – the famous Pa’rus trail. This picturesque path stretches for 1.7 miles along the Virgin River banks (3.5 miles round trip). The path is a completely flat and paved trail that can be accessed from the visitor’s center or the Canyon Junction. It may be the only pet-friendly trail but it has more than enough gorgeous scenery for you and your pooch to enjoy.

Step

1

Prepare your things

After a fun and picturesque drive through the park, the next thing to do would be to explore the area by foot. Before trekking through Pa’rus Trail, make sure that you have everything you need. Put your dog on a leash before you start your trek. Also, bring enough food and water for the duration of your hike. Have some waste bags ready for your dog’s “bathroom breaks” as well.

Step

2

Explore the trail

Once you have prepared all your stuff, get your dog securely leashed and start walking through the Pa’rus Trail. Make sure to keep a leisurely pace so that you won’t tire your dog out and you get to truly take in the wonderful sights. Also, don’t forget to clean up after your dog and do not leave any trash behind throughout the 3.5 mile round trip trek.

Doggy Dude Ranch

Popular

0 Votes

Any Day

Moderate

Easy

8 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Food and Treats

Activity description

Although the Zion National Park itself is considered somewhat dog-friendly, it is safe to say that the resources and facilities available to dogs are quite limited. If you want to have the full Zion National Park experience without having to leave your dog behind, the best place for you to bring your pooch to is the Doggy Dude Ranch. This special dog-care facility is located very close to Zion National Park and specifically targets visitors who want to bring their dogs for a grand time. The facility offers a variety of services, including “doggy daycare”, overnight boarding, dog training and dog sports.

Step

1

Contact the facility

If you are planning to leave your dog at the Ranch, make sure to call ahead of time to find out about availabilities, rates and all other information you might want to know about. Once your questions are answered, you may make the necessary reservations for your pooch on the date you have selected.

Step

2

Bring your dog to the Ranch

On the day of your reservation, bring your dog to the Doggy Dude Ranch. Once you arrive at the facility, talk to the front desk or reception and complete your booking. Choose which services you would like to avail for your dog. Then, let them do all the rest of the work to make your dog’s stay at the Ranch fun and entertaining while you set off on your own adventure around the park.

More Fun Ideas...

Have a Picnic Together

While in Zion National Park, guests can bring their dogs in some selected picnic areas and the grounds surrounding the Zion Lodge. This means that you can have a picnic with your pooch during your stay in the park. Just bring a picnic blanket, some food and toys and relax with your dog.

Camp With Your Dog

Aside from the picnic areas, guests of the park can also bring their dogs to a number of campgrounds, so long as they are developed. Bring some camping gear or an RV and camp with your pooch. Just remember that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Moreover, the park rules clearly state that dogs should never be left alone unless the dogs are well-behaved and won’t disturb other campers and if the environmental conditions are safe for the dog.

Conclusion

The Zion National Park is a beautiful and impressive destination that is just waiting to be explored. With a distinctive geography, great animal and plant diversity, scenic views and numerous trails for hiking, the park is undoubtedly one of the top national parks in the country. It also helps that the park is generally dog-friendly. With proper planning, you and your pooch can have the perfect visit to Zion National Park.