Bryce Canyon Dog Policy
Bryce Canyon National Park is Somewhat Dog Friendly
Bryce Canyon is famous for its multi-colored hoodoos, which are irregular columns of rock. The park hosts the largest groups of hoodoos in the world. The park is set at high altitude on the Paunsaugunt Plateau, and, in addition to its spectacular geography, hosts a variety of wildlife as well as great views of dark skies at night.
Bryce Canyon National Park is not the most dog friendly of National Parks. However, dogs are allowed on paved surfaces, which includes viewpoints, campgrounds, parking lots, roads and several small sections of trails.
NPS Map of Where Pets are Permitted
Bryce Canyon also runs the BARK Ranger Program, where you can earn a special dog tag by learning and following responsible practices (see the BARK Ranger section below).
- Website
- https://www.nps.gov/brca/index.htm
- Pet Policy Details
- https://www.nps.gov/brca/planyourvisit/pets.htm
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
- Area
- 56 mi2
- Annual Visitors
- 1,464,655
Trail Policy
Dogs are allowed only on limited paved trails:
- The paved section of the Rim Trail between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point
- The paved Shared Use Path between the park entrance and Inspiration Point
Dogs are not allowed on any other trails at Bryce Canyon National Park. Pets may not be left in vehicles while their owners hike.
Campground Policy
Dogs are allowed at campgrounds at any paved areas, as long as they're on a 6' leash.
BARK Ranger
Bark Ranger is a really great program that some National Park Service destinations run. The Bark Ranger program teaches dog owners responsible behaviors with their dogs, and in return you get a special dog tag that’s different for each park (note: some parks require you to purchase the tag at the end). You start the program by going to a park office and picking up a checklist. When you complete the checklist (see the link below for more details), you can get your special dog tag.
B.A.R.K. is an acronym for:
- B: Bag your poop
- Help keep the park clean by bagging and picking up your dog poop, and properly disposing of it. Don’t leave your bagged poop on the side of the trail, hanging from branches, or throw it into the woods. Please note dog poop is not a natural fertilizer — it can carry disease that can spread to wildlife or other dogs.
- A: Always wear a leash
- Dogs must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6'. Retractable leashes that extend beyond 6' are not allowed. Not everyone appreciates a dog running up to them, and many people are scared or allergic to dogs — a leash prevents uncomfortable situations between your dog and others. Leashes also help protect your dog from running off if anything spooks them.
- R: Respect wildlife
- Dogs can chase or scare wildlife such as birds and turtles. They can also damage nesting areas. Some parks have wildlife, such as bears, coyotes, or wolves, that can threaten your dog. Please be respectful of wildlife with your dog, and if you do encounter wildlife, keep dog at distance to protect both your dog and the wildlife.
- K: Know where to go
- Know which trails allow dogs, and which don’t. Don’t leave dogs unattended in vehicles while you go off to hike. See the link below for more details.
For more information on the Bark Ranger program, please see: https://www.nps.gov/brca/planyourvisit/pets.htm#onthisPage-1
We also have a list of all parks that run the BARK Ranger program.
Location & Map
Have a photo of your dog here?
Note: Policies can change -- please make sure to check official dog/pet policies prior to making plans or booking travel.
Please tell us if you think there’s anything we should add or change on this page.