Mount Rushmore Dog Policy
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is Somewhat Dog Friendly
Mount Rushmore features the busts of four former US presidents, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln carved into the mountainside. Mount Rushmore features the history of the United States presidents as well as the history of Native Americans in the area.
Mount Rushmore is somewhat dog friendly. Dogs are only allowed in the parking area (and the green areas surrounding the parking garages) and on the Blackberry Trail (see below). They are not allowed closer up to the actual carvings, so you'll miss out on the good views if you bring your dog and don't have anyone to watch him or her.
Mount Rushmore 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). The area you can walk dogs does have a spot where you can get photos of your dog with the presidential busts in the background, too.
- Website
- https://www.nps.gov/moru/index.htm
- Pet Policy Details
- https://www.nps.gov/moru/planyourvisit/pets.htm
- BARK Ranger
- Yes []
- Annual Visitors
- 2,074,986
Trail Policy
While on a leash, dogs are allowed on the Blackberry Trail, which is about 1 mile long, and connects to Back Hills National Forest. The trail is moderately strenuous, and the trailhead is directly across from the parking lot/parking garage.
BARK Ranger
Bark Ranger is a great program offered at many National Park Service destinations. It teaches dog owners how to explore parks responsibly with their dogs, and participants often receive a special reward after completing the program. Many parks offer a Bark Ranger dog tag, sometimes free and sometimes available for purchase, while others may provide a bandana, sticker, certificate, or another park-specific item. To get started, stop by a park office or visitor center and ask for the Bark Ranger checklist. Once you and your dog complete the activities, return the checklist to receive or purchase the reward offered at that park. See the link below for more details.
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.
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.