Hiking with your Dog in National Parks and Forests

We love hiking with Roxanne.  Unfortunately, most U.S. national parks prohibit dogs on their hiking trails.   While there are a few exceptions, national parks only allow dogs to walk within 100 feet of paved roads and on paved paths.  All pets must be secured in the vehicle, a crate, or on a leash at all times.

Dave and Rox hiking a paved path at Glacier National Park in 2010.

So where do we hike with Rox?  Dogs are allowed to hike with you freely in national forests, national grasslands, bureau of land management parcels, national monuments, national historic parks, and most national wildlife refuges.  As a result, we often camp in these areas.  Also, because national parks are often surrounded by national forest land, we plan special day hikes outside of the national parks on forest trails.

To make sure that your pet is welcome on any trail, either check at the local visitor's center or go online to view park regulations.

Hiking with your dog in bear country requires additional considerations.  In next week's post, we will address camping and hiking in bear country.