Pet Friendly Bryce Canyon Trails and Dog Friendly Travel Tips for Southern Utah

When you think of Bryce Canyon, images of towering hoodoos, dramatic cliffs, and expansive red rock amphitheaters probably come to mind. But if you’re like most pet owners, the question that comes next is, “Can I bring my dog?” Good news: Bryce Canyon and the surrounding region offer plenty of ways to enjoy Southern Utah’s iconic scenery without leaving your four-legged best friend behind. While national parks aren’t always known for being pet friendly, Bryce Canyon is part of a growing effort to welcome responsible pet travelers. With a bit of preparation, you and your pup can share the kind of outdoor adventures that make memories for a lifetime.

Understanding the Rules: Where Dogs Are Allowed in Bryce Canyon

Let’s start with what you need to know before you go. The National Park Service does allow dogs in Bryce Canyon National Park, but there are specific guidelines you’ll want to follow. Pets are welcome on paved surfaces only, which includes all campgrounds, paved roads, parking lots, and a few key trails. The main pet friendly hiking trail inside the park is the Rim Trail between Sunrise Point and Sunset Point. This short, scenic stretch gives you some of the most jaw-dropping views in the park without breaking any rules. Dogs must be leashed at all times and are not allowed on shuttle buses, in buildings, or on most unpaved trails within the park boundary. While that might sound limiting, the reality is that you can still experience some incredible Bryce Canyon views with your dog. That paved portion of the Rim Trail is arguably one of the most iconic, and walking it with your pup during sunrise or sunset is truly unforgettable. The overlook views are second to none, and you’ll be able to snap some amazing photos with your dog against a backdrop that looks like something from another planet.

Top Pet Friendly Trails and Outdoor Areas Nearby

The key to maximizing your pet friendly Bryce Canyon adventure is to think just outside the box. Bryce Canyon National Park may have strict pet rules, but the surrounding area offers miles and miles of scenic dog-friendly trails with far fewer restrictions. Red Canyon, located just 15 minutes west of Bryce along Scenic Byway 12, is a paradise for dog lovers. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Red Canyon allows leashed dogs on nearly all its trails. The area looks like a miniature version of Bryce Canyon, complete with its own red rock spires, slot canyons, and pine-lined paths. Popular hikes like the Pink Ledges Trail, Arches Trail, and Golden Wall Trail offer varying levels of difficulty and stunning views throughout. These trails are far less crowded than Bryce proper and often provide more freedom to stop, take breaks, or snap the perfect photo of your pup exploring the red rock wilderness. You’ll also find dog friendly adventures within Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. While it’s a little further out, this protected area covers nearly two million acres of wild, remote landscapes. Many trails here are dog friendly, and since it’s managed by the Bureau of Land Management, the regulations are more relaxed. Just make sure to bring extra water and avoid hot midday treks in the summer. Even in spring and fall, Southern Utah’s dry climate means your pup will need hydration often.

Packing for Your Dog: Travel Tips for Southern Utah Pet Owners

Traveling with your dog in Southern Utah is all about preparation. The climate is dry, the sun is intense, and the distances between towns or services can be long. Always pack more water than you think you’ll need, both for yourself and your pet. A collapsible bowl and a lightweight dog pack can help lighten your load. You’ll also want sturdy booties for your pup if you’re venturing out on rocky or sandy trails. Sharp rocks and hot surfaces can damage their paws before you realize there’s a problem. Early morning or late evening hikes are best during warmer months to avoid overheating, especially for short-nosed or long-haired breeds. You should also carry poop bags and pack out all waste. Many areas in Southern Utah, including Bryce Canyon, have fragile ecosystems that can be harmed by even small amounts of organic waste. When it comes to lodging, the towns of Tropic, Panguitch, and Bryce Canyon City all offer pet friendly hotels, cabins, and RV parks. Always check the details in advance, since pet fees and policies vary. If you’re camping, the Sunset Campground inside Bryce Canyon allows pets and offers easy access to the pet-friendly Rim Trail. Red Canyon also has its own campground that’s more spacious and equally scenic, and pets are welcome there too.

Local Amenities: Where to Eat, Stay, and Stock Up

Bryce Canyon travel guides don’t always include pet specific recommendations, but we’ve got you covered. If you need pet supplies, Panguitch is your best bet for a small town general store or supply run. Larger towns like Cedar City and Kanab are about 90 minutes away and have full-service pet stores and veterinary clinics, in case you run into any emergencies or need a break from backcountry adventuring. For food, many cafes in the area have patios or outdoor seating that allow pets. Just check ahead or call to confirm. In Bryce Canyon City, you’ll find Ruby’s Inn and other restaurants that offer shaded outdoor seating, which can be perfect for a post-hike meal with your furry co-pilot.

Helicopter Tours and Pet Travel: How to Make It Work

You might be wondering, can I bring my dog on a helicopter tour? While the short answer is no, we’ve got a workaround that still keeps everyone happy. Bryce Canyon Helicopters operates tours daily and offers scenic flights over the canyon and surrounding region. These tours are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that give you a whole new perspective on Southern Utah’s landscape. For pet parents, the solution is to plan your flight at a time when someone in your group can stay with the dog or during cooler parts of the day when your pup is comfortable waiting in a well-ventilated vehicle. Flights range from 15 to 55 minutes and depart just minutes from the park entrance. It’s a quick but unforgettable add-on to your adventure. Trust us, you won’t regret seeing Bryce from above. It’s a perspective even the best trails can’t match.

Final Thoughts: Your Dog Deserves This Trip Too

Traveling with your pet doesn’t mean giving up the best parts of your vacation. Bryce Canyon and its neighboring landscapes are filled with pet friendly options that don’t feel like compromises. Between national park overlooks, scenic forest trails, and wide open backcountry, your dog can experience some of the most stunning terrain in the country right alongside you. Just plan ahead, pack smart, and remember to leave no trace. The more we prove that pet travel can be responsible travel, the more doors it opens for future explorers, both two-legged and four. If you’re planning your Southern Utah trip and wondering whether to bring your pup, the answer is yes. And if you want the ultimate capstone to your vacation, let us take you above it all. Helicopter tours with Bryce Canyon Helicopters are the perfect way to see the places your dog can’t. And when you reunite, you’ll both be grinning like you just conquered the canyon together.

Created On 12 May 2025