The first time I drove through Zion National Park, I cried. (Don’t worry, they were tears of joy.)
“It’s like a red Yosemite!” I yelled out the window of our rental car, craning my neck to see the bighorn sheep perched atop those soaring crimson walls.
I didn’t know Juno yet on that very first visit, but we’d soon visit Zion together many times. At least once a year from 2016 to 2020. Here are some of the best dog-friendly things to do in and around Zion National Park.
Where Are Dogs Allowed?
Like most National Parks, Zion doesn’t allow dogs on trails. But they are allowed in campgrounds, on roads, and at paved overlooks.
The one exception to the “no dogs on trails” rule is the Pa’rus Trail, a partially paved path near the Visitor Center.
As I first wrote on Instagram, the Pa’rus trail is the least scenic of Zion’s walking paths, following the Virgin River past busy shuttle stops and campground bathrooms. But really, that’s like saying “the worst beach in Hawai’i” or “Sunday is the worst day of the weekend”: even the “worst” is still pretty damn spectacular.
The Best Dog Kennel Nearby
If you’re staying near Zion National Park and need quality dog boarding or dog sitting, I highly recommend the Doggy Dude Ranch. As their website says, “it’s 30,000 feet of fun for your best friend!”
I’ve left Juno in their care twice now, once for dog sitting and once for overnight boarding, and had a great experience both times. As of October 2020, it’s $30/day for doggie day care and just $40/night for overnight dog boarding.
Be sure to book as far in advance as possible, especially during the summer, because the Doggy Dude Ranch often books up!
Best Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Zion
While the Pa’rus trail is the only dog-friendly trail in Zion National Park itself, there are plenty of dog-friendly adventures to be had nearby.
Nearby dog-friendly areas include Snow Canyon State Park, Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, and the Red Canyon section of Dixie National Forest. Stay tuned for longer posts on each of these areas, and in the meantime check them out on AllTrails!
Where to Stay with a Dog
The last time I stayed overnight with Juno near Zion, we stayed in these adorable cabins on Airbnb. They’re dog-friendly with no additional fee and less than a mile away from the park!
Traveling through Utah with your dog and hoping to make a real adventure out of it? Check out my dog-friendly guide to Bryce Canyon National Park!
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