Pets are important members of many families, and a vacation with them at a national park is possible, albeit with limitations.Dogs and cats typically are only allowed in the park’s developed areas, such as drive-in campgrounds and picnic areas, but rarely on trails. They also must be on a leash as well.
So if heading on a day hike, what to do with Rover or Queenie? Some parks offer kennels; short of that, a member of your party will have to stay behind with the pet.
National forests surrounding the national park usually have more lenient rules regarding pets, so if camping you may want to consider pitching a tent there instead, though one of the party will have to stay with the dogs while everyone else hikes the national park.
More tips about hiking national parks:
• What are best times of the year to visit national parks?
• Kid-friendly programs plentiful at Grand Canyon National Park
• Keep hungry bears from breaking into vehicle
Learn more about national park day hiking trails in my Best Sights to See at America’s National Parks guidebook.
