Strict Rules You Need To Know Before Bringing A Pet To Grand Canyon National Park

Nestled in northwestern Arizona, Grand Canyon National Park stands as one of America's most iconic outdoor destinations. One of the country's most iconic landmarks — as well as one of the most filmed national parks in the U.S. — the park is home to billions of years of Earth's history. Drawing in nearly 5 million visitors in 2023 alone — and contributing a whopping $768 million to the local economy — the park's dramatic cliffs and colorful landscapes are a sight to be seen.

Specifically, it's the park's geological formations that draw in the big crowds. Especially its vast gorge — carved by the Colorado River over millions of years — which stretches 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and plunges for more than a mile deep. And while many visitors choose to explore this natural wonder alongside their families and friends, there are adventurers out there who also dream of bringing along another companion: their pet.

One of the best vacation destinations in the U.S. for dog lovers, Grand Canyon National Park welcomes pets with designated trails and pet-friendly accommodations. However, visiting the park with your pet isn't as easy as just packing up and heading out. In fact, there's a very specific list of rules and regulations designed to protect animals, their owners, and the park's ecosystem. From leash requirements to trail access and pet-friendly boarding options, understanding these rules will ultimately make for a much more pleasant experience for everyone involved.

Although the Grand Canyon welcomes pets of all sizes, the park also enforces some pretty strict regulations within its boundaries to ensure the safety of its guests and their fury friends. For starters, dogs must remain leashed at all times — keep in mind this leash must be no longer than 6 feet long — and cannot be left unattended or locked inside your vehicle.

As for where your pet is allowed to go, it all depends on which area of the park you're visiting. On the South Rim, for example, leashed pets can explore all of the trails above the rim, as well as visit developed areas — including Mather Campground, Desert View Campground, and Trailer Village. If you're planning an overnight stay, the park's Yavapai Lodge offers the only pet-friendly rooms for an additional $35 a night fee per pet.

Over on the North Rim, the options are a little more limited. This area of the park only allows leashed pets on the small trail that connects the North Kaibab Trail — and a segment of the Arizona Trail — to the park entrance. Beyond that, it's worth noting that no pets are permitted below the canyon rim or on park shuttle buses, with the exception of service animals assisting people with disabilities.

Beyond keeping your four-legged friend on a leash, Grand Canyon National park also enforces some pretty strict rules about what activities you're allowed to enjoy alongside your pet. Specifically — and this is pretty niche — the park dictates that no cats, dogs, or other domestic animals are allowed to participate in rafting trips down the Colorado River. This, to prevent any unfortunate accidents — especially considering that drowning is still one of the leading causes of death in U.S. national parks. So if you're planning on hitting the water, it's always best to leave your pet at home where it'll be safe.

Speaking of safety, it's also important to consider the park's unique environmental factors. For example, during the summer months, the park's high temperatures and elevation can affect your pet's health — leading to issues such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, or altitude sickness. As such, it's always important that you carry enough water for yourself and them, as well as bring snacks, cooling supplies, and even paw protection when necessary.

And if you're planning on hiking with your pet, make sure you're aware and ready to follow the park's rules on everything from disposing of your pet's poop properly while on the trails to keeping them away from wildlife, and respecting trail boundaries.