Utah’s stunning landscapes aren’t just for humans – our four-legged friends deserve to explore them too!
From the iconic red rock formations of Moab to the serene alpine meadows near Salt Lake City, Utah is full of trails where your canine companion can join the adventure.
I’ve tracked down the best dog-friendly hiking spots across the Beehive State, offering the ideal mix of excitement, safety, and tail-wagging fun for both you and your furry hiking partner.
1. Fisher Towers: Red Rock Playground for Pups
These wonderful sandstone formations create a Mars-like landscape that both you and your dog will remember forever. The 2.2-mile trail offers plenty of shade breaks and natural water pools after rain – perfect for a quick doggy cool-down.
I brought my Lab mix here last spring, and she couldn’t stop sniffing the unique desert scents! Just watch those paws on hot summer days as the sandstone can heat up quickly.
The trail ends with spectacular views of Castle Valley and the Colorado River. Pack extra water and start early to avoid midday heat – your pup will thank you with endless tail wags throughout this unforgettable Moab adventure.
2. Mary Jane Canyon: Splash-Worthy Creek Hike
If your dog loves the water, they’re in for a treat! This 7-mile round-trip hike follows Mill Creek through a stunning slot canyon with countless opportunities for your pup to splash and cool off. The shallow creek bed serves as your trail for much of the journey, making this a refreshing summer option.
The canyon walls rise dramatically on either side, creating a magical corridor of red rock. Your dog will love navigating the gentle water crossings while you marvel at the geological wonders above.
Bring water shoes for yourself and a quick-dry towel for your furry friend. The trail ends at a beautiful waterfall – a great spot for a quick snack break before heading back through this magical Moab oasis.
3. Grandstaff Trail: Shaded Canyon Retreat
Formerly known as Negro Bill Canyon, this 4-mile round-trip trail offers something rare in Moab – abundant shade! Your dog will appreciate the cooler temperatures as you follow a year-round stream through a lush, green corridor surrounded by towering red walls.
The trail features multiple stream crossings where your pup can take refreshing breaks. Keep them leashed around the deeper pools – some have swift currents after rainfall.
Your reward at the end? The spectacular Morning Glory Natural Bridge, spanning 243 feet across the canyon. We visit every April when desert wildflowers dot the trail and temperatures hover in the perfect 70s. The combination of water, shade, and manageable distance makes this Moab’s premier dog-friendly hike.
4. Corona Arch: Natural Wonder Walkabout
Skip the crowded national parks and take your pup to this equally impressive arch instead! Unlike Arches National Park (where dogs aren’t allowed on trails), Corona Arch welcomes your four-legged explorer on this 3-mile round-trip adventure.
The trail crosses open slickrock with some cable-assisted sections that athletic dogs handle with ease. Just be mindful of your dog’s comfort level with heights.
The massive 140-foot Corona Arch awaits at the end, providing a jaw-dropping photo opportunity with your best friend. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds – you’ll feel like you have this spectacular Moab landmark all to yourselves.
5. Jeep Arch: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
Hidden gem alert! While everyone heads straight for the famous arches, you and your pup can soak up this lesser-known spot in peace. The 4-mile round-trip route requires some route-finding skills – perfect for adventurous pups who love to explore!
The trail climbs moderately through stunning red rock terrain before revealing the uniquely shaped arch that resembles a Jeep logo. Seriously, I almost missed it until my German Shepherd started barking excitedly in its direction!
Pack plenty of water and download a trail map before heading out. The spectacular views of the Colorado River and La Sal Mountains make this secluded Moab trek worth the extra effort. Your dog will love the diverse landscape and the opportunity to explore a path less traveled.
6. Bonneville Shoreline Trail: Urban Escape With Mountain Views
City dogs need nature too! This extensive trail system follows the ancient shoreline of prehistoric Lake Bonneville, offering accessible adventure from multiple Utah cities. The well-maintained path provides stunning valley views without requiring a long drive from urban areas.
Sections vary in difficulty, so you can choose the perfect segment for your dog’s fitness level. The Salt Lake City portion offers over 100 miles of interconnected trails – we’ve been exploring different sections for years and still haven’t covered them all!
Most segments allow off-leash hiking in designated areas, giving your pup freedom to explore safely. Watch for mountain bikers sharing the trail, especially on weekends. This trail network is just the thing for city pups and their humans craving a quick dose of nature.
7. Mill Creek Canyon: Stream-Side Paradise
Just 20 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City lies this puppy paradise with crystal-clear streams, dense forests, and cool mountain air. The canyon features numerous interconnected trails, but the Pipeline Trail stands out as the most dog-friendly option with its gentle grade and consistent shade.
Dogs can be off-leash on odd-numbered days – mark your calendar for maximum freedom! The creek parallels much of the trail, providing endless opportunities for water play during summer months.
Unlike many Utah canyons, Mill Creek stays relatively cool even in July and August. The $5 entrance fee is a small price for this accessible escape. We visit at least monthly year-round, and my Retriever mix still gets excited when we turn onto the canyon road – a true testament to this Salt Lake City gem!
8. Antelope Island State Park: Wildlife Watching With Fido
Where else can your dog potentially spot free-ranging bison, pronghorn antelope, and bighorn sheep? This island in the Great Salt Lake offers several dog-friendly trails with wildlife viewing opportunities you won’t find elsewhere in Utah.
The 7-mile round-trip Lakeside Trail provides easy walking with constant lake views. Keep your pup leashed to protect both wildlife and your curious canine – those bison may look docile but can charge if provoked!
Pack extra water as the island has limited shade. Spring and fall bring perfect temperatures and fewer insects than summer months. The surreal landscape where mountains meet salt flats creates an otherworldly backdrop for your adventure. The $10 entrance fee grants access to multiple trails for a full day of unique exploration with your four-legged naturalist.
9. Jordan River Parkway: Urban Waterway Wander
Concrete jungle got your pup down? This 40-mile paved trail follows the Jordan River through multiple Salt Lake City neighborhoods, offering an accessible nature escape without leaving the city. The well-maintained path features frequent water access points where your dog can splash safely.
Numerous parks connect to the trail, providing perfect picnic spots and restroom facilities. My senior dog loves this trail for its flat terrain and predictable surface – no scrambling required for older or mobility-limited pups!
We often spot river birds, beavers, and even the occasional fox during quieter morning walks. The trail connects several dog parks too, making it easy to combine a structured walk with some off-leash playtime. For city-dwelling dogs needing regular exercise, this continuous green corridor delivers reliable adventure year-round.
10. Historic Union Pacific Rail Trail: Mountain Valley Trek
Trains may no longer rumble through this corridor, but plenty of paws do! This 28-mile converted rail trail offers a gentle grade perfect for dogs of all fitness levels as it winds from Park City through beautiful mountain valleys to Echo Reservoir.
The crushed gravel surface stays cool in summer and provides sure footing in all seasons. Scenic highlights include the wetlands of Silver Creek, historic ranch lands, and mountain vistas that change dramatically with each season.
Winter brings a special treat – the trail is often groomed for cross-country skiing while maintaining a separate lane for dog walkers. With multiple access points, you can customize your adventure to match your dog’s energy level any time of year.