We have lived in Denver for 40 years and never seen Moah, Bryce or Zion. We would like to drive to the canyon lands with our goldendoodle this spring. Are dogs restricted from these national parks? Our dog has a long, thick coat and gets hot quickly. Which area is the coolest and when would be the best time to go? We were thinking of 3 nights for our first time hiking with her. Any suggestions?

This URL may be of help:

www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/pets.htm
http://www.dogfriendly.com/server/ma...f0902_1b.shtml

IN GENERAL, non-service animals in national parks are not allowed (1) ro roam free or (2) outside of paved areas. I regularly see dog owners who ignore both rules withour any sense that these regs (1) apply to them or (2) will be enforced.

Pets are not allowed on hiking trails in Arches or Canyonlands or Bryce Canyon. There's exactly one trail in Zion you could take your dog on.

If you're looking for somewhere to go hiking with your dog, the national forests in Colorado have a lot of dog-friendly trails. National parks are very restrictive. If you want to hike the parks in Utah, you're best off leaving your dog at home.

I agree Judy. I have a dog that I like to take when I can, but NOT to the national parks. They really can't go anywhere and mine can't stay in a hot car either (pug). If I'm hiking, he has to stay home.

National Parks and dogs don't mix well.
If you bring them, neither they nor you
will get much out of the trip. Do the
dog a favor and leave it home.