Dog Friendly Desert Hikes in Southern Utah
The deserts of Southern Utah can be a great place to wind down and relax with your furry friend by your side. Southern Utah is a beautiful and scenic area to share adventurous experiences with your pooch. But due to some of the famous trails being protected as national monuments or state parks, dogs aren’t always allowed on all of the picturesque hikes. Some trails have these rules to protect the fragile rock formations, ancient historic sites along the hike, or to protect various wildlife habitats. Although it’s a bummer you can’t take your dog with you on every jaw-dropping hiking adventure, here’s a list of trails in Southern Utah that are puppy-approved!
Mary Jane Canyon
This 8.4 mile-long trail is located in the Moab, Utah area. It’s a lightly-moderately trafficked trail that follows a stream for miles! Be sure to bring along water shoes and make sure your dog is comfortable around water as this hike could get a little wet. Mary Jane Canyon is also a great hike for all skilled dog-owner duos!
Fisher Towers Trail
This trail is popular due to the towering and breathtaking red rock formations! There are many natural sights to see here like the wildflowers and The Titan, one of the tallest natural standing pillars on Earth. The trail runs 4.2 miles in Moab, Utah.
Grandstaff Trail
This hiking spot sits adjacent to the Colorado River, a little outside of downtown Moab, Utah. It runs 5.7 miles long and is a heavily trafficked hiking trail. You can expect to see the beautiful desert and stream crossings on this hike, but keep your pup on a leash as there has been poison ivy spotted around the trail.
Jeep Arch
This trail will make you feel like you’re in the wild-wild-west as you begin the trail under a railroad tunnel and explore the sights of the Jeep Arch! The picturesque view goes on for a quick 3.6 miles and is popular among hikers of all skills.
South Fork Mule Canyon
Located near Bluff, Utah, this trail is most famously known for the House on Fire Ruin. The alcove roof appears to glow a fiery orange when the sun hits it right, making this hiking experience one of a kind! There are even more beautiful ruins to discover along this 6.1-mile long trail, like the Angel’s Wings.
Remember, when you and your dog are out adventuring Southern Utah’s desert hikes, you’ll both need good sun and foot protection!