Dogs at Arches National Park: What’s Allowed in 2026
Arches is very limited for dogs, but you can still visit with a leashed pet in designated frontcountry areas and explore dog-friendly trails near Moab.
Arches National Park UT (West) Dog Policy
Arches National Park allows dogs only in a few developed frontcountry areas. Pets are not allowed on hiking trails, at overlooks, or inside buildings, so most visitors with dogs use the park for scenic drives, campground stays, and short leashed walks on roads, parking areas, picnic areas, and at Devils Garden Campground.
Leashed pets may accompany you along established roads, in parking areas, in established campgrounds, and in picnic areas. Pets may not be led by leash from a bicycle or vehicle. NPS also warns that pavement can become dangerously hot for paws in the desert climate.
Last updated: 2026-03-25
Dog-Friendly Trails
Arches itself does not allow dogs on hiking trails. These real dog-friendly trails near Moab are popular alternatives when visiting the park with a dog.
Grandstaff Trail
About 4 miles round trip, moderate. A scenic canyon hike east of Moab with multiple stream crossings and a rewarding finish near Morning Glory Natural Bridge.
Grandstaff Canyon Trailhead, UT-128, near Moab, Utah
Visit WebsiteCorona Arch Trail
About 3 miles round trip, moderate. One of the best-known dog-friendly hikes near Moab, leading to a huge arch on BLM land outside the national park.
Corona Arch Trailhead, Potash Road (UT-279), near Moab, Utah
Visit WebsiteHidden Valley Trail
Roughly 4 miles out and back, moderate. Starts with a steep climb, then opens into a broader valley with expansive views near Moab.
Hidden Valley Trailhead, Kane Creek Boulevard, Moab, Utah
Visit WebsiteMill Creek Parkway
About 1 to 2 miles depending on turnaround, easy. A convenient in-town Moab walk for a lower-key outing before or after driving through Arches.
Mill Creek Parkway, Moab, Utah
Visit WebsiteTips for Visiting Arches National Park UT (West) with Your Dog
Plan Arches as a scenic-drive park if your dog is coming with you. Because pets are not allowed on hiking trails, overlooks, or inside the visitor center, the best in-park options are short leashed walks on roads, parking areas, picnic areas, and time at Devils Garden Campground. Start early or later in the day to avoid desert heat, and always carry more water than you think you need for both you and your dog. NPS specifically warns that pavement can become hot enough to burn paws, so test surfaces before walking and consider protective booties if conditions are warm. Never leave your dog unattended in unsafe temperatures, and remember that unattended pets are only allowed in limited circumstances at a paid campsite and never overnight. Keep your dog close, quiet, and fully leashed to avoid conflicts with wildlife and other visitors, and pack out waste immediately. If hiking is the main goal of your trip, use Arches for sightseeing and then head to nearby dog-friendly trails around Moab, Dead Horse Point area, BLM land, or the La Sal area for a better experience.
Nearby Dog-Friendly Destinations
Moab
About 5 milesThe main base for visiting Arches, with pet-friendly lodging, services, and access to dog-friendly trails on BLM land.
Spanish Valley
About 12 milesA quieter area south of Moab with vacation rentals and easier access to open desert recreation.
Castle Valley
About 25 milesA scenic community northeast of Moab with beautiful red-rock views and access to outdoor areas outside the park.
Green River
About 52 milesA useful stop for road-trippers approaching Arches from the west, with pet-friendly lodging and services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed on trails in Arches National Park?
No. Dogs are not allowed on any hiking trails in Arches National Park, and that includes being carried in a carrier.
Can I take my dog to Delicate Arch or other overlooks?
No. Pets are not allowed at overlooks in Arches, so dogs cannot go to places like Delicate Arch Viewpoint or other overlook areas.
Where can I walk my dog inside Arches?
You can walk a leashed dog along established roads, in parking areas, in established picnic areas, and in Devils Garden Campground.
Do dogs have to be on a leash in Arches?
Yes. Pets must be leashed at all times, and the leash must be 6 feet or shorter.
Can dogs stay in the campground at Arches?
Yes. Dogs are allowed in Devils Garden Campground, the park’s only campground, as long as they are leashed and controlled.
Can I leave my dog alone at my campsite?
Usually no, but Arches allows limited unattended-pet situations only in a paid Devils Garden campsite if the pet is secured, quiet, safe from heat, not damaging resources, and not left overnight.
Is there a kennel at Arches National Park?
No. There is no in-park kennel. NPS points visitors to pet services in the Moab area.
Do I need a timed-entry reservation for Arches in 2026 if I have a dog?
No. Arches announced that advanced timed-entry reservations are not required in 2026, though entrance fees still apply and lines may be longer during busy periods.