Are Dogs Allowed In Arches National Park? Pet-Friendly Hikes, Hotels and Daycare Options

After traveling full-time in my campervan with my dog and visiting more than 21 National Parks, including Arches National Park, I’ve done extensive research around where dogs are allowed in Arches National Park, and where they are not.

If you’re planning a visit with your dog in Arches National Park this article will help you understand the rules for pets in the park, as well as where they’re allowed and nearby hikes where they are permitted.

This is your complete guide to traveling to Arches National Park with your dog!

Where Are Dogs Allowed In Arches National park?

Sadly, if you’re looking for dog friendly hikes in arches national park they do not exist. However, there are several places where it is permitted and safe to walk your dog.

The Devils Garden Campground

The Devils Garden Campground is located inside Arches National Park and allows leashed pets. This is a great place to walk your dog as it covers a lot of area, and also has water available. Note: water access is very limited in Arches – the only water stations are located at Devils Garden Campground and the Visitors Center.

Roads and Parking Areas

Dogs in Arches National Park are also allowed on all paved roadways and in parking areas. Keep in mind this does not include overlooks.

Picnic Areas

Dogs are allowed in the picnic areas in Arches National Park, including the picnic area in Devils Garden, the Visitors Center, near Balanced Rock, Panorama Point and Delicate Arch Viewpoint.

Where Aren’t Dogs Allowed In Arches

Pets are not allowed on any hiking trails in the park – including off-trail areas not listed above.

Unfortunately, even though overlooks are paved, they are off limits to pets as well.

Lastly, dogs are not allowed at the visitors center or any other buildings.

The exception to all of these rules are dogs that have been individually trained to perform specific tasks for an individual with a disability, per federal guidelines. Service animals are allowed unrestricted access to the park.

Why Can’t I Take My Dog Hiking in Arches?

One of the primary focuses of Arches National Park is the preservation of wildlife. Because the presence of dogs can disrupt wildlife behavior and put them at increased risk dogs are not allowed in most of the park. This rule also generally applies to all National Parks.

Arches is also concerned about the wellbeing of pets. The excessive heat, harsh terrain that has sharp rocks and scorpions that can sting pets are also a factor in the decision to allow dogs in Arches National Park.

What Are The Rules For Dogs In Arches National Park?

Rules for dogs in Arches National Park are fairly common to all National Parks, and local pet regulations in general.

Pets must be on a leash (no longer than 6 feet) at all times.
Dogs cannot make excessive noise.
You must immediately clean up after your dog and dispose of their waste in a trash bin.
Leaving pets unattended is prohibited, with the exception of your own vehicle so long as it does not cause danger to the animal or create a public nuisance.
You must walk your dog, they cannot be led by a bike or car.

Dog Friendly Hikes Near Arches National Park

There are many options for hiking with dogs near Arches National Park!

Dead Horse Point State Park

Dead Horse Point State Park is very dog friendly. Your pet can have unrestricted access to the trails in the park.

Pro tip: Dead Horse Point Overlook is one of the best places for sunset I’ve ever visited.

BLM Public Land

There is a ton of public BLM land around Arches and Moab. These are a few of the great dog-friendly hiking trails near Arches National Park:

Amphitheater Loop Trail

Amphitheater Loop Trail is a secluded hiking area and great for dogs. Be sure to bring enough water as the trail is completely exposed with no shade along the route.

Distance: 2.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 423 feet
Rating: Moderate
Time To Hike: 1-2 hours
Trailhead: Hittle Bottom Parking

Grandstaff Trail

Grandstaff Trail is located a few miles east of Arches National Park and near to Moab. The trail follows tall canyon walls, so if you hike early in the day or late in the afternoon you’ll have more shade. There are several water crossings so be prepared to get your feet wet.

Distance: 4.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 383 feet
Rating: Moderate
Time To Hike: 1-2 hours
Trailhead: Grandstaff Campground

Note: poison ivy is often present on this trail

Sylvester Trail

Sylvester Trail is a great dog-friendly hike near Arches National Park, and even allows off-leash dogs in certain areas. It’s about 30 minutes east of the entrance to Arches.

Distance: 6.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 984 feet
Rating: Moderate
Time To Hike: 3 hours
Trailhead: Professor Creek, BLM RT 98

Ken’s Lake Trail and Faux Falls

Ken’s Lake Trail and Faux Falls is an easy loop trail that follows the water. There is plenty of parking and multiple restrooms along the trail. If you’re staying in Moab or near Arches national Park this is a quick 15-minute drive south.

Distance: 3.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 219 feet
Rating: Easy
Time To Hike: 1-2 hours
Trailhead: Ken’s Lake Parking Lot

Dog Daycare Near Arches National Park

There are a few options for kennels or doggy daycare near Arches National Park.

Moab National Bark

Moab National Bark is a doggy daycare and boarding facility that’s highly rated (4.9 stars!) and located close to Arches National Park. They offer half day rates ($35) and full day rates ($48). They also offer overnight boarding for an additional $15.

Moab Veterinary Clinic

Moab Veterinary Clinic is a vet that also offers daycare and boarding services. Rates start at $35 per day.

Dog Friendly Hotels Near Arches National Park

A majority of places to stay near Arches National Park are pet friendly. These are some of the more popular hotels.

Gravity Haus Moab

Nightly Price: from $195
Pet Friendly: Yes, there is a one-time fee of $75
Distance from Arches National Park: 6 miles
Breakfast Included: No
Pool: Yes, there is an outdoor pool

Book Gravity Haus Moab here

La Quinta by Wyndham Moab

Nightly Price: from $246
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are allowed. The fee is $25/night with a cap at $75/stay.
Distance from Arches National Park: 7 miles.
Breakfast Included: Yes, complimentary breakfast is included.
Pool: Yes, there is an outdoor pool.

Book La Quinta By Wyndham Moab here

Element Moab

Nightly Price: from $359
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are allowed.
Distance from Arches National Park: 4 miles.
Breakfast Included: Yes, complimentary breakfast is included.
Pool: Yes, there is an outdoor pool.

Book Element Moab here

Under Canvas Moab

Nightly Price: from $199
Pet Friendly: Yes, pets are allowed. The fee is $25/night and pets cannot be left unattended.
Distance from Arches National Park: 9 miles.
Breakfast Included: No
Pool: No

Book Under Canvas Moab here