Can You Bring Your Dog to the Grand Canyon?

Thinking about taking your furry friend to the Grand Canyon? You’re not alone! Many pet owners want to share the beauty of this natural wonder with their dogs. While there are some rules to follow, you can definitely have a great time exploring the park together. Here’s what you need to know.

Key Takeaways

• Pets are allowed on the South Rim but not below the rim.
• The North Rim has similar rules, with some restrictions on viewpoints.
• There are pet-friendly lodging options and a kennel for pet care.

A Bit of History

Before diving into the details, let’s talk about a unique piece of history at the Grand Canyon. Did you know there’s a grave dedicated to a dog? It’s called the Brant Grave. The Brants were influential managers of the El Tovar Hotel and had the only official burial site on the rim of the Grand Canyon. They loved their Airedale named Razzle Dazzle, who passed away in 1928. This grave is a touching reminder of the bond between humans and their pets, showing that the love for dogs is not a new phenomenon.

South Rim: Pet-Friendly Trails

The South Rim is where most visitors go—about 90% of them! Here, leashed pets are allowed on all rim trails. This means you can walk the entire 13-mile Rim Trail with your dog, enjoying some of the best views of the canyon. Just keep in mind:

• No pets allowed below the rim on any trails, including popular ones like Bright Angel and North Kaibab.
• Pets are not allowed on shuttle buses or in Park Service buildings.

This can be a bit tricky for those who want to hike deeper into the canyon with their pets. But don’t worry, there are options!

North Rim: Similar Rules, Different Views

The North Rim has the same pet policies as the South Rim, but with one key difference: the Bright Angel Point viewpoint is closed to pets. If you’re planning to visit the North Rim, be aware that it has fewer hiking trails and viewpoints compared to the South Rim. Some pet owners might find this disappointing.

Lodging Options

When it comes to staying overnight, here’s what you need to know:

• South Rim: The Yavapai Lodge offers pet-friendly rooms, but they are in an older building and can cost up to $80 more than standard rooms.
• North Rim: No pets are allowed in park lodges, but Kaibab Lodge allows pets under 50 pounds for a fee. Jacob Lake Inn, located an hour north of the park, also accepts pets in some rooms for a fee.

Kennel Services for Your Pet

If you want to hike below the rim but can’t take your dog, there’s a solution! The South Rim has an in-park kennel that’s open seven days a week. Here are some details:

• Location: Just southwest of Maswik Lodge.
• Fees: $32 for day care, $50 for overnight stays for dogs, and $35 for cats.
• Requirements: Proof of current vaccinations is needed.
• Facilities: The kennel has both indoor and outdoor sections, plus an exercise yard. However, it might not feel very warm or inviting.

Enjoying Your Visit

So, can you bring your dog to the Grand Canyon? Yes, but with some limitations. You can enjoy walks along the rim and find pet-friendly lodging. If you want to hike below the rim, the kennel is a great option for your furry friend.

In conclusion, the Grand Canyon is not a pet-unfriendly place. With a little planning, you and your dog can have a memorable adventure together. Just remember to keep your pet leashed and follow the park rules. Happy exploring!