The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Salt Lake County

Salt Lake County offers over 40 dedicated dog-friendly hiking routes, ranging from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents. This ensures a diverse selection for you and your canine companion.

Yes, the region caters to all abilities. You'll find 16 easy routes perfect for a leisurely walk, 21 moderate trails for a good workout, and 4 more difficult options for experienced hikers and their dogs.

For an easy and pleasant outing, consider the Oquirrh Lake Long Loop, which is mostly flat and scenic. Another great option is the Murray North Loop, offering a short and accessible path. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail also has many accessible sections ideal for families.

Absolutely! Many trails offer the convenience of a loop. The Mill D North - Butler Fork Loop is a moderate option, while the Desolation Lake and Dog Lake Loop provides a more challenging, longer circuit through beautiful alpine scenery.

Many trails lead to stunning natural features. You can hike to beautiful alpine lakes like Dog Lake or Lake Catherine. Waterfalls are also a highlight, such as the picturesque Bells Canyon Lower Falls. The region's glacially carved canyons, like Big and Little Cottonwood, offer dramatic landscapes and expansive views.

Yes, Salt Lake County is renowned for its panoramic vistas. Trails like Bear Canyon Bridge via Bonneville Shoreline Trail offer excellent valley views. For more challenging hikes, Grandeur Peak and Ensign Peak provide incredible overlooks of Salt Lake City and the Great Salt Lake.

Generally, permits are not required for most dog-friendly hiking trails in Salt Lake County. However, always check specific trail regulations, especially within designated wilderness areas or watershed zones, as rules can vary regarding dogs and access.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Salt Lake County, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the incredible accessibility of stunning alpine scenery just minutes from the city, the diverse range of landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make hiking with dogs enjoyable.

While many trails are dog-friendly, most require dogs to be on a leash. Specific off-leash areas are typically designated within parks or dedicated dog parks rather than on hiking trails. Always check local signage and regulations for the specific trail you plan to visit.

Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is ideal for higher-elevation trails in the Wasatch Mountains, which provide cooler temperatures. Winter hiking is also possible on lower elevation trails, but be prepared for snow and ice.