Pet-Friendly Grand Canyon South Rim Vacation

Yavapai Lodge offers pet-friendly lodging at Grand Canyon National Park

Planning a trip to explore the breathtaking sights of Grand Canyon National Park? Want to share the experience with your pet? The South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is dog friendly, so canine companions are welcome to enjoy a scenic getaway with their families.

To help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the Grand Canyon, pet owners will need to be aware of a few rules – most which are common ones:

  • You must accompany your pet(s) at all times
  • Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet in length
  • You must clean up after your pet

Learn more about the National Park Service's pet rules.

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Click Here to read our Pet Policy (PDF - Requires Adobe® Reader®)
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Where Can I Bring My Dog at the Grand Canyon South Rim?

Grand Canyon National Park allows leashed dogs on named trails above the rim (not on any inner canyon trails for their safety and yours). Leashed dogs are also allowed in Mather Campground, Desert View Campground, Trailer Village, Yavapai Lodge West pet-friendly rooms, and throughout developed areas. There are 12 miles of trails where dogs are allowed.

  1. Walk the South Rim for great views and a safe, pet-friendly hike. You'll get to see the big draws to the Grand Canyon: Yavapai, Hopi, Mojave and Mather Points.
  2. Stop by Yavapai Tavern to grab a drink and enjoy lunch on the patio with your fur baby.
  3. Check out Desert View to cool off with some ice cream.
  4. Shop at Yavapai Lodge Gift Shop and pick pup a souvenir!
  5. Grab a beer at Grand Canyon Brewing & Distillery, just outside the park.

However, pets are not permitted:

  • Below the rim, also called the "inner canyon." There is wildlife below the rim, and we don't want dogs to harass or be endangered by it.
  • On park buses, however, service animals are permitted
  • In park lodging, with the exception of those staying with their owners in a pet-friendly room at Yavapai Lodge West.

The National Park Service created a great video that reviews pets in the Grand Canyon's South Rim, as well as a few tips on where to take your dog.

View NPS Grand Canyon Pet Video

If you plan to hike into the Canyon, a kennel is available at the South Rim that accepts dogs and cats only. It's open from 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, and reservations are recommended. Proof of vaccination will be required to place your pets in the kennel. Kennel reservations can be made by calling 928-638-0534.

Pet Heat Safety

Since temperatures at the Grand Canyon can soar during the day, pets cannot be safely left inside parked cars – even for only a few minutes on a summer day.

Also, since asphalt can get very hot in the midday during the summer, it would be better to walk your dog in the early morning or evening. Your dog's paws will appreciate the cooler pavement at those times!

It's suggested to plan ahead and accordingly for the weather conditions. Water and a collapsible bowl will come in handy! Being mindful of how far your dog is comfortable hiking will also help provide a safe and adventurous time for you and your canine companion.

We look forward to seeing you and your pet at Grand Canyon National Park!