Can You Bring Dogs to Yellowstone? A Complete Guide for Pet Owners

We get it—Your dog goes where you go. (Ours, too.) While you can bring dogs to Yellowstone, pet-friendly activities in the park are limited. Dogs aren’t allowed on most trails or in backcountry areas, but there are still many ways to enjoy Yellowstone—and its surrounding areas—with your best friend. From scenic drives to nearby pet-friendly hikes, this guide will cover the best things to do with dogs in or near Yellowstone and tips to make the trip enjoyable and stress-free for you both.

Yellowstone's North Entrance near Gardiner, MT

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Dogs in Yellowstone: What You Need to Know

Dog-friendly activities are limited in Yellowstone National Park. Pets are allowed on all roads in Yellowstone and in developed areas so long as they remain within 100 feet of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds. However, there are no pet-friendly walking or hiking trails in Yellowstone. Dogs aren’t allowed on boardwalk trails, in the backcountry, or in thermal areas. (For Yellowstone’s safety—and theirs.)

Dogs should never be left unattended outside or tied to an object. (Not even at campgrounds.) Wildlife is everywhere in Yellowstone, and unattended pets can quickly become an unsafe situation for your pet, other people, and the park. However, dogs can remain in vehicles for a short time when the weather allows.

Here are a few more things to remember regarding dogs in Yellowstone… Keep them on a leash no more than 6 feet long and always clean up after pets (and use the park’s bear-resistant trash cans to dispose of waste). Don’t leave your pet’s food unattended, and stay “Bear Aware” at all times, especially when camping with your dog in Yellowstone. And, of course, it gets very warm—and very cold—in Yellowstone. Be sure not to leave your dog without proper food, water, shade, ventilation, etc.

And FYI: There are no exceptions for carried pets.

Should you bring your dog to Yellowstone?

We’ve visited Yellowstone numerous times, both with and without our dog, Lincoln. While I’m glad we can bring Lincoln into the park, especially when we’re stopping through Yellowstone as part of a longer road trip, I prefer the trips when she’s safely back home. This is simply because activities with pets are very limited in Yellowstone. (And because wildlife watching is best at dawn and dusk, so my ideal Yellowstone day tends to be much longer than Lincoln could be left in a crate or at doggy daycare.)

So… you *can* bring your dog to Yellowstone, but should you? Generally speaking, no. In our opinion, it’s best to leave your dog behind for this trip. This is especially true if you’re planning your first (and possibly only) trip to Yellowstone National Park. Since traveling with pets in Yellowstone is so limited, your experience of the park will be, too. At least one person in your group will miss out on most of Yellowstone’s best attractions because they have to stay behind with the pup.

That said, we understand leaving your dog behind isn’t always an option. And sometimes you’re willing to accept the restrictions to bring them along. If that’s the case, here’s everything you need to know about dogs in Yellowstone and how to have the best experience for them and you!

Where can dogs go in Yellowstone?

The bad news is there are no dog-friendly hiking trails in Yellowstone. The good news is that dogs are allowed on all roads and in developed areas of Yellowstone as long as they remain within 100 feet of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds. This means your dog can join you for scenic drives, on paved sidewalks near facilities and visitor centers, and in campgrounds.

There are great sidewalks to walk your dog around Canyon Village and the Old Faithful Area. Fun fact: You and your dog can actually watch an Old Faithful Geyser eruption together! You’ll need to remain on the concrete sidewalks closer to the visitor center, but Old Faithful can erupt up to 180 feet into the air, so you’ll still have a great view.

Where can’t dogs go in Yellowstone?

Dogs are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or in any backcountry areas of Yellowstone. This is incredibly important for their safety and yours. Dogs also cannot enter thermal areas—and it’s very important they’re not able to accidentally jump out of the car when you stop to explore. (It’s highly recommended to use a harness and seatbelt when driving through Yellowstone with your dog to help avoid this.)

Can dogs camp in Yellowstone?

Surprisingly, yes! Dogs are allowed in Yellowstone’s campgrounds as long as they are kept on a leash. Remember that wildlife frequently visit campgrounds, including bears and bison, so keeping your dog under control and safely secured is essential. And be sure to follow the park’s guidelines about food storage, as improper food handling could attract wildlife to the area. Buy a bear canister (or, better yet, use the campground’s bear-proof storage) to store your dog’s food while camping in Yellowstone.

Where can you walk your dog in Yellowstone?

Dogs are allowed on all roads and in developed areas of Yellowstone as long as they remain within 100 feet of roads, parking areas, and campgrounds. This means you can walk your dog on paved sidewalks near facilities and visitor centers and in campgrounds. There are great sidewalks to walk your dog around Canyon Village and the Old Faithful Area. There are also sidewalks near Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel; however, this is a hot spot for elk, especially during the fall, so be very careful walking your dog here. Always watch for wildlife when walking your dog in Yellowstone, no matter how developed the area, and be sure to divert your path to give wildlife plenty of space.

Dogs are also allowed on the Old Lake Road Bike Trail near Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins and the Lake Medical Clinic. This 1-mile one-way trail has great views of Yellowstone Lake, and leashed pets are allowed on the out and back path. (This is the only bike trail in the park where leashed pets are allowed.) The Old Lake Road Bike Trail is often closed in June for bear management; You can get updates on trail status at the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center.

Where can you hike with your dog near Yellowstone?

Since you can’t hike with dogs (leashed nor carried) in Yellowstone, your best bet is to head to nearby Custer Gallatin National Forest, where dog-friendly trails are available outside the park.

Here are some dog-friendly hikes near Gardiner, MT: Pine Creek Falls • North Fork Bear Creek Trail • LaDuke Trail • Passage Falls Trail • Suce Creek Trail #44 & Suce Creek West Trail #450 Loop • Pine Creek Lake • Black Mountain

Here are some dog-friendly hikes in the Beartooth Mountains: Beauty Lake • Becker Lake • Island Lake Trail

And here’s a guided dog-friendly hiking tour in the nearby Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Where to Board Dogs Near Yellowstone

We love bringing our dog, Lincoln, with us as much as possible, but sometimes, leaving pets behind in a safe, comfortable, and perhaps more fun environment is better for everyone. There are several kennels and pet boarding facilities near the park.

Here are some options for pet boarding near Yellowstone’s North Entrance (Gardiner, MT).

Yellowstone Pet Boarding: (406) 579-3409
Yellowstone Dreamin Dog Hotel: (406) 224-1599
Querencia Kennels: (406) 333-4500
Livingston Veterinary Hospital: (406) 222-3011
Colmey Veterinary Hospital: (406) 222-1700

Dog-Friendly Restaurants Near Yellowstone

While there are no dog-friendly restaurants within Yellowstone National Park itself, nearby towns like Gardiner, West Yellowstone, and Cooke City offer some pet-friendly dining options. Many restaurants in these towns have outdoor patios where dogs are welcome.

For example, in Gardiner, The Corral allows dogs on their patio, making it a great place to grab a bite while keeping your dog by your side. Tumbleweed Cafe, Outlaw Pizza, Yellowstone Grill, and Sagebrushers Food Truck are pet-friendly, too. Dogs are also allowed at “Two Bit City” in Gardiner, where many great food trucks are available for lunch and dinner. It’s helpful to call ahead to confirm a restaurant’s pet policy in case it has changed.

Is there anywhere to buy dog food in Yellowstone?

If you’re traveling from Bozeman, Bridger Animal Nutrition is a well-known store that carries high-quality dog food, treats, and other pet supplies. Located about an hour and a half north of Yellowstone, this store is a convenient stop on your way to the park, especially if you need to purchase food or supplies for an extended trip. In West Yellowstone and Gardiner, general stores may carry limited pet supplies, but it’s always better to come prepared.

Pet-Friendly Cabins in Yellowstone

Select cabins in Yellowstone are pet-friendly. There are pet-friendly options at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins, Roosevelt Lodge Cabins, Canyon Lodge & Cabins, Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins, Lake Lodge Cabins, Old Faithful Lodge Cabins, and Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins.

Pet-friendly cabins are limited and book out well in advance. It’s best to book as soon as lodging options become available, especially if traveling with your dog to Yellowstone. You can book in-park camping, lodging, and activities here 13 months in advance. At 12:00am MT on the 5th of each month, online reservations are accepted for the same month of the following year. I.e., On May 5th, 2024, you can make reservations for May 1-31st, 2025, and so on. (Phone reservations are accepted at 7:00am MT on the 5th.)

Pet-Friendly Campgrounds in Yellowstone

Pets are allowed at all campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park. When bringing your dog to a Yellowstone campground, keep them restrained using a leash, tie out, or crate. And make sure that if your dog is outside, you are too. (Pets cannot be left unattended outside at campsites, nor can they be left unattended in tents. Pets can be left in a motorhome, 5th wheel, or travel trailer as long as the pet is safe and does not disturb other campers.) Food and water can be left outside for your pet while you both are also outside; however, once you go inside, the food and water should, too. Use bear-proof storage canisters or on-site storage bins to secure food at campsites.

The following campgrounds are reservable via Yellowstone National Park Lodges: Bridge Bay Campground • Canyon Campground • Fishing Bridge RV Park • Grant Village Campground • Madison Campground.

The following campgrounds are reservable through Recreation.gov: Indian Creek Campground • Lewis Lake Campground • Mammoth Campground • Norris Campground • Pebble Creek • Slough Creek • Tower Fall.

Pet-Friendly Hotels & Airbnbs Near Yellowstone

Many of the gateway towns surrounding Yellowstone also have pet-friendly lodging options. In Gardiner and West Yellowstone, you’ll find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds that allow pets. These accommodations often charge a small pet fee, and many provide pet-friendly amenities, such as designated walking areas and treats.

Click here to browse our pet-friendly cabins in Gardiner, MT, less than one mile from Yellowstone's North Entrance!

7 Tips for Bringing Dogs to Yellowstone

Here are 10 tips for bringing your dog to Yellowstone to help ensure a fun and safe trip for both of you!

Use a Harness with Seatbelt Attachment for Your Dog: A harness with a seatbelt attachment keeps your dog secure during the drive, making it easier for you to hop in and out of the car without worrying about them jumping out unexpectedly. This ensures their safety and gives you peace of mind at busy overlooks or trailheads.
Bring a Dog Towel for Muddy Paws: Yellowstone's campgrounds and scenic stops can be muddy or dusty, depending on the weather. A dog towel is great for wiping off dirty paws before they get back into the car or tent, keeping your space clean and your dog comfortable.
Prepare for Cold Nights If Camping: Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly in Yellowstone, especially if you're camping. Pack a blanket, towel, dog coat, or something else you can use to keep your pup warm at night.
Use a Bear-Proof Canister for Dog Food: Yellowstone is bear country, so keeping all food—including dog food—stored safely is essential. A bear-proof canister ensures your pup’s food is secure from wildlife, protecting both your dog and the local animals. (Many but not all of Yellowstone’s campgrounds offer bear-proof storage on site, so double-check with your campground and pack a bear-proof canister if needed.)
Pack a Travel Crate for Pet-Friendly Lodging: If you’re staying at pet-friendly lodging, a travel crate gives your dog a familiar and secure place to rest. It also helps prevent any potential messes or damage in hotel rooms, ensuring a stress-free stay for both you and the accommodation staff.
Bring a Water Bottle with an Attached Bowl: Yellowstone’s high elevation and summer heat can dehydrate dogs quickly. A water bottle with an attached bowl is a convenient way to keep your dog hydrated on scenic drives and during quick walks around campgrounds or picnic areas.
Plan Frequent Potty and Exercise Breaks: Yellowstone is vast, and you’ll spend a lot of time driving between sights. Planning regular breaks not only lets your dog stretch their legs and go to the bathroom but also gives you both a chance to enjoy the scenic spots you might otherwise miss. Canyon Village, the Old Faithful area, and Mammoth Hot Springs are great places to stop, though always be on the lookout for wildlife when walking in Yellowstone—even when you’re on sidewalks in developed areas!

These tips will help you and your dog have a safe, enjoyable, and worry-free time exploring Yellowstone together.

5 Things To Do With Dogs in Yellowstone

Here are five great things to do with dogs in Yellowstone.

Scenic Driving: Scenic driving is one of the best things to do with dogs in Yellowstone. Drive Yellowstone’s Grand Loop, Firehole Canyon Drive, Lamar Valley, and even the nearby Beartooth Highway in the summer months. Scenic driving is the best way to explore Yellowstone with your dog. Enjoy the ride while you take in the stunning views of geysers, waterfalls, and wildlife from designated pullouts.
Watch Old Faithful Erupt: While dogs aren’t allowed on the boardwalks or trails around the Upper Geyser Basin, you can still catch an Old Faithful Geyser eruption together. You’ll need to remain on the concrete sidewalks close to the Old Faithful Visitor Center, but since Old Faithful can erupt up to 180 feet into the air, you’ll still have a great view!
Walk the Old Lake Road Bike Trail: Dogs aren’t allowed on hiking trails… or boardwalk trails… or most biking trails in Yellowstone, but they are allowed on the Old Lake Road Bike Trail near Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins and the Lake Medical Clinic. This 1-mile one-way trail has great views of Yellowstone Lake, and leashed pets are allowed on the out and back path. (This is the only bike trail in the park where leashed pets are allowed.) This path is often closed in June for bear management, so it’s a good idea to check the trail’s status at the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center before you go. This quiet, scenic trail offers a pleasant way to stretch your legs and let your dog enjoy a bit of exercise while taking in the lakeside views and peaceful surroundings away from the busier areas of the park.
Camping: Dogs are allowed at campgrounds in Yellowstone, so enjoy a bit of R&R together at one of Yellowstone’s 12 campsites.
Hike Nearby Pet-Friendly Trails: There are some dog-friendly trails in the nearby Custer Gallatin National Forest (near Yellowstone’s North Entrance), such as Pine Creek Falls, Passage Falls Trail, Suce Creek Trail #44 & Suce Creek West Trail #450 Loop, and Pine Creek Lake. There are also some dog-friendly hikes in the nearby Shoshone National Forest (near Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance), such as Beauty Lake Trail and Becker Lake Trail. For a guided hiking option, here’s a guided dog-friendly hiking tour in the nearby Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Plan Your Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Plan the ultimate Yellowstone vacation with our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide! With insider tips, detailed maps, and tailored itineraries for each season, ensure you never miss out, whether you’re enjoying water sports in the summer or spotting wildlife in the spring. Crafted from personal experience over 9 years and 10 trips (& counting), our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide is packed with expert advice for experiencing the best—and less-traveled—parts of Yellowstone National Park. Take the stress out of planning a vacation to America’s first (and one of its largest) national parks and make the most of your visit with our comprehensive, easy-to-use travel guide!

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