In One Word, Yellowstone is amazing, spectacular, magical, okay, I used more than one word, but you get the point. America’s first National Park is special; you can feel the wild spirit here. It could be because this part of the Rockies is 75 million years old or the fact that 200 species of animals call this place home! Yellowstone has so much to do and so many things to see that you may feel overwhelmed. And, of course, you want to bring your pup (or pups) with you to experience all that the park has to offer! But the big question is, how dog friendly is Yellowstone National Park?
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The Big Question: Is Yellowstone National Park Dog Friendly?
When I say not really, I mean there are only a few dog-friendly options within park boundaries. But most of the options within the park are from your vehicle or the roadside. That doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time in Yellowstone with your dog. It simply means you may have to work around what your dog is allowed to do.
If you really want to experience Yellowstone by hiking a ton, then it may be best to leave the pups at home. But if you are willing to travel where your pups can come along, you can still have a fantastic time at Yellowstone with your pup(s).
National Park Dog-Friendly Rating:
Yellowstone is not exactly what I would call a dog-friendly National Park but don’t despair just yet, and there are things for you to do with your puppers. Just be aware that bringing your pups with you to Yellowstone may limit what you are able to see and do within park boundaries. I know most of us dog lovers are completely fine with that, but it’s worth mentioning.
Where Are Dogs Allowed Inside The Park?
- Pets may only accompany people in developed areas
- This means they must remain within 100 feet (30.5 meters) of…
- Roads
- Parking Areas
- Campgrounds
Certified service animals are an exception, as they are allowed throughout the park and in all Visitor Centers. However, they must remain leashed at all times.
Where And Why Are Pets Prohibited?
Pets are limited to travel in Yellowstone National Park within your car, at a front country campground, or within 100 feet of roads and parking lots.
Pets are prohibited on all…
- Hiking Trails
- Boardwalks
- In The Backcountry
- Thermal Areas
- Be aware that there are NO EXCEPTIONS to the regulations for carried pets (in arms, carriers, strollers, backpacks, and so forth) in restricted parts of the park.
- Yellowstone is a dangerous place for humans – you’ve got hydrothermal features and huge predators. The pet restrictions in Yellowstone exist to protect your pets from being killed by predators like bears, wolves, and coyotes. They also need to be protected from being burned or killed in hot springs.
- Wolves view domesticated dogs as competition and while it doesn’t happen often bears have been known to follow dogs back to their people. If your dog loves water you can imagine the excitement that might happen when seeing a hydrothermal feature that would literally kill your dog in seconds. It’s just a recipe for disaster.
- The restrictions are also to
protect the wildlife in the park, you see it’s essential to prevent the exchange of diseases between domestic animals and park wildlife.
- I know it’s hard to believe, my fellow dog lovers, but not everyone loves our dogs as much as we do. Some visitors prefer to enjoy the park without the disruption of pets.
Know Before You Go: Yellowstone Edition
- You will need a park pass for visiting Yellowstone.
- For the 2021 Season – There are planned road closures in the park on the Grand Loop Road between Tower Falls and Chittenden Road. It will be closed until May of 2022, and it was closed during my visit last year as well.
- You are probably severely underestimating the size of Yellowstone. It takes hours and hours of driving to get around the park. Don’t get me wrong, it’s all beautiful but it’s way bigger than you think.
- It’s 2.2 million acres, just to put that into perspective.
- Find a map here.
- I didn’t know this until my trip last fall, but bison eyes do not glow in the dark as deer and elk do. So, if you are visiting a bison heavy area (Lamar or Hayden Valley) make sure to leave before it gets completely dark. You will never see them.
- I recommend downloading the Yellowstone National Park app. It’s the best way to stay up to date with road closures, construction, and to try to time out Old Faithful.
Know Before You Go: Yellowstone Pup Edition
- Pets must be physically controlled at all times: they must be in a car, in a crate, or on a leash no more than six feet long.
- They may not be left unattended or tied to an object.
- Pets may not be left in a situation where food, water, shade, ventilation, and other basic needs are inadequate. Pets may remain in vehicles for short periods of time, but it’s recommended
that someone stay behind to personally ensure their well being. - Owners must bag and dispose of pet waste. PLEASE clean up after your pups! We love this system that hooks onto the leash, that way it’s always with you! If you don’t like carrying the bags, check this out.
Tip: Alternating days in and out of the park will give you WAY more options in terms of doing stuff with the pups!
Know Before You Go: Yellowstone Wildlife Edition
What Can You See Inside The Park?
- Wolves
- Elk
- Bison
- Grizzly Bears and Black Bears
- Bighorn Sheep
- Fox
- Deer
- Moose
- Pronghorn
- Also, watch out for bald eagles and osprey in the Lamar River.
Wildlife Distances
- Wolves & Bears – at least 100 yards
- Bison & Elk – at least 25 yards
- All other animals at Yellowstone – 25 yards
The bottom line is that for the sake of your pup(s) and the wildlife, they should never meet inside the park. I don’t know if anyone else has seen the IG video of a dog jumping out of a car in Lamar Valley and being chased by a bison, but I would never want that to happen to my huskies.
Dog Boarding Kennels Near Yellowstone National Park:
West Yellowstone Entrance:
Doggy Den – Luxury Doggy Daycare And Supplies
- 527 Firehole Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758
- (406) 640-0068
North Yellowstone Entrance:
Yellowstone Pet Boarding
- 1 Caledonia Rd., Livingston, MT 59047
- (406) 578 – 3279
East Yellowstone Entrance:
Cody Country Bed and Biscuit
- 134 Cooper Ln E #9233, Cody, WY 82414
- (307) 587-1073
South Yellowstone Entrance:
DogJax By Wiggles N Woofs
- 3590 S Park Dr, Jackson, WY 83001
- (307) 733-3547
*I’ve never personally used any of these kennels but they all got great reviews! I tend to stay at Airbnb’s on trips so that Loki & Freya can have their own crates at the Airbnb. As a rule, I only kennel them only when absolutely necessary.
Veterinary Offices Around Yellowstone National Park:
West Yellowstone Entrance:
West Yellowstone Veterinary Clinic
- 35 Gibbon Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758
- (406) 682-7151
North Yellowstone Entrance:
Yellowstone Veterinary Services
- 5702 US-89, Livingston, MT 59047
- (406) 222-3700
East Yellowstone Entrance:
Lifetime Small Animal Hospital
- 2627 Big Horn Avenue, Cody WY 82414
- 307-587-4324
- Also offers boarding for dogs and cats.
South Yellowstone Entrance:
VCA Spring Creek Animal Hospital
- 1035 W Broadway, Jackson, WY 83001
- (307) 733-1606
What CAN I Do With My Pups?
It’s a general rule of thumb that state and national forests offer dog friendly trails and are usually pretty close to National Parks, which tend to have strict pet policies.
In the case of Yellowstone National Park, check out Bridger-Teton National Forest, Shoshone National Forest, and Custer-Gallatin National Forest.
Or check out this list!
*Also, keep in mind I was entering from the North Entrance through Gardiner, Montana every day of my trip.
Packing List For Dogs
- Extra Tags
- Copy Of Rabies Vaccines & General Health/Vaccine Records
- Leashes
- Harnesses
- Hammock Seat Cover
- Dog Seat Belts
- Crate/Kennel
- Dog Bed (I usually bring one for the car)
- Food & Water Bowls
- Food & Extra Water
- Care Products – I always bring Benadryl, Famotidine, Nose & Paw Ointment
- Dog First Aid Kit
- Poop Bags Holder
- Biodegradable Poop Bags And THIS handy little thing
- Cleaning Supplies (at the very least carpet cleaner)
- Toys/Kong/Bones/Treats (Freya needs distractions on long road trips)
- Ball (its always a good idea to have at least a ball)
- 50 ft leashes for Airbnb yards
- Towels (esp if you have messy dogs like mine)
- A Current Photo (in case they get lost)
- Backpack
- Collapsible Water Bowl
12 Fun Things To Do With Pups At Yellowstone
1. Take A Scenic Drive On Grand Loop Road
You can’t go to Yellowstone and not take a drive on Grand Loop Road. It’s actually impossible because this loop is a 142-mile circular route that passes every major landmark and visitor center in the park.
While the pups can’t hike on any trails or boardwalks, you can get a great feel for Yellowstone just by driving Grand Loop Road with them!
Tip – There are planned road closures in the park on the Grand Loop Road between Tower Falls and Chittenden Road. It will be closed until May 2022, and it was closed during my visit last year as well.
2. Take A Stroll Through Mammoth Area
The area around Mammoth (but not the boardwalks around Mammoth Hot Springs) is a great place to let the pups stretch their legs and take in the views. Be aware that you need to clean up after your dogs because elk frequent this area. Speaking of elk, if you visit during t
Tip: Watch out for elk poop in the Mammoth area. My huskies were ALL over it. Freya loooooved it, haha!
3. See Old Faithful (Just Not From The Boardwalk)
There is a large area behind the viewing platform at Old Faithful that is perfect for dogs. In fact, the day I went to see the most famous geyser in the US, there were several dogs behind the viewing platform.
Honestly, I left Loki and Freya at the Airbnb the day that I happened to see Old Faithful. It wasn’t a planned thing, but I wish I could have taken them to see it, and I definitely will on my next trip to Yellowstone.
Check Out: Yellowstone National Park Bucketlist
4. Marvel At The Beauty Of Lamar Valley
Driving through Lamar Valley is an incredible experience. Sunrise and sunset are the best time to visit if you want to see all the animals. The huskies absolutely LOVED our drives through Lamar Valley. Loki was obsessed with the bison and kept making his husky noises when they were next to the truck. The bison didn’t seem to mind or even notice. I also saw 2 packs of wolves while they were with me (in the truck while I was out taking photos) and didn’t make a peep.
Tip: I did keep the huskies windows up during any driving in Lamar Valley.
Check Out: The One Place You CAN’T MISS In Yellowstone: Lamar Valley!
5. Camp Under The Stars With Your Pup
There are 12 different campgrounds within park boundaries at Yellowstone National Park. All are pet friendly and it’s a great way to experience the park with your pup(s)…
Grant Village Campground –
- 159 Grant Campground Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
- 2021 Opening Date: June 18
- 2021 Closing Date: September 12
- Cost: Sites run around $28 per day
- You can book here.
There are tent, RV, ADA, and combination RV/Tent sites at this campground. Keep in mind, there are no hookups for water, electricity, or sewer here. Pay showers and laundry services are located nearby. Rates for this campground include 2 showers per night.
Madison Campground –
- 30 Madison Campground Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
- 2021 Opening Date: May 14
- 2021 Closing Date: Oct 17
- Cost: Sites run around $28 per day
- You can book here.
There are tent, RV, ADA, and combination RV/Tent sites at this campground. There are over 270 individual sites here, but keep in mind there are no hookups for water, electricity, or sewer. Pay showers are not available on the premises. Rates at this campground do not include showers.
Canyon Campground –
- 27 Andesite Lane, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
- 2021 Opening Date: May 21
- 2021 Closing Date: September 18
- Cost: Sites run around $28 per day
- You can book here.
Canyon Village Campground is located within a mile of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone an is one of the most popular campgrounds in the park. Canyon has over 270 individual sites, but keep in mind there are no hookups for water, electricity, or sewer. Pay showers and laundry services are located nearby. Rates for this campground include 2 showers per night.
6. Take A Breathtaking Drive On Beartooth Highway
While this isn’t in the park it’s just outside the North East Entrance. Beartooth Highway is a National Scenic Byway All-American Road that stretches 68 miles. It winds through southwest Montana and northwest Wyoming. And offers some truly spectacular scenery!
Tip: Beartooth Highway closes at certain times of the year due to inclement weather so check to make sure it’s opening before going for this drive.
7. Grab Some Coffee In West Yellowstone
Morning Glory Coffee & Tea
- 129 Dunraven St, West Yellowstone, MT 59758
- Currently open for curbside pickup
Dogs are usually welcome to join their people at this cute coffee and tea spot! However, right now, they are only open for curbside pickup.
8. Check Out Custer-Gallatin National Forest Right Outside Of West Yellowstone
Custer-Gallatin boasts over 3 million acres that stretch across an impressive 7 ranger districts. This forest is known as one of the most ecologically diverse landscapes in the area. The park also hosts three gateways to Yellowstone. There are several dog-friendly options here, but keep in mind that you may run into the same wildlife that is inside the park. So keep your pups leashed for everyone’s safety.
The Boundary Trail
Distance: 5 miles
This trail runs along the national park border and is pet friendly. Pets can even be off-leash, as long as they respond to voice commands!
9. Take A Hike In Caribou-Targhee National Forest
Just 25 minutes Southwest of the West Yellowstone Entrance in Idaho you will find Caribou-Targhee National Forest, which has 22 dog-friendly hikes.
City Creek Beginner Loop Trail
- Distance: 2.6 miles
- Rating: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 419 ft
Cherry Spring Trail
- Distance: 1.1 miles
- Rating: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 59 ft
Corral Creek Trail
- Distance: 4.5 miles
- Rating: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1,220 ft
10. East Of The Park, Visit Bridger-Teton National Forest
There are several pet-friendly options for hiking in Bridger-Teton National Forest.
Bailey Lake Trail
- Distance: 9 miles
- Rating: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 1,184 ft
- Dog friendly but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Beaver Pond via Game Creek
- Distance: 6.4 miles
- Rating: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 583 ft
- Dog friendly but must be kept on leash.
Cliff Creek Falls Trail
- Distance: 12.5 miles
- Rating: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1,286 ft
- Dog friendly but pets must be kept on a leash.
11. Check Out Shoshone National Forest Just East Of Bridger-Teton
The Shoshone National Forest in Wyoming was set aside in 1891 as part of the Yellowstone Timber Reserve, which makes it the very first national forest in the United States. How cool? Here you will find some 2.4 million acres of varied terrain ranging from sagebrush flats to rugged mountains. There are 34 dog-friendly options for hiking. Here are a few…
Popo Agie Falls Trail
- Distance: 3.3 miles
- Rating: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 682 ft
North Slope Trail
- Distance: 3.3 miles
- Rating: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 807 ft
Diamond Lake Trail
- Distance: 7.3 miles
- Rating: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 679 ft
Frances Lake Trail
- Distance: 12 miles
- Rating: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 2,001 ft
12. Glamp With Your Pup
Glamping in this part of the West is what dreams are made of, or what my dreams are made of anyway, haha! I didn’t get a chance to do glamp on my last trip because it was a semi-last-minute trip. Make sure to book either of these in advance.
Under The Canvas: Yellowstone
- 890 Buttermilk Creek Road, West Yellowstone, MT 59758
- 2021 Season: May 20 – September 6th
- You can book here.
I’ve been wanting to stay at an Under The Canvas location ever since I found them on social media. These dreamy tents are located only 10 minutes from the West Entrance of Yellowstone. Under The Canvas offers safari-inspired glamping, and certain tents are even pet friendly. I cannot wait to stay at one of their National Park locations one day.
Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel
- 20 Maiden Basin Dr, Gardiner, MT 59030
- 2021 Season – May 7 – October 3
- Cost: Between about $350 per night
- You can book here.
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a Tipi in Montana, this is your place. Located just 5 miles from the North Entrance of Yellowstone in Gardiner, Montana, this is the kind of stay that you will remember for years to come. But it books up quickly! BONUS: It’s dog friendly for a small fee! There is also a nightly community campfire, 2 complimentary adult beverages, and a gift shop with local artisan goods.
Tips:
- Enter the park with a full tank of gas. There are only a few stations within the park, and you will pay a premium for convenience.
- Take a map with you or pick up a map when you enter the park because cell service is spotty. (I have Sprint and didn’t have service through most of the park)
- If you are taking any of the scenic drives, you definitely want to bring binoculars and a spotting scope, and if you are into photography, a telephoto lens is an absolute must.
- It’s a good idea to have the pups get out some excess energy before you enter the park. Since the regulations are pretty restrictive and they won’t get much exercise on your scenic drives inside the park.
- If it’s going to be a long day of driving, make sure to bring plenty of food and water for the pups! I love this set for the car and camping.
- If you are hiking with your pups in a National Forest, ensure you both have some tick protection on, we love this.
- It’s also always a good idea to have a First Aid Kit when you travel with pups!
- I have no affiliation with All Trails, but I always use them to find dog-friendly hikes in the area. They actually have a filter specifically for dog-friendly options!
Although Yellowstone National Park isn’t the most pet-friendly park out there, you can still bring the pups with you on your next visit! Keep in mind that bringing pups to Yellowstone will limit what you can do, but if you are willing to make a few adjustments – it’s completely worth it to experience the park with them!
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