There’s something about being in nature that grounds us. Providing a sense of peace and relaxation even though the trail may not have been the easiest. But part of what adds to the experience of exploring outdoors; part of what adds to that sense of peace and accomplishment is determined by who else is on the hike.
That’s why we think that the best hiking companion is a dog.
We’ve put together a list of dog friendly trails that are ideal for your next adventure.
DIXIE NATIONAL FOREST | Southern Utah
The landscapes you’ll find in Dixie National Forest are incredibly diverse and beautiful. On every trail you’ll find something new that’s more than worth the hike. With views of Zion National Park and other surrounding monuments there’s enough places to explore to keep you busy for a long time.
ASPEN MIRROR TRAIL
Easy | 1 mile | Summer-Fall | Out & Back
This short but scenic trail brings you to Aspen Mirror Lake. Surrounded by Aspens, it is a spectacular fall destination. Trailhead is located at the end of Forest Service Road 057, about 29 miles east of Cedar City on Highway 14.
BRISTLECONE PINE TRAIL
Easy | 1 mile | Spring-Fall | Out & Back
An easy half mile trail that’s great for families. Enjoy views of Zion National Park from an observation deck as you mingle among a grove of Bristlecone Pines. Trailhead is located along Highway 14, near mile marker 17.
LOST HUNTER TRAIL
Easy | 3.5 miles | Summer-Fall | Loop
A loop hike with little elevation gain, Lost Hunter travels through thick pine forests and grasses. Trailhead is located along Forest Road 056, inside Duck Creek Campground.
NAVAJO LAKE LOOP
Moderate | 10 miles | Summer-Fall | Loop
A moderate 10 mile loop around the beautiful Navajo Lake near Duck Creek Village. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and mountain biking.
For more information on trails in this area visit www.visitcedarcity.com
COCONINO NATIONAL FOREST | N. arizona
Red rocks and pines, Coconino National Forest is bursting with color and stunning views. From natural rock formations on the Bridge Trail to refreshing water hikes like the Wet Beaver Creek.
SLIDE ROCK STATE PARK
Easy/ Moderate | .25 mile trails| Dogs are allowed on trails, not in water.
Slide Rock State Park is a 43-acre historic apple farm in Oak Creek Canyon. Historic cabins are available for viewing and the creek offers the park’s namesake slide for adventure seekers and those looking for a place to cool off.
ELDEN PUEBLO
Easy | .2 miles |On Leash
Elden Pueblo is the site of an ancient Sinagua village. This site is unique in that it makes archaeology and the study of ancient peoples accessible to the public. Used in archaeological field schools and other school programs this site offers an incredible look into the past.
KENDRICK PARK WATCHABLE WILDLIFE TRAIL
Easy | 1.5 miles | Loop
This trail bridges the habitats of forest and grassland and becomes an ideal place to observe the wildlife that inhabit both. Keep your eyes out for bird, insect, and animal life while travelling along the trail.
For more information about trails in this area visit www.hikearizona.com
RED cliffs desert reserve | Southern Utah
With a name like Red Cliffs we bet you can guess the most prominent color that you’ll find when exploring here. This conservation/recreation area is popular for short hikes to a natural swimming spot, popular repelling areas, and incredible landscapes all around. There is a LOT to be found in Red Cliffs.
ELEPHANT ARCH
Moderate | 3.8 miles | Out & Back
The Elephant Arch Trail is a short distance from Washington City, but it’s surprisingly well hidden. The first half of the trail is easy walking along a dirt road, the rest is through sand.
LOWER RED REEF TRAIL
Easy | 1.44 Miles | Out & Back
Known as the Red Cliffs Hike, this trail provides spectacular views at any time of the year because of the variety of plants and rock formations. If you’re looking for a water hike, this trail is best traveled in early to late spring, or after a series of good rain storms in the area.
SILVER REEF TRAIL
Easy | .3 Miles | Out & Back
This is a fun short trail that weaves right through the Red Cliffs Recreation Area camp ground up to a lookout point. Not only is the beauty of the surrounding area a huge payoff, there are also dinosaur tracks along the way that are exciting for every explorer!
For more information on hikes in this area visit www.hikestgeorge.com