Dreaming of taking a vacation with your pet? You’re not alone! Almost 80 percent of pet owners in the U.S. today report traveling with their pets at least once a year. If you can’t stand the thought of your four-legged friend staying behind with family or in a kennel, you’re no doubt considering making them a part of your next national park adventure. Unfortunately, this often isn’t easy.
Many hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals do not allow pets. This can make finding accommodations for your trip a little tricky—unless you know about the best pet-friendly Utah resort!
Water Canyon Resort is a stunning Utah resort situated in beautiful Hildale, Utah. In addition to our regular one- and two-bed cabins, we also offer several luxurious pet-friendly cabins for guests traveling with a four-legged family member. Each of our pet-friendly cabins features the same luxury decor and amenities you’ll find in our other cabins, like a workspace, kitchenette, plush beds, and more.
Now that you’ve found the perfect pet-friendly Utah resort, it’s time to start planning a national park visit with your pet! Keep reading to learn a few tips for visiting a national park with your beloved furry friend!
Check the Rules Before You Go
Each national park has its own rules about where pets are and are not allowed. For instance, pets are not allowed on any trails, in wilderness areas, on shuttle buses, or in public buildings in Zion National Park. The only exception is the Pa’rus Trail, which does allow pets.
If you want to visit Zion and enjoy other hikes besides Pa’rus Trail during your visit, plan to board your pet for at least a portion of your trip.
Other national parks may allow pets on additional trails. However, all national parks share other rules for pets and their owners. For instance, you’re always responsible for bagging your pet’s poop and transporting it to a trash can, even when hiking in wilderness areas. Pets must also remain on a leash — in most cases, a leash that is 6 feet or shorter. Your pet should never be allowed to harass wildlife.
The exception to these rules is service animals. Trained service animals are permitted on all trails, as well as in buildings and on shuttle buses. Emotional support or comfort animals are not considered service animals, and therefore must follow the same rules as pets.
Checking the rules of any national parks that you plan to visit ahead of time can help you to better plan your trip and avoid disappointment. Keep in mind that breaking the rules can lead to a fine, and bring a quick end to your fun trip.
Find a Pet-Friendly Utah Resort
As we’ve already mentioned, another challenge that comes with planning a trip with your pet is finding lodging that allows them, and that makes your stay more comfortable for you and for your four-legged friend.
While some hotels do allow pets, they can be cramped. Noises from surrounding rooms may also make their way through the thin walls, and leave your pet agitated, or even cause them to bark.
Water Canyon Resort is the ultimate pet-friendly Utah resort. Our pet-friendly cabins are the perfect spot to relax and get some rest when traveling with your four-legged family member!
Pack for Your Pet
Packing the right gear for your trip can help make it more comfortable. The same goes for your pet.
In addition to bringing their food and leash, it’s a good idea to bring a few comfort items as well. Your dog’s bed and favorite toys can help to make a strange place feel more familiar to them. If your pet is anxious, setting up a comfortable corner in your vacation rental can help to set them at ease so that they can get plenty of rest each night.
It’s also a good idea to travel with vet records, and a first aid kit for your pet if you plan to do any hiking together. Don’t forget to pack extra water for your pet. Like you, they’ll need to stay hydrated on the trails.
Look for Other Hiking Options Nearby
If you have your heart set on hiking and enjoying the outdoors with your pet during your trip, consider visiting other parks and outdoor destinations besides national parks.
Most state parks and other public outdoor areas have fewer rules about pets and will allow them on marked trails.
If you’re visiting our pet-friendly Utah resort with your pet, nearby Quail Creek State Park can be a fun addition to your itinerary. This beautiful state park features stunning red rocks and a large reservoir. Pets are allowed on all trails in the park as well as on the beach, as long as they are kept on a leash.
Another great option is Water Canyon. This Water Canyon Trail is pet-friendly and located just a short drive from our resort. This is a great spot to enjoy a quiet, stunning hike during your visit.
Planning an Outdoor Adventure at Our Pet-Friendly Utah Resort
Planning on taking an outdoor adventure next summer? You don’t have to leave your beloved furry family member at home. With a little bit of planning, it’s possible to enjoy an exciting national park adventure with your pet!
The pet-friendly cabins at Water Canyon Resort make it even easier to get away with your dog. While you can visit any time of year with your pet, the winter season offers a few exclusive perks. Cooler temperatures may be more comfortable for hiking with your dog. And if you’re planning to visit Zion, the shuttles aren’t in operation for much of the season. This means that you can drive your personal vehicle into the Lower Canyon with your pet to see the sights.
Another perk of visiting during the winter is a chance to save on your pet-friendly Utah resort stay! Right now, when you book a stay of two or more nights before March 15, 2023, you’ll enjoy a 25 percent discount on your booking.
Book your stay at Water Canyon Resort today to take advantage of this amazing deal!