It is true dogs are NOT allowed on the trails in Arches and Canyonlands National Park. National Parks across the nation have identical and varying restrictions. Always know before you go. Still your pooch can take the quick scenic drive of the parks with you then head over to the hundreds of thousands of acres of public lands under the domain of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Day hikes and camping are a Moab favorite for the entire family, including the four-legged members.

For the hot summer months, the lavish water in Negro Bill Canyon and Ken's Lake are remarkable spots to keep pets cool. In spring, Hunter Canyon and Kane Creek flows too. All of these areas have public camping. Your loyal pet will follow you anywhere, but anywhere may not be safe for your pet. Raw paws and cactus spines are common dilemmas for animals walking in the desert. Leashes keep them from getting lost and protect them from predators, porcupines, snakes, traps and other dogs on the trail. Consult a veterinarian about contents of a pet first aid kit and carry it.  Dogs must be leashed in the BLM campgrounds. Pack out pet waste from trails, waterways, and campgrounds to help minimize odor, keep watershed clean, and protect other hikers and visitors from encountering it.  

Not all of us like to camp, so staying in Moab is easy to sort out using www.DiscoverMoab.com.  All of the accommodation listings have a column with a special icon of puppy toes to welcome your entire family.  Look for accommodations located beside the Millcreek Pathway, a nice shaded walkway in town, and carry pet waste bags during walks there. Trash receptacles dot the length of the pathway to conveniently dispose of bags of pet waste. Moab's La Quinta has a fenced pet yard for off-leash exercise. Also in town is the Bark Park, an off-leash doggy playground. Strolling around town an occasional water bowl can be found to help keep dogs hydrated, however, carry enough water for you both whether on the trail, traveling in the car or meandering around town. A visit would not be complete without a visit to the Moab Barkery a pet supply store and favorite of locals as well.

There is Doggy Day Care in Moab too, for those times you are unable to bring your pet along. There are many great tours of activities like biking, rafting, stand up paddle boarding, jetboating, canyoneering, ATVing, skydiving, hot air ballooning, horseback riding, enjoying a scenic flight or learning from a photo tour.

For short legged or aged doggies consider visiting BLM Dinosaur Tracks and Rock Art sites. Some are roadside stops, some a short jaunt. It is important to keep doggie toenails off of the dinosaur tracks. Get a pamphlet with directions from the Moab Information Center at the corner of Main and Center Streets, downtown. And you can always phone 435-259-8825 for further travel assistance.