If there’s anything Utah is known for, it’s outdoor adventures and there are plenty of dog-friendly things to do right in your backyard. With 5 national parks, there are plenty of attractions to keep pups and their people busy.
But for Salt Lake City residents, a trip down south to the parks isn’t always realistic. The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do with your four-legged friends without even leaving the valley. Here’s a look at some of the best dog-friendly activities in SLC.
Hike the Pipeline Trail
In the heart of Millcreek Canyon sits the Pipeline Trail. It’s frequented by dogs and their owners and offers breathtaking scenery and miles of open trail hiking. This trail is especially beautiful during the fall months when the air cools off and the leaves turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red. Dogs are always welcome in Millcreek Canyon, but they can only be off-leash on odd-numbered days. Mountain bikers take to the trails on even-numbered days, so dogs need to be on a leash if you’re hiking during that time.
Explore City Creek Canyon
City Creek Canyon boasts a beautiful canyon stream and a dirt trail that runs parallel to it, so you and your puppy can explore the canyon without having to share the paved road with the cars and bikes. Your dog will need to stay on a leash, but you can explore for miles as you venture further and further up the canyon.
Take a Dip in Dog Lake
If you’ve got a free afternoon, hop in the car with your pooch and take a drive to the top of Millcreek Canyon, Find the Dog Lake Trailhead and hike up a few miles until you reach Dog Lake. This small lake is a dog’s dream, surrounded by pine trees and with a shoreline that’s perfect for a picnic.
Check out the Gateway
If you’ve never been to The Gateway, then grab your pup and head there now. This giant complex is filled with shopping, dining, a creek, and a splash pad that dogs can’t resist splashing in. They even have fire pits for the cooler months, so it’s the perfect destination for a chill day of local shopping and dining with your furry family member any time of the year.
Dine with Your Dog
Looking for something that sounds a little less like exercise? Take your dog to any number of downtown bars or eateries that will welcome you and your pup with open arms. Dogs aren’t currently allowed inside of any restaurants (with the exception of ADA service dogs), but here’s a full list of 22 pooch-friendly dining patios in Salt Lake City.
Photo Op at the State Capitol
Just because you can’t take your four-legged friends inside the Utah State Capitol Building doesn’t mean they aren’t welcome on the stunning grounds. Visit during the spring for a walkway lined with cherry blossoms. You can also capture picturesque views of the Oquirrh mountains and the entire valley at any time of the year. The walking paths and gardens offer hours of entertainment and scenery to keep you and your pup busy exploring and taking photos.
Socialize at Tanner Dog Park
At the mouth of Parley’s Canyon is a vast gulley filled with wide-open spaces, nature paths, and even a stream for your furry friend to splash in. There are usually plenty of other pups around to socialize with, and your dog can run around leash-free. Take caution if you visit during the spring because the winter runoff can make for a swift current in the stream that’s not safe for humans or pups to swim in.
Discover Killyon Canyon
High up in Emigration Canyon sits the little-known Killyon Canyon, a dog’s paradise. You’ll need to park a little ways below the start of the Killyon trail and hike up to it, but the canyon offers endless trails and paths to explore the area. The rolling green hills will take your breath away, and your pup will love the water crossings that will help keep them cool. You both might be a little muddy on the drive home, so be sure your car is protected with a puppy seat cover.
Take a Stroll Through Memory Grove Park
One of our favorite dog-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City is exploring Memory Grove Park. It’s located at the mouth of City Creek Canyon, so it’s not too far for a long lunch or an after-dinner visit. This park is as serene as it gets. The City Creek stream runs peacefully through the park and offers a peaceful retreat from busy city life. Dogs love splashing in the creek and swimming in the pond, so it’s the perfect destination for pups and their people at the end of a long day.
Tour the Bonneville Shoreline Trail
If you’re looking for a hiking destination you can visit over and over again, the Bonneville Shoreline Trail is it. The network of trails boasts miles and miles of endless terrain to explore and discover. Your pup will never get bored here, and you can enjoy stunning views of the city and mountains as you hike. Mountain bikers frequent these trails, so be sure to keep a close eye on your canine as they wander.
Shop at City Creek
It’s a little-known fact that City Creek Center is dog-friendly, but this large indoor/outdoor mall is the perfect shopping destination for you and your pal on a Saturday afternoon. The creek running through the mall will keep your pup busy eyeing the fish while you shop. You can find poop bag dispenser stands all along the inside of the mall and a fresh bowl of water in front of Lush Cosmetics. Most of the stores won’t even mind you bringing your puppers in to shop with you.
Plush Paw Products Can Help You Find Adventure in Salt Lake City, Utah
Your furry friends will love these dog-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City, and Plush Paw Products has the car seat covers you need to keep your pup safe and your car clean during all of your adventures. Our products are made from premium materials to fit your car perfectly and offer effortless cleaning. We ship to dog lovers all over the world, so check out our online store today!