Dog-Friendly Southern Utah: An Unforgettable Road Trip with Our Golden Retriever
Welcome to Furry Friend Friday, where we celebrate the joy of traveling with our beloved pets! Each week, we share the latest adventures of Logan, our spirited Golden Retriever puppy. If you adore Golden Retrievers, can’t get enough of playful puppies, or simply cherish dogs in general, you’re in for a treat following Logan’s delightful escapades.
We apologize for missing last week’s update, but we’re back with an exciting recap of our recent dog-friendly road trip to Southern Utah – a region brimming with breathtaking landscapes and incredible opportunities for pet owners!
Embarking on a Pet-Friendly Adventure: Our Southern Utah Road Trip
This post is not sponsored; it’s an authentic account of our journey, highlighting the places and experiences that truly worked for us while traveling with Logan. Our aim is to provide valuable insights for fellow pet parents planning their own dog-friendly adventures.
My partner, Kurt, Logan, and I set our sights on Southern Utah – a destination neither of us had explored before. Drawn by the captivating images of its majestic beauty, we packed our warmest winter gear and headed north, eager to discover its wonders. With Thanksgiving approaching and no family visiting, cooking a large holiday meal for just the two of us seemed unnecessary. Instead, we seized the opportunity for a memorable road trip with our furry companion.
Our Dog-Friendly Southern Utah Itinerary:
- Monday: Arrived and spent one night in Page, Arizona, gateway to unique natural formations.
- Tuesday & Wednesday: Immersed ourselves in the stunning scenery of Bryce Canyon, Utah.
- Thursday: Explored the vibrant city of St. George, Utah.
- Friday: Began our journey home, reflecting on an incredible week.
The trip was a resounding success, and Logan, our adventurous Golden Retriever, proved to be an exceptional travel partner! His enthusiasm for new sights and smells added an extra layer of joy to every moment.
Planning Your Pet-Friendly Journey to Southern Utah
Traveling with a dog opens up a world of possibilities but also requires careful planning. Our primary goal was to ensure Logan could join us every step of the way, meaning we had to prioritize dog-friendly accommodations, trails, and dining options. While some iconic landmarks might not be accessible with pets, a little research reveals a wealth of fantastic alternatives that welcome your four-legged friends.
National parks, in particular, often have specific regulations regarding pets. Generally, dogs are welcome on paved surfaces and in developed campgrounds, provided they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. However, rules vary significantly from park to park. Always check the individual park’s official website before your visit to understand their specific pet policies and identify which trails are accessible to dogs. Resources like NationalParks.org and NationalParkPaws.com offer excellent starting points for researching dog-friendly parks across the U.S.
As responsible pet owners, it’s crucial to always pick up after your dog, carry ample water for both of you, be mindful of weather conditions and your dog’s physical limits, and never leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. Our canine companions can get thirsty, hot, cold, and tired just like us!
Page, Arizona: Gateway to Natural Wonders with Your Dog
Our initial stop led us to Page, Arizona, a region renowned for its breathtaking northern Arizona landscapes. While we’ve previously explored the majestic Grand Canyon, we were eager to discover new vistas. Instagram had long captivated us with stunning images of Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, The Wave, and Monument Valley, igniting a desire to see these natural marvels firsthand. When Kurt readily agreed to a hiking trip to Bryce Canyon, I knew we had to incorporate a few of these iconic Page-area sights along the way.
Horseshoe Bend: A Must-Visit Dog-Friendly Overlook
Upon discovering that Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ, was not only spectacular but also dog-friendly, there was no hesitation – we were going! And it certainly did not disappoint. This iconic overlook, offering panoramic views of the Colorado River’s dramatic bend, is an absolute must-see if you’re in the area. Checking it off our bucket list brought immense excitement!
We visited on a Monday just before sunset, a popular time that draws a considerable crowd. The vibrant colors of the setting sun casting a glow over the canyon are truly glorious, making it a prime spot for photographers and sightseers alike. If you don’t mind navigating a bustling atmosphere with many vying for the perfect Instagram shot, you’ll find the experience incredibly rewarding. Be prepared for potentially challenging parking conditions; while efforts are being made to expand the lot, parking on the two-lane road at the trailhead can be tricky with heavy traffic. Ensure your dog is securely leashed and always under control.
Dog-Friendly Dining and Accommodation in Page, AZ
For dinner, we sought out a local dog-friendly restaurant and found a gem in Big John’s Texas Barbecue. They welcome dogs on their outside patio, which was well-equipped with plenty of tables and even heaters for the chilly evening air. The service was exceptional, the food delicious, and they went above and beyond by spoiling Logan with a fresh bowl of water and a pork bone. This thoughtful gesture allowed us to enjoy our dinner uninterrupted, a true blessing for pet owners!
Our overnight stay was at the La Quinta Inn & Suites Page at Lake Powell. This brand-new hotel proved to be remarkably dog-friendly, offering comfortable amenities and including a complimentary hot breakfast buffet. We were thoroughly impressed and would enthusiastically choose to stay there again on future visits to Page.
Regarding Antelope Canyon, which is a short drive from Page, we decided against visiting with Logan. The canyon’s terrain often involves steep climbs and challenging sections that are not suitable for dogs. While boarding options for pets might be available in Page, we didn’t feel compelled to experience Antelope Canyon without Logan this time, opting instead for adventures we could all share.
Bryce Canyon City: Exploring Hoodoos and Hidden Gems with Your Dog
“Wow” was our immediate reaction upon arriving in Bryce Canyon City – first at the quaintness of the “town,” then at the utterly unbelievable sight of the canyon’s iconic hoodoos. Our two days here offered an unforgettable experience, albeit with some unique considerations for pet travelers.
Pet-Friendly Stays in Bryce Canyon City
Bryce Canyon City is not the bustling hub one might expect, especially during the offseason. We stayed at the Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn, one of the few dog-friendly options available. While not luxurious, it served its purpose. Temperatures during our visit were brisk, reaching the mid-40s Fahrenheit during the day and plummeting to the low teens at night. Logan, despite his golden fur, wasn’t thrilled about wearing a sweater, but it was absolutely necessary for the chilly evenings!
The hotel’s dining options were limited, and the attached “grocery store” / souvenir shop, being the only one in town, had notably high prices. However, the Alpine Lodge section of the hotel, where we stayed, was pet-designated. This was convenient, as we could take Logan directly outside without navigating long hallways. A delightful bonus was Logan spotting his very first deer on both nights of our stay, adding a touch of wilderness charm to our visit.
Hiking Bryce Canyon National Park with Your Dog
Bryce Canyon National Park has clear pet regulations: dogs are welcome on paved trails and viewpoints, provided they are on a leash, but are generally not permitted on unpaved trails into the canyon. The good news is that the iconic Rim Trail, a paved path between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point, is entirely dog-friendly, offering truly breathtaking views of the hoodoos and amphitheater. Visiting during the colder months proved advantageous; while some areas were still popular, the overall crowds were significantly smaller, making for a more serene hiking experience with Logan.
On Tuesday morning, we hiked the entire Rim Trail with Logan, covering approximately three miles round trip. This allowed us to return to our hotel for lunch and some playtime before Logan settled into his crate for a well-deserved nap. With Logan resting comfortably, Kurt and I took the opportunity to explore more of the park’s human-only trails. We parked at Bryce Point and descended a short way into the canyon, marveling at the unique rock formations before turning back as dusk approached. Experiencing Bryce Canyon’s stunning beauty both with and without Logan was wonderful, and he absolutely loved his hike, especially playing with the pine cones along the trail!
Kodachrome Basin State Park: A Dog-Friendly Hiking Haven
On Wednesday, we ventured about 40 minutes from our hotel to Kodachrome Basin State Park. The name alone had the Simon & Garfunkel song playing on repeat in my head! Here, we discovered the Panorama Trail, an incredibly dog-friendly route that Logan absolutely adored. The soft clay underfoot was a delight for him as he enthusiastically explored the unique landscape.
We opted for the longer six-mile loop of the Panorama Trail, enjoying the peaceful solitude as we didn’t encounter another soul. The park boasted gorgeous views and fascinating geological features, making for a truly memorable hike. Spending quality time and getting exercise with our furry boy in such a stunning setting was simply wonderful.
Cannonville’s Culinary Delight: I.D.K. BBQ
On our drive home from Kodachrome Basin, we made a delightful stop at I.D.K. BBQ in Cannonville, Utah. This place was an absolute culinary highlight, surpassing even Big John’s in Page! The meat was incredibly flavorful, and the restaurant itself, which started as a food truck by Kevin and Emily Clark before opening its brick-and-mortar location, exuded charm. We highly recommend a visit – you won’t regret it!
Emily was incredibly gracious, even providing Logan with a couple of pork bones to enjoy back at the hotel. As expected, he guarded his treasures fiercely, ensuring no one came close while he savored them!
St. George, Utah: Final Pet-Friendly Stops
Our journey continued to St. George, where we arrived just before noon. With Thanksgiving dinner on our minds for later, we decided to embark on another hike to help work up an appetite and ensure Logan got some good exercise.
Yellow Knolls Trail: A Unique Pet-Friendly Landscape
The Yellow Knolls Trail proved to be an excellent choice. This 3.8-mile out-and-back trail offered a moderate elevation gain and unique scenery. We encountered only one other couple who instantly fell in love with Logan, allowing us the opportunity to let him off-leash for a bit (always exercise caution and local leash laws). Logan absolutely reveled in the sandy clay, enjoying the hike immensely. He blended in so well with the surroundings, appearing almost the same color as the clay – it was quite amusing!
Comfortable Stays for Pet Travelers in St. George
Our final overnight stay was at the La Quinta Inn & Suites St. George, and once again, we were thoroughly pleased. This hotel chain consistently delivers clean, comfortable accommodations and friendly staff, making it our preferred choice whenever we travel with Logan. We highly recommend them for their consistent pet-friendly policies.
Essential Tips for Traveling with Your Golden Retriever (or Any Dog!)
Our Southern Utah road trip confirmed that Logan is a fantastic travel companion, capable of keeping up with our adventurous spirit and thoroughly enjoying the hikes. Exploring new places with him is truly a joy. For those planning similar trips, here are some key takeaways:
- Research is paramount: Always look up pet policies for parks, hotels, and restaurants in advance. Websites like the national park service sites and local tourism boards are invaluable.
- Pack smart: Beyond your dog’s food and water, consider collapsible bowls, extra leashes, waste bags, a first-aid kit, favorite toys, and seasonal clothing (like Logan’s sweater!).
- Prioritize comfort: Ensure your dog has a comfortable, familiar space in the car and hotel, like a crate or a favorite bed, to help them feel secure in new environments.
- Breaks are essential: Plan frequent stops for potty breaks, stretching, and mental stimulation.
- Stay flexible: Traveling with a pet means embracing spontaneity and being prepared to adjust plans if a location isn’t as pet-friendly as expected.
During our trip, we also discovered an invaluable app called Bring Fido. This resource is a game-changer for pet owners, helping you find dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities. You can even search for local dog parks to ensure your furry friend gets plenty of off-leash play time.
Connect with Us and Logan’s Adventures!
Our first official road trip with Logan was a resounding success, proving that exploring the world with your Golden Retriever is incredibly rewarding. He embraces every adventure, and we look forward to many more journeys together. We hope our experiences inspire you to plan your own dog-friendly Southern Utah adventure!
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Thank you so much for joining us for this special Dog-Friendly Southern Utah episode of Furry Friend Friday. We look forward to sharing more of Logan’s adventures with you next week!