Furry Friend Friday: An Unforgettable Dog-Friendly Road Trip Through Southern Utah with Logan
Welcome back to Furry Friend Friday, where we celebrate the adventures of our beloved Golden Retriever puppy, Logan! Each week, we share snippets of his life, his playful antics, and the joy he brings to our days. If you’re a fan of Golden Retrievers, puppies, or dogs in general, you’re in for a treat as you follow Logan’s journey. We sincerely apologize for missing last week’s update, but we promise this special edition makes up for it with tales from an incredible dog-friendly road trip through Southern Utah.
This article is crafted from our personal travel experiences and is not a sponsored post. We’re simply excited to share the places and activities that made our road trip with Logan a resounding success.
As Thanksgiving approached and we found ourselves without family plans – and with no desire to cook a massive turkey for just two of us – Kurt, Logan, and I decided it was the perfect opportunity for an adventure. We set our sights on Southern Utah, a region neither of us had explored before, but whose stunning landscapes I had long admired in photographs. With images of majestic red rock formations and vast canyons in mind, we packed our limited winter gear and headed north, eager to discover what this beautiful corner of the U.S. had to offer, especially through the eyes of our furry companion.
Our itinerary unfolded over a memorable week: we spent Monday night in Page, Arizona, followed by two nights (Tuesday and Wednesday) immersed in the wonders of Bryce Canyon, Utah. Thursday saw us exploring St. George, Utah, before making our way back home on Friday. It was a spectacular trip, and Logan, to our delight, proved to be an exceptional travel partner, adapting to every new environment with his characteristic enthusiasm and charm.
Plan Your Own Pet-Friendly Adventure: Save This Dog-Friendly Southern Utah Guide to Your Favorite PINTEREST BOARD!
Page, AZ: Gateway to Canyons and Pet-Friendly Wonders
Our first significant stop was Page, Arizona, a town renowned for its proximity to some of Northern Arizona’s most breathtaking natural attractions. While we’ve visited the Grand Canyon numerous times, the allure of Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley, frequently showcased across Instagram feeds, had captivated me. I was thrilled when Kurt agreed to my suggestion of heading towards Bryce Canyon for some hiking, with the firm intention of exploring several of these iconic spots along our route.
Navigating Pet-Friendly Travel: Are These Iconic Sights Welcoming to Dogs?
Traveling with Logan means that finding dog-friendly destinations is no longer an option, but a necessity. Our furry family member is an integral part of our adventures, so the question of whether he could join us on hikes and stay in accommodations was paramount. While it can sometimes be disheartening to find that certain world-famous sites aren’t accessible to pets, the good news is that with a bit of research, many incredible dog-friendly alternatives and facilities can be found. Modern travel has made planning pet-inclusive trips much easier, thanks to numerous websites and apps dedicated to helping you plan your next getaway with your beloved pooch.
My research revealed that national parks across the U.S. often have varying regulations regarding pets. Generally, dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and are restricted to paved surfaces and developed campgrounds. This policy helps protect wildlife and natural resources while ensuring the safety of all park visitors, both human and canine. For those interested in exploring dog-friendly parks nationwide, resources like National Parks Foundation and National Park Paws offer invaluable information. Always check the specific park’s official website for the most current regulations and a list of accessible trails before your visit.
Beyond regulations, being a responsible dog owner is crucial. This includes always picking up after your pet, carrying ample water for both of you, being mindful of weather conditions (especially temperature during hikes), and understanding your dog’s physical limits. Just like us, our canine companions can get thirsty, overheated, cold, or simply tired, so planning accordingly is key to an enjoyable trip for everyone.
Horseshoe Bend: A Must-See Pet-Friendly Vista
Upon discovering that Horseshoe Bend in Page, AZ, was not only spectacular but also dog-friendly, there was no question – it immediately became a non-negotiable stop on our itinerary. And it absolutely lived up to the hype! The sheer grandeur of the Colorado River carving its iconic horseshoe shape into the landscape is something truly unforgettable. I highly recommend it if you’re ever in the area; crossing this off my bucket list was incredibly satisfying.
We visited on a Monday, just as the sun began its descent, and the place was bustling with visitors. Unsurprisingly, sunset is arguably the most popular time to experience Horseshoe Bend, as the fading light paints the canyon walls in a kaleidoscope of glorious colors. If you don’t mind navigating crowds and sharing the view with numerous photographers vying for the perfect Instagram shot, you’ll have an amazing experience. Be prepared for parking challenges; while efforts are reportedly underway to expand the main lot, overflow parking often spills onto the two-lane road near the trailhead. Navigating this with traffic and a dog requires extra vigilance, so ensure your furry friend is securely leashed and under control.
Dining and Accommodation in Page, AZ
For dinner, we sought out a dog-friendly establishment and found a gem in Big John’s Texas Barbecue. Like many restaurants accommodating pets, outdoor patio seating is required, and Big John’s offered plenty of tables, even equipped with heaters to combat the chilly evening air. The service was exceptional, and the food was delicious. What truly made it special was how they welcomed Logan, providing him with a full bowl of water and a pork bone to chew on, allowing us to enjoy our meal without interruption. It was a truly thoughtful gesture that made our dining experience even better.
Our overnight stay at the La Quinta Inn & Suites Page at Lake Powell was equally delightful. This hotel was practically brand new, incredibly dog-friendly, and the room rate even included a complimentary hot breakfast buffet. We were so impressed with the cleanliness, comfort, and the welcoming attitude towards pets that we would undoubtedly choose to stay there again.
Antelope Canyon: A Note on Pet Accessibility
Just a short drive from Page lies the world-famous Antelope Canyon. However, it’s important to note that Antelope Canyon is generally not recommended for dogs due to the challenging terrain, which includes steep climbs and narrow passages that require significant physical exertion. While there might be options for boarding your dog in Page for the day, we ultimately decided against it, as we didn’t feel compelled to visit Antelope Canyon without Logan, choosing instead to focus on activities we could all enjoy together.
Keep up with Logan’s latest exploits! Follow Logan the Golden Dog account on Instagram for almost daily pictures and adventures of our furry friend!
Bryce Canyon City: A Winter Wonderland and Canine Discoveries
Our arrival in Bryce Canyon City was met with an immediate sense of awe, first by the sheer isolation of the “town,” and then by the breathtaking, almost surreal sight of the hoodoos in the canyon. Our two days there were nothing short of a profound experience, painting memories against a backdrop of crisp, cold air and unparalleled natural beauty.
Accommodation in Bryce Canyon City: Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn
While not the most luxurious accommodation in town, Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn was one of the few dog-friendly options available. I had envisioned Bryce Canyon City as a bustling hub with a plethora of hotels and dining choices, but I quickly learned that this is not the case, especially during the off-season. Indeed, it was quite chilly during our visit, with daytime temperatures hovering in the mid-40s Fahrenheit and dropping into the low teens at night. This naturally explains why visitor numbers are lower, as most people prefer to hike in warmer conditions. Logan, not thrilled by the sweater I dressed him in, quickly understood its necessity when the nocturnal chill set in!
Despite the charm of the off-season quiet, a few more dining options beyond the hotel restaurant (which was rather unremarkable) would have been appreciated. The hotel also housed a combined “grocery store” and souvenir shop, but as the only one in town, prices were understandably exorbitant. Our stay was in the Alpine Lodge, separate from the main hotel, as these rooms were designated for pets. This setup was convenient, allowing us direct outdoor access without navigating lengthy hallways. It was here, in the quiet evenings, that Logan had his very first deer sightings on both nights, adding an extra layer of wildlife wonder to our trip.
Bryce Canyon National Park: Hiking with Your Dog
Bryce Canyon National Park, while majestic, has specific regulations for pets to protect its fragile ecosystem. Dogs are permitted on the paved sections of the Rim Trail, specifically between Sunset Point and Sunrise Point, provided they are on a leash. This trail offers absolutely stunning panoramic views of the amphitheater and its iconic hoodoos, making it a perfect spot for a scenic stroll with your canine companion. We were particularly glad we chose to visit during the off-season, as even with some parts of the park being moderately busy, we enjoyed stretches of solitude on the Rim Trail with Logan. I can only imagine the crowds during peak warmer months!
On Tuesday morning, we embarked on a hike along the Rim Trail, completing the round trip which totaled approximately 3 miles. This allowed us to return to our hotel room for lunch and some playtime with Logan before crating him for a short period. This gave Kurt and me the opportunity to explore some of the unpaved trails on our own. With Logan comfortably resting, we drove to Bryce Point and ventured onto a trail that led us partway down into the canyon. As dusk began to settle, casting long shadows across the unique rock formations, we decided to turn back, having soaked in the immense beauty of the landscape. It was a truly beautiful experience, highlighting the incredible natural wonders of the U.S. We cherished the ability to experience Bryce Canyon both with Logan, who absolutely loved playing with pine cones on our paved hike, and by ourselves, exploring areas inaccessible to pets, giving us the best of both worlds.
Kodachrome Basin State Park: A Colorful Detour
Wednesday brought us to Kodachrome Basin State Park, a picturesque 40-minute drive from our hotel. The name “Kodachrome” immediately invoked the classic Simon and Garfunkel song, which happily (or maddeningly!) stuck in my head for the rest of the day. Here, we explored the Panorama Trail, a truly dog-friendly route that Logan absolutely adored! The unique, soft clay underfoot was a particular delight for him, as he eagerly explored every scent and sight.
The trail was blissfully uncrowded – we didn’t encounter a single other person, which allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty. We opted for the longer 6-mile loop, reveling in the gorgeous views and fascinating geological formations around every bend. It was an invigorating experience, allowing us to exercise and connect with nature alongside our energetic boy – truly, what could be better?
On our journey back, we made a delicious stop at I.D.K. BBQ in Cannonville, Utah. This place was phenomenal – even more enjoyable than Big John’s in Page! The meat was incredibly flavorful, and the restaurant itself had a charming, inviting atmosphere. Kevin and Emily Clark, the owners, began their culinary journey with a food truck and opened their brick-and-mortar shop about six months prior. I cannot recommend this place enough; you absolutely won’t be disappointed. Emily was incredibly kind, even providing Logan with a couple of pork bones to take back to the hotel. He guarded those treasures fiercely, not letting us near him while he savored every bite!
St. George, Utah: Desert Trails and Comfortable Stays
Our final destination brought us to St. George, Utah, where we arrived just before noon. With Thanksgiving dinner on our minds for later that day, we decided to squeeze in one more hike to ensure Logan (and us!) got some good exercise before a celebratory meal.
Yellow Knolls Trail: A Sandy Delight for Paws
The Yellow Knolls Trail proved to be an excellent choice. This out-and-back trail spanned approximately 3.8 miles and featured some pleasant elevation changes, offering a good workout. We encountered only one other couple during our hike, who instantly fell in love with Logan, and the feeling was mutual. This sparse company allowed us the freedom to let Logan off-leash for a bit, where he absolutely reveled in the soft, sandy clay. He enjoyed this hike immensely, and it was quite amusing to see that his fur had almost perfectly matched the color of the clay by the time we finished!
Accommodation in St. George: La Quinta Inn & Suites St. George
Our stay at the La Quinta Inn & Suites St. George was just as satisfying as our previous experience with the chain. We were extremely pleased with the cleanliness, comfort, and the overall welcoming atmosphere. It’s clear that La Quinta prioritizes pet-friendly travel, and based on our experiences at both locations, it has become our go-to hotel chain whenever we embark on adventures with Logan. The staff at both hotels were consistently friendly and accommodating, making our travels stress-free.
Reflections on Our First Official Road Trip with Logan
This journey marked our first official, extended road trip with Logan, and he surpassed all our expectations. He proved to be an enthusiastic and capable hiker, easily keeping pace with us and relishing every moment of exploration. This experience has only fueled our excitement to discover many more dog-friendly places with him in the future. We’re incredibly grateful for his companionship and the unique perspective he brings to our travels.
During our planning, I also stumbled upon a fantastic resource called BringFido. This invaluable app helps you locate dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities, and even allows you to search for local dog parks in your destination. It’s an essential tool for any pet owner planning a trip.