Zion National Park Winter Itinerary: One Perfect Dog-Friendly Day

Zion National Park is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the American Southwest. Visiting in winter allows you to explore with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, even if you have a dog along with you. While dogs aren’t allowed on many of the hiking trails in the park, there are still wonderful ways to enjoy the scenery together. This Zion National Park winter itinerary is designed with dog owners in mind, balancing scenic drives, walks, and dining and lodging options that welcome both you and your furry friend.

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Morning: Scenic Drive & Pa’rus Trail Walk

Drive the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway

Start your day with a drive along the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway. The road winds through switchbacks, a historic tunnel, and dramatic viewpoints on the park’s east side. This road is open year-round and is especially beautiful with a dusting of snow. Take advantage of the viewpoints to get out of your car and capture stunning photos.

This historic tunnel was completed in 1930, built to enable direct access between Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, and Zion National Parks. Driving the 1.1 mile long tunnel through the mountain is a unique experience. During our 1st visit, we hadn’t expected daylight in the depths of the tunnel, but there are windows that provide daylight and fresh air.

The tunnel isn’t open to pedestrians, bicycles, or vehicles over 13 feet 1 inches tall. Check the complete list of prohibited vehicles. You’re required to purchase a $15 permit if your vehicle is larger than 7 feet 10 inches (2.4 meters) in width and/or 11 feet 4 inches (3.4 meters) in height.

Pro Tip: The rules will change in June 7-2026, at which point vehicles larger than 7 feet 10 inches (2.4 meters) in width and/or 11 feet 4 inches (3.4 meters) in height and/or 35’9″ in length (10.9 meters) will no longer be allowed to drive through the tunnel.

Walk the Pa’rus Trail

The Pa’rus Trail is the only trail in Zion where pets are welcome. This easy, paved path stretches 3.5 miles round trip (with minimal elevation gain) from the South Campground to Canyon Junction.

Park at the Visitor’s Center to access the hike. You’ll find restrooms and water refill stations next to the Visitor’s Center, before starting on your hike.

The trail follows the Virgin River, crosses several pedestrian bridges, and offers wide-open views of sandstone cliffs — perfect for photos with your pup. This dog-friendly trail is one of the things that sets apart Zion from Arches National Park.

Pro Tip: Be sure to carry plenty of water on your hike for you and your dog. Don’t let your dog drink the river water or submerge your (or your dog’s) head in the water of the Virgin River due to possible Cyanobacteria (see park guidance).

We made good use of our favorite dog friendly hiking water bottle on our Zion National Park visit.

Kalimdor Dog Water Bottle, Leak Proof Portable Puppy Water Dispenser with Drinking Feeder for Pets Outdoor Walking, Hiking, Travel, Food Grade Plastic (19oz Blue)

Attend a Visitor Center Ranger Talk

Head to the Zion Visitor Center afterward, where daily ranger patio talks are typically scheduled (check the latest schedule on the NPS website). Dogs are welcome at the visitor centers, making this a unique opportunity to learn more about the park’s history, wildlife, and geology together.

Midday: Lunch Options

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the designated areas in the park. If you prefer to visit a restaurant, head into Springdale, just outside the park entrance. Dog-friendly restaurants include Zion Canyon Brew Pub, with a patio overlooking the Virgin River, and Camp Outpost, which serves hearty, casual fare.

Enjoying lunch without dogs? You don’t need to leave the park to eat lunch at Red Rock Grill inside the Zion Lodge. Here you’ll find canyon views and classic Southwestern-inspired dishes.

Afternoon: Scenic Drive & Sunset

Spend the afternoon exploring the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. This is open to personal vehicles in the winter months only (late November to mid-March). This is the only time of year you can visit this area of the park with dogs.

Stop at viewpoints like Big Bend and Court of the Patriarchs for photos. Since you’ll be driving rather than using the shuttle system, it’s easy to hop out with your pup at the various overlooks and enjoy the scenery.

As the sun gets lower in the sky, end your day enjoying sunset along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Popular sunset spots include The Grotto and Big Bend, where the setting sun lights up the canyon walls in rich red and orange hues. Enjoy this stunning finale to your dog-friendly day!

Tips for Visiting Zion with Dogs in Winter

• Leash Rule: Dogs must be leashed at all times (maximum 6 feet) while in the park.
• Dogs are only allowed in Zion National Park on the Pa'Rus Trail, public road and parking areas, developed campgrounds and picnic areas, and on the grounds of the Zion Lodge. 
• Service Animals: are allowed in all areas of the park. Be sure to check the park's service dog guidelines before your visit.
• Waste: Always pack out dog waste to keep the park pristine.
• Cold Weather: Winter mornings can be chilly; bring water and a blanket or jacket for your pup if needed. If you venture further into the mountains, come prepared with these winter hiking essentials.
• Leaving Dogs in Personal Vehicles is not recommended and is prohibited when there are dangerous environmental conditions. The sun can heat your car to dangerous levels very quickly during much of the year.

Doggie Daycare: While visiting Zion National Park in winter with your dog is fun, you may want to spend a day or just an afternoon hiking in the park. There are a number of highly rated daycare options for your dog to consider. Zion Canyon Canine was highly recommended to us, though we haven't personally used it.

Nearby Dog-Friendly Hikes Outside Zion

If you’re spending more than a day in the area, check out these dog-friendly hiking spots near Zion:

Snow Canyon State Park (St. George, 1 hour from Zion). This stunning park features red and white Navajo sandstone cliffs, lava flows, and sand dunes. Dogs are allowed on all trails on leash, including our favorite Petrified Sand Dunes Trail (1.2 mile round trip). This connects to a variety of other trails that you can explore in this pet-friendly mini-Zion park.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes States Park (Kanab, 1 hour from Zion). Known for its vibrant shifting pink sand dunes, this park is a dream for dogs who love to explore (on leash). Pets are welcome on the dunes and trails, making it a fun stop for both exercise and photography. Be sure to bring extra water for your pup, even in winter.

Red Canyon (Dixie National Forest): ~1.5 hours from Zion. Sometimes called “Little Bryce,” Red Canyon features hoodoos and red rock formations similar to Bryce Canyon National Park. Unlike Bryce Canyon, the trails are within Dixie National Forest, and so are dog friendly. Popular dog-friendly hikes include the Pink Ledges Trail (0.7 miles) and the Arches Trail (1.5 miles).

Dog-Friendly Places to Stay Near Zion National Park

Whether you're visiting Zion for a weekend or a longer getaway, here are some excellent dog-friendly places to stay near the park:

Final Thoughts

A dog-friendly Zion National Park winter itinerary combines scenic drives, pet-friendly trails, and flexible dining options for both you and your four-legged friends. The Pa’rus Trail is the highlight inside the park. Add-in nearby options like Snow Canyon State Park and Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park for a balanced mix of sightseeing, walking, and relaxation. Enjoy your visit to one of the most beautiful regions of the Southwest! If you're looking for a more dog-friendly national park experience, consider a visit to Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona.

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