Hiking With Dogs in Glacier National Park

We have tiny dogs . We bring them everywhere we go. Both are 5 lbs. each. We have a front pouch bag that we use to carry them around us. We are planning on going trail hiking and I know that you are not allowed to take dogs on the trail.

But what if they will stay in the pouch bag on the entire trip/walk as they always do and they will not touch the ground of the trail at all?

Will they allow us to take them with us?

Answer

Hi Rocelle,

Grizzly bears love 5 pound dogs just as much as 50 pound dogs 🙂

Just kidding (although I’m sure they do).

No, dogs are not allowed on trails in Glacier National Park.

I’m sure your dogs are very well behaved wherever you take them. But what happens if you bump into a grizzly bear while hiking? How’s your dog going to react then? Be honest now–you don’t know. Nobody knows.

It may bark, it may scare the bear, it may do everything you’re not supposed to do if you bump into a grizzly bear and want to avoid a grizzly bear attack.

Please, for your safety, for your dogs safety, and, most importantly, for the safety of everyone you encounter while hiking in Glacier National Parkdon’t bring your dogs on any trails, in any way, shape or form

Have a great vacation!

~ Perry

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Bringing a Dog on a Hike in Glacier National Park (Canmore, AB Canada)

What regulations are there for people who want to take their dog with them on a hike through Glacier National Park?

What safety precautions do you recommend for a leader who wants to take his dog on a trip that he is leading with up to six other hikers?

Answer

Hi Canmore,

Dogs are not allowed on hikes in Glacier National Park due to grizzly bears.

While I’m not sure about the regulations regarding seeing eye dogs, I would presume they are not allowed either. Regardless, it doesn’t appear as if you’re referring to bringing a seeing eye dog.

In short, dogs are allowed in Glacier National Park campgrounds, but cannot be left alone.

On hiking trails, they are not allowed at all.

Comment from Anonymous

I believe the reason dogs are not allowed is because the natural aggression between canines and bears. If that aggression is sparked, the dog may retreat and bring a really mean bear down on its humans.

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Dogs in Glacier National Park: Can I Hike With my Dog in Glacier? Evan

I have a very well behaved Goldendoodle that I would love to take with me on my trip to Glacier National Park.

Are dogs allowed at Glacier National Park campsites? Can they go on the hikes?

Answer

Hi Evan,

Sadly for us humans, dogs are not allowed in Glacier National Park.

I know, dogs are great companions and hiking with your dog is the best! I love hiking with my dog, Lennon.

But you know what else loves dogs? Grizzly bears.

And Glacier National Park is Grizzly Bear habitat.

If you encounter a grizzly while hiking in Glacier National Park, the chances of a grizzly bear attack increase dramatically.

A dog doesn’t understand proper behavior when encountering a grizzly. The dog will bark, the bear will think it’s easy food, and it’s a match made in heaven (sorry, couldn’t resist).

That said, dogs ARE allowed in Glacier National Park camping areas and sites.

But there are very specific regulations about where they can be, during what times, and whether or not they have to be leashed.

These regulations include:

  • Being on a leash of 6 feet or less
  • Can only be within developed areas (no trails)
  • Cannot be left unattended
  • Waste must be scooped up and thrown out

In order to fully experience Glacier National Park and not worry about your pet, I’d recommend getting somebody to watch your dog while you take your trip–or board him.

It’s for everyone’s best interest.

Also, don’t forget, if you need an itinerary for your Glacier vacation, I offer pre-made & customized itineraries.

Be sure to check them out!

~ Perry

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