5 Dog-Friendly Hikes Along the Wasatch Front That Your Pup Will Love
Jordan Sheffield
REALTOR® · Real Estate Essentials
August 3, 2026
The Wasatch Front is a paradise for dog owners who love the outdoors. With canyons, foothills, and river trails right in our backyard, there's no shortage of places to roam with your four-legged friend. But not every trail is created equal when it comes to dogs. Some have water access for cooling off. Some allow off-leash exploring. Others are better suited for pups who prefer a quieter, less crowded experience.
Choosing the right trail makes all the difference for a great outing with your dog. Here are five of the best dog-friendly hikes along the Wasatch Front, one near each of the major cities we cover.
Important note: Dogs are strictly prohibited in protected watershed areas including Big Cottonwood Canyon, Little Cottonwood Canyon, and City Creek Canyon above the water treatment plant. These areas supply about 60% of Salt Lake City's drinking water. Always check trail regulations before heading out.
Millcreek Canyon — Dog Lake Trail
Salt Lake City / Millcreek Area
Millcreek Canyon is arguably the most dog-friendly canyon along the entire Wasatch Front. Dogs are allowed off-leash on odd-numbered calendar days and must be on-leash on even-numbered days, which gives you plenty of off-leash opportunities if you plan ahead. The Dog Lake trail via the Big Water Trailhead is a 5.2-mile round trip with about 1,680 feet of elevation gain, winding through shaded aspen and pine forest before opening up to a small alpine lake where dogs can swim and cool off.
What makes it great for dogs: The off-leash policy on odd days means your dog can explore freely. The lake at the top is a natural water stop, and the trail is popular with other dog owners so your pup will have plenty of company. There's a $3 use fee per vehicle, so bring cash or a card. Go early on weekends to avoid crowds.
Dimple Dell Regional Park
Sandy / Draper
Dimple Dell Regional Park is a 630-acre open space in Sandy that runs along a ravine between Wasatch Boulevard and 1300 East. With more than 15 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, it's the go-to spot for Sandy and Draper residents who want a quick nature fix without driving up a canyon. The terrain is rolling foothills with sagebrush and oak brush, and the trails connect to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail for longer adventures.
What makes it great for dogs: The trail network is so extensive that you can always find a quiet stretch, even on busy days. The ravine provides natural shade in sections, and the terrain is gentle enough for senior dogs or dogs who aren't mountaineers. Dogs must be on-leash, which makes it a safe choice for reactive dogs or dogs who are still learning trail manners. Bring your own water — there are no natural water sources along the main trails.
Jordan River Trail — Thanksgiving Point Section
Lehi / Thanksgiving Point Area
The Jordan River Trail runs more than 40 miles from Utah Lake to the Great Salt Lake, and the section near Thanksgiving Point in Lehi is one of the most dog-friendly stretches. The trail is paved, flat, and wide, with plenty of benches, shade structures, and dog waste stations along the way. The trailhead at Thanksgiving Point is easy to access and has ample parking.
What makes it great for dogs: The flat, paved surface is perfect for dogs who aren't built for rocky mountain trails — think senior dogs, dogs with joint issues, or brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs who struggle with strenuous exercise). The river access along the trail gives dogs a chance to wade and cool off. It's also a great option for hot summer days when canyon trails are too warm. The trail is popular with cyclists, so keep your dog close on a short leash.
Y Mountain Trail
Provo
The Y Mountain Trail is a Provo classic — a steep but rewarding hike that climbs roughly 980 feet in 1.2 miles to the iconic white "Y" on the mountain above BYU. The trail is dog-friendly and popular with students, families, and hikers who want a quick workout with a big payoff: panoramic views of Utah Valley from the top.
What makes it great for dogs: The short distance means even a quick morning hike gives your dog a solid outing. The trail is well-maintained and heavily traveled, so it's a good option for social dogs who enjoy meeting new people and other pups. That said, the steep grade and rocky sections mean this trail is best for dogs who are in good shape and comfortable on uneven terrain. Bring plenty of water for both of you — there are no water sources on the trail, and the south-facing slope gets hot in the afternoon.
Waterfall Canyon Trail
Ogden
Waterfall Canyon Trail in Ogden is one of the most popular dog-friendly hikes in the northern Wasatch Front. The 2.5-mile round trip climbs about 1,000 feet through a forested canyon to a beautiful 200-foot waterfall. Dogs are welcome on-leash, and the trail is well-shaded for most of the route, making it a great choice for summer hikes.
What makes it great for dogs: The waterfall at the top creates a natural pool where dogs can cool off after the climb — and most dogs absolutely love it. The trail is shaded and cooler than exposed foothill trails, which is a huge advantage on hot Utah afternoons. The steady but moderate grade is manageable for most dogs, though the rocky sections near the top require careful footing. Because it's a popular trail, expect company on weekends. Weekday mornings are your best bet for a quieter experience.
Summer Heat Safety for Dogs on Utah Trails
Utah summers are no joke, and hiking with your dog in the heat requires extra caution. Here are a few rules to follow every time you hit the trail with your dog:
- Go early, go high. Start your hike before 7 AM and choose trails at higher elevation or in shaded canyons. The Millcreek and Waterfall Canyon trails are good options because of their tree cover.
- Bring twice as much water as you think you need. A collapsible bowl and a hydration pack for your dog make a huge difference. Most trailheads don't have water stations.
- Check the pavement before you go. If the back of your hand is uncomfortable on the trail surface after 5 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Stick to dirt trails or go early.
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion. Excessive panting, drooling, stumbling, or disorientation means stop immediately, find shade, and offer water. If it's severe, head to the nearest vet.
- Not every day is a trail day. When temperatures climb above 90 degrees, consider a visit to one of the dog parks along the Wasatch Front with shade and water stations instead of a trail hike.
More than just trails — find the right neighborhood for your dog
I know which communities have the best trail access, the closest dog parks, and the most dog-friendly neighborhoods. Whether you're looking for a home near Millcreek Canyon or a quiet street in Sandy with a backyard for your pup, I can help.