Can I Bring My Pet to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon?

Want to bring your pet along for your road trip to the Grand Canyon’s North Rim?

It’s possible, but the South Rim is a lot more pet friendly. On the North Rim, pets are only allowed on the Bridle Trail that connects the Grand Canyon Lodge with the North Kaibab Trail and the portion of the Arizona Trail that continues north from there to the park entrance station.

Unlike the South Rim, there is no kennel or pet-friendly lodge rooms to board your pet. Because of the North Rim’s lack of pet boarding facilities, you and your pet can face some serious issues with heat during the summer months. It’s not safe to leave your pet inside your car on a warm day, even for a few minutes. On an 85-degree day, your car can heat up to 102 degrees in 10 minutes, even with the windows open slightly, according to the Humane Society. Within 30 minutes, the interior of your car can reach 120 degrees. In both scenarios, your pet can rapidly suffer from irreversible organ damage or die.

Bridle Trail is dog friendly and a dirt path, which is an added perk for your pet whose paws can get burnt on asphalt. However, to avoid having your pet suffer from heat exhaustion, time your walk for the coolest parts of the day. Go early in the morning or evening when the pavement is cooler than mid-day. Your leash must be no longer than six feet long. All pet owners must clean up after their pets, so don’t forget your plastic bags to pick up after your pet. When you throw the bag out, be sure it is tied off and in a trash can, not a recycling bin.

Video Slideshow of the Bridle Trail

Related: Can I Bring My Dog to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon?