Recreation Area · UT

Dogs in Gooseberry Mesa

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Dog-friendly

Gooseberry Mesa is a slickrock mountain biking and hiking destination near Zion. Leashed dogs are welcome across the mesa and at the primitive campsites. There is no water on the mesa, so pack plenty for your dog.

Dogs can join you on the slickrock loops and the rim trails that look out toward Zion. Keep your dog leashed or under close voice control around mountain bikers, who move fast on the singletrack.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can join you on the slickrock loops and the rim trails that look out toward Zion. Keep your dog leashed or under close voice control around mountain bikers, who move fast on the singletrack.

Seasonal closures

Summer heat is severe and the exposed slickrock gets very hot underfoot. Hike early and carry all the water your dog needs, since there is none on the mesa.

Leash rule

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, trailheads, and picnic sites. On most of the open BLM land there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times, and local field offices can set stricter rules.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
Bureau of Land Management
View the BLM page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
Recreation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Gooseberry Mesa?

Gooseberry Mesa is a slickrock mountain biking and hiking destination near Zion. Leashed dogs are welcome across the mesa and at the primitive campsites. There is no water on the mesa, so pack plenty for your dog. Dogs can join you on the slickrock loops and the rim trails that look out toward Zion. Keep your dog leashed or under close voice control around mountain bikers, who move fast on the singletrack.

What is the leash rule at Gooseberry Mesa?

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, trailheads, and picnic sites. On most of the open BLM land there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times, and local field offices can set stricter rules.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at Gooseberry Mesa?

Summer heat is severe and the exposed slickrock gets very hot underfoot. Hike early and carry all the water your dog needs, since there is none on the mesa.

Are service animals allowed at Gooseberry Mesa?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.