National Conservation Area · CO

Dogs in Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area

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

Dogs are welcome in this rugged canyon and river area. Keep your dog leashed at trailheads, campgrounds, and other developed sites, and carry a leash on the trail.

Leashed dogs can hike the steep trails that drop into the gorge toward the Gunnison River. Away from developed sites your dog can travel under voice control, but the terrain is rocky and the descents are demanding.

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed dogs can hike the steep trails that drop into the gorge toward the Gunnison River. Away from developed sites your dog can travel under voice control, but the terrain is rocky and the descents are demanding.

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
National Conservation Area

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area?

Dogs are welcome in this rugged canyon and river area. Keep your dog leashed at trailheads, campgrounds, and other developed sites, and carry a leash on the trail. Leashed dogs can hike the steep trails that drop into the gorge toward the Gunnison River. Away from developed sites your dog can travel under voice control, but the terrain is rocky and the descents are demanding.

What is the leash rule at Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area?

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 service animals allowed at Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area?

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