National Forest · MT

Dogs in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

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

Dogs are welcome across Montana's largest national forest, including the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness on the Continental Divide. Keep pets restrained and attended.

Controlled dogs are welcome on the forest's trails, including more than 100 miles in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness and the Continental Divide Trail. A self-issued permit, available at the trailheads, is required to enter the wilderness.

Where dogs are allowed

Controlled dogs are welcome on the forest's trails, including more than 100 miles in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness and the Continental Divide Trail. A self-issued permit, available at the trailheads, is required to enter the wilderness.

Leash rule

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On the general forest and most trails there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times.

Service animals

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

Official source
U.S. Forest Service
View the Forest Service page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Forest

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest?

Dogs are welcome across Montana's largest national forest, including the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness on the Continental Divide. Keep pets restrained and attended. Controlled dogs are welcome on the forest's trails, including more than 100 miles in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness and the Continental Divide Trail. A self-issued permit, available at the trailheads, is required to enter the wilderness.

What is the leash rule at Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest?

A 6-foot leash is required in developed recreation areas like campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On the general forest and most trails there is no leash law, but your dog must be under control at all times.

Are service animals allowed at Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest?

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