National Forest · NM

Dogs in Carson National Forest

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

The Carson is unusually flexible on dogs: they may be off leash if under control and you carry a leash, including on the climb to Wheeler Peak, New Mexico's highest summit.

Dogs are welcome on most trails, including the Williams Lake Trail to Wheeler Peak from Taos Ski Valley and the Wheeler Peak, Latir Peak, and Cruces Basin Wilderness areas. Leash your dog in crowded areas, and bring no more than two dogs per campsite.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on most trails, including the Williams Lake Trail to Wheeler Peak from Taos Ski Valley and the Wheeler Peak, Latir Peak, and Cruces Basin Wilderness areas. Leash your dog in crowded areas, and bring no more than two dogs per campsite.

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 Carson National Forest?

The Carson is unusually flexible on dogs: they may be off leash if under control and you carry a leash, including on the climb to Wheeler Peak, New Mexico's highest summit. Dogs are welcome on most trails, including the Williams Lake Trail to Wheeler Peak from Taos Ski Valley and the Wheeler Peak, Latir Peak, and Cruces Basin Wilderness areas. Leash your dog in crowded areas, and bring no more than two dogs per campsite.

What is the leash rule at Carson 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 Carson National Forest?

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