National Forest · MT,SD

Dogs in Custer Gallatin National Forest

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

Stretching from the Greater Yellowstone country into the South Dakota pine buttes, the Custer Gallatin is grizzly and black bear country where a dog needs to stay close.

Dogs are welcome across the Beartooth, Bozeman, Hebgen Lake, Yellowstone, Gardiner, Ashland, and Sioux districts, from Hyalite Canyon to East Rosebud Creek. A food storage order is in place, so keep dogs leashed or under tight control for bear safety.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome across the Beartooth, Bozeman, Hebgen Lake, Yellowstone, Gardiner, Ashland, and Sioux districts, from Hyalite Canyon to East Rosebud Creek. A food storage order is in place, so keep dogs leashed or under tight control for bear safety.

Seasonal closures

The Hyalite Porcupine Buffalo Horn area has summer travel rules, and Fairy Lake Road, Pine Grove, and East Boulder campgrounds have seasonal closures.

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 Custer Gallatin National Forest?

Stretching from the Greater Yellowstone country into the South Dakota pine buttes, the Custer Gallatin is grizzly and black bear country where a dog needs to stay close. Dogs are welcome across the Beartooth, Bozeman, Hebgen Lake, Yellowstone, Gardiner, Ashland, and Sioux districts, from Hyalite Canyon to East Rosebud Creek. A food storage order is in place, so keep dogs leashed or under tight control for bear safety.

What is the leash rule at Custer Gallatin 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 there seasonal closures for dogs at Custer Gallatin National Forest?

The Hyalite Porcupine Buffalo Horn area has summer travel rules, and Fairy Lake Road, Pine Grove, and East Boulder campgrounds have seasonal closures.

Are service animals allowed at Custer Gallatin National Forest?

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