National Forest · CA

Dogs in Eldorado National Forest

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

Between Highways 50 and 88 in the central Sierra Nevada, the Eldorado offers 400 miles of trail from oak foothills to the 10,000-foot crest, with dog-friendly lakes like Loon Lake.

Dogs are welcome on the forest's 400 miles of hiking trails, around lakes such as Loon Lake and Camino Cove, and in the high backcountry. Leash at campgrounds and picnic areas and keep pets under control on trails.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on the forest's 400 miles of hiking trails, around lakes such as Loon Lake and Camino Cove, and in the high backcountry. Leash at campgrounds and picnic areas and keep pets under control on trails.

Seasonal closures

Forest-wide fire restrictions apply in summer, and the Mormon Emigrant Trail closes to vehicles in winter.

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 Eldorado National Forest?

Between Highways 50 and 88 in the central Sierra Nevada, the Eldorado offers 400 miles of trail from oak foothills to the 10,000-foot crest, with dog-friendly lakes like Loon Lake. Dogs are welcome on the forest's 400 miles of hiking trails, around lakes such as Loon Lake and Camino Cove, and in the high backcountry. Leash at campgrounds and picnic areas and keep pets under control on trails.

What is the leash rule at Eldorado 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 Eldorado National Forest?

Forest-wide fire restrictions apply in summer, and the Mormon Emigrant Trail closes to vehicles in winter.

Are service animals allowed at Eldorado National Forest?

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