National Forest · MT

Dogs in Flathead National Forest

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

The 2.4-million-acre Flathead sits next to Glacier National Park in grizzly country, with over 2,000 miles of trail where a dog needs to stay close.

Dogs are welcome on the forest's 2,000-plus miles of trail, around lakes like Holland Lake, and along the North and Middle forks of the Flathead River. A food and attractant storage order applies, and the Bob Marshall, Scapegoat, and Great Bear wilderness areas have their own restrictions, so leash up and keep pets under tight control.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on the forest's 2,000-plus miles of trail, around lakes like Holland Lake, and along the North and Middle forks of the Flathead River. A food and attractant storage order applies, and the Bob Marshall, Scapegoat, and Great Bear wilderness areas have their own restrictions, so leash up and keep pets under tight control.

Seasonal closures

Trail 800 in the Tally-Ashley area is closed, and avalanche danger affects winter travel.

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 Flathead National Forest?

The 2.4-million-acre Flathead sits next to Glacier National Park in grizzly country, with over 2,000 miles of trail where a dog needs to stay close. Dogs are welcome on the forest's 2,000-plus miles of trail, around lakes like Holland Lake, and along the North and Middle forks of the Flathead River. A food and attractant storage order applies, and the Bob Marshall, Scapegoat, and Great Bear wilderness areas have their own restrictions, so leash up and keep pets under tight control.

What is the leash rule at Flathead 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 Flathead National Forest?

Trail 800 in the Tally-Ashley area is closed, and avalanche danger affects winter travel.

Are service animals allowed at Flathead National Forest?

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