National Forest · MT

Dogs in Lolo National Forest

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

Dogs are welcome across the 2.3-million-acre Lolo National Forest in western Montana, home to rugged wilderness like the Scapegoat and lakes, wild rivers, and blue-ribbon streams.

Keep your dog leashed in developed areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On general forest and most trails there is no statewide leash law, but your dog must stay under control. This is black and grizzly bear country, so keeping your dog close and secured also helps keep it safe.

Where dogs are allowed

Keep your dog leashed in developed areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On general forest and most trails there is no statewide leash law, but your dog must stay under control. This is black and grizzly bear country, so keeping your dog close and secured also helps keep it safe.

Seasonal closures

December 2025 storm damage closed some roads, trails, and campgrounds, so check alerts before heading out with a dog.

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 Lolo National Forest?

Dogs are welcome across the 2.3-million-acre Lolo National Forest in western Montana, home to rugged wilderness like the Scapegoat and lakes, wild rivers, and blue-ribbon streams. Keep your dog leashed in developed areas such as campgrounds, picnic areas, and trailheads. On general forest and most trails there is no statewide leash law, but your dog must stay under control. This is black and grizzly bear country, so keeping your dog close and secured also helps keep it safe.

What is the leash rule at Lolo 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 Lolo National Forest?

December 2025 storm damage closed some roads, trails, and campgrounds, so check alerts before heading out with a dog.

Are service animals allowed at Lolo National Forest?

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