National Forest · WA

Dogs in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

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

The Okanogan-Wenatchee is one of the largest forests in Washington, and dogs are welcome across most of it. The notable exception is the heavily used Enchantments in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, where pets are prohibited.

Pets must be on a hand held leash no longer than six feet in most wilderness areas and in developed recreation sites, and may be under control elsewhere. Dogs are welcome on the great majority of wilderness trails.

Where dogs are allowed

Pets must be on a hand held leash no longer than six feet in most wilderness areas and in developed recreation sites, and may be under control elsewhere. Dogs are welcome on the great majority of wilderness trails.

Where dogs are not allowed

Dogs and all pets, except service dogs, are prohibited in the Enchantment Permit Area and the Ingalls Lake area of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Pets are also not allowed in swimming areas or sanitary facilities.

Seasonal closures

In spring some areas may close to dogs to protect threatened and endangered species.

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 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest?

The Okanogan-Wenatchee is one of the largest forests in Washington, and dogs are welcome across most of it. The notable exception is the heavily used Enchantments in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, where pets are prohibited. Pets must be on a hand held leash no longer than six feet in most wilderness areas and in developed recreation sites, and may be under control elsewhere. Dogs are welcome on the great majority of wilderness trails.

What is the leash rule at Okanogan-Wenatchee 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 Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest?

In spring some areas may close to dogs to protect threatened and endangered species.

Where are dogs not allowed at Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest?

Dogs and all pets, except service dogs, are prohibited in the Enchantment Permit Area and the Ingalls Lake area of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness. Pets are also not allowed in swimming areas or sanitary facilities.

Are service animals allowed at Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest?

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