National Forest · WA

Dogs in Olympic National Forest

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

Olympic National Forest is the dog friendly counterpart to the restrictive Olympic National Park it surrounds. All of its 250 plus miles of trail allow leashed dogs, so hikers often pair a park drive with a forest hike.

Leashed dogs are welcome on every trail in the forest, on a leash no longer than six feet. This is a sharp contrast to the neighboring national park, where dogs are barred from nearly all trails and wilderness beaches.

Where dogs are allowed

Leashed dogs are welcome on every trail in the forest, on a leash no longer than six feet. This is a sharp contrast to the neighboring national park, where dogs are barred from nearly all trails and wilderness beaches.

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 Olympic National Forest?

Olympic National Forest is the dog friendly counterpart to the restrictive Olympic National Park it surrounds. All of its 250 plus miles of trail allow leashed dogs, so hikers often pair a park drive with a forest hike. Leashed dogs are welcome on every trail in the forest, on a leash no longer than six feet. This is a sharp contrast to the neighboring national park, where dogs are barred from nearly all trails and wilderness beaches.

What is the leash rule at Olympic 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 service animals allowed at Olympic National Forest?

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