National Forest · ID,UT

Dogs in Sawtooth National Forest

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

Dogs are welcome across the Sawtooth, but the Sawtooth Wilderness enforces a summer leash rule and closes one drainage to dogs entirely.

Dogs are welcome on trails. In the Sawtooth Wilderness they must be leashed from July 1 through Labor Day and can be off leash the rest of the year.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are welcome on trails. In the Sawtooth Wilderness they must be leashed from July 1 through Labor Day and can be off leash the rest of the year.

Where dogs are not allowed

Dogs are not allowed in the Goat Creek drainage, and swimming areas are closed to pets.

Seasonal closures

In the Sawtooth Wilderness, leashes are required on trails from July 1 through Labor Day.

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 Sawtooth National Forest?

Dogs are welcome across the Sawtooth, but the Sawtooth Wilderness enforces a summer leash rule and closes one drainage to dogs entirely. Dogs are welcome on trails. In the Sawtooth Wilderness they must be leashed from July 1 through Labor Day and can be off leash the rest of the year.

What is the leash rule at Sawtooth 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 Sawtooth National Forest?

In the Sawtooth Wilderness, leashes are required on trails from July 1 through Labor Day.

Where are dogs not allowed at Sawtooth National Forest?

Dogs are not allowed in the Goat Creek drainage, and swimming areas are closed to pets.

Are service animals allowed at Sawtooth National Forest?

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