National Forest · CO

Dogs in White River National Forest

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

The White River covers 2.3 million acres in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, with eight wilderness areas, ten peaks over 14,000 feet, and iconic spots like Maroon Bells where dogs are welcome on many trails. High elevation and thin air mean pets need water and time to acclimate just as people do.

Dogs can hike much of the forest, including the Four Pass Loop and trails through the Gore, Sawatch, Elk, and Flat Tops ranges. Leash them at trailheads and developed sites, and keep them under control on general and wilderness trails.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs can hike much of the forest, including the Four Pass Loop and trails through the Gore, Sawatch, Elk, and Flat Tops ranges. Leash them at trailheads and developed sites, and keep them under control on general and wilderness trails.

Where dogs are not allowed

Dogs are not allowed at Hanging Lake, a permit-only day-use area with fragile travertine formations.

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 White River National Forest?

The White River covers 2.3 million acres in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, with eight wilderness areas, ten peaks over 14,000 feet, and iconic spots like Maroon Bells where dogs are welcome on many trails. High elevation and thin air mean pets need water and time to acclimate just as people do. Dogs can hike much of the forest, including the Four Pass Loop and trails through the Gore, Sawatch, Elk, and Flat Tops ranges. Leash them at trailheads and developed sites, and keep them under control on general and wilderness trails.

What is the leash rule at White River 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.

Where are dogs not allowed at White River National Forest?

Dogs are not allowed at Hanging Lake, a permit-only day-use area with fragile travertine formations.

Are service animals allowed at White River National Forest?

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