National Wildlife Refuge · NM

Dogs at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Limited access

Sometimes, leashed dogs are allowed only seasonally on the Auto Tour Loop, not on the refuge's hiking trails.

Dogs are restricted to the Auto Tour Loop during a seasonal window and are not permitted on foot trails or in the wilderness area.

Where dogs are allowed

Dogs are restricted to the Auto Tour Loop during a seasonal window and are not permitted on foot trails or in the wilderness area.

Where dogs are not allowed

Hiking trails and wilderness area; tour loop closed to pets outside the seasonal dog-walking window

Leash and pet rule

Pets must be leashed at all times on a national wildlife refuge, and are usually limited to designated trails, roads, and public-use areas. Many refuges close sensitive habitat to pets to protect wildlife, so check the refuge page before you go.

Service animals

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

Official source
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
View the refuge page →
Last verified 2026-07-09

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge?

Sometimes, leashed dogs are allowed only seasonally on the Auto Tour Loop, not on the refuge's hiking trails. Dogs are restricted to the Auto Tour Loop during a seasonal window and are not permitted on foot trails or in the wilderness area.

What is the leash rule at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge?

Pets must be leashed at all times on a national wildlife refuge, and are usually limited to designated trails, roads, and public-use areas. Many refuges close sensitive habitat to pets to protect wildlife, so check the refuge page before you go.

Where are dogs not allowed at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge?

Hiking trails and wilderness area; tour loop closed to pets outside the seasonal dog-walking window

Are service animals allowed at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge?

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