Best Dog-Friendly Hikes in Moab & Southern Utah: Your Spring Getaway

By Krista Halling DVM DACVS

Looking for a break from the cold, snowy landscapes up north? Utah, and especially Moab, offers a sunny, relatively warm escape for you and your dog. With mild winter and early spring temperatures, red rock formations, and breathtaking desert scenery, it’s an ideal destination for hiking with your furry companion. River and I have just been exploring trails in Southeast Utah and here are some of the best dog-friendly hikes to explore during this season.

Moab Area

1. Grandstaff Canyon Trail

• Distance: 4.3 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Why it’s great: This beautiful canyon follows a stream, providing water access for dogs. The trail leads to the impressive Morning Glory Natural Bridge and stays relatively snow-free due to the desert climate.
• Tip: Mornings can be chilly in shaded areas, but by midday, the sun warms the trail nicely.

2. Corona Arch Trail

• Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Why it’s great: One of Moab’s most iconic arches outside the national parks, this short yet rewarding trail is perfect for leashed dogs.
• Tip: One section requires scrambling up a chain railing (see above photo: middle row, right) and lifting your dog about 5ft (humans use a ladder), so be sure your dog is comfortable with rocky terrain and attach a leash and harness.

3. Hidden Valley Trail

• Distance: 4 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
• Why it’s great: A fantastic spot for panoramic views of Moab and the La Sal Mountains, this trail provides a peaceful retreat away from busier paths.
• Tip: The initial climb can be steep, but the sunshine and stunning scenery make it worthwhile.

4. Fisher Towers

• Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Why It’s Great: This scenic trail winds through a stunning red rock landscape with towering sandstone spires, making it a breathtaking adventure for both you and your dog. The trail offers dramatic desert views, unique rock formations, and an immersive experience in one of Utah’s most iconic landscapes.
• Dogpacking Tip: Bring plenty of water for both you and your pup, as there’s no natural water along the trail, and the desert heat can be intense even in cooler months. Consider hiking early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak temperatures.

Beyond Moab:

5. Bonneville Shoreline Trail – Salt Lake City

• Distance: Varies
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Why it’s great: Following the ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville, this trail offers multiple access points and scenic views. Portions of the trail allow off-leash exploration.
• Tip: Lower elevations stay relatively dry, making it a great option year-round.

6. The Citadel Hike – Bears Ears

• Distance: ~6 miles round trip
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging (route-finding required)
• Why It’s Great: This off-the-beaten-path adventure leads to a breathtaking Ancestral Puebloan ruin perched on a narrow rock peninsula, offering incredible views and a deep sense of history. The remote setting and lack of crowds make it an unforgettable dogpacking experience.
• Dogpacking Tip: Bring a GPS or download an offline map—there’s no marked trail, and navigation can be tricky. I didn’t take River across the bridge/isthmus to the Citadel ruin – we were happy looking at it from the main part of the trail. The top photo above shows how close River and I got… still very scenic and worth the hike.

7. Kanarra Falls – Near Zion National Park

• Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Why it’s great: A stunning slot canyon with flowing water, this hike offers a mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery.
• Tip: Waterproof boots are a must, as you may encounter shallow streams.

8. Mill Creek Pipeline Trail – Salt Lake City Area

• Distance: Up to 13 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Why it’s great: One of the best year-round dog-friendly trails near Salt Lake City, this trail features gentle inclines and gorgeous mountain views.
• Tip: This trail gets plenty of sun, making it a warm choice on cool days.

Tips for a Great Winter & Early Spring Hike With Your Dog

• Dress for the Sun: While the temperatures may be cooler, the desert sun is strong—bring sunscreen for yourself and plenty of water and a pair of sun goggles for your pup. Especially as many trails in Utah are at high altitude which makes the UV rays stronger.
• Watch out for pricklies! The desert is full of cacti, thorns and other prickly plants (above photo) which can injury your dog’s feet and break off into tissue and migrate deeper, so best to keep your dog on the trail at all times, watch out for any limping, check their paws frequently, and we highly recommend dog booties for desert hikes.
• Use a Harness: Since Utah has plenty of boulders and steep cliffs, it’s safer to secure your dog’s leash to a harness rather than to their collar. This also makes it easy in case you need to give them a lift up.
• Check Regulations: While many trails are dog-friendly, most have leash laws or seasonal restrictions.
• Be Aware of Ice: Some shaded trails may still have icy patches in the morning, but they usually melt by midday.
• Accommodations: In Moab we stayed at the Gonzo Inn and when we hikes the Citadel trail, we stayed in Bluff at the Bluff Gardens Cabins. We’d recommend both facilities for their price, services and dog-friendliness.
• Four Corners: While in Southern Utah, consider visiting the Four Corners Monument where UT, AZ, NM and CO join. It’s the only location in the United States where four states come together at one point. You can have a hand and paw in each of the four states!

Moab and the surrounding Utah landscapes offer the perfect sunny retreat for hikers and their dogs. Whether you’re escaping the frigid winter or welcoming the early signs of spring, these dog-friendly trails promise unforgettable adventures. Did we miss any great trails? Comment below on your favourite Utah hike.