Curecanti B.A.R.K. Ranger

Two leashed and stylish dogs along the Curecanti Creek Trail

Photo courtesy of Kayla Murfin

Rules of B.A.R.K.

B = Bag Your Poop

• Help keep Curecanti clean and safe by collecting and disposing of all dog waste immediately. Be sure to carry the poop bag off the trail. Use public garbage receptacles located throughout the park.

A = Always Leash Your Pet

• Pets must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet (2 m).
• Unleashed dogs can present a danger to other visitors. Leashes protect the experience of other visitors who may be afraid, uncomfortable, allergic, or who do not want a dog approaching them.

R = Respect Wildlife

• Dogs can chase, disturb, or threaten wildlife.
• The scent left behind by a pet can signal the presence of a predator. This can disrupt or alter behaviors of wildlife.
• Please keep your pet a safe distance from park wildlife.

K = Know Before You Go

• Don't leave your pet unattended in a vehicle. Summer heat can threaten a pet's safety, even with the windows cracked.
• Be aware of the areas closed or restricted to pets (with the exception of service animals):
  • at marinas or docks (except for direct travel to and from a boat)
  • inside the Elk Creek Visitor Center or other public buildings
• Ticks can be prevalent in Curecanti from late spring to early fall. Check yourself and your pet after any outdoor activities.

B.A.R.K. Ranger Program

Ask a ranger about where pets are allowed and what safety precautions should be taken.

In order to become a B.A.R.K. ranger, you (and your pet) must adhere to the B.A.R.K. code, and complete one of the following activities:

Hike a Trail

All trails in Curecanti National Recreation Area are leashed-dog friendly. Many Curecanti trails go through critical wildlife habitat or pass near cliffs or dangerous rapids. Keep your dog leashed to protect it and park wildlife.

Play in One of the Reservoirs

Enjoy some of Blue Mesa Reservoir's 96 miles of shoreline. Remember to bag any pet waste and dispose of it in the trash.

Go for a Boat Ride

Go paddleboarding, out on a motorboat, canoeing or kayaking with your pet. Remember a PFD for you and your pet.

After a ranger at the Elk Creek Visitor Center has approved your B.A.R.K. ranger status, you can receive a wooden B.A.R.K. Ranger badge to be worn proudly. Note: Except for service animals, pets are not allowed in federal buildings.