Pets

Leashed pets are permitted on all the trails at Scotts Bluff National Monument. Be sure to clean up all pet waste.

NPS/Eric Grunwald

Leashed pets are welcome on all paved trails and developed areas of the park. Pet walkers are required to clean up after their pets and waste disposal bags are available at the Saddle Rock Trailhead near the visitor center, at the Summit parking lot, and near the pedestrian crosswalk where the Oregon Trail Pathway crosses the Summit Road.

Trained service animals of visitors with a disability are permitted throughout Scotts Bluff National Monument, including inside the monument Visitor Center. Service animals are required to follow the same guidelines for leashing, bagging pet waste, and respecting wildlife. Emotional support/therapy animals are not considered service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act and are not permitted inside the visitor center. If needed, read a definition of service animal.

 

Dog waste bags can be found at several locations throughout the monument.

NPS/Eric Grunwald

Why must my dog be on a leash?

• For the safety of you and your dog - Your dog may be injured while jumping, digging, or running, or may be bitten by a rattlesnake.
• For the safety of other people - Some people, particularly children, are afraid of dogs, even friendly ones.
• For the safety of wildlife - Animals may be flushed out of nesting sites and burrows by roaming dogs. Just a quick dig by a dog can destroy animal's home.
• It's the law - Federal laws require pets to be on leash. (36 CFR 2.15)

 

Where can my pet be off-leash?

While there is not a location at Scotts Bluff National Monument where pets can be off-leash, the nearby Monument Dog Park contains five, fenced-in acres where pets can get their exercise.

 

Interested in doing more?

You can help your pet become a B.A.R.K. Ranger!