Pets

Don't leave your pets in the car! Temperatures in Arizona spike in the car.

NPS Photo / Case Griffing

Bring Your Pets on the Trail

Due to the extreme temperatures experienced in the park, pets are welcome on the trails at both Montezuma Castle and Montezuma Well. If you visit during the summer months, please do not leave your pets in your parked vehicle. Even with the windows rolled down, temperatures inside a locked car can climb to over 140°F (60°C)!

 

Maisy the BARK Ranger

Photo by Randall and Lisa Jones Shymkus

Be a B.A.R.K. Ranger

Pets are welcome on our trails as long as they follow the rules of B.A.R.K.:

Bag your poop.

Always wear a leash.

Respect wildlife.

Know where you can go.

Do you think your dog has what it takes to become an official Montezuma Castle BARK Ranger? Stop by our visitor center desk to get certified. Certification allows you to purchase an exclusive BARK Ranger badge from our WNPA Park Store!

 

Rules and Restrictions

The Superintendent has authorized pet owners, who are in compliance with all other listed regulations, to have a pet on paved roads which are open to the public, established trails, picnic areas, parking lots, in the Horse Pasture at Montezuma Well, and at Tavasci Marsh. Pets are prohibited, unless being carried, in the visitor centers, contact stations, and restrooms. An exception to this regulation is granted for service dogs accompanying persons with disabilities, regardless of the disability requiring the use of a service dog.

Failing to crate, cage, restrain on a leash which shall not exceed six feet in length, or otherwise physically confine a pet at all times.

Pets are not to be left tied and/or unattended at any location within the monuments.

Pet excrement must be disposed of in accordance with the following conditions:

• All pet excrement must be removed by the owner/keeper from all trails, roads, picnic areas, and parking areas, and shall be deposited in provided refuse containers or removed from the area.

All national parks sites have unique pet policies. Please check the parks you are planning on visiting ahead of time.

 

Pets in Parks

Learn about exploring the national parks with your pets.

Learn more