Pets

Even pets who can't bark can become a B.A.R.K. Ranger!

Pets are not allowed within the national park except leashed on the Pacific Crest Trail. Leashed pets are allowed along Cascade River Road and Stehekin Valley Road to its terminus at mile 12.9, not on trails. Service animals are allowed for those with disabilities.

If you are not sure where you can hike with your pet, please contact the Wilderness Information Center.

Guidelines for pet owners visiting North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Please follow the rules of B.A.R.K.

Bag your pet's poop

Pet owners are responsible for removing pet waste from all areas in the park including campgrounds, picnic areas, parking lots, roads, pet-friendly trails, and other developed areas.

Always wear a leash

Pets must be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Respect wildlife

Pets can harass or harm wildlife by making noise or scaring wildlife away.

Know where you can go

Pets are allowed on a leash within the Ross Lake and Lake Chelan National Recreation Areas. Pets are also allowed on most surrounding national forest lands.

Pets are not allowed within the national park except leashed on the Pacific Crest Trail and along roads.

Additionally pets are welcome in drive in campgrounds and picnic areas as well as paved or dirt roads, but no digging or rolling on plants as that will damage vegetation.

Pets should not be left unattended. Summer heat poses a threat to pets left in vehicles.

Service animals

Service animals are an exception to these rules and may accompany their owner to all park locations. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.

Become a Bark Ranger

Well-behaved pets are invited to bring their human companions and become official North Cascades National Park Service Complex Bark Rangers! Learn the rules of B.A.R.K., where and how to enjoy the park with your pet, and become a B.A.R.K. Ranger! To participate in the B.A.R.K. Ranger Program, visit the North Cascades Visitor Center.