Pets

Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.

NPS

Bringing Pets to Pinnacles National Park: What You Need to Know

Many people consider their pets part of the family and want to bring them along on their visit to Pinnacles National Park. However, pets in the wilderness can create challenges for both the park’s wildlife and the pets themselves. Pets can disturb, harass, or even kill wildlife. Additionally, their scent may disrupt or alter the behavior of native animals that the park protects. Pets may also attract predators or introduce diseases to the park’s fragile ecosystems.

Where Can Pets Go?

Pets are allowed in specific areas of Pinnacles National Park, including:

• Picnic areas
• Campground
• Parking lots
• Paved roads

Important Reminder: Pets must be on a six-foot leash at all times and physically controlled. Always clean up after your pet and dispose of pet waste in any park dumpster.

Where Are Pets Prohibited?

For the safety of both pets and wildlife, pets are not allowed in the following areas:

• All park trails
• Shuttle buses
• Park buildings, including visitor centers and the Bear Gulch Nature Center

Pet Safety Tips

• Never leave pets unattended in a vehicle, especially in hot weather. Summer temperatures at Pinnacles often exceed 90°F to 100°F, and even cool mornings can turn into hot afternoons. If it’s hotter than 70°F outside, it’s too hot for your pet to be left in a vehicle.
• Pets should never be tied to trees, picnic tables, or any other objects and left unattended.

By following these guidelines, you can help protect the park’s wildlife and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your pet.

 

Service Animals

Pinnacles National Park welcomes visitors with service animals and complies with the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Below are details to help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit with your service animal:

1. Where are service animals allowed?
Service animals are permitted in all areas of the park open to the public, including visitor centers, campgrounds, trails, and other outdoor spaces.

2. What qualifies as a service animal?
Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. Emotional support, therapy, or companion animals are not considered service animals under the ADA.

3. What are the requirements for service animals in the park?

• Service animals must remain on a leash or harness at all times.
• Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their service animals.
• Ensure your service animal is well-prepared for the park's conditions, such as high temperatures and rugged terrain.

4. What should I consider when bringing a service animal to Pinnacles?

• The park’s terrain can be challenging, with rocky trails, steep inclines, and areas of loose gravel. Consider whether the trails are suitable for you and your service animal.
• Be aware of wildlife, including deer, snakes, and the endangered California condor, which may be sensitive to the presence of animals.

5. Are service animals allowed in caves?
Service animals are permitted in the caves, but visitors should use caution due to uneven terrain, low lighting, and potential water crossings.

6. Where can I find more information?
If you have specific questions or concerns, contact the park in advance of your visit. Park staff can provide recommendations to help you and your service animal navigate the park safely and comfortably.

Pinnacles National Park is committed to ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors, including those with service animals.