Pets

Many people consider their pets to be part of the family and want to bring them along on their visit to Pinnacles. Unfortunately, pets in the wilderness can cause big problems, both for the wildlife and the pets! Pets disturb, harass, and sometimes even kill wildlife. They leave a scent that may disrupt, or alter the behavior of the native wild animals Pinnacles protects. Pets may also attract predators or transmit diseases to fragile habitat while in the park.

Where can pets go?

Pets are allowed in the picnic areas, campground, parking lots, and on paved roads. Remember, your pet must be physically controlled on a six foot leash. Don’t forget to clean up after your pet, no matter where you are. Pet waste can be disposed of in any park dumpster.

Where can’t pets go?

Pets are prohibited on all park trails. Pets are not allowed on the shuttle or in any buildings such as visitor centers or the Bear Gulch Nature Center.

Pets should not be left unattended in a vehicle when conditions are unsafe. Please keep in mind that temperatures at Pinnacles National Park can vary widely. Temperatures in the 90s and 100s are common in the summer months. Cool, cloudy mornings can turn into surprisingly warm days, even in winter. If it is hotter than 70 degrees outside, it is too hot for pets inside of vehicles. Pets may not be left unattended when tied to anything such as a tree or picnic table.

 

Leashed pets may be walked along park roads, in picnic areas, and in the campground.

Photo by Beth Hudick