Dogs

Dogs love Sun Valley and Sun Valley loves dogs! The majority of our local residents own dogs...they are almost a mountain-town necessity. If you decide to bring your canine buddy along on your trip, we have many fun events, hikes, and swimming spots to keep them busy. Check out the list of resources below for guidance on which trails, parks, lakes, and beaches allow dogs as well as hotels and rental properties that will welcome your pet. We've also included info for vets, if need be. Have fun out there together...your dogs will thank you!

Trails & Parks

Sun Valley is a canine's Shangri-La. We don't have an official leash law here, but we do have a common-sense law. Keep your dog either leashed or under verbal control and we will all get along fine! Don't let your pooch chase the wildlife or leave a "gift" for someone else to step in. And please, when you scoop da poop, don't leave that little plastic bag for someone else to pick up. We live by a creed of getting along and being respectful, so please do your part to keep Sun Valley cool. 

Summer: Dogs are welcome on all hiking trails in the area. Some trailheads/parking areas require dogs to be on a leash until you reach a certain point on the trail, so be sure to keep one handy. These areas are clearly marked with signs. For trail maps and info, please visit the BCRD summer trail info web page or call 578-2273 with questions. 

Winter: The trail systems in the North and South Valleys are packed with great options for Nordic skiing or snowshoeing with dogs. Each dog needs a pass, either a day pass for $5 or a season pass for $49, available at most area ski shops. For trail maps and info, please visit the BCRD winter trail info web page or call 578-2273 with questions. 

Galena Lodge: In the summer, Galena Lodge is a great place to stop with your dog after a long hike in the mountains. They have a doggie deck out back with water bowls and picnic tables where you can all take a break. There is even a window where you can order lunch to enjoy together. 

Wood River Trail...this paved path follows the Big Wood River, running from Ketchum to Bellevue and also out to Sun Valley (about 30 miles total!), and is great for dog walking. Just make sure to keep an eye out for bikers zooming by!

Lakes & Beaches

Redfish and Alturas Lakes are about an hour's drive north over Galena Pass in the Sawtooth Mountains. These crystal-clear lakes are like heaven on earth for dogs. Each one has a designated "dog beach" just yards away from the main beach area. Remember to clean up after your pets!

Pettit Lake, a smaller lake in the Sawtooths, does not have a designated dog beach but there is a small beach with picnic tables and restrooms where you can bring your dog.

Closer to town, dogs can cool off with a swim in Hulen Pond, located just inside the Hulen Meadows neighborhood a few miles north of the center of town. There is a public parking area (no overnights) and a trail that leads to the pond right next to the river.

And of course, there is always the clear and cold Big Wood River that winds its way through the valley. There are numerous spots just off the bike path with great swimming holes for people AND dogs...take some time to explore them!

Dog Friendly Lodging

There are a number of properties for rent in the Ketchum & Sun Valley area that allow pets. You can search for them by going to the Booking section on the Visit Sun Valley web site and clicking Search. Then select “Pet Friendly” from the list of Amenities at the bottom and click Search again.

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