Pet Friendly Travel
There are so many reasons why Montana is spectacular—the abundance of recreation opportunities, the small, charming communities, and the stunning views around every corner, for starters. But for many of our animal-loving visitors, one of the biggest draws to Montana is its pet-friendly atmosphere. We understand how important it is to be with your furry co-pilot on epic adventures.
Whether you're looking for scenic hiking trails, comfortable accommodations, tasty restaurants or charming breweries, Yellowstone Country has tons of pet-friendly options to accommodate your needs. Just remember, this animal-loving state can only remain that way if visitors and locals respect the rules and regulations around pets in public spaces, and take responsibility for their fluffy sidekicks.
Below, you'll find a list of pet-friendly places in Yellowstone Country to explore and relax, as well as some general guidelines to ensure that your pet stays safe, and that Montana's beautiful, wild spaces remain respected and intact.
Pets are limited to traveling in Yellowstone National Park within a vehicle, at a front country campground (basically, the opposite of backcountry camping, a space you can drive right up to), or within 100 feet of roads and parking lots. Luckily, endless adventures and fantastic views await you and your pup beyond the park.
Most State Parks in Montana accommodate pets, as long as they remain on a leash and adhere to some basic guidelines. Click here for a full list of Montana's State Parks, as well as rules and regulations to follow while visiting.
Pet-Friendly Trails and Hikes in Yellowstone Country
Below is a list of dog-friendly trails throughout Yellowstone Country that vary in length, intensity and foot (or paw) traffic. Be sure to read any posted trail rules carefully, and pay close attention to notices of wildlife activity in the area so that you, your pet, and the habitat you enter remain safe. Click here for a longer list of hiking and backpacking options in Yellowstone Country.
- Pine Creek Falls, Livingston - 2.5 miles, moderate intensity hike located in the Pine Creek Recreation Area
- Coffin Lake Trails, West Yellowstone - 11.3 miles, moderate intensity hike located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest
- College M Steep Trail, Bozeman - 1.9 mile loop, moderate intensity hike located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest
- Palisade Falls, Bozeman - 1.1 miles, low intensity located in the Hyalite-Porcupine-Buffalo Wilderness Study Area
- Baldy Peak Summit, Bozeman - 9.6 miles, high intensity hike located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest
- Thompson Lake Trail, Gardiner - 11.7 miles, moderate intensity hike located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest
- Buffalo Jump State Park , Three Forks - 2.1 miles, low intensity hike located in the Madison Buffalo Jump State Park
- Blue Lake, near Melville and Big Timber - 7.5 miles, moderate intensity hike located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest
- Reflector Loop, Big Sky - 4.1 miles, moderate intensity hike located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest
- Truman Gulch Trail, Belgrade - 4 miles, moderate intensity hike located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest
Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Bars
The adventures don't have to end on the trail for your pup. Check out these pet-friendly bars, restaurants and breweries in Yellowstone Country. If you're unsure about the rules and regulations at a certain establishment, you can always call ahead and/or check out the specific county ordinances.
- Neptune's Taphouse and Eatery, Livingston
- MAP Brewing Company, Bozeman
- Seven, Bozeman
- Plonk, Bozeman
- Three Forks Cafe, Three Forks
- Cafe Regis, Red Lodge
- Greycliff Mill, Greycliff
- MontAsia, Fishtail
- Holly's Roadkill Saloon, McLeod
- Serenity Bistro, West Yellowstone
This is just a handful of the many restaurants, cafes, bars and breweries in Yellowstone Country. Find a full list here.
Pet-Friendly Lodging
There are lots of places in Yellowstone Country for you and your furry friend to kick back and relax after a hard day of playing. Check out our lodging page to find pet-friendly overnight options. Be sure to call hotels and vacation rentals ahead of time for up-to-date pet policy information.
General safety guidelines
- Keep your pet close and on a leash—unless otherwise noted—in order to respect the local wildlife, residents and visitors.
- Pack it in, pack it out and be sure to collect and properly dispose of waste.
- Come prepared with plenty of food and water for you and your pet.
- Pay attention to rules and regulations that may be posted at trailheads or other pet-friendly locations.
