Bringing Your Pets to the Grand Canyon

For many of the people who visit Grand Canyon National Park, it’s a family trip of a lifetime. And family often includes the beloved pet. Dogs and cats are permitted at the Grand Canyon South Rim, but they must be leashed at all times and are not permitted on trails below the rim, on park busses, or in park lodging (service animals are exempt from these stipulations).

So what are your options if you’re traveling with your pet, or otherwise have to bring your four-legged family member and still want to explore the canyon’s inner trails and stay or dine in a park lodge? The South Rim Kennel offers clean, cool kennels and a dog run tucked amid the pine trees near Maswik Lodge. Proof of current vaccinations is required for all furry guests to make sure your pet stays healthy. The kennel is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and after hours pick up can be arranged. Call 928-638-0534 to make a reservation.

For those staying at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams and taking the train to the South Rim Village, the Railway Pet Resort will make sure your pet has as good a time as you do. Pets aren’t allowed on the train, but your dog or cat will appreciate being away from the whistles, horns, and vibrations at the climate-controlled kennel. An air purifying system removes scents for your pet’s comfort, and each of the 28 dog kennels has private indoor/outdoor space ranging from 4-feet-square to 4 feet by 10 feet. Four extra-large kennels are available for larger dogs.

For felines, each of the 16 cat condos has a ledge with an outside view that overlooks the basketball and volleyball courts, and windows let in sunlight perfect for catnaps.

The outdoor areas are covered to protect against the elements, and dogs get individual playtime in an exercise yard. Throughout the kennel soft background music puts pets at ease, and owners are encouraged to bring their pets’ favorite toys and snacks. Weekly rates are available, and owners must provide proof of current vaccinations. The kennel is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the summer, and from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., in the winter.

For information about the Grand Canyon Railway, visit thetrain.com or call 800-THE-TRAIN (843-8724).

For information about the Grand Canyon, visit grandcanyonlodges.com or call 888-297-2757.

For more travel experiences available from the Xanterra Travel Collection^® and its affiliated properties, visit xanterra.com/stories.

Written by: Steve Larese

Steve Larese is a travel journalist and photographer based in New Mexico. He specializes in writing about and photographing America’s national parks. See more at stevelarese.com.