Hike the Big Horn Overlook Trail

As a pet owner, you probably know that bringing your pooch along on your National Park adventures can be a frustrating experience. Most of our Parks do not allow pets on trails, and for several good reasons, but if you bring your dog(s) with you to Moab country, you’ll be happy to know that there is at least one place near Canyonlands that they can tag along; Dead Horse Point State Park.

The Big Horn Overlook trail is one of the beautiful, dog friendly trails easily accessed from the main Visitor Center. From the parking lot, head toward the southwest side of the visitor center, where the restrooms are. You will find a trail just behind the restrooms leading you along and then toward the main road. Use this if you’d prefer not to walk with your pup along the busy park road. After about .25 of a mile, you will cross the street and continue on. The trail winds through gorgeous desert flora, and if you’re hiking in the summer, you’ll surely see wildflowers and beautiful cactus blooms. Approximately another .25 in, you will come to a trailhead directing you to stay to your right for Big Horn Overlook. From here, it is about 1.25 miles to the overlook. It can be very hot here Spring, Summer, and Fall, so be sure to bring plenty of water for you and your dog. The terrain is easy, except for a few sandy spots. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash though, because not only is it a rule in the park, but there are several spots, including the end overlook that are sheer drop offs, 1000 feet or more to the canyon floor. And please be sure to pick up after your dog so this park stays dog friendly for years to come.