Estimated read time: 4-5 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SALT LAKE CITY — If you're like me, then you probably feel guilty everytime you leave your pet at home. Whether I'm out to eat, or worse, on a hike, I can't help but always have my dog at the back of my mind, making me feel terribly guilty for being out without them.
During my time living in Salt Lake City, I've discovered some great pet-friendly places to bring my dog to enjoy the experience of hiking and eating out with me. Similar to cities like Seattle and Denver, Salt Lake City is a lover of animals and accommodates pets in many areas.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, here’s a list of several restaurants and hikes in the Salt Lake Valley that allow dogs.
Restaurants:
Just remember to bring your leash, an item of bribery to make sure they behave, and of course, some dog food for your pup so they can enjoy the meal with you.
You’ll find this delicious, trendy greek food stop in two locations: downtown Salt Lake City and off 2100 South in the heart of Sugar House. Check out the menu here. My personal favorite item is the doner bowl with sweet potato fries. Chill out on the patio with your furry best friend and enjoy the atmosphere and delicious flavors.
Pig & A Jelly Jar
"Southern comfort food" is how they describe themselves, but I would describe this brunch spot as diverse, trendy and delicious. My favorite dish here isn’t the classic "chicken and waffles" (although it is amazing)— it’s their Mexican scramble. This is my go-to spot to take my pooch on a sunny Sunday morning. Dogs are only allowed on the patio.
Campfire Lounge
This is an awesome bar in the Sugar House area that has really good food. I personally would go for any of their sliders. This spot is one of my favorite patio/bars because they have fire pits you can sit around with your dog and enjoy, even on a cold night.
Hikes:
Millcreek Canyon
Millcreek allows you to "unleash the beast" on odd days of the month. Located off Wasatch Boulevard and 3800 South, this is the best canyon to really feel like you’re in the mountains while still being close to the city.
My favorite hike here is Dog Lake, located at the end of the canyon. This hike is a good cardio pump while still not being overly difficult. In the summertime, this hike is lush and green; and in the fall, it turns a beautiful red and yellow. You know you have made it to the top when you hear dogs splashing in the lake and fighting over sticks.
Neff's Canyon
My second-favorite hiking spot for dogs is Neff's Canyon. Located in Olympus Cove, this hike takes you up on the edge of the Wasatch Mountains, with beautiful views of the valley. You can go up as far as you want, making your way miles up the mountain. Or you can go up about a mile to a nice meadow-grove area where you’ll find homemade teepees and sitting areas. If you’re lucky, in the springtime the trickling brook will be a roaring river.
H-Rock
A great hike if you only have time for something short and quick. Located right off Foothill Drive, this hike is easily accessible but still offers a great view. Make your way across the traverse and up the foothills to the rock with the "H" on it.
City Creek Canyon
For those of you who live in downtown Salt Lake City, this dog-friendly trail recommendation is for you. Right off State Street and 2nd Avenue, you’ll find yourself escaping the city into the mountains. You’ll find a very nice paved trail that runs alongside a stream for 3.2 miles, and then extends for another 2 miles in more adventurous terrain to Rotary Park.
Tanner Park
If your dog is in need of a social hour, then Tanner Park is the place to take them. Not only will you meet lots of other dogs (and their humans, of course), but you’ll find a beautiful walking trail that goes along eastbound I-80 before dropping down to a fun splash park for your pup.
If you're more of a cat person, definitely be sure to check out the new cat cafe, Tinkers.
Here is a list of several other places you can take your dog hiking.
What are your favorite places to take your dog? Let us know in the comments.
Brooke Nally is native to Utah but likes to see other parts of the world as often as she can. You can contact her via email: brookelynnally@gmail.com.
