Lake Powell Country is a paradise for anyone who loves being on the water, hitting the trails, and traveling with dogs. Lake Powell and Grand Staircase Escalante are two of the most dog-friendly areas in Utah. From houseboat rentals, dog-friendly hikes, beaches, and restaurants, there are endless unique experiences awaiting you and your pup. At Under Canvas, we know pets are part of the family and make the best adventure partners. For that reason, all of our locations are dog-friendly, including Under Canvas Lake Powell – Grand Staircase.
Visit Horseshoe Bend
Located in Page, Ariz., Horseshoe Bend is a must-see natural wonder and one of the most Instagrammable places near Lake Powell making it a pawfect photo opp. For this reason, we recommend going early in the morning or around sunset to snap people-free pics when it’s less crowded. From the parking lot, you’ll walk 0.6-miles out and back before laying eyes on the spectacular red-rock landscape from 1,000-feet above the Colorado River. For the safety of your fur baby and other visitors, dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six-feet and remain close to you at all times.
Chow Down at Dog-Friendly Restaurants
For panoramic views, good eats, and live music, head to Antelope Point Marina Restaurant at the floating village where you can eat on the water at Lake Powell or grab a bite to go. You can also head into Page, AZ, a little over 20-minutes from Under Canvas, for a selection of restaurants with dog-friendly patios including Big John’s Texas BBQ for brisket cooked to perfection, BirdHouse for all things fried chicken and craft brews, or Dam Bar & Grille for steak and seafood selections. If you want to dine in the comfort of your luxury accommodations, Under Canvas offers ever-changing food and beverage options with seasonal and locally sourced produce meant to be enjoyed outside together.
Hit the Trails
Grand Staircase Escalante is one of the most dog-friendly areas in Utah, where dogs are allowed on most trails and even off-leash in some areas. One of our favorite short hikes is the Toadstool Hoodoos Trail where you can spot unique mushroom-shaped sandstone hoodoos and balanced rocks. Another great option for hiking with dogs is the 2-mile out and back Skylight Arch Trail for scenic views and is good for all skill levels. Dogs must be kept on a leash while in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. About an hour from Under Canvas is the largest animal sanctuary in the U.S. where over 1,600 animals reside and you and your best pal can hit the hiking trails and enjoy a picturesque picnic while taking in the magic of the surrounding landscape and thriving animal communities.
For desert hiking adventures, you’ll want to pack the right gear for hiking with dogs to ensure a safe, fun experience for all. We highly recommend dog booties for heat protection and to safeguard your pup’s paws from sharp rocks. A dog travel water bottle and a collapsible bowl are a must for keeping well-hydrated while on the go. Check out our packing list for dogs for all the essentials to meet your dog’s needs from head to tail.
Spend the Day on the Water
Unwind and explore a red-rock oasis by renting a Lake Powell houseboat for the day from Wahweap Marina (dogs are welcome for a pet fee) or spend the day at Lone Rock Beach, just a 10-minute drive from Under Canvas, where you can picnic and paddle near the shallow area of Lake Powell for a tail-wagging good time.
Kick Back Around Under Canvas
Perched on a Canyon Rim Plateau, enjoy sweeping views right outside our luxury safari-style tents or from the comfort of the outdoor lounge area with your pooch. Go on a little adventure together to Elephant Canyon, our on-site slot canyon. After an adventure-filled day, treat yourself to dinner and drinks al fresco with a view of the Lake Powell sunset before heading to the nightly campfire for s’mores and stargazing with your best friend.